Eustachian tube balloon dilation is a minimally invasive procedure that treats obstructive eustachian tube dysfunction. This is when inflammation causes swelling that blocks the tube. The procedure involves placing a deflated balloon in the tube. Inflating the balloon opens the tube up. It’s an alternative to surgery.
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An eustachian tube balloon dilation is a minimally invasive procedure. It treats chronic obstructive eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) that doesn’t improve with medical treatment.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Obstructive ETD affects your eustachian tubes. These are tiny tubes on either side of your face that drain fluids from your ear. They also maintain pressure in and protect your middle ears. Obstructive ETD occurs when inflammation or structural stiffness prevents the eustachian tube from opening normally.
In this procedure, an ear, nose and throat specialist guides a balloon through your nose to your eustachian tube. When they inflate the balloon, it expands and gently pushes on the cartilage. That gentle pressure opens the blocked tube. The procedure doesn’t require incisions (cuts).
That depends on whether you’ll receive local or general anesthesia. In local anesthesia, your healthcare provider numbs your nose by spraying medication into it. Some people have general anesthesia. In that case, you should:
Your provider may also ask you to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure. They’ll explain any other steps you should take.
You’ll receive local or general anesthesia. Then, your ENT will:
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They may repeat the procedure to be sure the dilated balloon opens your blocked tube. They’ll go through the same steps if you have ETD in both tubes. The procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
One potential risk is that the procedure may not open the blocked eustachian tube. Other risks include:
You’ll be able to go home after the procedure. You can go home right away if you have local anesthesia. If you have general anesthesia, you’ll need to rest a bit in a recovery room while it wears off. Your provider will prescribe a nasal spray to help keep the inside of your nose moist.
Your nose may feel stuffed up and sore for one to two days after your procedure. Using the nasal spray will help.
Your provider may recommend that you do Valsalva maneuvers. This involves holding your nose and mouth closed while you push air out. You may start this about a week after your procedure. It helps equalize pressure in your middle ear.
Call your ENT if you have:
This procedure has U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for obstructive eustachian tube dysfunction. A recent study concluded the procedure is an effective treatment for chronic ETD. But it may not be the solution for everyone. If you have obstructive ETD, your healthcare provider is your best source for information about the procedure.
You tried chewing gum and yawning to make obstructive eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) go away. But weeks later, you still have aching ears and bouts of vertigo that leave you feeling dizzy. You want to feel better but aren’t sure about surgery. An eustachian tube balloon dilation may be an alternative.
This procedure uses an inflated balloon to open your blocked tubes. If you have obstructive ETD, ask your ear, nose and throat specialist if this procedure is an option. They’ll explain the procedure and discuss whether it’s right for your situation.
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Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards.
Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards.
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