Eustachian tube efficiency of geriatric subjects.

The effects of age on Eustachian tube efficiency were examined using a tympanometric swallow procedure. Ten aged males and 10 young controls served as subjects. Tympanograms were examined for middle ear pressure and amplitude after a swallow maneuver and manipulation of external auditory meatus pressure. Statistical analysis of pressure peak findings revealed a significant interaction effect (age X tympanometric condition), which reflected less extreme pressure shifts obtained from geriatric subjects. Lack of shift and shift in the opposite direction from expectation among the geriatric subjects were both observed. The authors suggested that further exploration of possible hypofunction of the aged Eustachian tube relative to that of the young controls is warranted.