Chlorhexidine ototoxicity in ear surgery, part 1: review of the literature.

Abstract

Chlorhexidine in both human studies and animal models demonstrates ototoxicity if it reaches the inner ear. The toxicity of chlorhexidine appears to be related to its concentration and probable contact time with the round window membrane intraoperatively. It is conceivable that the incidence of chlorhexidine toxicity may be higher than stated if unrecognized or has resulted in subsequent medicolegal actions. From the evidence available, safer preparation solutions are available without clinical risks for ototoxicity should surgeons continue with this practice.