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 ...

SUMMARY A case of recurrent glomus tympanicum presenting with epistaxis is described. CT and MR imaging revealed a homogeneously enhancing mass extending along the entire course of the eustachian tube, with a portion protruding into the nasopharynx. Glomus tumors tend to spread along the path of least resistance and may extend into the eustachian tube. The unique imaging appearance should place...

Introduction Eustachian tube dysfunction is very common and is the predominant cause of otitis media with effusion. Negative middle ear pressure generated by Eustachian tube dysfunction can cause deformation of the collagen layer in the ear drum. Collagen becomes stretched and looses its orderly array. Over time, deep retraction pockets form. If left untreated, the tympanic membrane becomes pro...

Several methods for the examinaApplication Note discusses a simple tube to the external auditory canal. It tion of the Eustachian (auditory) tube and reliable method sonotuboalso analyses the acoustic events have been reported, however, most metry for accurate measurement occurring during swallowing while a of them have not been generally acof the tubal opening by using sound steady tone is del...

Causes Water to Flow Uphill? To the Editor: Platypnea-orthodeoxia is a relatively uncommon but striking clinical syndrome characterized by dyspnea and deoxygenation accompanying a change to a sitting or standing from a recumbent position. Since Burchell et al1 described this rare syndrome over half a century ago, no more than 50 cases have been reported in the literature.2 Two conditions must c...