Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation

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The Eustachian tube is a passageway that connects the interior of the ear to the back of the throat and nasal cavity. A Eustachian tube that is functioning properly will open when you yawn, chew, or swallow. This important canal protects the middle ear from disease and controls pressure in the middle ear. When it’s not functioning properly, Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) can occur and cause discomfort and symptoms such as a blocked sensation in the ears.

ETD is caused when the Eustachian tube gets clogged and is prevented from opening. Plugging can be the result of inflammation or swelling due to allergies or sinus infection that causes mucus to build up and plug the Eustachian tube. Mild cases can often be resolved with medication to treat the allergy or sinus issues causing ETD. For those with recurring or severe ETD, Eustachian tube balloon dilation can be an ideal treatment option.

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Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation in Houston

ETD affects over 11 million men and women in the United States alone.1 Untreated ETD can cause irreparable damage to the ears, including eardrum retraction and hearing loss. Those who suffer from chronic ETD can be effectively treated with Eustachian tube balloon dilation. My Houston Surgeons is proud to have two board-certified and board-eligible Otolaryngologists (ENT) and Eustachian tube balloon dilation specialists on our team; Dr. Arjuna Kuperan and Dr. Shawn Allen are both skilled and experienced Rhinologists.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Symptoms

  • Ear pain
  • A blocked or full sensation in the ears
  • Changes in ability to hear
  • A ringing, clicking, or popping sound in the ear

Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation Consultation

During your consultation appointment, your doctor will discuss the symptoms you are experiencing and do a physical examination to determine if Eustachian tube dilation may be an option for you.

Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation Procedure

Eustachian tube dilation is a reliable and safe alternative to more invasive procedures for treating chronic or severe Eustachian tube dysfunction.2 At the beginning of your procedure, you’ll be placed under general anesthesia to ensure your maximum comfort. Then using an endoscope, your doctor will access the Eustachian tube through your nose. He will use a catheter to place a small balloon into the blocked canal. The balloon is then gently inflated to clear the blocked canal and open the Eustachian tube. Once the tube has been opened enough to restore optimal function, your doctor will remove the balloon.

Recovery After Eustachian Tube Dilation

It’s normal to experience mild discomfort following Eustachian tube dilation, such as a sore throat, in the days following your procedure. It’s important to avoid strenuous activities and exercise for one week and avoid blowing the nose during that timeframe. You’ll be provided with detailed post-operative care instructions to refer to during recovery.

Quality Patient Care

The experienced providers at My Houston Surgeons are experienced in treating a comprehensive range of sinus conditions. Our surgeons have expertise in a range of advanced surgical treatments for nasal and sinus disorders and provide patients with the highest quality patient care and customized treatment plans designed for optimal outcomes.

FAQs About Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation

How long does it take for Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation to work?

Relief following Eustachian tube balloon dilation typically takes full effect in two weeks.

What is the success rate for Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation?

Eustachian tube balloon dilation has been shown to have a success rate up to 92.3%.3

Does Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation have any risks?

Eustachian tube balloon dilation is FDA approved and considered safe when performed by an experienced board-certified and board-eligible surgeon; however, as with any surgery, there are risks. These risks include nose bleeds, infection as well as mucosal and/or tissue trauma.4

Schedule A Consultation For Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation

If you need relief from painful or annoying symptoms associated with Eustachian tube dysfunction, Eustachian tube balloon dilation may help. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment for a private consultation with our Eustachian tube balloon dilation expert.

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1 Shan A, Ward BK, Goman AM, et al. Prevalence of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction in Adults in the United States. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2019;145(10):974–975. doi:10.1001/jamaoto.2019.1917

2 Tisch M, Maier H, Sudhoff H. Balloon dilation of the Eustachian tube: clinical experience in the management of 126 children. Dilatazione tubarica con balloon: nostra esperienza nella gestione di 126 bambini. Acta Otorhinolaryngol Ital. 2017;37(6):509-512. doi:10.14639/0392-100X-1690

3 ACTA. Balloon dilation of the Eustachian tube: clinical experience in the management of 126 children. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5782429/. Accessed April 27, 2022.

4 Mount Sinai. Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation. Available: https://www.mountsinai.org/care/ent/services/nasal-sinus-allergy/eustachian-tube. Accessed April 27, 2022.

The Doctors at My Houston Surgeons have either authored or reviewed and approved this content. Page last updated:

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