Syringing: Pinna is pulled upwards and backwards and a stream of water from the ear syringe is directed along the posterosuperior wall of the meatus.
This is dervied from 2 anatomic facts:
The posteroinferior wall of EAC is supplied by Vagus. Direct stimulation of this can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
On maneuvering the pinna to bring the EAC into a straight configuration, the posterior wall is straighter and easily accessible than the anterior wall.
Therefore, the direction of choice for the jet of water is along the posterosuperior wal.
Complications-
Vertigo - caloric stimulation of lateral semicircular canal if water is too hot or too cold.
Rupture of TM.
Reactivation of quiescent otitis media (if there is pre-existing perforation).
Contraindications for syringing-
Presence of ear infection, TM perforation, Presence of grommet or H/0 ear surgery