Telescopic otoscopy and photography of the tympanic membrane

Abstract

High resolution wide field photographs of the external canal, tympanic membrane, and middle ear can now be readily taken using a Hopkin's Lens Fiberoptic Tele-otoscope with a high intensity flash generator and light source. The equipment required and the technique used are described and sample photographs presented. The old adage that one picture is worth a thousand words holds true for illustrating tympanic membrane and middle ear pathology. The pictures taken have proved to be extremely valuable in following the course of disease within an ear. When ears are examined for photographic purposes the examiner tends to look at the ears in greater detail and develops an appreciation of the subtle departures from normal which occur.