Transtympanic balloon dilatation of the eustachian tube: systematic review.

Transtympanic balloon dilatation of the eustachian tube: systematic review.

J Laryngol Otol. 2016 Mar 11;:1-6

Authors: Jufas N, Patel N

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.

PMID: 26965576 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

from #ENT-PubMed via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/1pD31Y9
via IFTTT