N Jufas1, N Patel1. 1. Kolling Deafness Research Centre,University of Sydney and Macquarie University,Sydney,Australia.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the evidence for balloon dilatation of the eustachian tube using a transtympanic approach. METHODS: A systematic search of several databases was conducted (using the search terms 'dilation' or 'dilatation', and 'balloon' and 'eustachian tube'). Only studies that used a transtympanic approach for the procedure were included. These studies were then assessed for risk of bias. RESULTS: Three studies were included. Each of these studies was a limited case series, with two performed on human subjects and one on human cadavers. Results of safety and efficacy are conflicting. There is a high risk of bias overall. CONCLUSION: At present, there is a very narrow evidence base for transtympanic balloon dilatation of the eustachian tube. There are a number of advantages and disadvantages of the technique. Previously identified and theoretical safety concerns will need to be addressed thoroughly in future studies prior to wider clinical use.
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the evidence for balloon dilatation of the eustachian tube using a transtympanic approach. METHODS: A systematic search of several databases was conducted (using the search terms 'dilation' or 'dilatation', and 'balloon' and 'eustachian tube'). Only studies that used a transtympanic approach for the procedure were included. These studies were then assessed for risk of bias. RESULTS: Three studies were included. Each of these studies was a limited case series, with two performed on human subjects and one on human cadavers. Results of safety and efficacy are conflicting. There is a high risk of bias overall. CONCLUSION: At present, there is a very narrow evidence base for transtympanic balloon dilatation of the eustachian tube. There are a number of advantages and disadvantages of the technique. Previously identified and theoretical safety concerns will need to be addressed thoroughly in future studies prior to wider clinical use.