Topical otic antibiotics: clinical cochlear ototoxicity and cost consideration.

Abstract

Determine the incidence of clinical cochlear ototoxicity in routine use of Cortisporin after ventilation tube placement. Cost differential between use of Cortisporin and fluoroquinolone agents was evaluated. A retrospective review of 500 patients was performed. Cortisporin otic suspension was used for 5 days following ventilation tube insertion. Testing following surgery indicated a sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in 19 (2.1%) ears. The SNHL existed prior to the surgery and there was no deterioration in the hearing postoperatively. The total cost for our study group who used Cortisporin was $15,500. If Floxin had been prescribed the cost would have been $45,000. Had Ciprodex been prescribed, the cost would have been $49,500. Our study demonstrates no clinical cochlear ototoxicity in children who received Cortisporin following ventilation tube placement. The cost differential for prescribing fluoroquinolone drops is significant. C-4.