The integrated light endoscope: a technical simplification of nasal endoscopy.
OBJECTIVE
Nasal endoscopes depend on cumbersome light generators and fibre-optic cables. This results in restriction of the operator's movements, impairment of tactile sensation, and visual field limitation during the examination. More importantly, its use is difficult outside a clinic setting. A system which integrates a readily available, portable, and inexpensive light source with a nasal endoscope was tested in our department.


METHODS
Twenty patients underwent endoscopic examination of their nasal cavities using this simple endoscopic system followed by the traditional light-cable technique.


RESULTS
In one patient, the visual information was insufficient with the new system. In all other cases, no additional information was demonstrated by the use of light cables.


CONCLUSIONS
The advantages and disadvantages of the system are discussed, as well as the future possibilities suggested by this development.
Malis
D D
DD
Department of Otolaryngology, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Scotland.
D019723:Endoscopes; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008029:Lighting; D009296:Nasal Cavity