What does balloon dilation of Eustachian tube treat?
Balloon dilation of Eustachian tube treats Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). If left untreated ETD can cause serious damage to the eardrum and middle ear. Symptoms of ETD include:
- Muffled hearing
- Pain in the ear
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Dizzy spells
Common causes of ETD include an ear or sinus infection, allergies, or Eustacjhhian tube blockage.
Balloon dilation of eustachian tube results
Balloon dilation of eustachian tube typically restores the proper function of the Eustachian tube in most patients The balloon dilation method of surgery involves the surgeon first inserting a small balloon through the nose into the Eustachian tube to clear a pathway for mucus and air. The surgeon then deflates the balloon and removes it back our through the nose.
Balloon dilation of Eustachian tube requires general anesthesia. This means the patient is unconscious for the duration of the procedure.