Use of Handheld Video Otoscopy for the Diagnosis of Acute Otitis Media: Technical Note

Abstract

Otoscopy is a simple, yet fundamental tool for medical practitioners of all levels to diagnose common otologic conditions. Otoscopy is traditionally performed by a handheld light with a lens. This technique has several disadvantages, especially during teaching sessions since only a first-person view is available. Video otoscopy has the ability to project the view of the scope onto a screen that can be displayed for medical or patient education. Recently, handheld video otoscopy has advanced to display compatibility with personal devices such as cell phones or tablets. In this technical report, we demonstrate components, setup, and use of video otoscopy for otologic examination that can be easily used on a personal electronic device.