Balloon treatment for clogged ear tubes shows promise in small study
NCT ID NCT02123277
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested a balloon catheter to open blocked Eustachian tubes in 31 adults. The device is inserted into the tube and inflated to widen it. Researchers measured changes in ear symptoms over 14 months to see if the procedure provides lasting relief.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
balloon catheter
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simple procedure to relieve ear pressure and hearing issues from blocked Eustachian tubes.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early study with only 31 people and no comparison group. Results may not apply to everyone, and the procedure carries risks like infection or injury.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Gui de Chauliac Hospital
Montpellier, 34090, France