The Laryngoscope
-
To evaluate the short-term efficacy of the computer-controlled canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) for treatment of posterior canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) compared with the current standard CRP. ⋯ Computer-controlled CRP is effective for the treatment of posterior canal BPPV, with a success rate similar to those treated with the Epley maneuver, and is safe and easy to perform on patients.
-
Multicenter Study
Hockey-related facial injuries: a population-based analysis.
Recognition of the potentially severe sequelae arising from inadequate facial protection has facilitated sustained efforts to increase the use of protective visors in recent decades. Our objective was to characterize nationwide trends among patients presenting to emergency departments (ED) for facial injuries sustained while playing ice hockey. ⋯ The overall incidence of ED visits due to facial injuries from ice hockey has significantly decreased over the last decade, concurrent with increased societal use of facial protective equipment. Nonetheless, facial hockey injuries facilitate a significant number of ED visits among both adults and children; thus, the knowledge of demographic-specific trends described in this analysis is relevant for physicians involved in the management of facial trauma. These findings reinforce the need to educate individuals who play hockey about the importance of appropriate facial protection.
-
Comparative Study
A novel role for otolaryngologists in the multidisciplinary Difficult Airway Response Team.
The Difficult Airway Response Team (DART) was implemented in July 2008 to address emergent difficult airway situations. The main objective of this study was to highlight the unique role and skill set that otolaryngologists bring and their impact on patient outcomes. ⋯ Otolaryngologists were able to decrease the need for cricothyrotomies using specialized techniques for patients with difficult airways. Otolaryngologists bring a special skill set to the DART that is beyond the scope of anesthesiologists and trauma surgeons and that can improve patient outcomes by preventing unnecessary emergency surgical airways.
-
Case Reports
Management of airway compromise following thyroid cyst hemorrhage after thrombolytic therapy.
The risk of hemorrhage after therapeutic administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is well known. Cases of postadministration hemorrhage have been reported within many organ systems. ⋯ An incision into the mass during attempted tracheotomy released colloid and blood, decompressing the airway and facilitating ventilation and intubation. Hemithyroidectomy for mass removal was delayed for 3 days to allow normalization of post-tPA coagulopathy.
-
Determine rates and reasons for revisits after adult uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). ⋯ Ambulatory UPPP demonstrates an good postoperative safety profile. Postoperative hemorrhage and acute pain, as well as fever/dehydration, are common reasons for revisits. These particular complications should be targeted for prevention to reduce postoperative revisit rates.