[Study on mechanism of eustachian tube active opening ventilation and pump-like function].

A modified methods for assessing the eustachian tube function (ETF) in patients with traumatic tympanic membrane perforation and otitis media were developed by using a custom-designed ETF measuring instrument. These methods consist of dynamic flow swallow test (DFST), positive pressure swallow test (PST), negative pressure swallow test (NST) and micro-negative pressure swallow test (MNST). With these methods, the graphs and parameters presenting ET active opening function were obtained. The results suggested that the ET active swallow opening is a rather complex process of biomechanical action. It is not only closely related to the function of middle ear ventilation but also related to pump-like function and the protective function against reflux infection from nasopharynx.