A new alternative for Eustachian tube dilatory dysfunction has been recently approved by the FDA called “balloon dilatation of the Eustachian tube” or “ balloon Eustachian tuboplasty”. This procedure involves passing a balloon attached to a catheter through the nose and into the cartilaginous portion of the Eustachian tube, stretching the tube open for 2 minutes, and then removing it. This stretches the tube open, and thins the lining of the tube after healing so that it functions more normally. It is akin to a gastroenterologist stretching open the esophagus in a patient with a narrowed esophagus. Studies show good results up to 3 years after this procedure, but longer follow-up studies are yet to be done. This procedure is FDA approved for adults over 19 years old, but younger patients are sometimes considered.
