Eustachian Tube Dilation

The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. It opens periodically to allow air to pass into the middle ear to equally balance pressure with the outside world. Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) means that the Eustachian tube is blocked or does not open properly. Air cannot get into the middle ear. Eustachian tube dysfunction may cause many types of ear problems including; infections in the middle ear, fluid trapped in the middle ear, negative pressure or vacuum in the middle ear that stretches and damages the eardrum, and trapping of outer ear skin in the collapsed middle ear which can form a growing cyst.

Over the last decade, balloon dilation has become a standard of care for the treatment of sinusitis with several clinical studies proving its safety and effectiveness. This established treatment technique is now available for the treatment of Eustachian tube dysfunction as well. A recent clinical trial comparing balloon sinus dilation to medical therapy in  patients with persistent ETD found that balloon dilation was superior to medical therapy for symptom improvement. In addition, it was determined to be a safe procedure with a 0% complication rate.

Eustachian tube dilation is a minimally invasive approach for treating a Eustachian tube that is blocked or does not open properly. The balloon dilation of the Eustachian tube will attempt to restore normal function with the goal of eliminating the need for prolonged ear ventilating tubes.

Eustachian tube dilation is FDA approved for adults 22 years old and above and is performed as an outpatient procedure. The Eustachian tube lies in the back of the nasal cavity is viewed during the procedure with an endoscope (surgical telescope) that is passed through the nostril. A balloon dilation catheter is also inserted through the nose and passed into the opening of the Eustachian tube to restore its open pathway. The catheter is inflated with saline within the Eustachian tube to stretch it for two minutes. The balloon is then deflated and removed. If you have further questions about this procedure, please contact our office to schedule an appointment.

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