American journal of otolaryngology
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To understand the knowledge, competency and influencing factors regarding postoperative opioid prescribing practices among Otolaryngology Residents. To understand the educational background and resources regarding pain management and opioid prescribing among Otolaryngology Residency Programs. ⋯ A large inconsistency in Otolaryngology resident postoperative pain management exists, despite their responsibility to provide analgesic therapy. The lack of formal OPE programs in US Otolaryngology residency programs may lead to outside factors unrelated to surgery influencing these prescribing practices. This brings light to the need of Otolaryngology Resident OPE to assist in standardizing prescribing practices, provide meaningful patient education on opioid use and disposal and educate residents on the risk assessment tools offered to provide the most appropriate and safe analgesic therapy to patients.
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Comparative Study
A comparison of benign positional vertigo and stroke patients presenting to the emergency department with vertigo or dizziness.
To compare imaging utilization between patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with vertigo and dizziness (VDS) who are diagnosed with stroke and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). ⋯ Imaging utilization in BPPV patients presenting with VDS is high. The profile of patients with BPPV that received imaging was substantially more benign than that of stroke patients (a quarter had no neurologic symptoms, exam findings, or stroke RFs). The HINTS exam was underutilized, and computed tomography was heavily utilized despite well-established limitations in diagnosing posterior circulation strokes. This study highlights the need for increased training in the HINTS exam, narrowing of the scope for computed tomography, and a higher threshold for imaging patients with isolated VDS.
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Over the last decade, there has been increased interest in utilizing motorized scooters for transportation. The limited regulation of this modernized vehicle raises numerous safety concerns. This analysis examines a national database to describe the yearly incidence of craniofacial injuries and patterns of injury related to motorized scooter use. ⋯ The incidence of motorized scooter related craniofacial trauma is rising, resulting in thousands of ED visits annually. Many patients are experiencing morbid traumatic injuries and may not be wearing appropriate protective equipment. This study highlights the importance of public awareness and policy to improve safety and primarily prevent craniofacial trauma.
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There is much debate in the literature over the extent of surgery for patients with intermediate risk papillary thyroid cancer. We herein report our results in a local tertiary hospital. ⋯ The 5 year survival in intermediate risk papillary thyroid cancer is favorable. Hemithyroidectomy is an acceptable choice of operation in intermediate risk patients with a better risk profile.