What is an otoscopy?
An otoscopy is a medical examination of the external auditory canal and the eardrum. The doctor usually uses an otoscope (ear mirror) – a medical instrument consisting of a lamp, a magnifying glass and an ear funnel. Sometimes an ear microscope is also used for otoscopy, which offers greater depth of field, brighter illumination and higher magnification. This is called ear microscopy.
When is an otoscopy performed?
An otoscopy is a routine examination performed by an ENT specialist. It can be used to detect foreign bodies in the ear canal, for example, as well as inflammation in the ear canal and on the eardrum, injuries, redness and bleeding. Bony growths (exostoses) that protrude into the ear canal can also be diagnosed in this way. If the doctor discovers retractions or protrusions of the eardrum during the otoscopy, this may indicate an inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media) or an accumulation of fluid behind the eardrum (tympanic effusion). Thickening of the eardrum and scars, on the other hand, are an indication of past inflammation or injury.
In patients who tend to produce a lot of earwax, the otoscopy can be combined with regular cleaning of the ear canal.
- for the diagnosis and follow-up of various ear diseases such as otitis media (inflammation of the middle ear)
- if there is a suspected injury to the ear canal or eardrum
- for the regular removal of earwax
What is done during an otoscopy?
The patient does not need to prepare for the otoscopy. During the examination, the ENT doctor pulls the pinna slightly backwards and upwards, making the somewhat curved ear canal almost straight. After inserting the ear funnel, the view of the eardrum is unobstructed. During the examination, the patient should keep their head as still as possible in the position in which it was turned by the doctor to prevent the ear funnel from touching or even injuring the ear canal. If there is earwax (cerumen), pus or skin flakes in the ear canal, the ENT doctor will remove these first in order to have a clear view of the eardrum. In stubborn cases of earwax, the ear is rinsed with lukewarm water – but only if it is certain that there is no damage to the eardrum.
What are the risks of an otoscopy?
An otoscopy does not involve any risks or health hazards. However, it can be unpleasant or even painful if there is inflammation in the area of the pinna, the ear canal, the eardrum or the middle ear.
What do I need to consider after an otoscopy?
There is nothing special to consider after a normal otoscopy. If the ENT specialist has also carried out treatment, he or she may give special instructions such as temporarily refraining from going to the swimming pool or using certain medication (such as ear or nose drops for middle ear infections).