Microscopic Examination in the ENT Consultation
The first time the use of the microscope was described was in the 17th century, but it was not until 1921 that microscopic examination was first employed to perform ear surgery.
Since then, and up to the present day, the microscope has continued to evolve, and its use has become widespread, making it an indispensable tool in ENT consultations.
What are the uses of the microscope in the ENT consultation?
The microscope is a three-dimensional optical instrument that allows ENT specialists to visualize magnified and illuminated images with high quality.
This is especially useful when examining the ear, given its small size. The microscope provides greater accuracy in diagnosing conditions such as:
- Serous otitis media (especially in children)
- Differentiating between tympanic membrane perforation and a monomeric area (a thinner zone) of the eardrum
- Distinguishing myringosclerosis plaques (scar calcium deposits) from foreign bodies or chronic otitis media
The microscope is also extremely useful for carrying out various therapeutic procedures in the consultation, such as:
- Removal of earwax plugs
- Suction of secretions in cases of infection
- Removal of foreign bodies
- Application of medications
- Intratympanic corticosteroid injections
- Collection of microbiology samples
- Performing small biopsies
Does the microscope have other uses in the ENT consultation?
Other, less frequent applications of the microscope in the ENT office include:
- Nasal microscopic examination
- Examination of skin or mucosal lesions
- Removal of facial sutures, especially when very fine stitches have been used
How is microscopic examination performed in the ENT consultation?
At Altiorem, we have a microscope in each consultation room. When a patient requires a microscopic examination, we will ask them to sit in the examination chair with their head resting on the headrest, and we may adjust the tilt and height.
We will then use an ear speculum, which allows us to direct the light more effectively into the ear canal.
The procedure is not painful, and its duration may vary depending on whether the patient requires any additional intervention.