Otitis media is more common in young children and it is estimated that 75% of all children experience at least one episode before the age of three. Otitis media is one of the common pediatric diagnoses and recurrent episodes account for the most commonly performed surgical procedure. Despite this a high degree of inaccuracy exists in diagnosis of this condition which depends on subjective assessment of the ear drum via direct visualization using an otoscope. Researchers can use LED-based multi wavelength light absorption and scattering measurements for the analysis of ear drum and the middle ear.
The research can use low energy LED signal light sent into the ear canal to measure the tissue optical properties including the absorption of the light signal and the amount of signal that will be backscattered by the tissue components. These measurements will then be analyzed using a microprocessor to determine presence of fluid or inflammation of the eardrum.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
150
Spectroscopic otoscope measurements are taken with the investigational device. Each measurement consists of placing the device in the ear canal and illuminating the ear with multiple light sources in a short period of time. If wax is present in the ear canal, it is removed by the study physician and another measurement is taken.
Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC)
Orange, California, United States
RECRUITINGUCI Otolaryngology Clinic
Orange, California, United States
RECRUITINGMiddle Ear Exam
The level of light scattering and absorption as measured will be the predictor and presence of fluid behind the ear drum as determined by the surgeon during ear tube placement procedure will be our outcome variable.
Time frame: 5 minutes
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