Functional repair of the eustachian tube.

Endoscopy of the eustachian tube provides a new diagnostic potential for many problems of middle ear disease. The flexible fiberoptic system works from the nasopharynx as well as from the tympanic orifice, depending on the indications. It must be realized, however, that this is just the beginning of a new technique. Eustachian tube surgery plays a special role in connection with the new fiberoptic system. Preservation of the posterior bony canal wall and of the mucosal lining of the eustachian tube are the essentials of this modern approach.