Endoscopic closure of the eustachian tube.

BACKGROUND

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) otorhinorrhea can rarely complicate lateral skull base surgery, necessitating sealing of the eustachian tube. Patulous eustachian tube (pET) can also be an indication for closure of the eustachian tube.

METHODS

Representative cases and the technique will be described.

RESULTS

The authors describe a technique used in three cases of CSF otorhinorrhea and one case of pET to successfully close the eustachian tube.

CONCLUSIONS

Previous reports have described methods of eustachian tube closure utilizing nasal endoscopic techniques. These techniques have relied on packing of the orifice and/or the nasopharynx for successful closure. The authors describe their experience with an alternative technique. The technique does not rely on any packing, which may become dislodged. It has the added advantage of potential reversibility in cases of pET.