Medtronic introduces NuVent balloon to treat eustachian tube dysfunction.
Medtronic plc ,a global leader in healthcare technology, announced the launch of the NuVent Eustachian tube dilation balloon, which has been cleared by the FDA for the treatment of chronic, obstructive Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. The NuVent balloon enables surgeons to deliver treatment in an outpatient or office setting. It features a flexible balloon section that allows customized placement based on patient anatomy.
The shape of the balloon handpiece enables easy access and entry into the eustachian tube from the nasal opening with the aid of endoscopic guidance. An atraumatic tip at the distal end of the flexible balloon section is meant to reduce the potential for risk of injury to the eustachian tube and surrounding tissues. The rigid shaft and handle extending to the balloon provide stability and tactile feedback when moving the balloon through the nasal passages and into the eustachian tube canal. The 6 x 16 mm long rigid balloon is located near the distal tip of the device where it expands the eustachian tube canal tissue and cartilage. The Medtronic NuVent inflator (Model # 18INFKIT) is used in conjunction with the balloon handpiece to provide the pressure for the handpiece balloon. This is the same inflator used for NuVent sinus balloons.
It is estimated that 4.6% of adults in the United States experience Eustachian Tube Dysfunction. It occurs when the Eustachian tube, which links the back of the nose to the middle ear, fails to open or close properly. As a result, the tube is unable to perform its primary functions, which are protecting the middle ear from pathogens, equalizing air pressure on either side of the eardrum, and helping drain secretions from the middle ear cleft. This may result in pain, hearing difficulty, and/or a feeling of fullness in the ears. If not treated, patients may also suffer damage to the middle ear and eardrum.
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