The Laryngoscope
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Comparative Study
Olfactory functions after transsphenoidal pituitary surgery: endoscopic versus microscopic approach.
Olfactory disturbances could be observed following transsphenoidal pituitary surgeries. To our knowledge, no previous comparative studies on olfactory functions after transsphenoidal endoscopic and microscopic approaches have been performed. ⋯ This is the first study to seek the difference between the endoscopic and microscopic transsphenoidal approaches on the olfactory system during pituitary surgery. The obtained results indicate that an endoscopic approach seems to be more advantageous than a microscopic approach for protecting olfactory system and function.
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The treatment for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) depends on correct localization of upper airway obstruction, exception made for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) with propofol allows this evaluation, but the drug effects on sleep parameters are not yet well established. Our objective was to study by polysomnography (PSG) whether propofol would change sleep parameters by means of a prospective cross-sectional clinical study in a tertiary hospital. ⋯ The results demonstrate that propofol significantly changes sleep macroarchitecture. However, the main respiratory parameters, AHI and mean SaO2 , remained unaffected. Thus, in order to determine the sites of obstruction, propofol DISE used with target-controlled infusion proved to be an effective drug for endoscopic evaluation of patients with OSAS.
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Comparative Study
The costs and utility of imaging in evaluating dizzy patients in the emergency room.
To determine the usefulness and the costs of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the evaluation of patients with dizziness in the emergency department (ED). ⋯ In the 3-year period studied, CT scans for ED patients with dizziness and vertigo yielded a low predictive value for significant pathology. These data reveal a great opportunity for cost savings by developing stricter guidelines for ordering CT scans for this set of ED patients. The use of MRI in all cases of dizziness was found to be neither practical nor useful. However, appropriately directed MRI of the brain is recommended in patients with dizziness and other neurological signs or symptoms.
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Comparative Study
Analysis of outcomes in treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in infants.
To investigate interventions used for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in infants. ⋯ Observation was the most common nonsurgical intervention and the most common intervention in patients younger than 12 months. Adenotonsillectomy was the most common surgical and overall intervention. Adenotonsillectomy had the greatest subjective efficacy, and tracheostomy had the greatest objective efficacy.
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In this study, we detailed factors governing legal outcomes in iatrogenic orbital injury, with the purpose of discussing strategies to minimize liability and enhance patient safety. ⋯ The potential for permanent sequelae of iatrogenic orbital injury makes this complication susceptible to malpractice litigation. Otolaryngologists were the most common defendants. Although cases were resolved in the defendant's favor 60% of the time, payments made were considerable, averaging $1.13 million. Steps to minimize liability and improve patient safety include an informed consent process explicitly listing risks, including diplopia and blindness, and obtaining timely ophthalmology consultation when a complication is recognized.