Cineradiogrphic analysis of eustachian tube function. Experimental study.

In order to determine the effect of muscular contraction upon the opening processes of the eustachian tube, cineradiography of four monkeys' tubes during stimulation of the tensor and levator veli palatini muscles was carried out. Levator stimulation produced no opening of the tube except a dilation of the pharyngeal orifice. On the other hand, tensor stimulation produced a consistent opening of the tube by outward displacement of the tubal wall along its entire cartilaginous part. A marked time lag in the movement of the tube between its proximal (isthmic) and distal (pharyngeal) parts was regarded to be important in the clearance function of the tube.