Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System
The Eustachian tube is a narrow tube that links the back of the nose to the middle ear. It is normally closed but opens when we swallow, yawn, or chew. It has three main functions: to protect the middle ear from sources of disease, to ventilate the middle ear, and to help drain secretions away from the middle ear.¹
Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is the inability of the Eustachian tube to adequately perform these functions and failure of the valve of the Eustachian tube to open and/or close properly 2 ETD (Eustachian tube dysfunction) is estimated to affect up to 5% of the adult population.³
Narrowing of the Eustachian tube causes patients to experience ear pain, pressure, fullness, popping, ringing, or muffled sounds in the affected ear(s).
What are the symptoms and causes of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction?
Normally, the Eustachian tubes are working properly so you don’t notice them at all. Anything that prevents the tube from opening can cause Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Eustachian tube dysfunction may occur when the mucosal lining of the tube is swollen, or does not open or close properly. It can occur after the start of a cold and other nose, sinus, ear, and throat infections.¹
When they are not working properly, the patient can possibly feel the following symptoms: muffled hearing, fullness of the ear, pain in the ear, inability to equilibrate middle ear (ME) pressure, tinnitus, and dizziness.⁴
Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System Treatment Options
Dr. Brodner also uses a tool for treating Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation System is the first device in the US indicated to dilate the Eustachian tube.
Dr. Brodner uses a small balloon to treat persistent Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), a condition in which pressure, pain, or clogged or muffled sensations occur in the ear. He uses a catheter to insert a small balloon through the patient’s nose and into the Eustachian tube. Once inflated, the balloon opens up a pathway for mucus and air to flow through the Eustachian tube, which may help restore proper function. After the Eustachian tube is dilated, Dr. Brodner deflates and removes the balloon.
Call Dr. Brodner Today for a Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Consult
Interested in learning more about Eustachian Tube Dysfunction or whether you are a candidate for treatment? Call 561.735.8750 to book an appointment with Dr. David C. Brodner and get the answers to all your questions! You can also fill out the form on our contact page, and our staff will help you set up your consult. Dr. Brodner serves patients all over South Florida.
