Autoinflation as a Eustachian Tube Rehabilitation (NCT07122999) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Autoinflation as a Eustachian Tube Rehabilitation
South Korea54 participantsStarted 2019-09-01
Plain-language summary
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of autoinflation in preventing recurrence of otitis media with effusion (OME) and reducing the need for reoperation after tympanostomy tube (TT) extrusion in children. Sixty-six pediatric patients with chronic OME underwent TT placement, and 54 were included in the final analysis. After TT extrusion, participants were randomized into two groups: an autoinflation group using a handheld device (Eustachi) for five weeks, and an observation-only group. Patients were followed for two years post-extrusion, with periodic otoscopic and tympanometric assessments.
The autoinflation group showed a lower recurrence rate (19.2%) compared to the observation group (35.7%), although this difference was not statistically significant. However, the reoperation rate was significantly lower in the autoinflation group (7.7% vs. 28.6%). Tympanometric findings suggested more stable middle ear pressure in the autoinflation group. These results indicate that autoinflation is a safe, feasible, and non-invasive method that may support eustachian tube function and reduce the need for repeat TT placement in children following TT extrusion.
Who can participate
Age range
3 Years – 8 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Children aged 3 to 8 years
* Clinical diagnosis of chronic otitis media with effusion (OME)
* Underwent tympanostomy tube (TT) placement for persistent OME lasting more than 3 months
* Capable of performing autoinflation, as assessed by the physician
* Caregiver willing to provide informed consent and assist with at-home device use
Exclusion Criteria:
* Presence of adenoid hypertrophy or tonsillar hypertrophy
* History of craniofacial anomalies (e.g., cleft palate)
* Current otologic disease such as otorrhea or tympanic membrane perforation
* Acute otitis media or signs of active inflammation at enrollment
* Underlying severe systemic disease or immunodeficiency
* Inability or refusal to follow autoinflation protocol
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Recurrence rate of otitis media with effusion (OME)
Timeframe: Up to 24 months after tympanostomy tube extrusion