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Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation Procedure

Below is a video animation showing how balloon eustachian tube dilation is performed. Also known as balloon eustachian tuboplasty, this is an alternative procedure to ear tubes to resolve clogged ears in adults suffering from eustachian tube dysfunction.

Benefits

  • Designed specifically to treat chronic, obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction
  • When done in an office setting, this is a minimally invasive therapy
  • Eustachian tube balloon dialation is proven to be effective in treating chronic,obstructive Eustachain tube dysfunction
  • Customizable to the patient’s anatomy
  • Stopcock valve prevents the need for manual pressure during inflation time

Risks

Risks from balloon dilation of the Eustachian tube typically are short in duration and include: mild bleeding, mild post-procedural pain, subcutaneous emphysema, mild crush injuries, and failure to relieve patient subjective symptoms.

How it Works

1. Insert the balloon into the nasal passage with the tip facing inferiorly and guide the tip to the opening of the Eustachian tube.

2. Advance the balloon catheter into the Eustachian tube and inflate the balloon for two minutes.

3. Fully Deflate the balloon catheter and remove the balloon from the Eustachian tube.

Read our brochure about Eustachian Tube Dilation Procedure

A photo of a doctor performing the Eustachian tube balloon dilation procedure on a patient

FAQ’s for In-Office Eustachian Tube Balloon Dilation

Is this procedure covered by insurance?

Yes. Idaho has excellent coverage for this minimally invasive procedure. Your doctor will get prior-authorization from your insurance carrier to verify your benefits. In many cases, patients can have this procedure done for as low as an office visit copay.

Does it hurt?

In the studies conducted using the Entellus balloon, the average pain score was 2.7. You will experience facial pressure and typically hear cracking sounds similar to and egg shell, which is normal. Should you experience pain at any time during the procedure, your doctor can adjust your anesthesia medication to maximize your comfort for a positive experience.

Will I be put to sleep?

No, general anesthesia is not administered. Patients will usually be given oral, topical and local medication as part of anesthesia protocol. You will be awake, similar to a dental procedure.

Do I need a ride to/from the office?

Yes. In most cases your doctor will prescribe an anxiolytic, such as Lorazepam, and an anti-nausea Phenergan. These are taken 1 hour before the procedure, so we recommend that you arrange transportation to/from the office and that you do not operate a vehicle during this time.

Does the balloon stay in?

No, once the balloon is in place it is dilated for a few seconds then deflated and removed. The “doorways” to your sinuses will be permanently remodeled and reshaped.

What are the most common post-op side effects?

Some patients may experience headache, nasal congestion, minimal blood/mucus drainage, and facial pain. This temporary and in most cases will resolve the day after the procedure.

How long will I miss work/school?

In most cases, patients can return to work/school the next day if not the same day. Your doctor will advise you of your limitations, if any.

How effective is the Balloon Sinus Dilation?

A recent study comparing Balloon Sinus Dilation to Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) showed that patients had similar outcomes. OSBD is not inferior to FESS. Patients recover quicker and require less debridement, which means less time missed from work/school.

How long will the results last?

There is now sufficient data showing long term efficiency and indefinite results (beyond three years). Your outcome will typically depend on the severity of your sinus disease. There is very low revision rate for this procedure (less than 10%).

Is any tissue removed?

No, there is no tissue removal when dilating your sinuses. Your doctor will discuss possible removal of tissue with you only if you have structures in your nose that will make it difficult for him/her to perform the procedure.

How long will this procedure take?

Total start to finish time is typically around 1 hour. The anesthesia protocol takes longer than the procedure itself. Usually about 30-45 minutes. The actual balloon procedure takes about 10 minutes.

Will this cure my sinus disease?

No, unfortunately, there is no cure for sinus disease. For maximized results you should stay in compliance with any allergy immunotherapy, nasal steroids, etc that your doctor may have you on. This procedure will decrease your chances of a sinus infection and improve your quality of life by relieving associated symptoms, therefore making reducing infections, rounds of antibiotics and missed time from work.