Patulous Eustachian tube. A new treatment with infusion of absorbable gelatin sponge solution.

For the treatment of abnormally patent Eustachian tube, we had previously employed repeated tubal insufflation of salicylic acid-boric powder (1:4) through a Eustachian tube catheter. Such treatments, however, usually were associated with uncertain results and numerous complications. Therefore, treatment of this condition was changed to employment of an infusion of absorbable gelatin sponge solution directly into the Eustachian tube. Twenty-two ears in 16 patients recovered successfully when this method was used.