This is amazing, totally cutting edge and at the forefront of accurate audiology solutions, so please read on…
What is OtoSCAN
Otoscan is the world’s first 3-dimensional (3D) laser mapping tool that creates an exact digital image of the inside of your ear. It is the first instrument that offers total accuracy as well as comfort and speed when an ear imprint is needed.
What are the differences between Otoscan and traditional foam impressions?
The differences and advantages may seem obvious, but, let’s just mention a few, just to be clear. Firstly, we have client comfort. Oftentimes, when building a foam imprint from within the ear canal we would insert a “block” (made from soft foam) to prevent the impression compound from going too deeply into the ear and then inject the mould compound into the passage. With both parts of this there was a risk that the block might cause distortion of the canal, ergo affecting smooth fitting of your hearing aid, and also the direct contact may be uncomfortable. With Otoscan there is no physical contact. Secondly, once a physical impression has been taken it is then has to be sent to the hearing aid manufacturer (yes, by mail) for them to build the replica, and then posted back to us. Not only does this make the process more lengthy, but it also exposes the sample to a risk of loss or damage. This is not the case with Otoscan, which is a fully digital process. Thirdly, you, as the client, are given the opportunity to view the scan – in real time – so you share the journey into your ear canal with your Audiologist! This is an ideal opportunity for you to be informed of any immediate issues, and to ask those all-important questions whilst the expert is literally right next to you!
“Aha”, you might say, “…but on a recent blog you told us about musician Frank BenBini from the Fun Lovin Criminals, who came to you for ear moulds and I could tell from the photos that you used foam…”. Well spotted! However, there’s a reason for that, so we asked the expert, Steven Hale, who replied with “…that Cosmic Ears product needs more information from the outside of the ear which cannot be picked up so effectively with the scanner…but, for 95% of the time, the Otoscan is the best choice.” Right, as with so many superb products available to offer hearing help, it has to be right for the client – one size never fits all in matters of audiology.
What does it do?
Otoscan produces pulses of laser light from two different sources and cameras mounted on the hand held device, and then measures the reflections of the laser to establish the distances travelled, which creates totally accurate measurements.
What is the process
At the start of the process, we put a plastic headband on our client’s head – this is the only direct contact that you will feel throughout the process. This provides reference points for the OtoSCAN device, for example, it incorporates a depth reader tool that lets us know what depth we are within the canal, as is so accurate it even lets the audiologist know when it is at the correct depth for that particular client. The pulses of light are then projected into the ear, silently and painlessly, whilst taking readings and measurements all the way. The process only takes a few minutes, and, during this time, you can watch what is happening in live time on your audiologist’s screen. There is no bunging up of your ear with compound, and no product to be removed and disposed of afterwards.
In summary
Otoscan is, without doubt, the world’s most accurate means of creating a 3D ear mould from which hearing aids and music or sports defenders can be made. It allows for the swift exchange of information and product production which, in turn, means our client’s ability to enjoy improved hearing (or sports protection) is achieved much more quickly. This, in turn, means that we are providing both the best solutions, and the best service available on the market.
