Topical otic antibiotics: Clinical cochlear ototoxicity and cost consideration

OBJECTIVE: 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. METHODS: A retrospective review of 500 patients was performed. Cortisporin otic suspension was used for 5 days following ventilation tube insertion. RESULTS: Testing following surgery indicated a sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in 19 (2.1%) cars. The SNHL existed prior to the sursery 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. CONCLUSION: Out study demonstrates no clinical cochlear ototoxicity in children who received Cortisporin following ventilation tube placement. The cost differential for prescribing flouroquinclone drops is significant.