A simplified approach to assess variations in Eustachian tubal ventilatory function by Bortnick-Miller apparatus in chronic otitis media cases (dry) before surgery

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to see the different functional gradings of Eustachian tube ventilatory function as assessed by Bortnick-Miller (B-M) apparatus in chronically diseased middle ears (dry cases) planned to undergo tympanoplasty and to correlate the results with the past experiences. Materials and Methods: This study consisted of 29 cases of chronic suppurative otitis media, inactive stage having central perforation. Tubal function was evaluated by B-M apparatus based on ability of tube assimilating the applied positive and negative pressure. Tubal opening pressure was noted after applying positive pressure while residual intratympanic pressure after 10 swallows was recorded after applying negative pressure. Results: This study revealed that results of tubal manometry in diseased ears cover a wide spectrum of normal function to partial/non-function. 51.72% of cases were able to equalize applied negative pressure, 41.39% partially equalizing, while 6.89% of cases were completely unable to equalize applied negative pressure. Conclusion: Our results of aspiration method with the help of BM apparatus explicitly suggest that tubal function in chronically diseased ears deviates from that of normal ears. It perpetually reflects that varied results of middle ear reconstructive surgeries could be anticipated in accordance with different tubal function gradings.