speculums

Speculums are medical instruments used to visualize body cavities by gently holding open an orifice. The most familiar form is the vaginal speculum, a self-retaining, two-bladed instrument used in gynecology to view the cervix and vaginal walls and to obtain cytology or cultures. Other varieties are used in ear, nose, and throat practice to open nasal passages or the external ear canal, as well as in dentistry and veterinary medicine.

Vaginal specula come in several designs. The Graves speculum is a larger two-bladed instrument; the Pederson speculum has narrower blades and a slimmer profile for improved access or patient comfort. Duckbill descriptors refer to certain two-blade shapes. Self-retaining designs rely on a ratchet or screw mechanism to hold the blades apart during examination.

In ENT practice, nasal specula are slender, curved blades that gently separate the nasal mucosa to permit visualization of the nasal cavity. Other clinical variants include otologic specula used to examine the external ear canal.

Materials range from stainless steel for reusable devices to disposable plastic variants. Metal specula are sterilized between patients, typically by autoclaving; disposable plastics are used once and discarded.

Use and safety considerations: Proper technique minimizes discomfort and tissue injury. Examiners ensure sterility and obtain informed consent. The instrument should not be used if there is significant injury or infection that could be aggravated, and care is taken to avoid trauma to mucosal tissue.