A Case Report: Balloon Dilation of the Eustachian Tube

Abstract

Background: Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), can result from various causes such as Allergies- Inflammation from allergies can lead to Eustachian tube blockage, Upper respiratory infections which can cause swelling and mucus buildup in eustachian tube, Structural abnormalities in the nasopharynx or Eustachian tube itself, Chronic sinusitis which can lead to persistent Eustachian tube dysfunction,Barotrauma and rarely, tumours in the nasopharynx can obstruct the Eustachian tube.

Patients who are suffering from ET dysfunction typically present with complaints of hearing loss or sensation of pressure or plugged ear. These issues can lead to impaired quality of life. Over time ETD can result in cholesteatoma formation or conductive hearing loss. Effective therapeutic options for ET dysfunction are few. A novel surgical technique, Eustachian tube balloon dilation is being used to treat ETD

The aim of our study is to objectively measure the success of Eustachian tube balloon dilation for type 1 and 2 pars tensa retraction by comparing pre- operative and post-operative middle ear pressures using tympanometric testing

Methods: Pre- operative and post-operative tympanograms are analysed and categorized based on types (Type A, B and C). Success was defined by an improvement in tympanogram.

Results: Twenty-one years old female underwent balloon dilatation for eustachian tube dysfunction and pre op and post op tympanometry charts were compared and it showed improvement from type C to type A. 

Conclusion: Eustachian tube balloon dilation is always a safe procedure which produces significant improvement in tympanogram values up to fifteen months post-operatively. Persistence of the effect is clarified with long-term follow-up.