Transtympanic dilatation of the eustachian tube during chronic ear surgery

Conclusion: Evaluation of the protympanic segment of the eustachian tube is feasible during chronic ear surgery. Balloon dilatation of that segment yields a bigger aperture. Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of visualization and balloon dilatation of the protympanic segment of the eustachian tube during chronic ear surgery. Methods: This study was carried out on a consecutive case series. All patients undergoing surgical treatment for cholesteatoma or tympanic membrane perforation over a 6-month period of time at a tertiary hospital were evaluated intraoperatively for the ability to visualize the protympanic segment of the eustachian tube, perform balloon dilatation, and then perform visual inspection of the effect of dilatation. Results: A total of 21 chronic ear procedures were performed; visualization of the protympanic segment was feasible in 12 ears, obstruction was identified in 7 ears, and dilatation was undertaken. Immediate assessment showed increased aperture of the tube in all patients when compared with predilatation findings.