Comparison of Eustachian Tube Function Before and After Septoplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background and Objectives The middle ear, eustachian tube, and nasal cavity are anatomically adjacent, so the middle ear pressure (MEP), eustachian tube function (ETF), and nasal cavity condition are highly correlated. In this study, the effect of nasal septal deviation (NSD) on ETF and the effects of septoplasty on ETF and MEP were meta-analyzed using the results of tympanogram.Subjects and Method A systematic search was conducted using the PubMed, Embase, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The MEP and ETF were compared before and after septoplasty. We also compared eustachian tube dysfunction observed from the deviated side and from the non-deviated side of the ear. Heterogeneity was analyzed within the subgroups.Results Eustachian tube dysfunction was about twice as high in the narrowed side of NSD patients than in other patients. The tympanogram results did not show any significant difference when subgroups were observed before, within 1 month after, or 3 months after septoplasty. Eustachian tube dysfunction before septoplasty was about 4.5 times higher than after septoplasty (when followed up for more than 1 month). From the subgroup analysis of deviated and non-deviated sides, MEP before septoplasty was significantly lower than after septoplasty and eustachian tube dysfunction was approximately 4 times higher in the narrowed nasal cavity.Conclusion The narrowed side of the nasal cavity in NSD can be related to eustachian tube dysfunction. Septoplasty may help restore ETF in the ears of narrowed side of the nasal cavity.