A novel computed tomography guided, transcutaneous approach to treat refractory autophony in patients with a patulous Eustachian tube - a case series.

BACKGROUND

Patulous Eustachian tube is a benign but notoriously difficult condition to treat successfully. Symptoms include autophony of voice and breathing, and aural fullness.

METHODS

This paper presents a series of 8 patients (12 ears) for whom a novel computed tomography guided injection of silicone elastomer suspension implant (Vox) was used to treat patulous Eustachian tube. This is the largest and only series in the current literature using this technique.

RESULTS

The combined complete and partial symptom resolution rate was 91 per cent. Complications related to the procedure are described. The pros and cons of this novel approach are also discussed in relation to traditional endoscopic transnasal techniques.

CONCLUSION

Computed tomography guided injection of Vox for the treatment of patulous Eustachian tube is suggested to be a feasible alternative to endoscopic transnasal approaches, particularly for refractory cases.