Itard speculum

Itard speculum which was commonly used in London had two arms. These arms were opened by a pair of forceps handles. This differs from that of Krammer's speculum merely in the shape of the opening at the extremity (aural end). It is oval in this area. The orifice is also not wide and funnel shaped as seen in Krammer's speculum. The aural end of the speculum is cylinderical in form and can easily be introduced even into an unusually narrow meatus.


Both halves of the funnel are united by their superior border at right angles with two forceps handles fastened by a joing. When these handles are pressed the funnel opens. The wide seperation of the funnel allows straightening of external auditory canal and also opens up the cartilaginous portion of the canal for better visualization of the ear drum.


The inner surface of the funnel is painted dull in order not to reflect the precious rays of the sun. In order to use this speculum the patient is made to sit in a stool near the window with the affected ear directed towards the window. Through the window sun light should reach the examination area. The auricle is drawn up with the non dominant hand and the patient is asked to open the mouth in order to make the external auditory canal more wider. the speculum is then introduced with its cylindrical extremity closed as far into the meatus as possible. Then the handle is pressed to dilate the speculum. The ear drum becomes better visible.