| 摘要 |
The present invention is an apparatus and method for collecting a specimen of middle ear fluid, through the ear drum of a patient, for subsequent culturing. The present invention involves using a needle that is adapted for puncturing through the ear drum, with a fluid absorbent material disposed on the needle to absorb a sufficient specimen of middle ear fluid for subsequent culturing and identification of bacteria present. Such an apparatus can be made inexpensively and disposable after each use. A stop guard can be secured to the needle to inhibit penetration of the needle beyond a desired depth through the ear drum. The stop guard enables the desired depth of penetration, through the ear drum, to be determined without having to rely solely on the skill of the practitioner performing the procedure.
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