(0308) Current Use of Smartphone Adapters for Endoscopy Among Otolaryngology Residency Programs in the United States

Introduction: Smartphone adapters for flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy enhance resident education and patient care by allowing for video recording and review of examinations in multiple settings without access to endoscopic towers. Our study evaluates the current use of smartphone adapters for endoscopy in otolaryngology residency programs in the United States.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study consisting of a 12-question survey evaluated the use of smartphone adapters for endoscopy in ACGME-accredited otolaryngology residency programs in the United States in 2021 - 2023. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted to compare our categorical data of the use of adapters, reasons for use or no use of the adapters, and the perception of helpfulness of this technology.

Results: In total, 115 responses were received. The majority of the respondents were upper-level residents PGY 3-5 (61.7%). Only 44.3% of respondents reported the use of these adapters. The most common reason provided for not using the smartphone adapters was the unawareness of its existence (53.1%). On the other hand, adapter users report that the main purposes for use were video documentation for discussion with senior residents or faculty (100%), video documentation for patient education (62.7%), and airway handoffs to other residents (56.9%). The smartphone adapter use decreased with the level of ENT training. They were mostly used in the emergency room (100%), where most residents reported not having easy access to video endoscopic towers (90.2%). Flexible laryngoscopy and nasal endoscopy were the two principal types of endoscopy procedures for the use of smartphone adapters. Most adapter users believe this technology to be a helpful tool for communication, case discussion, and decision-making (98%).

Conclusions: Smartphone endoscopy adapters are used by less than half of the resident respondents due to unawareness of the existence of this technology. These adapters should be incorporated into more residency programs to enhance resident education, patient care and satisfaction, and inter-specialty communication.