A randomised trial to assess the educational benefit of a smartphone otoscope in undergraduate medical training

Purpose Competent otoscopy is a key otolaryngology skill for a broad range of medical careers, yet undergraduate's confidence to perform otoscopy is reported as low. Smartphone otoscopes have been suggested to improve undergraduates learning of normal eardrum anatomy because unlike the traditional otoscope, the learner and educator share the same image. This study aimed to evaluate whether a smartphone otoscope could enhance medical undergraduates recognition of common ear pathology. Methods 52 medical students were randomised into a standard group that used a traditional otoscope and an intervention group that used a smartphone otoscope. Both groups received a short didactic presentation on the recognition of common ear pathologies and were asked to diagnose four simulated pathologies. Both groups received feedback and guidance on how to better visualise the tympanic membrane. Force response items and 5-point Likert scales loaded on an electronic platform recorded their diagnosis and their perceptions towards the otoscope. Results The smartphone-group (n = 20) had higher overall rates of correct diagnosis compared to control (n = 22) (84% vs. 39%,p = < 0.001). Only the grommet station did not show a significant improvement between the two groups (100% vs. 91%,p = 0.49). 90% (n = 20) of participants felt the smartphone otoscope was preferential for their learning. The same number expressed that they want to use it in future learning. The remainder were indifferent. Conclusions The smartphone otoscope enabled learners to better observe and recognise middle ear pathology. This popular learning tool has the potential to accelerate the learning curve of otoscopy and therefore improve the proficiency of future doctors at recognising middle ear diseases.

Automated summary

Smartphone otoscopes can enhance medical students' recognition of ear pathologies, with higher rates of correct diagnosis compared to traditional otoscopes. Most participants prefer using smartphone otoscopes for learning and express interest in using them in the future.