P Lennon1, C Murphy2, B Fennessy2, J P Hughes2. 1. Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland. paullennon81@gmail.com. 2. Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland.
Abstract
AIM: Surfing is increasing in popularity in Ireland. Exostoses of the external auditory canal are a common finding in those who surf in cold water. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of external canal exostoses in a population of Irish surfers. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of Irish surfers was carried out. Patients were examined and questioned on their knowledge of exostoses, surfing routine, use of barrier protection and symptoms experienced. RESULTS: 119 surfers were analysed. 66 % of the surfers examined exhibited exostoses and 88 % were unaware of their diagnosis. Those that developed exostoses had surfed for a mean of 5,028 h, those that did not had surfed for a significantly shorter mean of 1,909 h (p = 0.0002). CONCLUSIONS: This is first study of this nature in the UK or Ireland. With a 5- to 6-year lag phase for exostoses to develop, these patients are likely to become an increasing part of Otolaryngologist's workload.
AIM: Surfing is increasing in popularity in Ireland. Exostoses of the external auditory canal are a common finding in those who surf in cold water. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of external canal exostoses in a population of Irish surfers. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of Irish surfers was carried out. Patients were examined and questioned on their knowledge of exostoses, surfing routine, use of barrier protection and symptoms experienced. RESULTS: 119 surfers were analysed. 66 % of the surfers examined exhibited exostoses and 88 % were unaware of their diagnosis. Those that developed exostoses had surfed for a mean of 5,028 h, those that did not had surfed for a significantly shorter mean of 1,909 h (p = 0.0002). CONCLUSIONS: This is first study of this nature in the UK or Ireland. With a 5- to 6-year lag phase for exostoses to develop, these patients are likely to become an increasing part of Otolaryngologist's workload.
Authors: Ryan D Moore; Theodore A Schuman; Theresa A Scott; Scott E Mann; Mario A Davidson; Robert F Labadie Journal: Laryngoscope Date: 2010-03 Impact factor: 3.325