Evaluation of Eustachian tube function in chronic suppurative otitis media (tubotympanic type) with reference to its treatment outcome

Aims and Objectives: To assess the eustachian tube function (ETF) and to evaluate the treatment outcome of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOMtubotympanic type) in relation to eustachian tube dysfunction. Materials and Methods: Prospective study for a period of 2 years; the study comprises of 100 patients diagnosed to have CSOM (tubotympanic type). ETF was assessed by Toynbee's test. Patients with normal ETF were taken up for myringoplasty. Patients with totally impaired ETF irrespective of middle ear mucosal status (dry or wet) were taken up for cortical mastoidectomy with tympanoplasty. Patients with partially impaired ETF, with dry middle ear mucosa were taken up for myringoplasty and those with wet middle ear were taken up for cortical mastoidectomy with tympanoplasty. Results and Analysis: The ETF in these patients was analyzed and graft uptake was assessed clinically in reference to ETF status. The results are tabulated and analyzed using Chi-square test using number cruncher statistical system (NCSS) software. In our study, preoperative ETF had a highly significant P value = 0.0005. Conclusion: Methodology of treatment adapted for CSOM patients based on ETF proves that the eustachian tube plays a major role in the uptake of graft.