Video otoscope
US5919130A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jul 6, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 17, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B1/227
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A video otoscope includes an elongated body portion having a conically shaped insertion portion sized for insertion a predetermined distance into an ear canal. The insertion portion includes a tip opening and an interior having a lens system for focusing an optical image of a target onto a distally positioned imager each contained therein. The body portion includes an insufflation port to pressurize or apply a vacuum within the ear canal to allow stimulation of the tympanic membrane. In a preferred embodiment, a clear speculum releasably attached to the insertion portion transmits light to a target within the ear canal, while also allowing insufflated air to be reliably guided to the tip opening.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.