Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Intrathecal Application of a Fluorescent Dye for the Identification of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in Cochlear Malformation
06:59

Intrathecal Application of a Fluorescent Dye for the Identification of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks in Cochlear Malformation

Published on: February 29, 2020

Consumer acoustic reflectometry by parents in detecting middle-ear fluid among children undergoing tympanostomy

Heikki Teppo1, Matti Revonta

  • 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Kanta-Hame Central Hospital, Hameenlinna, Finland. heikki.teppo@khshp.fi

Scandinavian Journal of Primary Health Care
|July 1, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Parents can reliably use consumer acoustic reflectometry to rule out middle-ear fluid in children. This home screening tool showed high sensitivity and negative predictive value for detecting otitis media.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Otolaryngology
  • Diagnostic Technology

Background:

  • Middle-ear fluid (MEF) detection is crucial for diagnosing otitis media in children.
  • Accurate and accessible diagnostic tools are needed for early detection and management.
  • Parental involvement in home monitoring could improve outcomes for otitis-prone children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a consumer-grade acoustic reflectometer.
  • To assess the feasibility of parents using this device for middle-ear fluid detection in children.
  • To determine the reliability of home-based acoustic reflectometry for otitis media screening.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective diagnostic accuracy study adhering to STARD guidelines.
  • Parents utilized a consumer acoustic reflectometer for recordings in pre-school children.
  • Acoustic reflectometry results were compared against otomicroscopic myringotomy under general anesthesia.

Main Results:

  • Consumer acoustic reflectometry demonstrated high sensitivity (94%) and negative predictive value (92%) for MEF detection.
  • A 'green' result (scale 1-5) reliably indicated the absence of middle-ear fluid.
  • The specificity and positive predictive value of the device were found to be poor.

Conclusions:

  • Home screening using consumer acoustic reflectometry is highly reliable for ruling out middle-ear fluid.
  • Further research into home screening and follow-up of otitis media in children is warranted.
  • This technology holds potential for empowering parents in managing otitis-prone conditions.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Behavioral Assessment of Hearing in 2 to 4 Year-old Children: A Two-interval, Observer-based Procedure Using Conditioned Play-based Responses14:05

Behavioral Assessment of Hearing in 2 to 4 Year-old Children: A Two-interval, Observer-based Procedure Using Conditioned Play-based Responses

Published on: January 23, 2017

Related Concept Videos

Assessing Body Temperature - Tympanic membrane01:14

Assessing Body Temperature - Tympanic membrane

Assessing tympanic membrane temperature involves using a tympanic membrane thermometer (TMT). Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Begin by practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the transmission of microorganisms.
Step 2: Turn on the thermometer and wait until the ready sign appears on the screen to ensure accurate measurement.
Step 3: Slide the probe cover in place to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4: Instruct the patient to tilt their head to the side for comfort and check for cerumen...
Anatomy of the Ear01:16

Anatomy of the Ear

Auditory sensation, commonly called hearing, involves the transformation of sonic waves into neural impulses facilitated by the structures of the auditory organ. The prominent, flesh-like structure on the side of the head, called the auricle, directs sound waves towards the auditory canal. The auricle is often mislabeled as the pinna, a term more aligned with mobile structures like a feline's external ear. The auditory canal penetrates the cranium via the external auditory meatus of the...
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding II: Palpation and Auscultation01:31

Respiratory System Abnormal Finding II: Palpation and Auscultation

In assessing respiratory abnormalities, palpation and auscultation are critical tools for detecting and interpreting various pathophysiological changes. These techniques provide insight into underlying disorders by evaluating tactile sensations and sounds produced by the respiratory system.
Palpation Findings
During a respiratory assessment, palpation can reveal several vital abnormalities:
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract III: Percussion01:29

Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract III: Percussion

The respiratory system, fundamental to life, consists of complex structures responsible for gas exchange. The percussion assessment is critical to understanding this system's health and functionality. This non-invasive assessment technique allows healthcare providers to evaluate the density or aeration of the lungs, thereby identifying potential abnormalities.
Percussion in Respiratory Assessment
Percussion evaluates underlying tissue composition with audible and tactile vibrations,...