The role of tensor veli palatini muscle (TVP) and levetor veli palatini [corrected] muscle (LVP) in the opening and closing of pharyngeal orifice of Eustachian tube.

[CONCLUSION] This study developed an easy way to induce otitis media in an animal model and find the relation between tensor veli palatini muscle (TVP) and levetor veli palatini [corrected] muscle (LVP) in the opening and closing of the pharyngeal orifice of Eustachian tube. It was proved that otitis media is caused due to the dysfunction of Eustachian tube and the only muscle responsible for opening and closing of ETPO (Eustachian tube pharyngeal orifice) is TVP and LVP has no role in the opening and closing of the Eustachian tube pharyngeal orifice.

[OBJECTIVE] To develop valid animal model for otitis media of effusion and to study the relation of paratubular muscles in the functioning of Eustachian tube.

[METHODS] Two different methods were used to induce middle ear disease: (1) Excision of tensor veli palatini and levetor veli palatini [corrected] muscles (TVP and LVP); and (2) Injection of botulinum toxin type A on TVP and LVP.

[RESULT] Otomiscroscopic, tympanograph, and pathological examination showed the presence of middle ear disease in those animals whose TVP was excised and paralyzed, but on those groups of animals whose LVP was excised and paralyzed, abnormalities were seen.