What is the function of Eustachian Tube ?

The Eustachian tube (ET) is a structure located between the nasal cavity and the middle ear cavity, consisting of a bony part and cartilaginous part. Main functions of ET are to provide ventilation, drainage and pressure balance of the middle ear. The opening of the ET is normally closed. When we swallow or yawn, some muscles open up its orifice and our middle ear cavity is aerated.

What can eustachian dysfunction lead to ?

Eustachian dysfunction (ED) may lead to recurrent middle ear infections, retraction or perforation of the eardrum, and the inability to balance the ear pressure. For instance, a diver in the deep sea or someone flying in airplane with ED may experience pain, fullness in the ear; and hemotympanum (accumulation of blood behind the eardrum) or effusion may occur.

How is eustachian dysfunction diagnosed ?

Classically, the patient complains of pain and a sensation of fullness in the ear when exposed to pressure changes, such as descending a high-altitude highway, or when the plane is landing or diving in the sea. The complaints are worst if he or she is exposed to such pressure changes while he or she has common cold. Some tests such as hearing test, middle ear pressure test support the diagnosis.

What is Balloon Eustachian Tuboplasty ?

Balloon Eustachian Tuboplasty is a method used in the treatment of dysfunction due to Eustachian obstruction, performed under general anaesthesia by inflating a special balloon at 10 bar pressure for 2 minutes in the opening of the ET.

What is the efficacy of this method ?

This method is a relatively new method that has become popular in the world in recent years. Short-term success is given over eighty percent in the literature. If the complaints recur, this method can be repeated or alternatively, a ventilation tube may be inserted.