This protocol is for adults (18 years or older) with obstructive eustachian tube dysfunction (OETD) who present with a concurrent middle ear effusion at the time of balloon dilation of the Eustachian tube (BDET).
Some patients who meet criteria for BDET have concurrent middle ear effusion. This co-existing finding is a recognised part of the clinical picture and shapes the management decisions made at the time of the procedure.
Before BDET is offered, medical management of identified treatable underlying causes of obstructive ETD is performed. The complete protocol specifies the full scope of evaluation and the sequenced management steps — including how the concurrent effusion is handled.
Symptomatic improvement of associated obstructive eustachian tube dysfunction.
Some patients who meet criteria for BDET have concurrent middle ear effusion.
Patients with a middle ear effusion at the time of BDET may benefit from concurrent myringotomy with or without tympanostomy tube placement.
Common causes of obstructive ETD that benefit from identification and management are allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and laryngopharyngeal reflux.
Medical management of known pathology that could affect nasal or ET function is appropriate to perform prior to BDET.
Medical management of these disorders is indicated prior to offering BDET.
Targeted treatment for these conditions may result in symptomatic improvement of associated OETD.
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