The Laryngoscope
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Cold dissection versus coblation-assisted adenotonsillectomy in children.
To compare intraoperative efficiency and postoperative recovery between cold dissection adenotonsillectomy (CDA) and coblation-assisted adenotonsillectomy (CAA). ⋯ CAA offers better operative speed and intraoperative hemostasis as compared with CDA. However, CAA does not result in poorer postoperative pain scores or recoveries despite these intraoperative advantages.
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The aims of this study are to investigate the efficiency of a tissue engineering approach to partial tracheal reconstruction and to improve epithelialization of the reconstructed trachea. The trachea must be resected in some cases of cancer or trauma. Various restructuring techniques are used, with no consensus on the best approach. Two problems that arise when treating tracheal defects by conventional techniques are an inability to regenerate ciliated epithelium at the reconstructed site and having to perform multiple procedures to achieve the desired repair. This study is designed to address these problems. ⋯ Good epithelial regeneration was observed after repair of a round tracheal resection using a simple tissue engineering technique, making the technique a good substitute for conventional approaches to tracheal reconstruction in patients with cancer or trauma.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Using a virtual reality temporal bone simulator to assess otolaryngology trainees.
The objective of this study is to determine the feasibility of computerized evaluation of resident performance using hand motion analysis on a virtual reality temporal bone (VR TB) simulator. We hypothesized that both computerized analysis and expert ratings would discriminate the performance of novices from experienced trainees. We also hypothesized that performance on the virtual reality temporal bone simulator (VR TB) would differentiate based on previous drilling experience. ⋯ Performance, as measured by hand motion analysis on the VR TB simulator, reflects trainees' previous drilling experience. This study suggests that otolaryngology trainees could accomplish initial temporal bone training on a VR TB simulator, which can provide feedback to the trainee, and may reduce the need for constant faculty supervision and evaluation.
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Management of cerebrospinal fluid leaks or encephaloceles of Sternberg's canal is challenging. Transnasal visualization of this area is difficult, especially when large pneumatization is present. External approaches to this region involve aggressive surgery and are often associated with significant morbidity. The aim of the study was to assess the real effectiveness of an endoscopic endonasal approach for treating cerebrospinal fluid leaks of the lateral recess of the sphenoid sinus. ⋯ The transethmoidal-pterygoidal-sphenoidal approach provides a wide, safe, and direct route to the lateral recess of the sphenoid sinus. Multilayered reconstruction of the skull base defects must be considered the first option for this kind of lesion.
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The objective of this study is to obtain insight into distress in spouses and patients treated for head and neck cancer. ⋯ Distress is often present in spouses and patients treated for head and neck cancer. Routine screening for psychologic distress is recommended.