An otoscope is an ear examination tool. It is a handheld device that is employed for visualizing and magnifying the interior surface of the external auditory canal. Some otoscopes get connected to a larger screen to further clear the view. Considering their high importance in healthcare as well as in home settings, purchasing an otoscope becomes necessary. Here comes the question of how to choose the right otoscope? What are some of best otoscope brands? How much does an otoscope cost?
Otoscopes are handheld devices that are used for ear examination
But don’t worry. If you are confused about how to choose the right otoscope, you are at the right place because, in this article, we are about to explore the features and specifications that need to be considered while buying an otoscope.
How to Choose the Right Otoscope for Ear Examination?
While learning how to choose the right otoscope, look for the following features:
1. Select the Right Otoscope Size
In general, otoscopes are available in two different sizes:
- Full-size otoscopes
- Pocket size otoscopes
Full-Size Otoscopes
The full size otoscopes are larger and bulkier as compared to the pocket size ones. These are, however, more durable and allow the exchange and replacement of otoscope components.
Pocket Size Otoscopes
On the other hand, pocket size otoscopes are smaller in size and more portable than the full size otoscope devices. These are compact and lightweight systems that can be clipped to the pocket of the lab coat. However, there is no way to interchange the heads of these otoscopes. As for their power source, these otoscopes require AA batteries.
2. Look for a Suitable Light Source
While learning how to choose the right otoscope, keep in mind that an otoscope can have any of the following bulbs as their light sources:
- LED bulbs
- Xenon bulbs
- Halogen bulbs
- Incandescent bulbs
Although all of these work well during ear examination, each has its own pros and cons. For instance, incandescent light bulbs often become dimmer after a few uses. Likewise, others also have certain benefits as well as losses that are enlisted in the following table:
| Features | LED Bulbs | Xenon Bulbs | Halogen Bulbs | Incandescent Bulbs |
| Lifespan | Longer | Longer than all | Longer | Comparatively shorter |
| Illumination | Brightest | Extremely bright | Bright | Bright |
| Dimming overuse | Uncommon | Uncommon | Uncommon | Common |
3. Look for the Desirable Power Source
Just like their size, otoscopes can be categorized into two groups based on their power source that should be considered while learning how to choose the right otoscope:
- Hard-wired otoscopes
- Battery-powered otoscopes
Otoscopes are strong, durable, and long-lasting devices
Hard Wired Otoscopes
The hard wired otoscopes require a continuous supply of electric current. That’s why these need to be mounted and plugged in on the wall using a cord. This renders their use restricted in one space as there is no option for portability. However, these are beneficial for healthcare facilities where portable otoscopes go missing easily.
Battery-Powered Otoscopes
As for the battery-powered otoscopes, the biggest advantage is their portability. These are often small in size, lightweight, and can be carried around at all times. The batteries affixed in the otoscope handle can be charged by plugging in the device into the wall-mounted charging station.
These battery-powered otoscopes can have three types of batteries:
- Nickel-Cadmium (NICAD) batteries
- Lithium batteries
- Nickel batteries
Among these, lithium batteries have longer charge retention and thus remain charged for longer when the device is not in use. However, NICAD batteries are heavier and do not charge well despite being less pricey than lithium ones.
4. Evaluate Different Otoscope Heads
While learning how to choose the right otoscope, keep in mind that the most important part of an otoscope is its head. These heads have different features and functionality and, therefore, differ in cost. Some of the commonly employed otoscope heads include the following:
Standard Otoscope Heads
Standard otoscope heads come with a handle when a device is purchased. These are affordable and most practical tools for ear examination. However, these heads often cause trouble when a tip or speculum is attached to them as their hold on the tip is weak. As a result, the tip keeps falling or gets stuck into the patient’s ear.
Macroview Otoscope Heads
As the name suggests, macroview otoscope heads are larger in size than standard otoscope heads. These are advantageous as they provide greater magnification as well as widen the field of view. Moreover, the view can also be adjusted to achieve better focus due to the focus control feature. In addition, these macro view otoscope heads receive and hold the speculum well owing to the twist attachment feature.
Video Otoscope Heads
Video otoscope heads can be considered the most advanced form of tools in their domain while learning how to choose the right otoscope. These allow capturing the images and videos of the interior ear that can be displayed on a computer screen. The otoscope takes a USB cable that enables its attachment to the larger screen. This way, the medical professionals can see even the minor movements and tissue abnormalities, if present.
Pneumatic Otoscope Heads
Pneumatic otoscope heads are particularly designed to check the movement of the eardrum or the tympanic membrane. These otoscopes blow a puff of air into the ear canal while shinning the light into it. The puffed air vibrates the eardrum and the healthcare provider can look if the tympanic membrane is intact or has been damaged.
All of these otoscope heads can be attached to a single rechargeable handle.
The use of small specula makes the otoscope suitable for kids
How to Choose the Right Otoscope Based on Cost-Analysis?
The price of an otoscope usually depends upon the components it carries as well as its type. A cost analysis has been summarized as follows:
- Pocket-size otoscopes are cheaper than hard-wired otoscopes due to their small size and compact design. A downside of choosing a pocket-size otoscope is that the head cannot be detached from the handle and, therefore, replacement of the parts is not possible.
- The type of head also determines the cost of an otoscope. In general, video otoscope heads are pricier than all other types.
- Type of power source is also important as lithium batteries-carrying otoscopes cost mainly due to the higher cost of these batteries.
- The nature of the light source can also add to the overall cost of an otoscope.
Therefore, while learning how to choose the right otoscope, consider the environment it is to be used as well as also determine the frequency of usage. In addition, if an otoscope is to be used in a healthcare facility, invest in a device that can serve for years to come. As for home-based use, portable devices also work fine.
Otoscopes are necessary tools for otolaryngologists or ENT specialists and audiologists
Otoscope Brands at Health Supply 770: Features and Specifications
An otoscope is an outer ear examination tool that is small in size and has a longer lifespan. These are often a one-time investment as they are well-built and often have the option of component replacement. That’s why, the buyers have to spend a large sum of money once and can then change the parts whenever necessary.
While learning how to choose the right otoscope, it is also good to have knowledge about the brands available in the US market. Some of these otoscope brands are also available at Health Supply 770 and have been detailed below along with their features and purchase links:
Welch Allyn Diagnostic Otoscope for Ear Canal Examination– With LED 250-2
Welch Allyn Diagnostic Otoscope – With LED 250-2
US$250.88
Product Details
Welch Allyn 250-2 diagnostic 3.5 Volts otoscopes are one of the best ear examination tools. These are small in size, lightweight, and extremely compact. That’s why, these can be carried around easily throughout a hectic work day.
The light source is LED-based that shines bright light within the ear canal and does not become dim overtime. In addition, while learning how to choose the right otoscope, it is also essential to select a product that is easy to maintain.
In this regard, these Welch Allyn 250-2 diagnostic otoscopes are best because of their simple construction and corrosion-resistant body. Being non-reactive, these can be easily wiped using a disinfectant solution.
Welch Allyn Pocketscope Jr. Otoscope with Aa Handle, Pocket Clip 22840
Welch Allyn Pocketscope Jr. Otoscope with Aa Handle, Pocket Clip 22840
US$74.88
Product Details
Welch Allyn pocketscope jr. otoscope with Aa handle is an easy to use system that comes with a handle, an otoscope head, as well as specula of different sizes. It is a rechargeable pocket size otoscope that is lightweight and portable. The dimensions of the product are 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches.
Moreover, the product is also budget-friendly and has a longer lifespan. While learning how to choose the right otoscope, products like Welch Allyn pocketscope jr. otoscope with Aa handle should be preferred as these are easy to use and maintain.
25020L 3.5V SureColor LED Diag Fiber-Optic Otoscope, Reuse Spec
25020L 3.5 V SureColor LED Fiber-Optic Otoscope
US$171.57
Product Details
25020L 3.5V SureColor LED diag pneumatic-enabled otoscopes with fiber optic technology come with a glare-free, bright, LED-based light source. This is essential because the visualization of the ear canal is significantly improved rendering the examination accurate and error-free.
Furthermore, these SureColor LED diag fiber-optic otoscopes have optic-fiber technology that does not raise the temperature within the ear canal when LED light is shone during examination. As a result, the patient’s comfort is improved.
While learning how to choose the right otoscope, it should be kept in mind that a suitable product should be employed for all age groups. Therefore, these 25020L 3.5V SureColor LED diag otoscopes with fiber-optic technology come with different specula ranging from 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, to 5 mm in size to accommodate different patients.
KaWe Combilight®️ C10 Otoscope with 3X Magnification #20-850-000
KaWe Combilight®️ C10 Otoscope with 3X Magnification #20-850-000
US$184.88
Product Details
KaWe Combilight®️ C10 otoscopes are one of the finest otoscope brands in the US market. These come with different sized ear specula that renders them suitable for different aged patients. In addition, the product also has a magnifying capacity of up to 3X. This feature broadens and widens the view of the ear canal that helps during examination.
In addition, the product also has dimmable rheostat for adjusting the light intensity. These KaWe Combilight®️ C10 otoscopes are also pneumatic-enabled and thus can be employed for eardrum examination. While learning how to choose the right otoscope, the durability and easy maintenance of these products often adds to their value.
Welch Allyn 71050-C Otoscope Handle with Rechargeable Batteries
Welch Allyn 71050-C Otoscope Handle
US$120.62
Product Details
Welch Allyn 71050-C otoscope handle is a rechargeable system that works best with all types of otoscope heads. These handles come with 3.5 Volt rechargeable batteries that are highly durable. Moreover, the product also had a strong construction owing to its brass finish and chrome plating.
While learning how to choose the right otoscope, it is important to check its attachment method to a suitable handle. In this regard, these Welch Allyn 71050-C otoscope handles serve as a perfect base for the ear examination devices as these provide stability to them.
Overall, the product is an excellent choice for healthcare facilities as well as home settings and comes in a beautiful silver color.
Welch Allyn PocketScope Otoscope with Throat Illuminator 22821
Welch Allyn PocketScope Otoscope with Throat Illuminator 22821
US$198.88
Product Details
Welch Allyn PocketScope otoscope with throat illuminator is an otoscope that can be used for ear as well as throat examination. The light source of the product illuminates the pharynx and help locate the signs of an infection. Their power source is a 2.5 Volts halogen HPX that is long-lasting.
While learning how to choose the right otoscope, these Welch Allyn PocketScope otoscopes with throat illuminator should be given preference due to their portability as well as multiplicity of usage.
*Note: The prices mentioned in the article are taken from the Health Supply 770 website. These may vary over time.
Otoscopes are noninvasive tools that do not cause pain while the examination
The products mentioned in this article while learning how to choose the right otoscope, along with many other medical supplies, can be purchased from Health Supply 770, a reliable name when it comes to medical products. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide your products to you in the shortest possible time. Click the link at the end of the article to check the wide range of otoscopes.
Conclusion
Otoscopes are one of the essential medical devices when it comes to ear examination. These have a magnifying lens along with a light source and help view inside the ear canal. The use of an otoscope is not only restricted to the healthcare facilities. Rather, these can be used at home at well for preliminary ear canal examination before visiting medical professionals.
When it comes to choosing the right otoscope, it is important to look into their sizes, light and power source options, as well as the type of head they carry. Different features of an otoscope decide how much the product will cost as some components are pricier than others.
Overall, the best otoscope is the one that serves you the best depending upon your needs and requirements as well as budget-constraints. For purchasing different products while learning how to choose the right otoscope, reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 should be approached. They ensure the provision of quality products along with satisfactory services.
PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
