Clinical Tips from Lou Gotthelf, DVM

For better visualization of the horizontal canal and eardrum in a swollen ear canal, turn the irrigation pressure on the Earigator up to maximum. Then put the 5 Fr. poly catheter into the working channel until you see the tip. As you go into the horizontal canal, use continuous irrigation to dilate the canal to allow visualization. Any increased water pressure in the ear canal will come back through the working channel so you will not put too much pressure on the eardrum. This technique is also useful in getting the tip of the probe to advance deeper into the horizontal canal closer to the eardrum.

When using the EARIGATOR to suction fluid out of the ear, start with a low suction pressure and begin in the upper portion of the vertical canal. Extend the catheter into the liquid and as the liquid is evacuated from the ear canal, advance the probe slightly and continue the suction. Doing this will prevent the inadvertent constriction of the ear canal caused by negative pressure on the canal walls. To get all of the fluid out of the ear canal when the patient is in lateral recumbency, keep the catheter on the floor of the horizontal canal and extend it slowly toward the eardrum with the suction on. 
Because the eardrum is at a 45 degree angle, the eardrum is at its farthest point away from you where it meets the horizontal canal.”

Helpful Tips:

• The VetDock Substations may be put into a split 4 image mode by holding the foot pedal down 5 seconds. Do the same to reverse.

• Fogging of the VetScope may also be prevented with a thin layer of KY jelly or mineral oil.

• Red rubber catheters are far more forgiving when doing an ear cleaning through your MedRx Video Vetscope. Don’t forget to cut the end off.

• Help prevent fogging by liberally applying alcohol to the lens of your Vetscope.

• The Accuvet laser tips work nicely through the Vetscope to enhance your middle ear procedures.