Otolaryngologists , otherwise known as Ear, Nose, and Throat doctors (ENT), are required to use a variety of different tools and instruments when inspecting patients and delivering adequate care. From devices to enhance vision, to tools used for dilation purposes, to even instruments to open canals in the ear and nose, each item serves a different purpose and must be mastered by every ENT. Here is a list of some of the most commonly used instruments in otolaryngology.
1. Nasal and Aural Speculums
In order for an ENT to do his or her job correctly, they must be able to see through the narrow canals of the ear and nose. Nasal and aural speculums are instruments that help dilate these orifices for better internal visibility.
2. Katz Extractor
In certain circumstances an ENT must remove foreign objects that have become lodged in a patient’s nose. The Katz extractor is a syringe-like instrument that is used to properly and safely remove these things.
3. Tongue Depressor
Often seen in a general physician’s office, a tongue depressor is used to examine the back of a patient’s throat. ENTs must be skilled at using these instruments, as one of their main focuses is throat care.
4. Forceps
All doctors are required to master the use of forceps for use during patient treatment and care. ENTs and Otolaryngologists though, must become adept at the use of over ten different kinds of forceps that each have their own unique and effective use in a variety of different scenarios.
5. Mirrors
Mirrors are another extremely important tool used by ENTs, . As the cavities of the ear, throat, and nose are not always visible from specific angles, ENTs must use mirrors to help increase their visibility into these otherwise invisible realms.
6. Laryngoscope
Much of an Otolaryngologists work deals with looking at and attempting to maintain proper health of the larynx. In order to see this, the ENT must look deep into a patient’s throat. They are able to do this with the use of a laryngoscope, and instrument that is inserted into the through in a process called a ‘laryngoscopy.’
7. Otoscope/Auriscope
ENTs are often tasked with examining ear canals and treating them with proper care. Otoscopes/ariscopes are instruments used to examine these orifices, and are also often used in the removal of heavy wax buildup.
8. Mouth Gag
ENTs, Otolaryngologists must be able to look at a patient’s tonsils and determine whether or not they should be removed. In order to do this, the patient must fully open their mouth as the otolaryngologist looks and feels internally. This is often stopped by a natural gag reflex possessed by most humans; an ENT is thus required to use a mouth gag to help the mouth maintain an open position during examination.
9. Head Lamp
During examination of any of the three orifices, ENTs must have their hands free in order to properly examine the area. Headlamps and lights allow the otolaryngologist to observe all of the canals while exercising the use of both hands simultaneously.
10. Tools of the Trade
Because ENTs are tasked with understanding the workings of three different orifices, they must be adept at using a variety of different instruments. These are the tools used by ENTs to help them maintain adequate health of the ears, noses, and throats.
Sources:
http://www.clinicaljunior.com/entinstruments.html
http://www.medical-tools.com/surgical-instruments/ent-instruments1.php
http://www.dremed.com/catalog/index.php/c/ENT_Equipment_-_Ear_Nose_Throat_Medical_Devices/cPath/700
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Roland Prescott is a freelance writer specializing in complicated legal issues such as Brain Injury, Medical Malpractice, Criminal Procedure, Constitutional Law and other issues as well.
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I hope you have enjoyed this unique look into Otolaryngologists and the gadgets and devices they use on a daily basis. Come back soon to revisit !