Our Summary

This research study investigated the relationship between two structures inside the skull: the eustachian tube (a tube that links the back of the nose to the middle ear) and the internal carotid artery (one of the main arteries in the head and neck).

The researchers used five cadaver (dead body) heads to study the detailed anatomy of these structures. They discovered that a certain part of the eustachian tube was located just in front of a bend in the internal carotid artery when accessed through the nose using an endoscope (a long, flexible tube with a light and camera at the end).

To apply these findings, they then performed surgery on three living patients using this knowledge, and found that it helped them avoid damaging the internal carotid artery during the operation. The patients recovered well with no serious complications.

In conclusion, this study shows that the eustachian tube can be used as a reliable reference point to help surgeons avoid damaging the internal carotid artery during certain types of brain surgery performed through the nose.

FAQs

  1. What is the relationship between the eustachian tube and the internal carotid artery in skull base surgery?
  2. How can the eustachian tube serve as a reliable landmark in skull base surgery?
  3. Were there any serious complications reported in the study after the procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about ear tube surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including keeping the ears dry and avoiding activities that may put pressure on the ears, such as diving or flying. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor the healing process and ensure the tubes are functioning properly. If you experience any pain, drainage, or hearing changes after the surgery, be sure to contact your doctor immediately.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for ear tube surgery, also known as tympanostomy tube placement, are those who have recurrent ear infections, chronic fluid buildup behind the eardrum, or persistent hearing loss due to fluid in the middle ear. This procedure is most commonly performed in children, especially those who have had multiple ear infections or have issues with ear fluid drainage. Adults may also be recommended for ear tube surgery if they have similar issues with recurrent ear infections or chronic fluid buildup. It is important for patients to consult with an otolaryngologist to determine if ear tube surgery is the best course of treatment for their specific condition.

Timeline

  • Before Ear Tube Surgery:
  1. Patient experiences frequent ear infections or fluid buildup in the middle ear.
  2. Patient may have hearing difficulties or experience pain and pressure in the ear.
  3. Consultation with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist to discuss the possibility of ear tube surgery.
  4. ENT specialist conducts a thorough examination of the ear and recommends ear tube surgery if necessary.
  • After Ear Tube Surgery:
  1. Surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia in an outpatient setting.
  2. Ear tubes are inserted into the eardrum to help ventilate the middle ear and prevent fluid buildup.
  3. Patient may experience mild discomfort or ear drainage immediately following surgery.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the ENT specialist to monitor the ear tubes and ensure proper healing.
  5. Patient may notice improved hearing and reduced frequency of ear infections after surgery.
  6. Ear tubes typically fall out on their own after 6-12 months, at which point the eardrum usually heals on its own.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about ear tube surgery include:

  1. What is the purpose of ear tube surgery?
  2. Am I a good candidate for ear tube surgery?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with ear tube surgery?
  4. How will the ear tubes be inserted and how long will the procedure take?
  5. What is the expected recovery time after ear tube surgery?
  6. Will I need to follow any special post-operative care instructions?
  7. How long will the ear tubes stay in place and will they need to be removed?
  8. What are the potential benefits of ear tube surgery for my specific condition?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider?
  10. How often will I need to follow-up with you after the surgery for monitoring and evaluation?

Reference

Authors: Liu J, Sun X, Liu Q, Wang D, Wang H, Ma N. Journal: Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2016 Feb;154(2):377-82. doi: 10.1177/0194599815616799. Epub 2015 Nov 23. PMID: 26598497