Method Of Exam

Author: A. Chandrasekhar, MD Consultant: J Stankiewicz, MD

The otoscopic exam is performed by gently pulling the auricle upward and backward. In children, the auricle should be pulled downward and backward. This process will move the acoustic meatus in line with the canal. Hold the otoscope like a pen/pencil and use the little finger area as a fulcrum. This prevents injury should the patient turn suddenly.

Air inflation otoscopy (pneumatic-otoscope) is very useful to evaluate middle ear disease. Assess the mobility of tympanic membrane by applying positive and negative pressures with the rubber squeeze bulb.

Normal: