Our Summary

This research paper discusses the case of a 24-year-old man who had a type of jaw deformity and underwent a surgical procedure called LeFort I osteotomies to move his upper jaw forward. A year and a half after the surgery, he was diagnosed with problems in his Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the throat and help with balance and ear pressure.

The authors suggest that the physical changes caused by the surgery, specifically the rearrangement of certain muscles, might be the reason for the patient’s Eustachian tube problems. This case is the starting point for more detailed studies on this topic, with the aim of understanding if this kind of jaw surgery can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction.

FAQs

  1. What is Eustachian tube dysfunction and how is it related to LeFort I osteotomies?
  2. What causes the new onset of Eustachian tube dysfunction after maxillary advancement surgery?
  3. What are the potential complications of LeFort surgery in relation to the function of the Eustachian tube?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about ear tube surgery is to avoid getting water in the ears during the healing process. This can help prevent infection and promote proper healing of the ear tubes. It is also important to follow all post-operative care instructions provided by your doctor to ensure the best outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for ear tube surgery typically have chronic ear infections, fluid buildup in the middle ear, frequent ear infections, or Eustachian tube dysfunction that does not improve with other treatments. In some cases, patients with a history of orthognathic surgery, such as LeFort osteotomies, may also develop Eustachian tube dysfunction as a complication of the surgery.

Timeline

Before ear tube surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction, such as ear pain, hearing loss, and recurrent ear infections.
  2. Patient consults with an otolaryngologist who recommends ear tube surgery as a treatment option.
  3. Pre-operative evaluations, including hearing tests and imaging studies, are performed to assess the patient’s ear condition.
  4. Surgical consent is obtained, and the patient is provided with pre-operative instructions.

After ear tube surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes ear tube surgery, which typically involves the insertion of small tubes into the eardrums to help drain fluid and equalize pressure in the middle ear.
  2. Post-operative care instructions, including ear drops and follow-up appointments, are given to the patient.
  3. Patient may experience temporary discomfort or ear drainage following surgery.
  4. Over time, the ear tubes help improve the patient’s symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction.
  5. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the effectiveness of the ear tubes and ensure proper healing.
  6. In some cases, the ear tubes may need to be removed or replaced after a certain period of time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and benefits of ear tube surgery for my specific condition?
  2. How will the surgery affect my Eustachian tube function?
  3. What is the success rate of ear tube surgery in patients who have undergone maxillary advancement with LeFort I osteotomies?
  4. What is the recovery process like after ear tube surgery?
  5. Are there any potential complications or side effects I should be aware of?
  6. How long do ear tubes typically remain in place?
  7. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after ear tube surgery?
  9. How will ear tube surgery affect my ability to hear?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before proceeding with ear tube surgery?

Reference

Authors: Lindemann CB, Bastemeyer AK, McGann E, Mondragon C, Eliason M. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2025 May 1;36(3):e264-e266. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000010815. Epub 2024 Oct 28. PMID: 39466192