Otoscopy – how is the ear constructed?

Otoscopy, also called ear speculum, is a diagnostic medical procedure that allows doctors to carefully examine the outer ear and eardrum. It is an important tool in the diagnosis of ear and auditory canal diseases. In this article, we will take a closer look at this test, its course, preparation for it and its applications in the diagnosis of various diseases.

How is the ear constructed?

Before we delve into the details of otoscopy, it is worth knowing the structure of the ear that is the basis of this procedure. The ear consists of three main parts:

1. External ear: This is the visible part of the ear, consisting of the auricle and the external auditory canal. The auricle has a protective function and collects sounds.
2. Middle ear: This is where the eardrum is located, which separates the outer ear from the middle ear. The middle ear also contains three auditory ossicles: the hammer, anvil and stirrup, which transmit sounds to the inner ear.
3. Inner ear: This is the deepest part of the ear and contains the organs of hearing and balance. The inner ear consists of the ossicular labyrinth and the internal auditory canal.

What is an otoscopic examination?

Otoscopic examination, or otoscopy, is a procedure performed using an otoscope, which is a special medical tool equipped with a light source and a mirror. The doctor uses an otoscope to take a closer look at the patient’s ear, assess its condition and identify any problems.

The otoscopy procedure is as follows:

1. The patient sits or lies in a comfortable position and the doctor begins the examination.
2. The doctor gently grasps the auricle and lifts it slightly to get a better view of the ear canal.
3. The otoscope is inserted into the external auditory canal and the doctor examines its interior, including the eardrum and any pathological changes.
4. During the examination, the doctor may also blow air onto the eardrum to assess its mobility and elasticity.

Preparation for otoscopy

Preparation for otoscopy is usually simple and does not require any special actions on the part of the patient. However, there are some factors worth considering before testing:

• Make sure your ear is clean and free from excess earwax or other debris that may complicate the examination.
• If you experience discomfort or pain in your ear, please inform your doctor before the examination.

Otoscopy in children

Otoscopic examination is often performed in children, especially in cases of hearing problems or recurrent ear infections. This can be a stressful experience for children, so it is important that the doctor is gentle and caring.

For infants and young children, the doctor may use a special otoscope that is adapted to smaller ears. It’s also a good idea to prepare your child by explaining what the test is and why it is necessary.

How long does an otoscopic examination take?

The duration of an otoscopic examination is usually short and lasts only a few minutes. It is a non-invasive procedure that should not cause any discomfort to the patient.

What diseases can be diagnosed using otoscopy?

Otoscopy is widely used in the diagnosis of various diseases of the ear and auditory canal. Thanks to this test, it is possible to diagnose, among others:

• Inflammation of the external ear.
• Inflammation of the middle ear.
• Presence of a foreign body in the ear.
• Damage to the eardrum.
• Ear cancer.
• Inflammation of the mastoid process.

If your doctor suspects any ear problems, otoscopy is often the first step in the diagnostic process.

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Recommended articles

If you are interested in topics related to otoscopy, we also recommend reading our other articles on this topic:

• Otoscopy in the diagnosis of otitis media in children
• How to prepare for an otoscopic examination
• The most common symptoms of ear diseases that require otoscopy

Otoscopy is an important diagnostic procedure that allows for a thorough examination of the ear and ear canal. Thanks to it, it is possible to quickly diagnose many diseases, which translates into effective treatment and improvement of the quality of life of patients.