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Transtympanic balloon dilatation of the eustachian tube: systematic review
1Kolling Deafness Research Centre,University of Sydney and Macquarie University,Sydney,Australia.
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.
