Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation

A new alternative for Eustachian tube dilatory dysfunction has been recently approved by the FDA called “balloon dilatation of the Eustachian tube” or “ balloon Eustachian tuboplasty”. This procedure involves passing a balloon attached to a catheter through the nose and into the cartilaginous portion of the Eustachian tube, stretching the tube open for 2 minutes, and then removing it. This stretches the tube open, and thins the lining of the tube after healing so that it functions more normally. It is akin to a gastroenterologist stretching open the esophagus in a patient with a narrowed esophagus. Studies show good results up to 3 years after this procedure, but longer follow-up studies are yet to be done. This procedure is FDA approved for adults over 19 years old, but younger patients are sometimes considered.

Submucosal Edema

Submucosal Edema

Expelled Mucoid Fluid

Expelled Mucoid Fluid