Sanitation

• Classify ears as clean or dirty

• Clean, dry ear: cleaning optional. Follow procedure for a dirty ear, if desired.

• Dirty ear:

• Scrape surface contamination with serrated knife.
• Using a clean sponge, wash implant site with antiseptic solution (diluted chlorohexadine mixed at recommended dilution rate).
• Using a wire brush in clean antiseptic solution, make two to three brush strokes in one direction at site of implantation.

• Implanting gun should be cleaned prior to use. Wash in warm water.
• Implants should be stored in clean container.
• Place disinfectant solution (diluted) in a disinfecting tray with clean sponge or rollers.
• Prior to implanting, needle should be wiped across sponge or rollers to remove hair and contaminants
• Operator should wear latex gloves.

• Work area should be kept clean and supplies arranged in an orderly fashion.

Operator Training

• Operator must be trained on proper operation and techniques used with the various implanting devices.
• Implanting must be restricted to operator who has been given sufficient time to build skill level in the implanting procedure.
• Back-up implanting operator should be available.

Implanting Procedure

• Clean and prepare implant site according to outlined procedure above

• Insert the needle at the outer 1/3 of ear.

• Insert the needle between the skin and cartilage (avoid digging into cartilage).

• Deposit implant in the middle one-third of the ear. Withdraw needle. Check implant by running thumb over site. Pinch implant insertion site while giving a gentle push to assure implant is not located at the insertion site.

 Implant Quality Control Verification

• Two to three weeks after processing randomly check ears for defects
• Conduct regular chute-side evaluations during implanting.
• Review results with implanting personnel.
• Implement ongoing training program for new personnel and reinforce proper implants with existing personnel.