Frank Catheterization of the Eustachian Tube

Frank catheterization of the auditory tube is a method of treating otitis media (inflammation of the middle ear), in which a catheter is inserted into the auditory tube to inject air. This creates negative pressure in the middle ear, which helps drain fluid and reduce inflammation.

The method was developed in the 1950s by French otolaryngologist Jacques Frank. He used a catheter with a diameter of 4 mm and a length of 15 cm, which was inserted through the nasopharynx into the auditory tube.

To carry out the procedure, you must complete the following steps:

1. The patient lies on his back with his head thrown back.
2. The patient's nostrils are closed and the mouth is open.
3. Catheters are inserted into the nostrils, which move through the auditory tubes and reach the eardrum.
4. Pressurized air is blown through the catheter, creating negative pressure in the ear.
5. The procedure continues until positive dynamics in the patient’s condition are achieved.

There may be discomfort in the ear after the procedure, but this usually goes away within a few hours. The Frank method of auditory tube catheterization is considered effective and safe, and is widely used in otolaryngology.

Frank's Eustachian tube catheterization, otherwise known as Eustachian tube fenestration, is used to restore a person's ability to hear after surgery to the nose or sinuses. This operation can be performed to correct defects in respiratory function and the outflow of fluids from the middle ear. This is a simple outpatient procedure that usually does not take more than an hour.

This method is performed under local anesthesia. It involves blowing air through a catheter and eustachian tube directly into the inner ear.