Eustachian Tube Function Tests and their Diagnostic Potential in Normal and Diseased Ears

Abstract

A. Eustachian tube function tests and their diagnostic potential in normal and diseased ears. Acta Otolaryngol (Stockh) 1993; Suppl 500: 10-13.We have summarized various methods for testing Eustachian tube function since the 1980's. There have been numerous contributions to our knowledge on Eustachian tube and middle ear functions, and the pathophysiology of disorders of the middle ear has been clarified. Understanding of the Eustachian tube function and controlling the Eustachian tube dysfunction are mandatory for adequate clinical management and for improvement of the prognosis. Key words: passive opening capacity, active opening capacity, middle ear disease, functional obstruction. Acta Otolaryngol Downloaded from informahealthcare.com by Purdue University on 04/13/15For personal use only.

Tests of Eustachian tube function: a review

“…‘Tubo‐tympano‐aerodynamic‐graphy’(TTAG) is a variant of the objectively assessed Valsalva, Toynbee or sniff. In addition to an ear probe detecting middle ear pressure changes, a nasal probe allows an assessor to determine whether the patient‐induced nasopharyngeal pressure change is adequate . These tests rely on passive ET opening due to a pressure differential, rather than the more physiological active muscle function.…”

“…These tests rely on passive ET opening due to a pressure differential, rather than the more physiological active muscle function. TTAG is used as a test of ET function, in some units, with evidence that the characteristic shape of the middle ear pressure trace can indicate different ETD pathologies . However, good quantitative data on accuracy are lacking in English language articles.…”

“…The inflation–deflation test is primarily a measure of active ET function, although passive opening can be measured. A positive pressure is applied to the middle ear via a sealed probe in the ear canal, and this is increased either to a defined point (typically 100 –300 mm H 2 O), or until the ET passively opens . The patient is then asked to swallow repeatedly until no further middle ear pressure changes are detected, and the ‘residual pressure’ plateau is reached.…”

Altered Eustachian Tube Function in SCUBA Divers With Alternobaric Vertigo

“…Impedance tests were performed by simultaneously recording tympanic membrane impedance and nasopharyngeal pressure. The passive opening capacity of the Eustachian tube during the Valsalva maneuver can be determined from the curve pattern of impedance changes recorded from the external ear canal (10). Open pressures less than 200 daPa were consistent with a diagnosis of patulous Eustachian tube, whereas open pressures more than 650 daPa were consistent with a diagnosis of tubal stenosis.…”

Assessment of the Effect of Temporomandibular Joint Bony Ankylosis on Eustachian Tube Functions

“…In addition, tympanometry is planned to measure external ear canal volume to detect any possible deformities that may be induced by TMJ ankylosis. [4][5][6] …”