Preliminary results with use of an eustachian tube prosthesis

Abstract

One of the primary causes of tympanoplasty failure is inadequate eu-stachian tubal function. Measures taken to improve tubal function have often been inadequate for their task. A prosthesis was constructed for the purpose of installation at the time of tympanoplasty to improve eustachian tubal function. Our early results with a two to 14-month follow-up of 38 patients show a success rate of 79 percent in securing an aerated middle ear space in ears which were judged to have poor eustachian tubal function.