The Laryngoscope
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Comparative Study
Assessing and documenting general competencies in otolaryngology resident training programs.
The objectives of this study were to: 1) implement web-based instruments for assessing and documenting the general competencies of otolaryngology resident education, as outlined by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME); and 2) examine the benefit and validity of this online system for measuring educational outcomes and for identifying insufficiencies in the training program as they occur. ⋯ Compliance for completion of forms was 97%. The system facilitated the educational management of our training program along multiple dimensions. The small perceptual differences among a highly selected group of residents have made the unambiguous validation of the system challenging. The instruments and approach warrant further study. Improvements are likely best achieved in broad consultation among other otolaryngology programs.
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Clinical Trial Controlled Clinical Trial
Effect of gabapentin on the sensation and impact of tinnitus.
This study evaluated the effectiveness of gabapentin in treating chronic tinnitus in two populations: participants with tinnitus with associated acoustic trauma and participants with tinnitus without associated acoustic trauma. The hypothesis was that gabapentin would decrease both subjective and objective features of tinnitus in the trauma group but would be less effective in the nontrauma group. ⋯ Gabapentin is effective in reducing subjective and objective aspects of tinnitus in some individuals, with the best therapeutic response obtained in individuals with associated acoustic trauma.
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The subglottic pressure theory for swallowing asserts that laryngeal mechanoreceptors have a role in the regulation of swallowing function. The primary purpose of this study was to determine if subglottic air pressure is generated during swallowing in a healthy, nontracheostomized person. ⋯ These findings illustrate that during normal swallowing, positive subglottic air pressure is likely present. Previously, subglottic air pressure during swallowing had been measured in tracheostomy patients only.