International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology
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Int. J. Pediatr. Otorhinolaryngol. · Mar 2014
Comparative StudyBenefits of ultrasound vs. computed tomography in the diagnosis of pediatric lateral neck abscesses.
There are no studies comparing the accuracy of ultrasound and computed tomography in the same population of pediatric patients with lateral neck abscesses. This case series assesses the accuracy of the two imaging techniques. ⋯ This study demonstrates that ultrasound may be an equivalently sensitive and more specific diagnostic tool when compared to CT in the work-up of lateral neck abscesses in children. It is safe and effective in diagnosis when there is an undetermined probability of an abscess.
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Int. J. Pediatr. Otorhinolaryngol. · Mar 2014
Office-based lower airway endoscopy (OLAE) in pediatric patients: a high-value procedure.
Office-based lower airway endoscopy (OLAE) is not a widespread practice in children due to concerns about its safety and efficacy. In 2003, we reported on OLAE in 105 children presenting with airway symptoms and found it both safe and effective as a diagnostic tool. The current study is a follow-up to the 2003 study that reports on an additional 122 pediatric patients who received OLAE with special attention to the safety and efficacy of the procedure. ⋯ OLAE continues to be a safe, efficacious, and cost-effective tool for the diagnosis of lower airway pathology in pediatric patients.
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Int. J. Pediatr. Otorhinolaryngol. · Mar 2014
Examining potential barriers to early intervention access in Australian hearing impaired children.
Early intervention for children with hearing loss involves assistance in oral speech development, optimal use of hearing devices and fostering a holistic partnership between allied health and the children's families. Adequate access to early intervention has been shown to be vital in the positive development of long term language and social outcomes. However, there has been limited research to identify the factors which may influence access. This study aimed to explore whether access to early intervention by children with hearing loss is affected by: geographical location, socio-economic status and ethnic-minority family status. ⋯ Findings suggest that geographical proximity and ethnic-minority family status, instead of socio-economic status, are more likely to be potential barriers to early intervention access in children with hearing loss. From the health promotion perspective, attention should be directed towards these potential barriers.