Patulous Eustachian tube obliteration using endovascular coils: a novel technique

J Laryngol Otol. 2018 Jun;132(6):564-566. doi: 10.1017/S0022215118000725. Epub 2018 Jun 11.

Abstract

Background: Patulous Eustachian tube is a distressing condition characterised by chronic patency of the Eustachian tube and its failure to close. Patients typically present with symptoms of autophony and aural fullness. In patients requiring surgical intervention, a variety of different procedures have been demonstrated (both transtympanic and endonasal), with limited success. Evidence of the effectiveness of a number of surgical interventions is limited to small case series only.

Objective: This paper describes a novel treatment for patulous Eustachian tube using a 3 mm VortX Diamond endovascular coil.Case reportA transnasal endoscopic approach was adopted, with cannulation of the Eustachian tube orifice using a Relieva sinus guide suction tube from a balloon sinuplasty set. The coil was deployed 1.5 cm deep into the Eustachian tube. Post-operative imaging was used to confirm correct positioning. Regular follow up was arranged. The patient reported complete resolution of her symptoms.

Conclusion: The technique has so far proved highly effective and minimally invasive. It will be employed in more patients to fully establish its effectiveness in treating patulous Eustachian tube.

Keywords: Endoscopic Surgical Procedure; Endovascular Coil; Patulous Eustachian Tube.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Endovascular Procedures / instrumentation*
  • Eustachian Tube / diagnostic imaging
  • Eustachian Tube / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Nasal Cavity
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / instrumentation
  • Natural Orifice Endoscopic Surgery / methods*
  • Otologic Surgical Procedures / instrumentation
  • Otologic Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed