Methods of syringing: advantages and disadvantages
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Handheld syringe | Can be used in any setting | Difficult to manipulate |
| Cheap | Hard to control pressure of water jet | |
| Easy to obtain | Can damage ear due to too much pressure | |
| Quiet during operation | Nozzle can go adrift if not secured properly | |
| Disposable assembly (our method) | All advantages of the handheld syringe | No other disadvantages except for the routine precautions for syringing of the ear |
| Sterile | ||
| Always available | ||
| Safe to use | ||
| Electric syringe | Water pressure is controlled | Requires electrical supply |
| Jet can be directed precisely | Needs flat surface close to the patient | |
| Foot switch gives instant start/stop control | Noisier than manual syringe method | |
| Pulsed jet assists removal of foreign body | Bacteria (Pseudomonas) can build-up if water is left in the apparatus |