Paper patching of the tympanic membrane as a symptomatic treatment for patulous Eustachian tube syndrome

Abstract

Aim of the study Autophony and other symptoms in patients suffering form patulous Eustachian tube syndrome have been found to respond to application of Steri-strips and clay on the tympanic membrane. We used small paper patches that were applied on specified locations on the tympanic membrane. Material and methods The charts of 21 patients treated for patulous Eustachian tube syndrome between 2006 and 2011 were studied for subjective improvement of symptoms following the application of paper patches. Results Paper patching of the tympanic membrane provided symptomatic relief in 76.2 percent of patients; relief was permanent in 50 percent of these patients. These results are similar to the ones obtained with much heavier materials. The specific location appears to be important. Our results suggest the existence of two clinically separate subgroups in patulous Eustachian tube. Conclusion Paper patching of the tympanic membrane is a simple and effective means of temporarily or permanently alleviating patulous Eustachian tube syndrome symptoms. It is postulated that the patches decrease the admittance of low- to mid-frequency acoustic input at the tympanic membrane by increasing the stiffness of the tympanic membrane, thereby counteracting the middle-ear cushion effect caused by the open Eustachian tube.