Abstract
BACKGROUND: Frugal innovations are essential in low-resource settings to provide cost-effective medical solutions without compromising functionality. The Arclight is a robust, solar-powered device that functions as both an ophthalmoscope and an otoscope, priced at approximately 12€ in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). OBJECTIVES: This study evaluates the Arclight's potential as a video otoscope when attached to smartphones, aiming to enhance telemedicine capabilities in ear examinations. METHODS: Twenty otorhinolaryngology (ORL) specialists rated the standalone Arclight as well as its attachment to an iPhone 12 and a Samsung Galaxy A14 for ear examinations at the University Medical Centre in Mainz, Germany. RESULTS: The standalone Arclight received the highest ratings overall, followed by the Arclight attached to a Samsung Galaxy A14. Attached to the Samsung Galaxy A14, the Arclight demonstrated significantly higher performance regarding ease of focus (p < 0.01), quality of view (p < 0.05), and zoom capabilities (p < 0.05) compared to the iPhone12 attachment. The iPhone12 setup performed lowest in all categories. CONCLUSION: The Arclight is an effective, low-cost tool for ear examinations in low-resource settings. While smartphone integration enhances its potential for telemedicine, performance varies depending on the smartphone used. The Samsung Galaxy A14 proved to be a more reliable option for tele-otoscopy than the iPhone 12. Further optimization is needed to improve smartphone integration and address identified limitations, enhancing the Arclight's utility in telemedicine applications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA.