The Laryngoscope
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Comparative Study
Coblation tonsillectomy versus dissection tonsillectomy: postoperative hemorrhage.
Coblation tonsillectomy is a recently introduced surgical technique. To measure its benefits against traditional tonsillectomy techniques, it is necessary to compare their complication rates. The study aims to identify differences in reactionary and secondary hemorrhage proportions, comparing coblation with dissection tonsillectomy. ⋯ In the study, coblation tonsillectomy was associated with a lesser incidence of delayed hemorrhage, more significantly in the pediatric population. The new technique using tissue coblation for tonsil dissection offers significant advantages in the postoperative period compared with dissection tonsillectomy with bipolar diathermy hemostasis. Coblation is associated with less postoperative pain and early return to daily activities. Also, there are fewer secondary infections of the tonsil bed and significantly lower rates of secondary hemorrhage with coblation. These results and the disposable nature of the coblation equipment promote coblation tonsillectomy as the authors' preferred dissection method.
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Comparative Study
Quality of life after different treatment modalities for carcinoma of the oropharynx.
To assess the long-term posttreatment quality of life of patients with carcinoma of the oropharynx treated with different treatment modalities. ⋯ Quality of life after curative treatment of oropharyngeal carcinoma is generally good. Differences regarding quality of life between the different treatment modalities manifest themselves in the head and neck specific EORTC QLQ-H&N35 module, not in the global core questionnaire EORTC QLQ-C30.
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The study was performed to investigate the possible association between opium dependency and laryngeal cancer. ⋯ The results of the study suggest that opium dependency is not only an independent possible risk factor for laryngeal cancer but also significantly increases the likelihood of developing of the disease at a younger age.
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The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of external auditory canal foreign body removal attempts by health care practitioners and to explore outcomes of patients with unsuccessful initial removal attempts. ⋯ Emergency room personnel successfully manage the majority of patients with foreign bodies of the external auditory canal. For patients with firm, rounded objects, direct otolaryngology consultation without further manipulation should be strongly considered. Patients who have had previous removal attempts should not undergo further manipulation in the emergency department but rather should be referred directly to an otolaryngologist.