Eustachian tube patency
Definition
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Eustachian tube patency refers to how much the eustachian tube is open. The eustachian tube runs between the middle ear and the throat. This tube regulates the pressure around the ear drum and middle ear space.
Patency is the normal state of the eustachian tube. Ear infections or altitude changes can increase pressure in the ear, causing the eustachian tube to become blocked.
Review Date: 7/25/2007
Reviewed By: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Reviewed By: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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