How Does an Otoscope Work?
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Basics
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The otoscope (or auriscope, from a word meaning ear) is a diagnostic medical tool used to examine the ear, as well as other small passages such as the nostrils and, with certain modifications, the upper portion of the throat. The otoscope can be used in both clinical and home settings and can be used with a variety of attachments to perform specialized tasks.
Construction
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The two major sections of the otoscope are the handle and head. A generally disposable (for sanitation purposes) funnel-shaped speculum (an instrument for holding flexible openings open) is attached to the head in order to examine the ear cavity. The head also contains a light and a magnifying lens, which are used in conjunction to illuminate and increase the image of the ear which can be seen by the person carrying out the exam.
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Examination
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The outer ear is pulled down so that the ear canal becomes straightened out. The examiner then inserts the speculum end of the otoscope into the ear canal and uses the light and magnifying lens to make observations about the ear. The process is similar in nasal examinations, while the speculum is left off for observing the throat. Attachments may enable the examiner to, for instance, clean the ear while using the otoscope.
Pneumatic otoscope
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A pneumatic otoscope can be used to test the mobility of the eardrum (or tympanic membrane, that portion of the ear that transmits sound to the small bones of the inner ear). A bulbous attachment allows the person using the otoscope to puff air into the ear to check for excess fluid or other ear problems.
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