Eustachian Tube Dilation

Summary

The video discusses the eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure, a treatment for ear function issues caused by poorly functioning eustachian tubes. This procedure aims to fix the root cause by dilating the tubes, rather than placing ear tubes. It's a minimally invasive, low-risk operation with a 50-70% success rate, performed through the nose with minimal recovery time.

Takeaways

• 🦻 The Eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure can improve ear function.
• 📉 Eustachian tubes that don't open or drain properly can cause ear pressure issues.
• 👂 The Eustachian tubes connect the back of the nasal passages to the area under the eardrum.
• 🔄 Swallowing helps open Eustachian tubes briefly to equalize air pressure under the eardrums.
• 🧒 Children often get ear infections due to underdeveloped Eustachian tubes, but adults can also have ongoing issues.
• 🔄 Traditional treatment involves placing ear tubes, which might need repeated procedures.
• 🎈 The new balloon dilation method aims to address the root cause by dilating the Eustachian tube.
• 🏥 The procedure is usually performed under anesthesia in an operating room for comfort.
• 🤕 Recovery from the procedure is generally easy with minimal pain and low risks.
• 📊 The success rate for Eustachian tube balloon dilation is between 50% and 70%, but there are risks such as potential failure to open the tube adequately or, rarely, over-dilation.

Q & A

What is the eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure?

The eustachian tube balloon dilation is a medical procedure that aims to improve ear function by dilating the eustachian tube, which is a natural tube connecting the back of the nasal passages to the middle ear space beneath the eardrum.

What is the purpose of the eustachian tubes?

Eustachian tubes serve to equalize air pressure under the eardrums by temporarily opening when we swallow, allowing air to ventilate the middle ear space.

Why do eustachian tubes sometimes not function properly?

Eustachian tubes may not open or drain the ear as well as they should due to various reasons, which can lead to suction pressure in the middle ear, causing the eardrum to pull down, fluid accumulation, and potential infections.

What issues can arise if the eustachian tubes are not functioning properly?

If eustachian tubes are not functioning well, it can result in middle ear negative pressure, which can pull the eardrum down, cause fluid to accumulate, and lead to infections, commonly seen in young children and sometimes in adults.

How is the eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure performed?

The procedure involves inserting a balloon through the nose, up into the eustachian tube, inflating it for two minutes, and then deflating and removing it. This is done to dilate the tube and improve its function.

Why is the eustachian tube balloon dilation considered a better alternative to ear tubes?

The eustachian tube balloon dilation addresses the root cause of the problem by improving the function of the eustachian tube itself, rather than just placing an ear tube through the eardrum as a workaround.

What are the typical settings for performing the eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure?

While it can be performed in an office setting, it is often done in an operating room under anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.

What are the potential risks associated with the eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure?

The main risks include the possibility that the procedure may not work as expected, the eustachian tube may become too open leading to a hollow or echoey feeling, and there may be some nasal irritation from the scopes and cameras used during the procedure.

What is the success rate of the eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure?

Most studies show a success rate of about 50 to 70 percent for the eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure.

What other treatments are available for eustachian tube dysfunction besides the balloon dilation?

Other treatments include the placement of ear tubes, and in some cases, a tympanoplasty, which is a procedure to reconstruct or rebuild the eardrum.

Where can the eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure be offered?

The procedure is offered at Lexington ENT and Allergy, as mentioned in the script.