speculum

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.

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spec·u·lum (spky-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.

speculum Top left to right: nasal and ear specula Bottom left to right: rectal and vaginal specula

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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.

Mentioned in: Colposcopy, Hysterosalpingography, Pelvic Exam, Physical Examination

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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.

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speculum

an instrument for opening or distending a body orifice or cavity to permit visual inspection.

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mouth speculum

see mouth speculum, schoupe speculum, frick 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

see graves speculum, thoroughbred speculum.

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speculum

 Surgery An instrument used to widen a body opening or surgical field to ↑ visibility