Before carrying out many ear-care procedures, it is important to look carefully at the ear canal and eardrum. At Wigan Hearing, video otoscopy allows us to examine the ear using a small camera and display the image on a screen.
What is video otoscopy?
Otoscopy means examining the ear canal and tympanic membrane (eardrum). A video otoscope uses a camera and light to give a magnified view that can be displayed on a monitor. This can help us explain our observations in a way that is easier to understand than a verbal description alone.
What happens during the examination?
The clinician will ask about any relevant symptoms, explain the procedure and gently position the camera at the entrance to, or within, the ear canal as appropriate. You can usually view the image on the screen if you would like to.
The examination is normally quick and should not be painful. We stop or adapt the procedure if the ear is too sore or if visibility is limited.
What can we see?
Video otoscopy may help us identify visible ear wax, irritation, discharge, foreign material or features of the eardrum that need further assessment. It is also useful for explaining why an ear wax removal procedure may or may not be appropriate.
A camera image cannot show everything happening inside the ear. It does not measure hearing, middle-ear pressure or inner-ear function. Depending on the findings, we may consider tympanometry, a hearing assessment or referral for medical advice.
Why might it be helpful before ear wax removal?
A blocked sensation is not always caused by ear wax. Seeing the canal helps us establish whether wax is present and whether the ear appears suitable for a particular removal method. Some medical histories and examination findings mean that irrigation or other procedures should not be carried out.
Read about our ear wax removal service and the methods we use.
Can I book an ear examination?
If you are uncertain whether you need wax removal, or you have concerns about your ear, contact our team to discuss the right appointment. Sudden hearing loss, significant pain or discharge, or other concerning symptoms may need prompt medical assessment instead of a routine wax appointment.
Video otoscopy provides a useful view of the ear, but it does not replace an appropriate clinical assessment or medical diagnosis.