Multi-color reflectance imaging of middle ear pathology in vivo

Otoscopic examination using white-light illumination has remained virtually unchanged for well over a century. However, the limited contrast of white-light otoscopy constrains the ability to make accurate assessment of middle ear pathology and is subject to significant observer variability. Here, we employ a modified otoscope with multi-color imaging capabilities for superior characterization of the middle ear constituents in vivo and for enhanced diagnosis of acute otitis media and cholesteatoma. In this pilot study, five patients undergoing surgery for tympanostomy tube placement and congenital cholesteatoma excision were imaged using the custom-designed multi-color video-rate reflectance imaging system. We show that the multi-color imaging approach offers an increase in image contrast, thereby enabling clear visualization of the middle ear constituents, especially of the tympanic membrane vascularity. Differential absorption at the multiple wavelengths provides a measure of biochemical and morphological information, and the rapid acquisition and analysis of these images aids in objective evaluation of the middle ear pathology. Our pilot study shows the potential of using label-free narrow-band reflectance imaging to differentiate middle ear pathological conditions from normal middle ear. This technique can aid in obtaining objective and reproducible diagnoses as well as provide assistance in guiding excisional procedures.Connecticut Institute for Clinical and Translational Science (CICATS)Johns Hopkins University. Whiting School of Engineering (Startup Funds

Centralized Otolaryngology Research Efforts: Stepping‐stones to Innovation and Equity in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery

The Centralized Otolaryngology Research Efforts (CORE) grant program coordinates research funding initiatives across the subspecialties of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. Modeled after National Institutes of Health study sections, CORE grant review processes provide comprehensive reviews of scientific proposals. The organizational structure and grant review process support grant-writing skills, attention to study design, and other components of academic maturation toward securing external grants from the National Institutes of Health or other agencies. As a learning community and a catalyst for scientific advances, CORE evaluates clinical, translational, basic science, and health services research. Amid the societal reckoning around long-standing social injustices and health inequities, an important question is to what extent CORE engenders diversity, equity, and inclusion for the otolaryngology workforce. This commentary explores CORE's track record as a stepping-stone for promoting equity and innovation in the specialty. Such insights can help maximize opportunities for cultivating diverse leaders across the career continuum

Label-Free Optical Technologies for Middle-Ear Diseases

Medical applications of optical technology have increased tremendously in recent decades. Label-free techniques have the unique advantage of investigating biological samples in vivo without introducing exogenous agents. This is especially beneficial for a rapid clinical translation as it reduces the need for toxicity studies and regulatory approval for exogenous labels. Emerging applications have utilized label-free optical technology for screening, diagnosis, and surgical guidance. Advancements in detection technology and rapid improvements in artificial intelligence have expedited the clinical implementation of some optical technologies. Among numerous biomedical application areas, middle-ear disease is a unique space where label-free technology has great potential. The middle ear has a unique anatomical location that can be accessed through a dark channel, the external auditory canal; it can be sampled through a tympanic membrane of approximately 100 microns in thickness. The tympanic membrane is the only membrane in the body that is surrounded by air on both sides, under normal conditions. Despite these favorable characteristics, current examination modalities for middle-ear space utilize century-old technology such as white-light otoscopy. This paper reviews existing label-free imaging technologies and their current progress in visualizing middle-ear diseases. We discuss potential opportunities, barriers, and practical considerations when transitioning label-free technology to clinical applications

Multi-color Reflectance Imaging of Middle Ear Pathology In Vivo

Otoscopic examination using white-light illumination has remained virtually unchanged for well over a century. However, the limited contrast of white-light otoscopy constrains the ability to make accurate assessment of middle ear pathology and is subject to significant observer variability. Here, we employ a modified otoscope with multi-color imaging capabilities for superior characterization of the middle ear constituents in vivo and for enhanced diagnosis of acute otitis media and cholesteatoma. In this pilot study, five patients undergoing surgery for tympanostomy tube placement and congenital cholesteatoma excision were imaged using the custom-designed multi-color video-rate reflectance imaging system. We show that the multi-color imaging approach offers an increase in image contrast, thereby enabling clear visualization of the middle ear constituents, especially of the tympanic membrane vascularity. Differential absorption at the multiple wavelengths provides a measure of biochemical and morphological information, and the rapid acquisition and analysis of these images aids in objective evaluation of the middle ear pathology. Our pilot study shows the potential of using label-free narrow-band reflectance imaging to differentiate middle ear pathological conditions from normal middle ear. This technique can aid in obtaining objective and reproducible diagnoses as well as provide assistance in guiding excisional procedures

Re- engineering the Surgeon- Scientist Pipeline: Advancing Diversity and Equity to Fuel Scientific Innovation

Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/170251/1/lary29800.pdfhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/170251/2/lary29800_am.pd