Table of Contents
- Overview
- Images
Eustachian tube patency refers to how much the Eustachian tube is open. The Eustachian tube runs between the middle ear and the throat. It controls the pressure behind the eardrum and middle ear space, and helps keep the middle ear free of fluid.
The Eustachian tube is normally open, or patent. However, ear infections or altitude changes can increase pressure in the ear, causing the eustachian tube to become blocked.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Review Date: 07/26/2010
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of
Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also
reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
