Inventors:
Michael A. Sisko - Windermere FL, US
Glenn Ringel - Windermere FL, US
International Classification:
A61B 1/227
Abstract:
To provide additional capabilities when utilizing an otoscope apparatus, an attachment device is provided for digitally capturing medical data for ears, nose and throat patients. The device is implemented as an attachment to an otoscope, which replaces the wide angle viewing lens of the instrument head, for the purpose of digitally capturing diagnostic images and data. In practice this may typically include images of the tympanic membrane, ear canal, tharynx and nasal cavity. A method and system is utilized that assigns a unique identifier to each image, specific to each patient, based on predetermined criteria as well as the date and time. The attachment device is provided with the capability to magnify and/or reduce the image dimension via a focusable lens of the apparatus, while an internal processor displays and stores suitable images. Additionally, the device includes the ability to record notes, observations and comments via a dictation feature. The displayed and stored digital images, records, dictated notes and any related data are then categorized and retained by the system while being readily accessible for download or transmission, via a USB connection, wireless connection, network connection or portable memory card.