Restore the balance in your ears

NovaEARS is the first clinic in Quebec specializing in Eustachian Tube Dilation for the treatment of Eustachian tube dysfunction. A minimally invasive procedure of about 30 minutes, with a return to normal activities the same day.

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Understand the problem

Dr François Cloutier, MD FRCSC, Dipl. ABOHNS · Otology

A small valve, large consequences

The Eustachian tube is the passage connecting the nose to the middle ear. Its role is to ventilate the ear: it opens briefly when you swallow, yawn or chew, letting air in and equalizing the pressure.

These tubes can become blocked for a number of reasons. When that happens, the valve no longer opens — or no longer closes — properly. The result is pain, hearing difficulty and a feeling of fullness in the ears. This is known as Eustachian tube dysfunction. About 5% of the adult population is affected. Ear pain can occur on a plane, while scuba diving, while driving through hilly terrain — or even during everyday activities.

Persistent cases of Eustachian tube disorders may benefit from a procedure such as Eustachian Tube Dilation. The surgeon inserts a small balloon through the nose, into the Eustachian tube. The balloon is then gently inflated, reopening the passage for air and mucus. Once the tube is dilated, the balloon is deflated and removed.

A questionnaire is available to assess the severity of your Eustachian tube problem.

Take the questionnaire
Read the brochure

See the procedure explained.

A short video to help you understand exactly what endoscopic Eustachian Tube Dilation involves.

SERVICE

We offer Eustachian Tube Dilation to patients who struggle to equalize their ears. This mainly includes ear barotrauma (air travel, scuba diving, and so on). It is a unique service in Quebec. We use state-of-the-art technology to ensure effective, safe treatment for our patients.

Endoscopic technique

An endoscope fitted with a micro-camera allows direct visualization of the Eustachian tube opening and precise guidance of the balloon.

About 30 minutes

The procedure is minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia — or general, depending on the case. A return to normal activities is generally possible the same day.

Safety and follow-up

Every patient is assessed beforehand, then seen again in a post-operative consultation 2 to 7 weeks later to evaluate the results of the dilation.

EVALUATION PROCESS

We begin with an examination of the ear and nasal cavity. If it has not already been done, a complete audiogram is used to assess the extent of the problem. If we determine that Eustachian Tube Dilation is the appropriate treatment, we can then proceed with the intervention.

Eustachian Tube Dilation is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local (or general) anesthesia, and generally takes about thirty minutes. Patients can usually return to their normal activities the same day.

01

Initial examination

We begin with an examination of the ear and nasal cavity in order to pinpoint the origin of your symptoms.

02

Audiogram

If it has not already been done, a complete audiogram is used to assess the extent of the problem and confirm the diagnosis.

03

Procedure

If dilation is the appropriate treatment, we proceed with the intervention. A post-operative visit is scheduled 2 to 7 weeks later.

BOOKING AN APPOINTMENT

Ready to talk about it?

If you are experiencing problems with your Eustachian tubes, do not hesitate to contact us for an appointment. Our team is here to answer all of your questions and help you make the best decision for your hearing health.

Book an appointment
450 868-1018

DR. FRANÇOIS CLOUTIER,
MD FRCSC Dipl. ABOHNS

Rare expertise, right here in Quebec.

Dr François Cloutier has unique expertise in otology and in Eustachian Tube Dilation. He is one of the first physicians in Quebec to perform this procedure.

Our team is here to answer all of your questions and help you make the best decision for your hearing health — no pressure, at your own pace.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the steps of the procedure?
  • Local anesthesia : before the procedure, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the nasopharynx, where the opening of the Eustachian tube is located. Medication is sometimes also given to make the procedure even more comfortable.
  • Endoscope insertion : once the anesthesia has taken effect, the physician inserts a thin endoscope through the nose. The endoscope is fitted with a small camera that allows the inside of the Eustachian tube to be seen.
  • Locating the Eustachian tube : using the endoscope, the physician locates the opening of the Eustachian tube.
  • Eustachian Tube Dilation : once the tube has been located, a small dilation balloon is inserted and guided to its opening. The balloon is gently inflated, which opens and dilates the tube. This helps restore airflow and pressure balance between the middle ear and the nose, relieving the symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction.
  • Endoscope removal : once the procedure is complete, the endoscope and balloon are gently withdrawn.
  • Recovery time : Eustachian Tube Dilation is a very quick procedure. Patients can resume their normal activities quickly. Depending on the sedation, patients can often drive their vehicle after a short observation period.
What is the medical follow-up?

After the procedure, a post-operative visit is scheduled between 2 and 7 weeks later in order to evaluate the results of the dilation.

What does it cost?
The service is not reimbursed by Quebec’s public health insurance plan (RAMQ). Depending on the type of anesthesia, the procedure costs between $4,500 and $5,500.
What results can I expect?
Eustachian Tube Dilation can be very beneficial for patients suffering from middle-ear pressure problems or other symptoms related to Eustachian tube dysfunction. That said, it is important to understand that results can vary from one patient to another.