ABSTRACT
Background: Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is considered a causative factor for middle ear disease as well as treatment failure. The pathogenesis may be a result of chronic infection, allergy, laryngopharyngeal reflux, primary mucosal disease, dysfunction of the dilation mechanism and anatomical obstruction. Hence, it becomes essential to know the structure and anatomical variations of the Eustachian tube(ET), particularly with the advent of novel therapeutic options such as tuboplasty to ensure optimal therapeutic outcome. Aims: This cross-sectional study is done to perform multiparametric measurements of the ET and peritubal region using computed tomography and develop a structured protocol for pre-tuboplasty workup. Materials and methods: This study was done for a period of 20 months, in 100 normal subjects aged between 18 and 60 years, who underwent computed tomography (CT) study of the head and face region, for indications other than nasal/ pharyngeal and sinus disease. Results: The mean bony, cartilaginous and overall ET lengths were higher in males. In females, the mean ET angles with Reid's plane were higher. Higher mean craniocaudal diameters of the ET lumen were observed in males. Carotid canal dehiscence was seen in equal prevalence on both sides (5%), with no significant gender differences. Conclusion: Therapeutic interventions such as eustachian tuboplasty will benefit from preoperative imaging based planning. This structured protocol provides standardization of pre-operative workup for tuboplasty.
