Tests of Eustachian tube function: a review

Abstract

Currently, no single test could be considered a 'gold standard' for the diagnosis of ET dysfunction, but there is some evidence that diagnostic accuracy can be improved by combining the results of different objective tests and patient-reported outcome measures. Further development of ET function tests is required to facilitate the accurate diagnosis of patients and allow outcome reporting for new interventions.

The prevalence of eustachian tube dysfunction symptoms in temporomandibular joint disorder patients

“…New treatments for nonpatulous ETD, including balloon dilation, have generated renewed interest in the pathophysiology, treatment options, and prognosis for these patients . Recent advances in diagnostic evaluation include a more rigorous evaluation and nuanced understanding of the eustachian tube orifice anatomy and dynamic function via nasal endoscopy, as well as more research‐related diagnostic tests such as sonotubometry, tubomanometry, pressure chamber test, and inflation‐deflation test . The ETDQ‐7 is a recently developed tool that more thoroughly and reproducibly evaluates ETD symptoms.…”

The repeatability of tests of eustachian tube function in healthy ears

“…Reports have been published on the repeatability of single or small numbers of ET function tests, but the characteristics of the most common tests have never been compared in a single study. Even in healthy ears, no test is reported to detect opening of the ET in 100% of repeated tests, but consistency of results within an individual should be expected.…”

“…Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a common disorder that is linked to the majority of middle ear pathologies, and yet currently there is no gold standard test to diagnose it . The majority of ETD is obstructive (referred to simply as ETD in this article), caused by functional obstruction, dynamic dysfunction (muscular failure), or anatomical obstruction …”

“…We assessed the repeatability of a panel of eight different tests, selected from our previous review, as the best candidates for a test that would be feasible for both routine clinical use and research . In this panel were both basic tests requiring no specialist equipment and more advanced measures.…”

Prácticas audiológicas en Chile: encuesta online para tecnólogos médicos mención otorrinolaringología

“…Para el estudio de una disfunción de la trompa de Eustaquio técnicas como la timpanometría aún continúa siendo una herramienta útil de apoyo del diagnóstico 28 , a pesar que no existe una normativa específica sobre este tema en particular, su utilización dentro los encuestados es dependiente de la indicación médica en la mayoría de los casos (50%).…”