New Findings in Observations by Tubo-tympano-aerodynamic Method

Abstract

We studied Eustachian tube function of healthy adults by two air flow methods, namely tubo-tympano-aerodynamic graphy by Valsalva maneuvre, and Tyonbee maneuvre during swallowing. We observed for the first time the presence of reciprocal features in normal Eustachian tubes. We also compared the tubal function of the same group using an air flow method and sound transmission method. The results of these observations showed that 77.4% of the subjects were positive for TTAG in Valsalva pattern, and 85.4% for sonometry. It can be inferred that data on the tubal opening in response to Valsalva and Toynbee maneuvres is obtained more easily by sonometry than by TTAG. TTAG, which permits examination of minute changes in air flow dynamics even in healthy Eustachian tubes, provides more important information on tubal function than does sonotubometry.

Key Words:

• aerodynamics
• Eustachian tube