The trouble comes from air getting trapped in the sponge's cellular matrix, which prevents it from pumping water through, and it starves. But the damage usually starts in one place (point of air entry) and spreads. If you keep a very close eye on it and see signs of any damage, cut that part out with a razor blade. Sponges are resilient to cuts, but not to air. If you are able to remove all affected tissue, it should be just fine.
Of course, this is all assuming air got in anyway. If it didn't then it's all good!