Accurate assessment of middle ear effusion by monitoring ultrasound reflections from a tympanic membrane

Middle ear effusion (MEE) is commonly determined by examining a tympanic membrane using an otoscope. However, diagnosing MEE in infants or young children is considerably challenging due to the lack of cooperation during the examination. We have developed a simple, disposable, and inexpensive ultrasound transducer system to detect MEE. A short low-pressure, straight water stream was used as a contact medium. The reflection from a dry or healthy membrane was significantly higher than a wet or infected membrane. Since the transducer transmits and receives ultrasound beam through an instantaneous water stream, it is insensitive to the excessive background noise, like crying and talking, and does not require significant co-operation from the pediatric patients.