1. Self-monitoring of the tympanic membrane: An opportunity for telemedicine during times of COVID-19 and beyond
- Author
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A.B. Bayoumy, C.C.A.F.M. Veugen, L.B. van Rijssen, J.W.M. Bok, and J. Borgstein
- Subjects
Telemedicine ,Tympanic membrane ,Tympanic membrane retractions ,Digital otoscopes ,Otorhinolaryngology ,RF1-547 - Abstract
The interest for telemedicine has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic because of the risk of infection. Recently, commercial companies started selling digital USB-otoscopes (DUO) that can be connected to a mobile phone. These DUOs are inexpensive (costing approximately $6–35 each) and make it possible to visualize the whole tympanic membrane. Here, we illustrate the case of a patient who had operative correction of a tympanic membrane retraction, and who self-monitored the tympanic membrane in the course of time. Additionally, we discuss the use of DUOs in otolaryngology telemedicine practice. The use of simple digital USB otoscopes provides a promising method to assess and monitor the tympanic membrane remotely. However, more research is needed to establish the role of DUOs in telemedicine.
- Published
- 2021
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