An otoscope is a medical instrument used for examining the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and ear canal. an otoscope shines a beam of light to help visualize and examine the condition of the ear canal and eardrum. The instrument has a light source and magnifying system at one end that helps better examine the ear structures. The examination of the ear using an otoscope is called otoscopy.
It is not only an important medical device used by ENT specialists but is also very important in family and pediatric practices, helping to identify a number of ear infections and associated ailments. It is a medical device that allows the doctor to look into the ear.
There are a number of different ear diseases but most of these share common symptoms. This makes it very important for a doctor to conduct a clinical examination of the ear to be able to reach a proper diagnosis and formulate a treatment plan. An otoscopy is the single most important tool that a medical practitioner can use to make such a diagnosis.
An otoscope consists of:
1. Specula (Ear Tips): Permits safe visualization of the inner ear. Produced in various diameters and lengths
2. Otoscope Head: The instrument head is designed for examination of the ear, nose or throat
3. Magnifying Lens: Typically 3x or 4x for better visualization. Most swivel out of the way to permit instrumentation. On some models, they can be fully removed
4. Insufflator Port: Permits connection of an insufflator bulb for pneumatic otoscopy.
Otoscopes may be categorized into one of three types:
1) Pocket Otoscopes: Intentionally designed to fit in a pocket and are lighter and less bulky than other otoscopes. When purchasing a pocket otoscope, both the head and the handle are included. While there are some exceptions, most pocket otoscopes use alkaline batteries to power the handle
2) Full Sized Otoscopes: More substantial in size and weight than pocket otoscopes. They are comprised of more sophisticated heads and handles that may be purchased individually since those components tend to be interchangeable even amongst different brands. Unlike pocket and full size otoscopes
3) Video Otoscopes: Specifically designed to interface with a computer or monitor to project, capture, store, and email high-quality images and/or video.
There are otoscopes that are battery operated, and portable there are otoscopes that are wall mounted too. Another subject of classification would be the types of diagnosis, for example : An instrument called a pneumatic otoscope is often the only specialized tool a doctor needs to diagnose an ear infection. You can find what suits your need on Smart Medical Buyer.
