The Laryngoscope
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Our experience with Venturi jet ventilation as the method of anesthesia in 872 cases of microlaryngeal surgery is presented. Our indications and exact technique are presented, as well as a review of our complications. Possible pitfalls and their avoidance are discussed. With attention to detail and good clinical judgement on the part of anesthesiologist and surgeon, Venturi jet ventilation can be safe and efficient with minimal complications.
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While tonsillectomy is usually a safe operation, it is always accompanied by the risk of immediate postoperative bleeding. Despite continued efforts to eliminate this problem, it remains a persistent risk. In reviewing 775 consecutive cases of tonsillectomy, immediate postoperative bleeding occurred in 21 (2.7%). ⋯ Local anesthetic cases were shorter, had less intraoperative bleeding and were not associated with greater postoperative bleeding. We conclude that local anesthesia is safe and efficient and that identifiable factors are associated with primary post-tonsillectomy bleeding. An awareness of these factors can help identify potential postoperative bleeders.
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A consecutive series of 90 patients undergoing endoscopic intranasal ethmoidectomy was reviewed. There were 26 complications (29%) in 19 patients in this group. ⋯ Endoscopic nasal sinus surgery performed by inexperienced operators carries with it the same risks and complications as traditional intranasal sinus surgery. Any surgeon who does not routinely perform traditional intranasal ethmoidectomy should accrue endoscopic experience through appropriate didactic training and multiple cadaver dissections (akin to otologic training).