Endoscopic transtympanic Eustachian tube dilatation: An overview of evaluation methods and dilatation technique

Abstract

Endoscopic technique in patients undergoing chronic ear surgery allows visualization of protympanic (proximal) segment of the Eustachian tube (ET). The proximal cartilaginous ET is a common site of anatomical Obstruction in chronic otitis media and it is this proximal end of ET that is being observed, instrumented and dilated with transtympanic methods. The aim of this article is to discuss our approach to the assessment of the Eustachian tube using opening pressure measurement, endoscopic assessment of the protympanic segment of ET and Valsalva CT. And also to discuss detailed technique of transtympanic Eustachian tube dilatation. Keywords: Endoscopic ear surgery, Eustachian tube, Transtympanic balloon dilatation, Carotid canal, Protympanum