Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is defined as the ear's inability to appropriately equalize pressure. ETD can lead to chronic ear pressure, pain or discomfort with pressure changes.1
Typically, when you yawn, sneeze, or swallow, your eustachian tubes- small passageways that run between your middle ear and upper throat- open to keep pressure and fluid from building up. When these eustachian tubes are blocked, this is when you might feel a fullness in your ear or your hearing may be muffled.1
Eustachian tube dysfunction can be caused by:2
There are numerous symptoms of eustachian tube dysfunction, but you should consult with your doctor for diagnosis. Typical symptoms include:2
There are an estimated 11 million adults suffering from Eustachian tube dysfunction in the US and over 2 million healthcare visits every year.3 Treatment options range from medical management to invasive surgical options.2,4
Treatment options
If your symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend the following treatment options:
Surgical treatments for Eustachian tube dysfunction
Some ETD sufferers with more severe or chronic symptoms may require surgical intervention. Consult with your physician to determine if one of the following may be the correct course of treatment:
Many of the current treatment options for Eustachian tube dysfunction are limited or invasive, but a newer, minimally invasive treatment option using balloon dilation can restore Eustachian tube function and relieve symptoms. The dilation systems have been shown in studies to provide a safe and effective treatment option for people with Eustachian tube dysfunction.8 During this procedure, your doctor will insert a small balloon through your nose and into your eustachian tube. The balloon will then be inflated for 2 minutes and then removed. This procedure can be done in the office, ambulatory surgery center (ASC), or hospital.
What to expect during treatment?
First, in both the office, ASC and hospital procedures, your doctor will anesthetize the inside of your nose to ensure comfort during the procedure. Next, the doctor will guide the balloon device into your Eustachian tube. Once inside the Eustachian tube, your doctor will advance the balloon into the opening and expand it for 2 minutes. The doctor will then deflate the balloon and remove it from your nose.
What to expect after treatment?
Your doctor may recommend that you avoid blowing your nose or Valsalva maneuvers (taking a deep breath, pinching your nostrils closed, and blowing with your mouth shut)
People who have gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, rhinosinusitis, and recent upper respiratory tract infections are at an increased risk of developing ETD.2
Allergies can also increase a person’s risk, as they can lead to frequent episodes of mucus production and congestion.2
Activities that can trigger symptoms include:2
The most common side effects associated with balloon dilation of the Eustachian tube include: pain, tissue inflammation, damage to the Eustachian Tube and continued or worsening symptoms. Potential severe risks include: subcutaneous emphysema and carotid artery damage.6
Data has shown that 89% of patients were satisfied with the procedure at the one-year follow-up and 83% at the long-term follow-up (29 months).8
Your doctor will ask you to complete a survey to understand your symptoms and allergy history. Your doctor will also do an examination of your ear canals and sinuses to check for inflammation and mucus build-up.
If symptoms linger, recur, or get worse, your doctor may want to check for underlying problems or other conditions that could be leading to your symptoms. Tests may include:
Audion® ET dilation system
The Audion ET dilation system is a balloon dilation device specifically designed for the Eustachian tube to treat adults (18+) with eustachian tube dysfunction. It features an atraumatic tip with an enhanced flexible design, 45 degree angle, and 20mm leg length designed to avoid critical anatomy.6, 10-11
XprESS® ENT dilation system
This system delivers control and versatility for balloon dilation. Its seeker-based design and tip malleability provide the tactile feel and flexibility to address complex anatomy for a broad range of patients.7,9
References
ENT-GSNPS-SYK-662203