Page 314 - Control Theory in Biomedical Engineering

288 Control theory in biomedical engineering

and a bright light source, which are inserted into the patient’s mouth for the
physician to observe the nasopharynx region. While this method is not as
invasive as direct nasopharyngoscopy, it is unable to give a clear view, espe-
cially if the patient has a narrow, constricted throat or tends to exhibit a
vomiting reflex. As such, the diagnosis will not be as conclusive. Direct
nasopharyngoscopy, on the other hand, employs a nasopharyngoscope that
is inserted through the nostril of the patient to allow the physician to view
the nasopharynx region clearly. Local anesthesia is usually applied to the
nasal cavity before carrying out the procedure. This method can provide
more conclusive diagnosing of NPC in patients as compared to indirect
nasopharyngoscopy. However, the disadvantage of this method is that its
invasive nature may tend to cause discomfort to the subject. Both procedures
need a skilled physician to perform them. This makes it more tedious for the
subject as they have to make an appointment at a hospital or clinic before
being able to undergo the procedure.
We developed a home-based kit that allows patients to maneuver the
nasopharyngoscope with ease. The following are the key aims:
• A nasopharyngoscope can be self-directed, without the presence of a
clinician, as well as affordable for the public. This will increase the
frequency of observations and reduce the healthcare burden on
professionals.
• To have a good bending range to allow smooth motion in the nasophar-
ynx and to increase the viewing range of the nasopharyngoscope. This
will enable users to be able to detect problem areas in the nasopharynx
easily.
• To reduce discomfort for patients that will be self-administering the
device through the nasopharynx region. This is done by minimizing
coincidence with the surrounding tissue.
• To manufacture a device that is compact and lightweight for increased
convenience. This will increase the portability of the device, which
will help reduce the healthcare burden and increase the frequency of
observations.
• To develop an economical device that will increase the affordability
and accessibility of health care to all, regardless of economic status.

2Methods
A new nasopharyngoscope, NasoXplorer, allows for self-administered
nasopharyngoscopy at home instead of having the procedure done at