Otoscopy is a modern procedure that is performed for diagnostic purposes using an otoscope. It helps to detect diseases related to the otolaryngological sphere.
On the otoscope there is optics, a video camera, a flashlight. Thanks to the device, you can get a complete picture on the monitor, enlarged several times.
Due to this, the apparatus can detect all defects and pathologies in the structures of the organ of hearing, including assessing the condition of the auricle, eardrum, and also conducting a small surgical intervention. Diagnostic procedure takes up to 15 minutes.
Otoscopy: indications
Otoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in otolaryngology. It is carried out using an otoscope. The technique is carried out to determine and treat diseases of the ear canal and eardrum. Thanks to this procedure, it is possible to identify pathological changes in this area of the ear (as a rule, this applies to eczema or otitis media), as well as to find a foreign object.
Otoscopy is performed by an otolaryngologist. In rare cases, a general practitioner is allowed. If the situation is extreme, then the procedure will be performed by an employee from the ambulance brigade with a handheld device.
Indications for otoscopy are pathological changes. In particular, this applies to the following:
- Sulfur cork.
- The presence of purulent masses.
- Inflammatory processes and infectious lesions of the tympanic membrane.
- Injuries to the eardrum (with various objects or while hitting the head).
- Suspicion of eczema, otoscopy for otitis media or other ear disease.
- Hearing impairment.
- The presence of bleeding from the ear.
- Pain and itching in the ears.
- The presence of a foreign object or suspicion of its presence.
- Rustles and bursts in the ears.
In addition, otoscopy is performed to evaluate the structure of the ear canal before making a hearing aid.
Otoscope: what is it
Previously, the examination was carried out with a conventional funnel to expand the ear passage and reflector, which the doctor wore on his forehead. The latter is required to display the light beam from the lamp and direct it directly into the area being examined. In modern hospitals, an otoscope is used for diagnosis.
It is a small device that the otolaryngologist uses in his practice. This is a device designed to inspect the middle, external and internal parts of the hearing organ. The otoscope is a complex optical device that has the following structure:
- Long handle for comfortable holding.
- Light source. It is xenon or halogen. More expensive devices use fiber optic.
- A cone-shaped tip. It is he who is inserted into the auditory canal.
Kinds
Many models of otoscopes have been developed, which are conditionally divided into several types. The device itself is similar. The only difference is the presence of additional built-in devices.
The following varieties of otoscopes are distinguished:
- Diagnostic. An insufflator is installed on it. This is a special device with which you can massage the eardrum.
- Operating. It has an open type of optics. In addition, built-in special tools that may be needed during the surgery.
- Pneumatic. This equipment with high accuracy gives an assessment of the structure and condition of the eardrum, carries out tests. The housing is sealed.
- Portable. It has small dimensions so that it can be stored even in your pocket. Such a device is very convenient during trips. A special clip is installed to secure.
- With a camera. It has very small dimensions. Allows you to display the image on the monitor. Data can be written to any device.
These are the main varieties of the device.
Preparation for otoscopy
Preparation for otoscopy of the tympanic membrane is carried out in the doctor’s office. No preliminary measures are required from the person. The only thing is that it is forbidden to use any ear drops 3 hours before the procedure.
The doctor begins with an external examination. It determines whether there are contraindications or any obstacles to the procedure. This applies to trauma, severe edema, a variety of congenital anomalies, due to which it will not be possible to insert the device into the ear canal.
Further preparation is as follows:
- processing disinfection tools;
- elimination of sulfuric cork;
- purification of ears from pus, dead cell structures of epidermal particles - is carried out if necessary;
- the choice of an ear funnel depending on the diameter of the canal.
Cleaning Features
They clean the auditory canal by two methods - dry or washing. In the first case, a piece of cotton wool is taken and smeared with petroleum jelly. It is wound on an umbrella and the walls are rubbed so that pus, sulfur and other secretions are removed. The washing method involves the use of a Jeanne syringe. Warm water is collected into it and introduced into the cavity. When it is poured back, the place is dried with a cotton swab.
If the patient has a rupture of the eardrum, then washing is not performed. Otherwise, fluid may enter the middle ear, causing inflammation in it.
Rules for
Otoscopy is a quick procedure. To examine the organ of hearing, the doctor sits in front of the patient. His head is slightly turned in the opposite direction from the doctor. After that, do the following:
- Select a funnel of the appropriate size.
- The ear shell is protruded simultaneously up and back so that the auditory canal straightens.
- The funnel is heated to body temperature, and then carefully inserted into the membranous-cartilaginous region of the canal. It is forbidden to promote it into the bone zone, as this will cause pain. If the funnel is inserted incorrectly, then it will abut against the walls of the auditory canal.
- The doctor examines, while displacing the otoscope in the necessary direction. By the way, some people cough during these actions. This is due to the fact that the device acts on the vagus nerve.
- If necessary, puncture of the eardrum, microsurgery or removal of a foreign object is carried out.
In children
Ear otoscopy in children is practically no different from an “adult” procedure.
But there are a few key points to consider:
- Before the procedure, it is necessary to explain to the child all the actions, calm him down and indicate that everything will go away without pain.
- Parents or proxies should be present near the child during the examination. The baby is placed on the hands, the legs are clamped with the knees, and the head is fixed on the chest. Hands also hold tight.
- Funnels with smaller dimensions are needed.
- The direction in which the ear shell is pulled is different, which is the main feature. If in adults they pull up and back, then in a child back and down at the same time.
Conclusion
Otoscopy of the membrane is a quick, easy way that does not cause pain. The procedure takes only 15 minutes maximum.
No additional preparation is required from the patient. Usually the procedure does not cause pain. But in children, the eardrum is more sensitive, so that they may complain of discomfort. But painful sensations appear in a child and an adult only if pathological changes in the organs of hearing are present. This applies to perforation, otitis media, eczema and other diseases.
Many worry that otoscopy can cause discomfort or pain. But at the moment it is the only diagnostic method that gives accurate results in the presence of pathological changes in the organs of hearing. This method is fast and safe. The otoscopy technique is also used when a small surgical intervention is required and for prophylactic purposes, if a hearing aid is selected. In addition, there are other indications, but it all depends on the attending physician.