American journal of otolaryngology
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Comparative Study
Pediatric airway study: Endoscopic grading system for quantifying tonsillar size in comparison to standard adenotonsillar grading systems.
Current grading systems may not allow clinicians to reliably document and communicate adenotonsillar size in the clinical setting. A validated endoscopic grading system may be useful for reporting tonsillar size in future clinical outcome studies. This is especially important as tonsillar enlargement is the cause of a substantial health care burden on children. ⋯ The proposed Endoscopic tonsillar grading system is as reliable of a method of grading tonsillar size as conventional grading systems. It offers the advantage of allowing for critical evaluation of the tonsils without any anatomic distortion which may occur with the use of a tongue blade. This new validated endoscopic grading system provides a tool for communicating the degree of airway obstruction at the level of the oropharynx regardless of Friedman palate position and may be used in future outcomes projects.
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Determine whether specific risk factors, symptoms and clinical examination findings are associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) intolerance and subsequent tympanotomy tube placement. ⋯ A thorough otolaryngological evaluation can potentially predict and identify patients at risk for HBOT intolerance and tympanotomy tube placement.
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A tracheoesophageal prosthesis (TEP) allows for speech after total laryngectomy. However, TEP placement is technically challenging, requiring a coordinated series of steps. Surgical simulators improve technical skills and reduce operative time. We hypothesize that a reusable 3-dimensional (3D)-printed TEP simulator will facilitate comprehension and rehearsal prior to actual procedures. ⋯ A 3D-printed TEP simulator is feasible for surgical training. Simulation involving multiple steps may accelerate technical skills and improve education.