Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
-
Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Mar 2012
Comparative StudyColor Doppler ultrasound: effective monitoring of the buried free flap in facial reanimation.
The gracilis muscle free flap has become a reliable means for smile reanimation for patients with facial paralysis. Because it is a buried flap, it presents a postoperative monitoring challenge. We sought to evaluate our experience with color Doppler ultrasound in the monitoring of gracilis free flap viability in the immediate postoperative setting. ⋯ Color Doppler ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive method that can be performed serially to evaluate a buried free flap. We have had success in verifying normal arterial and venous flow through the pedicle using this method of monitoring of the gracilis muscle free flap during facial reanimation, and in 3 instances, it eliminated the need for wound exploration to verify appropriate muscle perfusion.
-
Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Mar 2012
Comparative StudyPrevalence, characteristics, and management of swallowing disorders following cerebellopontine angle surgery.
To describe swallowing disorders encountered after cerebellopontine angle surgery and to explore variables associated with increased incidence of postoperative dysphagia. ⋯ Oral and pharyngeal swallowing deficits are commonly encountered after cerebellopontine angle surgery. Consultation with the speech-language pathologist appears most critical for any individuals demonstrating postoperative cranial nerve dysfunction, particularly for those with evidence of facial nerve weakness. Early consultation may help to manage short- and long-term functional difficulties.
-
Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Mar 2012
Comparative StudyOtolaryngological complications in patients infected with the influenza A (H1N1) virus.
To describe bacterial upper respiratory infections in patients with influenza A (H1N1) virus during the 2009 pandemic. ⋯ There were few bacterial upper respiratory infections associated with influenza A (H1N1) (0.55%). The most common infections were acute otitis media in young children and acute rhinosinusitis and pharyngotonsillitis in young adults. These complications were more often seen during the 2 months following the influenza infection than at the time of diagnosis with influenza. Outcome was favorable for all patients.
-
Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Mar 2012
Multicenter StudyChanges in central apnea index following pediatric adenotonsillectomy.
To determine if there are changes in the central apnea index (CAI) when pediatric patients undergo adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). ⋯ Children with OSA and mild CSA on preoperative PSG showed significant improvement in CAI following adenotonsillectomy. Future studies are needed to determine the clinical significance of CSA in children with OSA and to identify treatment strategies.