Abstract
Objective: Otoscopic diagnosis has relied on virtually unchanged century-old otoscopic technology utilizing white light reflection from the tympanic membrane to the examiner. The utility of a specific visible light video-otoscopic alternative was investigated using multiple wavelengths including 405, 450, 532, and 635 nanometers to isolate unique transtympanic characteristics.
Method: High-definition tympanic membrane images of normal adult subjects were obtained under 405, 450, 532, and 635 nanometer (nm) wavelength illumination using a high-definition color CCD camera video otoscope.
Results: Under 405 nm wavelength light, improved definition of the ossicles and promontory was seen compared with white light and the other 3 individual wavelengths. Large absorption by hemoglobin along the annulus and malleus was seen using 532 nm wavelength. Cerumen and keratin debris were found to have highly reflective properties on both 405 nm and 450 nm wavelength.
Conclusion: Specific visible light reflectance high-definition CCD otoscopy at 405 and 450 nm wavelengths offers additional definition of transtympanic features over traditional white light otoscopy, specifically highlighting bony landmarks including the ossicular chain and promontory.
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