Otolaryngology--head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
-
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.
-
Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Feb 2012
Otolaryngology-head and neck surgery physician work force issues: an analysis for future specialty planning.
To predict future trends in the otolaryngology workforce and propose solutions to correct the identified discrepancies between supply and demand. ⋯ The specialty needs to actively plan for the coming otolaryngologist shortage and train mid-level providers within the specialty. Failure to plan appropriately may result in a reduction in scope of practice of high-intensity services, which will likely remain a physician prerogative. Given the limited likelihood of a significant increase in residency slots, strong consideration should be given to shortening the base otolaryngology training program length.
-
Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Feb 2012
Novel approach of medialization thyroplasty with arytenoid adduction performed under general anesthesia with a laryngeal mask.
To objectively assess the voice outcomes of patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis treated with medialization thyroplasty and arytenoid adduction suture. ⋯ Preliminary results indicate that in selected patients with vocal fold paralysis, medialization thyroplasty with arytenoid adduction suture leads to significant improvements in objective voice measures. Longer follow-up data are required to further quantify the voice outcomes after this procedure.
-
Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg · Jan 2012
Multicenter Study Comparative StudyPerioperative management of obstructive sleep apnea: a survey of Veterans Affairs health care providers.
(1) To determine the presence of Veterans Affairs (VA) institutional guidelines for the perioperative management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA); (2) to examine current use of preoperative screening tools for OSA in the VA; and (3) to understand current VA practice patterns regarding postoperative disposition of patients with OSA. ⋯ This survey study elucidates the heterogeneity of preoperative screening for and postoperative care of veterans with OSA. Future investigators may use these data to formalize institutional policies with regard to patients with OSA, with potentially significant impacts on patient care and usage of financial resources.