Implantation of a stent into a non-functioning auditory tube – Histological results

Introduction Eustachian tube dysfunction is widespread in the population and, in addition to a feeling of pressure and pain in the middle ear, can also lead to chronic otitis media with conductive hearing loss. The current therapy options did not show a long-term success. In this study a newly developed self-expanding nitinol stent was inserted into a blocked tube as a permanent treatment option.

Methods The in vivo experiment was performed in blackface sheep. An aseptic mechanical closure of the Eustachian tube was induced by injecting hyaluronic acid close to the nasopharyngeal opening. To determine the middle ear pressure, tympanometric measurements were performed weekly. This was followed by unilateral insertion of the nitinol stent into the blocked tube. Finally, after three months of observation, ex vivo studies were carried out using histology.

Results The histological data can prove that there was no migration of the stent. A free lumen with a complete unfolding of the stents could be detected. Overall, nitinol stents appear to be suitable as a prospective treatment option for chronic tubal ventilation disorder.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 May 2023