Abstract: Based on extensive research of anatomy and physiological function of the Eustachian tube, the authors review the literatures to determine the mechanism of patulous Eustachian tube (PET). The purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the patulous Eustachian tube, present the current diagnostic protocols for PET and determine the comparative efficacy of variable treatments for this condition. In addition, development prospects are summarized in this article.

Key words: patulous Eustachian tube, Eustachian tube, Eustachian tube testing, autophony