New low budget otoscope for early warning of hearing loss
Imogene
May 25, 2016
There are all manner of reasons why someone may be more prone to hearing loss. They include genetic factors, birth complications, ear infections, a reaction to drugs, aging and environmental factors. Cystic Fibrosis treatment often include high doses of medications that may increase the risk of hearing loss. We are wondering if innovations like the one listed below, may in the future play a role in detecting early hearing loss?
With the help of a 3D printer and just $6.42 in parts, anybody can turn a smartphone into a low budget otoscope and take photos of the inner ear that can uncover problems in the making.
Robert Hunt and Tessa Bronez, who both graduated with degrees in Biomedical Engineering this year, want to make their designs open source so others can download and build the otoscope. They also want people to improve upon it and make it an increasingly viable solution for the Third World.
