speculum /spec·u·lum/ (spek´u-lum) pl. spec´ula [L.] an instrument for opening or distending a body orifice or cavity to permit visual inspection.
Speculum
speculum
speculum [spek´u-lum]
spec·u·lum (sp k y -lm)n. pl. spec·u·lums or spec·u·la (-l ) 1. A mirror or polished metal plate that is used as a reflector in optical instruments. 2. An instrument that is used to dilate the opening of a body cavity for medical examination. |   Top left to right: nasal and ear specula Bottom left to right: rectal and vaginal specula |
Speculum
A speculum is an instrument that is used during the internal genitalia examination. It can be made of plastic or metal and is used to open up the vaginal cavity in order for the examiner to view the walls of the vagina and the cervix.
speculum
[spek′yələm]
Etymology: L, mirror
a retractor used to separate the walls of a cavity to make examination possible, such as an ear speculum, an eye speculum, a nasal speculum, or a vaginal speculum.
speculum [spek´u-lum]
an instrument for opening or distending a body orifice or cavity to permit visual inspection.
See illustration.Speculums: A, nasal; B, rectal; C, ear (for otoscope); D, vaginal.
speculum
an instrument for opening or distending a body orifice or cavity to permit visual inspection.
mouth speculum
ophthalmic speculum
small, lightweight speculum consisting of two arms which are opened by a screw at one end. Called also Castroviejo eye speculum.
vaginal speculum
speculum
Surgery An instrument used to widen a body opening or surgical field to ↑ visibility
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