complications of ventilation tube placement

Continued from this post.

Q: Yes, we have tried antibiotics, Flonase, oral steroids, decongestants, antihistamines (most as part of a comprehensive regimen over a few months at a time). Frankly, my frustration level rises with each failed attempt to resolve the issue. So, my real goal is to research long-term solutions.

My concern on tube placement is the possibility of permanent damage to the eardrum or the necessity to repair the eardrum should damage be done. This comes from the fact that, despite all my ET problems, my hearing is superb and I wish to keep it that way. I also understand that some patients find it difficult to adjust to the reverberation of their own voice. What has your experience been?

treatment options for eustachian tube dysfunction

Q: I have been diagnosed with ETD, especially on the left side. It is a condition that I’ve had ever since I can remember (about 25 years now). Symptoms are a feeling of full ears, diminished hearing and occasional pain. When I have been examined, there is no outwardly visible sign that there is pressure in my ear(s), though a CT scan does show considerable sinus problems. My ENT suggested that we try either a FESS or placement of tubes in the eardrum. I have concerns about both procedures.

As I understand the condition, regardless of the etiology, ETD is the result of not being able to equalize pressure between the ambient air and the middle ear. My question is simple: is it possible either to enlarge the ET or make a hole into the middle ear without penetrating the eardrum itself?