The word "Politzerization" is a term used in ophthalmology to describe a technique of inflating the eustachian tube using a catheter. In terms of its spelling, "Politzerization" is composed of the root word "Politzer," which is a reference to Adam Politzer, an Austrian physician who developed this technique in the late 1800s. The suffix "-ization" indicates the process or act of performing said technique. Using the IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be pronounced as /pəˈlɪtsərəzˈeɪʃən/.
Politzerization refers to a medical procedure used in otorhinolaryngology to treat various disorders related to the ear and eustachian tube, known as the Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). The procedure is named after the Austrian physician Adam Politzer, who introduced and popularized it in the late 19th century.
During Politzerization, a specialized device called a Politzer bag is utilized. The bag is typically made of rubber and is connected to a nozzle that fits snugly into one nostril of the patient. The other nostril is occluded to ensure maximum pressure. The patient is instructed to close their mouth and swallow while the physician delivers a forceful, controlled puff of air into the nostril attached to the Politzer bag. This act of forced swallowing assists in opening the eustachian tube and helps restore its normal function.
The primary purpose of Politzerization is to equalize the pressure in the middle ear and eustachian tube, which is essential for the normal functioning of the ear. The procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing issues such as ear pain, hearing loss, tinnitus, and recurrent middle ear infections. It can also be employed in instances of airplane ear, where rapid changes in altitude result in pressure imbalances, causing discomfort or pain in the ears.
Politzerization is considered a relatively safe and well-tolerated procedure, with minimal risks or side effects. However, it does require a trained healthcare professional to perform it accurately and effectively. It is generally an outpatient procedure and can often provide immediate relief for patients suffering from Eustachian tube dysfunction.
Inflation of the Eustachian tube and middle ear by the Politzer method.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.