Artificial intelligence and tele-otoscopy: A window into the future of pediatric otology

Abstract

Telehealth in otolaryngology is gaining popularity as a potential tool for increased access for rural populations, decreased specialist wait times, and overall savings to the healthcare system. The adoption of telehealth has been dramatically increased by the COVID-19 pandemic limiting patients' physical access to hospitals and clinics. One of the key challenges to telehealth in general otolaryngology and otology specifically is the limited physical examination possible on the ear canal and middle ear. This is compounded in pediatric populations who commonly present with middle ear pathologies which can be challenging to diagnose even in the clinic. To address this need, various otoscopes have been designed to allow patients, their parents, or primary care providers to image the tympanic membrane and middle ear, and send data to otolaryngologists for review. Furthermore, the ability of these devices to capture images in digital format has opened the possibility of using artificial intelligence for quick and reliable diagnostic workup. In this manuscript, we provide a concise review of the literature regarding the efficacy of remote otoscopy, as well as recent efforts on the use of artificial intelligence in aiding otologic diagnoses.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence; Machine learning; Otoscopy; Remote; Telehealth.