bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Repair of a Type IV Laryngotracheoesophageal Cleft with Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Moukheiber Alain K. , Riberi Alberto , Camboulives Jean , Paut Olivier , Guys Jean Michel , Triglia Jean Michel
Published: October 2014

Laryngotracheoesophageal clefts (LTECs) are rare congenital defects of variable severity depending on the extent of malformation. Management of a complete LTEC represents a major surgical and anesthetic challenge. The main problems are achieving adequate operative exposure and maintaining ventilatory support during and after the operation. We describe correction of a type IV LTEC extending down to the carina in an infant who had respiratory distress at birth. Surgical repair was achieved in a single stage by an anterior sternotomy approach on the 11th day of life. The procedure was facilitated by cardiopulmonary bypass. After the operation, the infant was intubated, mechanically ventilated, and sedated. Nissen fundoplication and gastrostomy were carried out on the 11th postoperative day. The child was extubated on the 12th postoperative day. The rationale for this method and its advantages in comparison with other surgical approaches are discussed.
Hyperviscoelasticity of Epipharyngeal Mucus May Induce Globus Pharyngis
Authors: Shiomi Yosaku , Oda Naoharu , Shiomi Yoshiko , Hosoda Shinji
Published: October 2014

Detailed observation reveals a lump of translucent sticky mucus standing in the epipharynx of most globus patients, suggesting that the mucus adherent to the epipharynx causes a globus sensation. The epipharyngeal mucus of 70 consecutive globus patients was sampled via the nasal cavity. Fucose and sialic acid, the determinants of the viscoelasticity of mucus, were measured. Twenty-three patients were also asked to complete the Throat Questionnaire so we could evaluate the correlation between the degree of globus sensation and the viscoelasticity of the mucus. The mucus of 10 healthy subjects was sampled, analyzed, and compared with the data of the patients. The fucose and sialic acid concentrations found in the patients with globus pharyngis were significantly higher than those in the control subjects (Mann-Whitney U test, p < .01). The fucose concentrations correlated significantly with the globus pharyngis scores (Spearman correlation, p < .05). We conclude that there is a close association between stagnant mucus in the epipharynx and globus sensation.
Use of the Endoscopic Microdebrider in the Management of Airway Obstruction from Laryngotracheal Carcinoma
Authors: Simoni Payman , Magnuson J. Scott , Peters Glenn E. , Carroll William R.
Published: October 2014

Endoscopic debridement of obstructing laryngotracheal carcinoma with the microdebrider is an alternative to CO2 laser excision or emergency tracheotomy. This is a retrospective study of 27 patients with advanced laryngotracheal carcinoma treated with the microdebrider for airway obstruction from 1998 to 2002. In 26 patients, the carcinoma was debrided successfully and tracheotomy was safely avoided. Postoperative bleeding was encountered in 1 patient with a coagulopathy. Two of the patients later required tracheotomy during radiotherapy secondary to radiation-induced laryngeal edema. Both were safely managed without acute airway compromise. Laryngeal debridement provided up to 3 months of stable airway until definitive oncological treatment was performed. Endoscopic microdebridement of obstructing carcinoma is a relatively simple and highly accurate approach to restoring a stable airway. It provides extra time for preoperative oncological, psychological, and nutritional planning.
Predictive Value of Sleep Nasendoscopy in the Management of Habitual Snorers
Authors: El Badawey Mohamed Reda , McKee Gary , Marshall Hugo , Heggie Nicholas , Wilson Janet Ann
Published: October 2014

Sleep nasendoscopy (SN) is claimed to identify the site of obstruction in habitual snoring and is used to select patients for palatal surgery. The validity of SN is, however, unproven. This is the first prospective blind assessment of the role of SN in the management of habitual snorers. Fifty-five consecutive patients listed for laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) for simple snoring on clinical criteria underwent SN immediately before surgery. Snoring severity and Epworth Sleepiness Scales were completed before the operation and at least 3 months after the operation. The postoperative scores on the snoring severity scale had significantly improved after LAUP, for each SN grade: grade 1 (palatal obstruction; p = .04) and grade 2 (multisegmental obstruction; grade 2A, p = .003, and grade 2B, p = .01). The Epworth Sleepiness Scale showed significant improvement in the whole group (p = .02). We conclude that SN grading of sites of pharyngeal collapse is an insufficient basis to exclude patients from LAUP. Sleep nasendoscopy is thus not of value in the management of habitual snoring, as the measure is a poor predictor of favorable outcome after palatal surgery.
Tongue Representation in the Lateral Cortical Motor Region of the Human Brain as Assessed by Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Authors: Rödel Ralph M. W. , Laskawi Rainer , Markus Holger
Published: October 2014

Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) of the lingual muscles elicited by focal cortical transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with a figure 8-shaped coil were investigated in 17 healthy subjects with special regard to amplitude and onset latency as a function of the coil position on the head surface. Bilateral reproducible responses could be observed at coil positions mostly varying from approximately 6 to 13 cm lateral to the vertex. During moderate muscle activation, maximum responses were obtained at a mean stimulus position of about 11 cm lateral and 3 cm anterior to the vertex with similar onset latencies, but with significantly higher amplitudes on the contralateral side (3.5 ± 1.9 mV, 9.5 ± 1.1 ms contralateral; 2.6 ± 1.5 mV, 9.7 ± 1.0 ms ipsilateral). Comparing our data on the orbicularis oculi muscle with the results obtained on lower lip muscles, we found a considerable overlap of those coil positions from which reproducible MEPs could be elicited in both groups of target muscles, but the lingual area was placed more laterally. Thus, a statistically significant separation of the cortical representation areas of lingual and lower lip mimetic muscles is possible by focal cortical TMS, reflecting somatotopic organization of the face-associated motor cortex.
Nicotinic Cholinergic Receptor Expression in the Human Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Keiger C. Jane H. , Jones Kim R. , Case L. Douglas , Drake Amelia F. , Kendal-Reed Martin , Walker James C.
Published: October 2014

Twenty-four nasal mucosa specimens were obtained from the inferior or middle turbinates of 6 normal subjects and 18 patients with chronic sinusitis, inflammatory polyp formation, or sinus allergies. Reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction analysis was used to identify the non-neuronal nicotinic cholinergic receptor (nAChR) subunits that were expressed in the nasal mucosa. Collectively, transcripts for α (α1, α2, α3, α4, α6, α7) and β (β2, β3, β4) nAChR subunit genes were detected in the respiratory mucosa. The α3, α7, and β2 subunits were expressed in 92%, 88%, and 75% of the subjects, respectively. There was a high degree of interindividual variation in nAChR subunit gene expression among subjects. A significant univariate association was found between tissue type and β4 expression and between gender and β3 expression. These data suggest that cells in the nasal mucosa express the necessary messenger RNAs (mRNAs) for numerous nAChR combinations. Moreover, our identification of nAChR subunit mRNAs in the nasal mucosa extends the findings of other functional studies of nAChRs in nasal epithelial cells and implies that nicotine from tobacco products such as cigarette smoke and nicotine nasal spray may have direct cellular effects on nasal mucosa cells through activation of homogeneous or heterogeneous nAChRs. A significant number of patients receiving nicotine nasal spray have reported nasal irritation, and there are reports of transient irritation of the throat and trachea with the use of smoke-free nicotine cigarettes. These adverse respiratory effects may be due to activation of nAChRs in epithelial cells of the nose and trachea.
Validation Assessment of the Chinese-Version Chronic Ear Survey: A Comparison between Data from English and Chinese Versions
Authors: Wang Pa-Chun , Chu Chia-Chen , Tai Chih-Jaan , Liang Shu-Cheng , Gliklich Richard E.
Published: October 2014

The Chronic Ear Survey (CES) is a valid, disease-specific measure for the evaluation of health status and treatment effectiveness for adults with chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM). This study compares the validation properties of the English and Chinese versions of the CES. The CES was translated into Mandarin Chinese by means of a parallel model. The Chinese version of the CES (CCES) was administered to 103 patients in a prospective manner, then was validated according to established criteria for reliability, validity, and longitudinal sensitivity. The CCES demonstrated good test-retest reliability and internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.81). The CCES significantly correlated with the Mandarin Chinese (Taiwan) version of the generic 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (TSF-36). The standardized response mean for the CCES total score was 2.1, indicating excellent sensitivity to clinical change. This validation study demonstrated that the performance characteristics of the CCES were equivalent to those of the English-version CES. The CCES is a valid tool for evaluation of adults with CSOM among the Chinese-speaking population.
Compact Endoscopy of the Larynx
Authors: Arens Christoph , Dreyer Thomas , Glanz Hiltrud , Malzahn Karin
Published: October 2014

In order to improve preoperative assessment of suspected precancerous and cancerous lesions of the larynx, we examined 83 patients by compact endoscopy (combination of autofluorescence and contact endoscopy) during microlaryngoscopy in a pilot study. The intraoperative findings were related to histopathologic examination. Cancerous laryngeal mucosa was illuminated during autofluorescence endoscopy by use of blue filtered light (D-light AF system) for optical demarcation of the lesion. After staining the mucosa with methylene blue (1%), we performed contact endoscopy. During autofluorescence examination of the endolaryngeal mucosa, the appearance of precancerous and cancerous lesions varied between opaque light areas and darker reddish areas. By contact endoscopy, it was possible to observe the cells, nuclei, and cytoplasm, as well as different degrees of abnormality. Histopathologic findings of 83 patients revealed laryngeal dysplasia (grade I in 29 patients, grade II in 15, and grade III or carcinoma in situ in 8) and laryngeal cancer (31 patients). In 73 cases (88%), the findings of compact endoscopy corresponded to those of histopathology. In 5 cases, epithelial lesions were overestimated because of inflammation and scarring, and 5 cases were underestimated because of hyperkeratotic thickening of the mucosa covering basal epithelial layers with focal dysplasia of grades II and III, carcinoma in situ, and microinvasive cancer. We conclude that compact endoscopy enables the laryngologist to assess laryngeal cancer and its preceding lesions more accurately during microlaryngoscopy.
Comparison of Virtual and Conventional Endoscopy of Nose and Paranasal Sinuses
Authors: Di Rienzo Lino , Tirelli Guido Coen , Garaci Francesco , Turchio Piergiorgio , Guazzaroni Marco
Published: October 2014

We compared computed tomographic virtual rhinosinus endoscopy (VRS) and conventional fiberoptic endoscopy (FE) for the detection of inflammatory-obstructive rhinosinusal disease. We recruited 158 patients; 100 (group A) had inflammatory-obstructive rhinosinus disease, and 58 (group B) had a history of rhinosinus surgery. All patients underwent VRS within 2 to 6 hours of FE, and VRS was able to demonstrate the anatomic details of the nasal fossa and rhinopharynx with a high correspondence to FE. A satisfying representation of anatomic detail was found in both groups A and B. The VRS was able to visualize invasiveness of the endosinusal cavities, which was not accessible to FE. The VRS is a fast, relatively easy, and noninvasive technique that could be integrated into FE or used as an alternative when FE is unfeasible. Because of the ability to explore the sinus cavity, we suggest that virtual rhinosinusoscopy should be considered as the appropriate term, instead of virtual rhinoscopy.
Effects of Nimodipine on Quinine Ototoxicity
Authors: Ochi Kentaro , Kinoshita Hirotsugu , Nishino Hirohito , Kenmochi Mutsumi , Ohashi Toru
Published: October 2014

The compound action potential (CAP) in response to a click train stimulus was recorded at the round window of guinea pigs. Administration of quinine hydrochloride (200 mg/kg) significantly elevated the CAP thresholds by 5 to 25 dB (p < .05), and the CAP waveform elicited by the click train stimulus was abnormal. The amplitude of the CAP elicited by the second click was bigger than that elicited by the first click. These changes may be caused by an abnormally broadened N1 response to the first click in the click train. In contrast, CAP waveforms elicited by the second and subsequent clicks appeared normal. After administration of nimodipine (2 mg/kg), the CAP thresholds and waveforms elicited by the click train stimulus were unchanged. Simultaneous administration of both quinine (200 mg/kg) and nimodipine (2 mg/kg) resulted in the same electrophysiological changes as those induced by quinine alone. These results suggest that nimodipine prevents neither the deterioration in the CAP nor the abnormal properties in the response to a click train stimulus.
Cytolysis of Eosinophils in Nasal Secretions
Authors: Watanabe Kensuke , Inoue Satomi , Misu Toshihiro , Edamatsu Hideo
Published: October 2014

It is still unknown how eosinophils degranulate in nasal mucus. Currently, cytolysis is being reevaluated as the mode of degranulation of eosinophils in allergic nasal mucosa. To examine whether eosinophils migrating to the nasal mucus degranulate by cytolysis, we sampled nasal mucus from 9 patients with nasal allergy and observed it under electron and light microscopes. Both intact and necrotic eosinophils were observed in the nasal mucus. Although the total eosinophil count in the nasal mucus was not correlated with the frequency of sneezes, there was a significant correlation (p = .0025) between the rate of eosinophil lysis and the frequency of sneezes. Whereas extracellular release of eosinophil peroxidase was not detected from the eosinophils with intact cell membranes, large quantities of eosinophil peroxidase were found outside the eosinophils with injured cell membranes. We concluded that eosinophils migrating to the nasal mucus degranulate mainly by cytolysis, and that granular proteins released from the necrotic eosinophils into the nasal mucus are one of the important factors causing hypersensitivity in the nasal mucosa.
Pseudoaneurysm of the Superior Thyroid Artery following Radiotherapy for Hypopharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Ernemann Ulrike , Schäfer Juergen , Herrmann Cornelia , Plasswilm Ludwig , Plontke Stefan , Skalej Martin
Published: October 2014

Carotid blowout syndrome is a devastating complication in head and neck cancer patients that is attributed to multifocal, iatrogenic arteriopathy following radical surgery or irradiation. Pseudoaneurysms of the carotid artery or its small branches are the most frequently recognized of these vascular lesions. We present a case of a ruptured pseudoaneurysm of the superior thyroid artery that was probably induced by radiation vasculopathy and was successfully treated by embolization therapy.
Zenker's Diverticulotomy with the Carbon Dioxide Laser: Perioperative Management and Long-Term Results
Authors: Hoffmann Markus , Rudert Heinrich H. , Scheunemann David , Maune Steffen
Published: October 2014

We analyzed 119 files of patients with Zenker's diverticulum who were treated with CO2 laser systems concerning treatment management, complications, and long-term results. Although the tissue bridge was dissected down to the fundus of the diverticulum, opening the mediastinum, mediastinitis was observed in none of the cases. Of the patients followed up for long-term results, 90.3% were completely symptom-free, and 5.8% of the patients reported an improvement in general condition. In view of the low rate of complications and the low level of morbidity and because of the good functional results, microendoscopic laser surgical diverticulotomy can be recommended as suitable therapy, especially as compared to external approaches or even other endoscopic treatment strategies. The main advantage as compared to staple-assisted esophagodiverticulostomy is that no special equipment is needed and that even small pouches can be treated successfully.
Feasibility of Aerosol Vaccination in Humans
Authors: Roth Yehudah , Chapnik Jerry S. , Cole Philip
Published: October 2014

The feasibility of using aerosol vaccines to achieve mass and rapid immunization, especially in developing countries and disaster areas, is being assessed on the basis of current available information. The aerosol mode of vaccine introduction, which best follows the natural route of many infections, may first lead to development of immunity at the portal of entry, and may also induce a more generalized defense. The recommended optimal way of introducing an aerosol vaccine is nasal breathing, which is more suitable for geriatric and pediatric populations, permits use of greater antigen volumes, and allows easier monitoring of results. Technical requirements for ideal aerosol vaccines and delivery systems, possible adverse effects, and cost-effectiveness are other issues addressed. Several thousand human subjects have been aerosol-vaccinated over a period of many years in Russia with live-attenuated strains against many diseases. Extensive field trials in South America with aerosolized live-attenuated measles vaccine have also been successful, and excellent results have been reported with pilot projects employing inactivated or live-attenuated aerosol influenza A vaccine. We conclude that aerosol immunization seems a promising method of vaccination. Although some basic information is still lacking, this method has already been used successfully in large populations and has therefore passed the phase of initial feasibility evaluation.
Hazardous Foreign Bodies: Complications and Management of Button Batteries in Nose
Authors: Loh Woei Shyang , Leong Jern-Lin , Tan Henry Kun Kiaang
Published: October 2014

Miniature batteries are easily available in our domestic environment, powering many electronic devices and toys. Despite improvement in the safety standards, children are able to remove the batteries from these devices. These batteries pose a hazard to children, as they are small and easily inserted into the nose or ears or even swallowed. We describe 6 children who inserted button batteries into their noses. Four of these insertions resulted in septal perforations. The mechanisms and management of button battery injury are discussed. We emphasize the need for urgent removal of a battery from the nose to prevent long-term complications.
Three-Dimensional Analysis of Morphological Aspects of the Human Utricular Macula
Authors: Naganuma Hideaki , Tokumasu Koji , Hashimoto Shinichiro , Okamoto Makito , Yamashina Shohei
Published: October 2014

The 3-dimensional shape of the human utricular macula and its orientation in the skull are quantitated in this report, which is one of a series. The semicircular canals and utricular macula were reconstructed in 3 dimensions on a computer from 3 human temporal bones. The 238 to 279 triangles in the entire area of the utricular macula were made by drawing lines between 2 adjacent points every 200-μm width of the utricular macula in each section. We calculated the angles between each triangle and each estimated standard axis in the skull. This study provides standard data regarding the 3-dimensional morphological aspects of the utricular macula for further investigation of the function of the utriculus. We determined that the 3-dimensional shape of the utricular macula was not a plane, but was a curved surface like that of an ellipsoid. We believe this shape is necessary for the utricular macula to detect wide-range linear acceleration.
Characteristics of the Type B Tympanogram Can Predict the Magnitude of the Air-Bone Gap in Otitis Media with Effusion
Authors: Sichel Jean-Yves , Priner Yerucham , Barshtein Gregory , Weiss Samuel , Eliashar Ron , Levi Haya , Elidan Josef
Published: October 2014

Tympanometry is well established as a means of assessing the presence of fluid in the middle ear. The type B tympanogram is usually considered a unique entity. However, its shape may vary from a rounded type B with a “pseudopeak” to a completely flat response. The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics of the B curve (maximum admittance, tympanometric peak pressure, and area under the curve) to the viscosity of the middle ear fluid and to the air-bone gap (ABG). In 67 children (93 ears) who underwent ventilation tube insertion, no correlation was found between the viscosity of the middle ear fluid and the characteristics of the B curve. However, these characteristics were able to differentiate between a low ABG (0 to 20 dB) and a high ABG (>20 dB). A statistical difference was also found for the three parameters (maximum admittance, p < .0025; pressure, p < .025; and area under the curve, p < .0005). Tympanometry may be used as an objective measure to estimate the extent of conductive hearing loss, especially in young children.
Cell Biology of Laryngeal Epithelial Defenses in Health and Disease: Further Studies
Authors: Johnston Nikki , Bulmer David , Ross Peter E. , Axford Sophie E. , Gill Gulnaz A. , Pearson Jeffrey P. , Dettmar Peter W. , Panetti Marguerite , Pignatelli Massimo , Koufman James A.
Published: October 2014

This is the second annual report of an international collaborative research group that is examining the cellular impact of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) on laryngeal epithelium. The results of clinical and experimental studies are presented. Carbonic anhydrase (CA), E-cadherin, and MUC gene expression were analyzed in patients with LPR, in controls, and in an in vitro model. In patients with LPR, we found decreased levels of CAIII in vocal fold epithelium and increased levels in posterior commissure epithelium. The experimental studies confirm that laryngeal CAIII is depleted in response to reflux. Also, cell damage does occur well above pH 4.0. In addition, E-cadherin (transmembrane cell surface molecules, which have a key function in epithelial cell adhesion) was not present in 37% of the LPR laryngeal specimens. In conclusion, the laryngeal epithelium lacks defenses comparable to those in esophageal epithelium, and these differences may contribute to the increased susceptibility of laryngeal epithelium to reflux-related injury.
Cyclosporine Dose, Serum Trough Levels, and Allograft Preservation in a Rat Model of Laryngeal Transplantation
Authors: Haug Marcus , Fritz Michael , Dan Olivia , Lorenz Robert R. , Wimberley Sophie , Strome Marshall
Published: October 2014

Using a rat model of laryngeal transplantation, we sought to define the relationships between acute laryngeal rejection grade (RG) and cyclosporin A (CSA) concentration and CSA dosage. Five recipient Lewis rat groups (N = 10 per group) were administered intramuscular CSA doses of 1.0 (group 1), 2.5 (group 2), 5.0 (group 3), 7.5 (group 4), and 10 mg/kg per day (group 5) for 14 days. Immediately before sacrifice, 5 mL of whole blood was obtained to assay CSA trough levels by high-performance liquid chromatography. The specimens were graded microscopically by blinded reviewers by day of RG, 0 to 14 days after transplantation, as described in earlier reports. Despite high intragroup variability in CSA levels, significantly different mean CSA concentrations were achieved among all CSA dosage groups: 1,2,3,4, and 5 (.0001 < p < .02). The mean laryngeal RGs did not test significantly different from each other with groups 3, 4, and 5 (RG, 2.3 ± 1.3 versus 1.9 ± 1.1 versus 1.7 ±0.3, respectively, .2 < p < .6). The RG for group 1 was significantly greater than those for groups 2 through 5 (p < .001), and the group 2 RG was greater (p < .02) than those for groups 3, 4, and 5. Polynomial fitting was used to determine the continuous relationship between each individual specimen's CSA concentration and the RG. Significant pathological allograft rejection correlated with CSA concentrations below 250 ng/mL.
Clearing Microvascular Lesions of the True Vocal Fold with the Ktp/532 Laser
Authors: Hsiung Ming-Wang , Kang Bor-Hwang , Pai Lu , Su Wan-Fu , Wang Hsing-Won
Published: October 2014

Although used for treating vascular malformations, KTP (532 nm) lasers have not been used to treat microvascular lesions of the vocal fold. The efficiency of KTP laser operation in the continuous mode with a 0.4- or 0.6-mm beam (1- to 2-W aim for 3 to 7 seconds delivering a total energy of 3 to 7 J) was studied retrospectively in patients with microvascular lesions of the vocal fold (n = 14). The perceptual acoustic, phonatory function, and videolaryngostroboscopic data were evaluated before and after operation in 10 patients. At follow-up (mean, 7 months), the results were excellent in all patients. Their phonatory function (jitter, shimmer, grade, breathiness, and roughness) significantly improved (p < .01). The videolaryngostroboscopic rating showed significant improvement in the amplitude of vocal fold vibration and excursion of the mucosal wave (p < .05). No postoperative recurrence or complications were noted. The KTP laser operation is a useful, cost-effective, and time-saving procedure and can be considered as an option in management of patients with microvascular lesions of the vocal fold, particularly those with repeated hemorrhages. Because the operation is easy (compared to other surgical methods) and has no major side effects, the prospect of total patient recovery is excellent.
Pathology of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo Revisited
Authors: Gacek Richard R.
Published: October 2014

The pathophysiology of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is not completely understood. Although the concept of degenerated otoconia transforming the posterior canal (PC) crista into a gravity-sensitive sense organ has gained popular support, several temporal bone (TB) series have revealed similar deposits in normal TBs, suggesting they are a normal change in the aging labyrinth. Furthermore, some TBs from patients with BPPV do not contain particles in the posterior canal. Five TBs from patients with BPPV were studied quantitatively and qualitatively. A small PC cupular deposit was found in 1 TB, while none was seen in the other 4 TBs. The major pathological changes were 1) a 50% loss of ganglion cells in the superior vestibular division of all 5 TBs and 2) a 50% loss of neurons in the inferior division of 3 TBs, and a 30% loss in 2 TBs that contained abnormal saccular ganglion cells. These observations support a concept in the pathophysiology of BPPV that includes loss of the inhibitory effect of otolith organs on canal sense organs.
Pathogenesis and Methods of Treatment of Zenker's Diverticulum
Authors: van Overbeek Jos J. M.
Published: October 2014

In the literature, various theories concerning the cause of Zenker's diverticulum have been propounded. I believe that an anatomic predisposition plays a prominent role in the pathogenesis. This conclusion will be discussed in light of a study of the literature and characteristics of a series of 646 patients with Zenker's diverticulum. The current methods of treatment by an external surgical approach, as well as the (micro)endoscopic procedures, are described.
Lateral Upper Arm Free Flap for Primary Reconstruction of Pharyngeal Defects in Ablative Oncological Surgery
Authors: Schipper Jörg , Boedeker Carsten Christof , Golz Avishay , Ridder Gerd Jürgen , Fradis Milo , Gellrich Nils-Claudius
Published: October 2014

Free microvascular flaps are an established method for soft tissue reconstruction following ablative oncological surgery in the head and neck. Functional reconstructions of the hypopharynx and the pharyngoesophageal segment (PES) are of particular relevance, as they are highly demanding surgical procedures. So far, the radial forearm free flap (RFFF) and the free jejunal transfer have been the transplants predominantly used for this purpose. The lateral upper arm free flap (LUFF) presents an alternative method for the fasciocutaneous tissue transfer. We report on our experience with the LUFF in a 56-year-old male patient with a pT3pN0M0 squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx. A pharyngocutaneous fistula developed 5 days after pharyngolaryngectomy with bilateral neck dissection. The fistula was localized between the pharyngeal constrictor muscle and the esophagus and was closed with an LUFF from the left arm. Excellent flap adaptation to the remaining pharyngeal mucosa was observed. Although the length of the vascular pedicle and the diameter of the vessels in the LUFF are smaller than those in the RFFF, neither pedicle length nor vessel diameter proved to be a problem. The LUFF can be recommended as a well-vascularized, relatively safe and reliable flap for reconstruction of tubular structures such as the hypopharynx and the PES after tumor ablation and as an alternative to the RFFF. The flexibility of the LUFF allows surgeons to reconstruct the anatomy of the lost soft tissues as adequately as possible.
Extraction of Minute Pharyngeal Foreign Bodies with the Videoendoscope
Authors: Sato Kiminori
Published: October 2014

The present report describes how minor foreign bodies in the pharynx can be detected and extracted with a videoendoscope. A videoendoscope and biopsy forceps were used for the extraction of minute pharyngeal foreign bodies. The patients were examined and treated in a sitting position. The endoscope was inserted through the nasal passage. Ten minute pharyngeal foreign bodies (all fish bones) were extracted by this method. The advantages of this intervention were that 1) the videoendoscope showed clear dynamic color images of the minute foreign body on a color video monitor and provided excellent resolution and recording, and thus, its diagnostic accuracy was high; 2) minute fish bones located in the pharynx, which are hard to examine, could be well documented; 3) accurate and fine interventions could be performed, and all of the foreign bodies could be extracted quickly; 4) foreign bodies as thin as 0.15 mm could be extracted; 5) the diameter of this videoendoscope was relatively small, resulting in less discomfort for patients, even children; and 6) pernasal endoscopy allowed the physician to examine patients who had a strong gag reflex. Extraction of minute pharyngeal foreign bodies with a videoendoscope is a reliable procedure of office-based endoscopy of the pharynx.
Laryngotracheal Growth following Cricotracheal Resection Combined with Laminotomy
Authors: Weidenbecher Mark , Amann Kerstin , Iro Heinrich
Published: October 2014

Cricotracheal resection (CTR) has been shown to be successful in the treatment of pediatric subglottic stenosis. Whether CTR combined with posterior midline division or partial resection of the cricoid plate affects the stability and growth of the larynx is still questionable. The study included 24 infant female New Zealand White rabbits that were divided into 4 groups of 6 animals each. Group 1 was the unoperated control group. Group 2 underwent removal of three quarters of the anterior cricoid circumference, followed by a primary anastomosis (CTR). In addition to CTR, the rabbits in group 3 underwent a laminotomy by splitting of the cricoid plate midline. Group 4 underwent both CTR and partial resection of the lamina. No stents were used in this study. After 6 months, the experiment was terminated, and the following observations were made. Groups 2 and 3 presented a large and stable subglottic lumen, comparable to that of the control group. After partial cricoid plate resection, 4 of the rabbits in group 4 suffered from a subglottic collapse that caused an airway obstruction and resulted in death. These results support the conclusion that CTR alone, as well as combined with laminotomy, can be performed in a relatively safe and effective manner without interfering with the development of the larynx in young rabbits. Cricotracheal resection together with partial resection of the cricoid plate, however, leads to an unstable situation with an impaired airway.
Efficacy of Resorbable Plates for Reduction and Stabilization of Laryngeal Fractures
Authors: Sasaki Clarence T. , Marotta James C. , Ross Douglas A. , Lowlicht Roger A. , Johnson Michelle
Published: October 2014

We evaluated the efficacy of resorbable reconstruction plates (polylactic acid copolymer) for the open reduction and stabilization of displaced laryngeal fractures. Both MacroPore and Leibinger reconstruction plates were used with equal ease of application in 3 adult male patients. We found the plating system to be especially effective for the reduction of comminuted cricoid fractures. Adequate skeletal stabilization allowed early resumption of phonatory and respiratory function without long-term intraluminal stenting for skeletal support. No complications of hematoma, seroma, or infection were experienced. Resorbable plates appear to be relatively safe and useful for internal fixation of both cartilaginous and ossified parts of the larynx, allowing rapid rehabilitation and return of function.
585-NM Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment of Glottal Dysplasia
Authors: Franco Ramon A. , Zeitels Steven M. , Farinelli William A. , Faquin William , Anderson R. Rox
Published: October 2014

Management of glottal dysplasia can be difficult and often results in a suboptimal treatment outcome. The surgeon and patient must cooperatively balance decisions regarding the effects of possible malignancy, vocal dysfunction, and recurrences leading to multiple use of general anesthetics. A pilot study was done in 57 cases (36 patients and 97 vocal folds) without complication to evaluate the effectiveness of a 585-nm pulsed dye laser (PDL; 450-μs pulse width, 19 to 76-J/cm2 fluence, 1- to 2-mm spot size) in the treatment of vocal fold keratosis. Forty of the 57 cases had bilateral treatment. Phonomicrosurgical resection was done in 35 of the 57 cases after PDL treatment. Of this group, 10 cases were found to have hyperplasia, 21 dysplasia, 4 carcinoma in situ, and 1 carcinoma. One patient had phonomicrosurgical resection before PDL treatment. In 21 of the 57 cases, the disease was irradiated without resection (4 unilateral lesions and 17 bilateral lesions). Approximately 80% of the patients in this series had a greater than 70% reduction in the size of the lesion with the use of the PDL irrespective of whether they underwent resection. Clinical observation revealed no new anterior commissure web formation despite bilateral anterior commissure treatment in 28 of the 57 cases. The PDL enhanced the epithelial excision by improving hemostasis and by creating an optimal dissection plane between the basement membrane and the underlying superficial lamina propria. In this initial trial, the PDL provided relatively safe and effective treatment for glottal dysplasia. Analysis of patterns of recurrence will require longer follow-up.
Systematic Direct Laryngoscopy: The Lindholm Laryngoscopes
Authors: Benjamin Bruce , Lindholm Carl-Eric
Published: October 2014

The authors, each with 40 years of experience in laryngology, aim to lay out the general principles and details of a systematic method of direct laryngoscopy for adults, children, and infants. Advances in laryngoscope design and application, advantages of telescopes, use of the operating microscope, and principles of modern anesthesia are highlighted. Particular reference is made to classification of laryngoscopes, advantages of Lindholm laryngoscopes, suspension laryngoscopy, the principles of biopsy, and problems of laryngoscopy. The difficult airway and the obstructed airway are discussed in detail. With the recent renewed interest in investigation and treatment of laryngeal problems and a better understanding of laryngeal physiology and voice production, the future will, no doubt, see new procedures to treat and restore laryngeal function. The fundamentals in this report form a basis for direct laryngoscopy, endolaryngeal microsurgery, laser surgery, and phonosurgery.
Aeration following Intact Canal Wall Mastoidectomy
Authors: Vrabec Jeffrey T. , Johnson Raleigh F. , Champion Stephanie W. , Chaljub Gregory
Published: October 2014

This study examines the prevalence and extent of re-aeration of the mastoid cavity following intact canal wall (ICW) mastoidectomy. Temporal bone computed tomography scans from patients with prior unilateral ICW mastoidectomy were identified. Three-dimensional volume reconstruction of the temporal bone was performed to measure aeration bilaterally. Thirty-five scans were analyzed; 16 (46%) showed good aeration in the operated ear and 19 showed poor aeration. The aeration (volume) in the surgical ears and the contralateral ears was significantly less than that in subjects without a history of ear disease. Those with poor aeration were more likely to require additional surgery. For temporal bone pairs with greater volume in the operated ear, the average difference was 1.3 cm3. Surgical creation of a mastoid cavity does not produce a large increase in aeration as compared with the contralateral ear. Following surgery, mastoid opacification may presage recurrent disease. Routine use of mastoidectomy in an attempt to improve aeration is not advocated.
Tympanometry Accurately Measures Middle Ear Underpressures in Monkeys
Authors: Alper Cuneyt M. , Philp Katherine D. , Banks Juliane M. , Doyle William J.
Published: October 2014

Tympanometry is useful for evaluating middle ear (ME) status, but its accuracy in estimating true ME pressure has been questioned. We evaluated the accuracy of tympanometry in 6 monkeys. Direct application and measurement of ME pressure were achieved with a probe introduced into the mastoid antrum, and tympanometry was done over a large range of applied ME pressures. For all ears, tympanometric pressure was a linear function of applied pressure. At large overpressures, the tympanometric pressure was approximately 40 mm H2O greater than the applied pressure, but there was little error in the measurement for applied underpressures. The measurement error was proportional to the ME pressure multiplied by the ratio of the extant volume displacement of the tympanic membrane to ME volume. These results show that in monkeys, tympanometry provides an accurate, relatively unbiased estimate of ME underpressure and suggest that the measurement error for tympanometry can be predicted for MEs of other species.
Histopathology of the Inner Ear in Unoperated Acoustic Neuroma
Authors: Mahmud Mohd Ridzo , Khan Aayesha M. , Nadol Joseph B.
Published: October 2014

Although hearing loss is the most common presenting symptom in patients with acoustic neuroma, the pathophysiology of hearing loss associated with acoustic neuroma is unknown. Although primary dysfunction of the auditory nerve is intuitively logical, available histopathologic and clinical data suggest that although neural degeneration is common, it alone does not adequately account for hearing loss in many cases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate 11 cases of unoperated unilateral acoustic neuromas. Temporal bones were identified by means of a search mechanism provided by the National Temporal Bone, Hearing, and Balance Pathology Resource Registry and were prepared for light microscopy by standard techniques. Quantification of spiral ganglion cells, hair cells, stria vascularis, and spiral ligament was accomplished for each specimen. In addition, the maximum diameter and volume of each tumor were calculated from histopathologic sections. Increasing tumor size did predict a reduced spiral ganglion count. However, although there was a tendency for decreasing spiral ganglion cell count and for increasing tumor size to predict a higher pure tone average and lower speech discrimination score, these correlations did not reach statistical significance. In tumor ears in which the speech discrimination score was 50% or less, there was always significant degeneration of other structures of the inner ear in addition to neurons, including hair cells, the stria vascularis, and the spiral ligament. Endolymphatic hydrops and eosinophilic precipitate in the perilymphatic spaces were found in 2 of 3 such cases. It is concluded that acoustic neuromas appear to cause hearing loss, not only by causing degeneration of the auditory nerve, but also by inducing degenerative changes in the inner ear. It is hypothesized that the proteinaceous material seen histologically may represent the products of up-regulated genes in acoustic neuroma, some of which may interfere with normal cochlear function.
Acoustic Analysis of Autologous Fat Injection versus Thyroplasty in the Same Patient
Authors: Hartl Dana M. , Laccourreye Ollivier , Vaissière Jacqueline , Brasnu Daniel F.
Published: October 2014

We objectively measured the acoustic effects of treatment of unilateral vocal fold paralysis by injection of autologous fat and by polytetrafluoroethylene thyroplasty, in the same patient. To our knowledge, this is the first report comparing the two techniques by using the patient's normal voice as the control. The voice of a male patient was recorded before and after onset of unilateral vocal fold paralysis, after treatment with autologous fat, and after polytetrafluoroethylene thyroplasty. Acoustic analysis was performed on a long-term average spectrum of text and on the MDVP (Kay Elemetrics) evaluation of the vowel / a/. Jitter and shimmer were not normalized, but they improved to a greater extent after fat injection. The cepstral peak prominence, spectral skewness, and long-term average spectrum returned to preparalytic values after both treatments, but improved to a greater extent after fat injection. This study showed that both techniques can return the voice to preparalytic values. Spectral measurements best reflected the voice improvement. Further prospective studies in a larger number of patients will be necessary to confirm these results and to determine the long-term objective voice outcome obtained with these techniques.
Postlaryngectomy Voice Restoration Using a Voice Prosthesis: A Single Institution's Ten-Year Experience
Authors: Mäkitie Antti A. , Aaltonen Leena-Maija , Niemensivu Riina , Bäck Leif , Juvas Anja , Lehtonen Hannu
Published: October 2014

We describe the speech rehabilitation outcome of patients treated with total laryngectomy or total laryngopharyngectomy and insertion of Provox voice prostheses (Atos Medical AB, Hörby, Sweden) at the Helsinki University Central Hospital. We performed a retrospective chart review of 95 patients (88 men and 7 women; mean age, 63.5 years) who underwent insertion of a voice prosthesis in the period 1992 to 2002. Eighty-one percent (77/95) of the patients underwent a primary prosthesis insertion at the time of laryngectomy. A head and neck surgeon, a laryngologist, and a speech therapist rated the long-term tracheoesophageal speech of 78% (74/95) of the patients as good or average. The main causes for replacement of the device were obstruction, leakage or inadequate size of the prosthesis, and granulation or leakage around the fistula. According to our 10-year experience, use of the Provox prosthesis is an effective method of postlaryngectomy voice rehabilitation, and it continues to be our preferred method of voice restoration in the majority of cases.
Basal Cell Adenoma of the Sublingual Gland
Authors: Lin Hsin-Ching , Huang Shun-Chen , Chien Chih-Yen , Su Chih-Ying
Published: October 2014

Salivary gland tumors constitute about 3% to 4% of all head and neck neoplasms. Approximately 80% originate in the parotid gland, and they rarely present in the sublingual gland; however, a disproportionately large majority of sublingual gland tumors are malignant. Basal cell adenoma is a benign epithelial salivary gland tumor that appears to have unique histologic characteristics, different from those of mixed tumors, and has a predilection for development in the parotid and minor salivary glands. No case has ever been reported as arising from the sublingual gland in the otolaryngology literature. We report here a case of a middle-aged woman with basal cell adenoma of the sublingual gland. The clinical presentation, pathological features, differential diagnosis, and treatment options for this relatively rare tumor are discussed.
Suspension Laryngoscopy Revisited
Authors: Zeitels Steven M. , Burns James A. , Dailey Seth H.
Published: October 2014

Every critical advancement in direct laryngoscopic surgical technique has enhanced its precision. Among the most notable was Killian's seminal description of suspension laryngoscopy 90 years ago, which allowed for bimanual direct laryngoscopic surgery. Because of the technical difficulties encountered while performing suspension laryngoscopy, Brünings and Seiffert designed fulcrum laryngoscope holder-stabilizers for spatula laryngoscopes from Killian's original instrument design. Their devices, which were easier to use and better tolerated by patients, were supported from the laryngeal cartilage framework or chest wall. Laryngoscope holder-stabilizers were retrofitted to tubular laryngoscope specula in the 1940s and 1950s, whereupon they became very popular. Suspension laryngoscopy should have become more common subsequent to the introduction of general endotracheal anesthesia with paralysis in the 1960s. However, laryngoscope holder-stabilizers were entrenched as the device preferred by most, and they remain so today. This entrenchment occurred despite the fact that suspension laryngoscopy allows for positioning a larger examining speculum, which in turn allows for enhanced exposure and endolaryngeal procedural precision. The applied vector forces on the mandible, maxilla, oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx associated with suspension laryngoscopy are preferable to those associated with holder-stabilizers. A prospective assessment of 120 cases revealed effective use of suspension laryngoscopy in all. We believe that only a minority of surgeons has actually seen true suspension laryngoscopy and that its merits are worthy of reexamination.
Markers of Wound Healing in Vocal Fold Secretions from Patients with Laryngeal Pathology
Authors: Branski Ryan C. , Verdolini Katherine , Rosen Clark A. , Hebda Patricia A.
Published: October 2014

This study seeks to determine the ability of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays of vocal fold secretions to detect and describe the inflammatory response in the vocal folds. Vocal fold and palatal secretions were collected during operation from patients with a range of vocal fold disorders and from control patients. The secretions were subjected to assays for interleukin-1β, prostaglandin E2, and transforming growth factor β. The results indicate a differential expression of mediators associated with the wound healing cascade in the vocal folds. The prostaglandin E2 levels clearly differentiated vocal fold secretions associated with laryngeal disease versus control sites. Furthermore, the interleukin-1β concentrations were significantly elevated in subjects with epithelial lesions of the vocal folds as opposed to lesions of the lamina propria. Although still in its infancy, such analysis may ultimately hold scientific and clinical utility in the study and management of patients with vocal fold disease.