First Clinical Results of the Dilatation of the Eustachian Tube in Patients with Tubal Dysfunction

Abstract

Objectives: One of the main causes for chronic otitis media is a tubal dysfunction which can now be treated with the endonasal dilatation of the Eustachian tube with the help of a novel balloon catheter. Methods: Since July 2010, we treated patients with a tubal dysfunction with a balloon dilatation of the Eustachian tube with the help of an endoscope through an endonasal approach. Such a dilatation was done in patients in whom we found a tubal dysfunction in the tube manometry and impedance audiometry. In 55 patients, a single-sided and in 50 patients a bilateral treatment was performed by inserting a specially designed balloon catheter into the cartilage of the Eustachian tube and inflating it with 10 bar for 2 minutes. Results: Between July 2010 and November 2011, 105 patients (age 9-71; 45 female, 60 male) were treated because of a tybal dysfunction. The dilatation was performed under general anesthesia using an endoscope and a specially designed applicator. The postoperative check-up showed improved function in 69 patients, while 36 patients still showed a limitation of the tubal function. All patients reported a subjective improvement of middle ear pressure equalization. Conclusions: The endonasal dilatation of the Eustachian tube using the balloon catheter set to enlarge the cartilage is a safe and reliable method in patients with a tubal dysfunction. Our first clinical results confirm functional improvement after one year.