Abstract
Background:
Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a common problem, which can lead to hearing loss,
aural fullness, retraction of the tympanic membrane, chronic otitis media and cholesteatoma.
A well-established treatment option for ETD is the balloon dilation of the Eustachian
tube (BET) to improve the ventilation of the middle ear by dilatating the diameter
of the tube. The balloon dilation has been proven to be a valid, successful and low-risk
therapy option. Up to now there exists no established pre- and perioperative visual
surveillance to detect possible changes of the tympanic membrane during and after
BET.
Methods:
In this prospective study the Clearscope Adaptor, a new diagnostic mobile phone tool,
is used for ear video endoscopy to monitor the tympanic membrane movement and possible
changes of retractions or adhesive processes during the performance of BET. Additionally
a correlation to known middle ear pressure changes during the different steps of the
procedure should be evaluated.
Results:
Up to now 6 patients could be examined during BET by using the Clearscope Adaptor
in connection with a 30 ° endoscope and a suitable IPhone. The device was easy to
use and provided valid video endoscopy of the eardrum. A correlation between the procedural
steps and tympanic membrane movements could be observed.
Conclusions:
Visual assessment of movements of the eardrum as well as possible changes of adhesive
process or retraction pockets are easily detectable by video endoscopy while performing
BET.
