Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
The dictum that patients who have plastic ventilation tubes (grommets) inserted in their tympanic membranes should not go swimming is questioned. A theoretical assessment is made of the pressure necessary to push water through a grommet. This value is compared with practical observations. These values are discussed with reference to chemical and bacteriological hazards and it is concluded that water is unlikely to enter the middle ear in surface swimming, and even when diving underwater the chances of setting up an otitis media must be small.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Marks et al. (1983) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 10 related papers. Consider them for comparative context: