[The pressure-equalizing function of the Eustachian tube : Evaluation in a hypo-/hyperbaric pressure chamber].

BACKGROUND: The Eustachian tube connects the tympanic cavity (cavum tympani) and the nasopharynx, and enables pressure equalization between the middle ear and ambient pressure. Functional pressure compensation is very important for flying and diving in particular, due to non-physiologically large pressure differences.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of the pressure-equalizing function of the Eustachian tube is still a clinical challenge. This review article evaluates the existing data.

METHODS: Based on a selective literature search, different methods for evaluation of tube function are presented and evaluated, with special reference to evaluation of the pressure-equalizing function in a hypo-/hyperbaric pressure chamber.

RESULTS: The pressure chamber enables the dynamics of active and passive pressure compensation to be provoked and also permits accurate measurement of pressures in the millibar range.

CONCLUSION: A pressure chamber seems to be suitable to evaluate Eustachian tube function and therapeutic approaches to tube dysfunction. Further studies are needed to assess the value of the pressure chamber in combination with other functional tests.