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Clinical Otolaryngology : Official... Jul 2024Laryngeal leukoplakia (LL) is a white lesion with high potential of recurrence and malignant transformation. Currently, CO laser has become the primary surgical... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Laryngeal leukoplakia (LL) is a white lesion with high potential of recurrence and malignant transformation. Currently, CO laser has become the primary surgical treatment for LL, and the recurrence and malignant transformation rates after treatment vary widely.
OBJECTIVE
We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis dedicated to evaluating the rates of recurrence and malignant transformation of LL lesions treated with CO laser and exploring relevant risk factors for recurrence or malignant transformation.
METHODS
Literature searches were conducted on ProQuest, PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Some articles identified through hand searching were included.
RESULTS
A total of 14 articles and 1462 patients were included in this review. Pooled results showed that the overall recurrence rate was 15%, and the malignant transformation rate was 3%. Subgroup analysis showed that the dysplasia grade was not a significant risk factor for the recurrence and malignant transformation of LL (P > .05).
CONCLUSIONS
The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that the CO laser is a safe and effective surgical instrument for the excision of LL, which yields low rates of recurrence and malignant transformation. The risk factors relevant to recurrence or malignant transformation remain unclear and require further investigation.
Topics: Humans; Lasers, Gas; Cell Transformation, Neoplastic; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; Laryngeal Neoplasms; Leukoplakia; Laser Therapy; Risk Factors
PubMed: 38558499
DOI: 10.1111/coa.14151 -
International Journal of Radiation... Nov 2023Early-stage squamous cell carcinoma of the glottic larynx is commonly treated with 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional conventional radiation therapy (CRT). Despite its use... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
PURPOSE
Early-stage squamous cell carcinoma of the glottic larynx is commonly treated with 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional conventional radiation therapy (CRT). Despite its use in other head and neck cancers, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) remains controversial in this patient population.
METHODS AND MATERIALS
A systematic review was performed by querying 3 databases (Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science) for articles published between December 1, 2000 and September 2, 2022. Included studies reported outcomes in at least 10 patients treated with IMRT for early-stage glottic cancer. Data were extracted and reported following PRISMA standards. Pooled outcomes were estimated using random-effects models. Primary outcome was the rate of local failure (LF) following IMRT. Secondary outcomes included rates of regional failure (RF) following IMRT and rates of LF and RF following CRT.
RESULTS
A total of 15 studies (14 retrospective, 1 prospective) consisting of 2083 patients were identified. IMRT was used in 873 patients (64% T1, 28% T2). Multiple treatment (partial larynx, single vocal cord carotid sparing) and image-guided radiation therapy techniques were used. The pooled crude rate of LF was 7.6% (95% confidence inverval [CI], 3.6%-11.5%) and actuarial LF rates at 3 and 5 years were 6.3% (95% CI, 2.2%-10.3%) and 9.0% (95% CI, 4.4%-13.5%), respectively. The pooled crude rate of RF after IMRT was 1.5% (95% CI, 0.5%-2.5%). On metaregression analysis, increased rate of LF was significantly associated with T2 disease (P < .001) and grade 2 to 3 histology (P < .001). Treatment with CRT was reported in 738 patients (76% T1, 22% T2). Among the studies reporting outcomes of both modalities, there was no significant difference in LF (log odds ratio; P = .12) or RF (log odds ratio; P = .58) between IMRT or CRT.
CONCLUSIONS
In patients with early-stage glottic cancer, retrospective data suggests local and regional control are similar for patients treated with IMRT and CRT. Additional prospective studies with uniform methods of volume delineation and image guidance are needed to confirm the efficacy of IMRT.
Topics: Humans; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated; Prospective Studies; Laryngeal Neoplasms; Retrospective Studies; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Glottis
PubMed: 37150263
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.04.035 -
European Archives of... Feb 2024With smartphones and wearable devices becoming ubiquitous, they offer an opportunity for large-scale voice sampling. This systematic review explores the application of...
OBJECTIVES
With smartphones and wearable devices becoming ubiquitous, they offer an opportunity for large-scale voice sampling. This systematic review explores the application of deep learning models for the automated analysis of voice samples to detect vocal cord pathologies.
METHODS
We conducted a systematic literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. We searched MEDLINE and Embase databases for original publications on deep learning applications for diagnosing vocal cord pathologies between 2002 and 2022. Risk of bias was assessed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 (QUADAS-2).
RESULTS
Out of the 14 studies that met the inclusion criteria, data from a total of 3037 patients were analyzed. All studies were retrospective. Deep learning applications targeted Reinke's edema, nodules, polyps, cysts, unilateral cord paralysis, and vocal fold cancer detection. Most pathologies had detection accuracy above 90%. Thirteen studies (93%) exhibited a high risk of bias and concerns about applicability.
CONCLUSIONS
Technology holds promise for enhancing the screening and diagnosis of vocal cord pathologies. While current research is limited, the presented studies offer proof of concept for developing larger-scale solutions.
Topics: Humans; Vocal Cords; Retrospective Studies; Deep Learning; Laryngeal Edema; Vocal Cord Paralysis
PubMed: 38091100
DOI: 10.1007/s00405-023-08362-6 -
Journal of Voice : Official Journal of... Mar 2024This paper's purpose is to provide a resource for clinicians and researchers of select voice-related patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) available in the English... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
This paper's purpose is to provide a resource for clinicians and researchers of select voice-related patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) available in the English language.
METHOD
A systematic search for voice-related PROMs was conducted between September 2020 and July 17, 2021. Databases included APA PsychInfo, Nursing and Allied Health Source, MEDLINE via the EBSCO interface, and Science Direct. Reference lists for PROMs-related articles were mined for reference to PROMs protocols.
RESULTS
Thirty voice-related PROMs were identified and categorized as either developed primarily for use in the clinic (n = 12), developed primarily for use in a specific research study (n = 6), or translated into English for publication (n = 12). Twelve PROMs were summarized: Aging Voice Index, Disease Specific Self-Efficacy in Spasmodic Dysphonia, Evaluation of the Ability to Sing Easily, Evaluating Voice Disability - Quality of Life Questionnaire, Glottal Function Index, Linear Analog Scale of Assessment of Voice Quality, Quality of Life in Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis, Speech Disability Questionnaire, Trans Woman Voice Questionnaire, Vocal Cord Dysfunction Questionnaire, Vocal Fatigue Index, and the Vocal Tract Discomfort Scale.
CONCLUSION
The PROMs can be categorized into English-language voice-related PROMs developed primarily for clinical use, English-language PROMs developed primarily for research use, and English-language PROMs translated into English. The extent of reliability and validity testing completed varies in the PROMs developed primarily for clinical use. A PROM's psychometric properties as well as the language in which the PROM was tested, should guide clinicians and researchers as they consider which instrument(s) to use.
Topics: Adult; Female; Humans; Quality of Life; Patient Reported Outcome Measures; Reproducibility of Results; Surveys and Questionnaires; Dysphonia
PubMed: 34782227
DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2021.09.032 -
Efficacy of HIFU for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules: a systematic review and meta-analysis.European Radiology Apr 2024Thyroid nodules are common and sometimes associated with cosmetic issues. Surgical treatment has several disadvantages, including visible scarring. High-intensity... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
Thyroid nodules are common and sometimes associated with cosmetic issues. Surgical treatment has several disadvantages, including visible scarring. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a recent noninvasive treatment for thyroid nodules. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of HIFU for the treatment of benign thyroid nodules.
METHODS
We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for studies evaluating the outcomes of HIFU for patients with benign thyroid nodules. We conducted a meta-analysis by using a random effects model and evaluated the volume reduction ratio, treatment success rate, and incidence of treatment-related complications.
RESULTS
Thirty-two studies were included in the systematic review. Only 14 studies were used in the meta-analysis because the other 18 involved data collected during overlapping periods. The average volume reduction ratios at 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment were 39.02% (95% CI: 27.57 to 50.47%, I: 97.9%), 48.55% (95% CI: 35.53 to 61.57%, I: 98.2%), and 55.02% (95% CI: 41.55 to 68.48%, I: 99%), respectively. Regarding complications, the incidences of vocal cord paresis and Horner's syndrome after HIFU were 2.1% (95% CI: 0.2 to 4.1%, I: 14.6%) and 0.7% (95% CI: 0 to 1.9%, I: 0%), respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
HIFU is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with benign thyroid nodules. However, the effects of HIFU on nodules of large sizes and with different properties require further investigation. Additional studies, particularly randomized controlled trials involving long-term follow-up, are warranted.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT
Surgical treatment for thyroid nodules often results in permanent visible scars and is associated with a risk of bleeding, nerve injury, and hypothyroidism. High-intensity focused ultrasound may be an alternative for patients with benign thyroid nodules.
KEY POINTS
• The success rate of HIFU treatment for thyroid nodules is 75.8% at 6 months. Average volume reduction ratios are 48.55% and 55.02% at 6 and 12 months. • The incidence of complications such as vocal fold paresis, Horner's syndrome, recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy, hypothyroidism, and skin redness is low. • HIFU is both effective and safe as a treatment for benign thyroid nodules.
Topics: Humans; Thyroid Nodule; Horner Syndrome; High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Ablation; Treatment Outcome; Vocal Cord Paralysis; Cicatrix; Hypothyroidism
PubMed: 37792080
DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-10253-7 -
European Archives of... Jan 2024To evaluate the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in benign vocal fold lesions. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in benign vocal fold lesions.
METHODS
MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched in April 2023 for relevant clinical trials. Inclusion criteria were clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of PRP in benign vocal fold lesions. We conducted a comparative double-arm analysis using the pooled mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Outcomes of interest included the vocal handicap index (VHI), the Jitter and Shimmer percentages, and the noise-to-harmonic ratio (NHR).
RESULTS
Six studies matched the inclusion criteria. The pooled analysis shows that PRP was associated with significantly lower VHI scores compared with the control (MD = - 5.06, p < 0.01). Regarding the Jitter percentage, the PRP group was not superior to the control group at 2 and 4 weeks. However, the results revealed that PRP significantly reduced the Jitter percentage at 3 months (MD = - 0.61, p = 0.0008). The overall analysis favored the PRP arm significantly (p < 0.001). As for the Shimmer percentage, the combined effect estimate favored the PRP group (MD = - 1.22, p = 0.002). Subgroup analysis according to the time did not reveal any significant differences between studies at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 3 months. The analysis of the NHR outcome revealed a significant difference between both groups (MD = -1.09, p = 0.01). However, at 4 weeks, the treatment group had a significantly lower NHR % compared to the control group (MD = - 0.61, p = 0.02). There was no significant difference at 3 months (MD = - 2.14, p = 0.14).
CONCLUSIONS
Platelet-rich plasma is effective in reducing VHI scores, Jitter and Shimmer percentages, and NHR values. This effect is more evident after follow-up, especially 3 months.
Topics: Humans; Vocal Cords; Platelet-Rich Plasma; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 37709923
DOI: 10.1007/s00405-023-08226-z -
Brazilian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology 2024To assess the safety and effectiveness of bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy in thyroid tumor. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVES
To assess the safety and effectiveness of bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy in thyroid tumor.
METHODS
Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy and other approaches (open thyroidectomy, transoral robotic thyroidectomy, and bilateral axillo-breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy) were compared in studies from 6 databases.
RESULTS
Twenty-two studies (8830 individuals) were included. Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy had longer operation time, greater cosmetic satisfaction, and reduced transient hypoparathyroidism than conventional open thyroidectomy. Compared to bilateral axillo-breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy, bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy had greater amount of drainage, lower chances of transient vocal cord palsy and permanent hypothyroidism, and better surgical completeness (postopertive thyroblobulin level and lymph node removal). Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy induced greater postoperative drainage and greater patient dissatisfaction than transoral robotic thyroidectomy.
CONCLUSION
Bilateral axillo-breast approach robotic thyroidectomy is inferior to transoral robotic thyroidectomy in drainage and cosmetic satisfaction but superior to bilateral axillo-breast approach endoscopic thyroidectomy in surgical performance. Its operation time is longer, but its cosmetic satisfaction is higher than open thyroidectomy.
Topics: Humans; Thyroidectomy; Robotic Surgical Procedures; Neck Dissection; Breast; Thyroid Neoplasms; Retrospective Studies; Treatment Outcome; Postoperative Complications
PubMed: 38228051
DOI: 10.1016/j.bjorl.2023.101376 -
Frontiers in Neurology 2024To systematically review vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) studies to present data on the safety and efficacy on motor recovery following stroke, traumatic brain injury...
OBJECTIVE
To systematically review vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) studies to present data on the safety and efficacy on motor recovery following stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and spinal cord injury (SCI).
METHODS
Data sources: PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane.
STUDY SELECTION
Clinical trials of VNS in animal models and humans with TBI and SCI were included to evaluate the effects of pairing VNS with rehabilitation therapy on motor recovery.
DATA EXTRACTION
Two reviewers independently assessed articles according to the evaluation criteria and extracted relevant data electronically.
DATA SYNTHESIS
Twenty-nine studies were included; 11 were animal models of stroke, TBI, and SCI, and eight involved humans with stroke. While there was heterogeneity in methods of delivering VNS with respect to rehabilitation therapy in animal studies and human non-invasive studies, a similar methodology was used in all human-invasive VNS studies. In animal studies, pairing VNS with rehabilitation therapy consistently improved motor outcomes compared to controls. Except for one study, all human invasive and non-invasive studies with controls demonstrated a trend toward improvement in motor outcomes compared to sham controls post-intervention. However, compared to non-invasive, invasive VNS, studies reported severe adverse events such as vocal cord palsy, dysphagia, surgical site infection, and hoarseness of voice, which were found to be related to surgery.
CONCLUSION
Our review suggests that VNS (non-invasive or invasive) paired with rehabilitation can improve motor outcomes after stroke in humans. Hence, VNS human studies are needed in these populations (referring to SCI and TBI?) or just SCI. There are risks related to device implantation to deliver invasive VNS compared to non-invasive VNS. Future human comparison studies are required to study and quantify the efficacy vs. risks of paired VNS delivered via different methods with rehabilitation, which would allow patients to make an informed decision.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=330653.
PubMed: 38872818
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1390217 -
Cureus Jan 2024Direct laryngoscopy (DL) is a modality commonly used in endotracheal intubation (EI). Video laryngoscopy (VL) was introduced to further facilitate the procedure with... (Review)
Review
Direct laryngoscopy (DL) is a modality commonly used in endotracheal intubation (EI). Video laryngoscopy (VL) was introduced to further facilitate the procedure with enhancement in glottic views, which captures the video image of the vocal cords to be projected onto a screen, providing enhanced visualization. This real-time video projection aids in accurately placing the endotracheal tube (ETT) through the vocal cords. In emergency and critical care settings, both laryngoscopes are used for intubations. This study assesses the efficacy of both modalities by comparing success rates in first-attempt tracheal intubation in critically ill patients. PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus were searched and all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies until 2023 were included. Studies included patients in critical care settings undergoing EI under the guidance of either DL or VL. The primary outcome was the first attempt at successful tracheal intubation. The secondary outcomes assessed the comparative safety of DL and VL by comparing the rates of severe hypoxemia, severe hypotension, and cardiac arrest occurring during each modality. P-values were considered of statistical significance if below 0.05. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan v5.4 (The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark). The results were displayed in the form of forest plots. A total of eight studies were included with a total of 5348 patients, with 1780 in the DL group and 3568 in the VL group. Analysis revealed that in emergency situations, the success rate of intubation on the first attempt was significantly higher for VL than DL [81.5% vs 68%; RR= 1.19; 95% CI: 1.10, 1.29; p <0.00001; I2=70%]. There was no significant correlation between VL and severe hypoxemia [13.4% vs 11.6%; RR= 0.99; 95% CI: 0.74, 1.33; p =0.97; I2=46%], severe hypotension [6.09% vs 4.78%; RR:1.19; 95% CI: 0.83, 1.72; p =0.35, I2-15%], and cardiac arrest, [0.8% vs 0.4%; RR= 1.17; 95% CI: 0.37, 3.70]; p =0.79; I2=0%]. Our meta-analysis confirmed that VL has a higher success rate for first-pass intubation than DL. Furthermore, our analysis has shown no significant evidence linking VL to any adverse events.
PubMed: 38322075
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51720 -
International Journal of Surgery... Jan 2024Emerging remote-access surgical methods are utilized to treat differentiated thyroid cancer. The study aimed to compare the surgical integrity, safety, efficacy, and... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Emerging remote-access surgical methods are utilized to treat differentiated thyroid cancer. The study aimed to compare the surgical integrity, safety, efficacy, and postoperative experience of patients among common surgical methods.
METHODS
The PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases were searched from their inception until March 2023. Pairwise meta-analysis and Bayesian network meta-analysis were performed. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used to illuminate the probability that each method would be the best for each outcome.
RESULTS
Thirty-two studies comprising 7042 patients were included. Robotic bilateral axillo-breast approach (RBABA) and robotic gasless transaxillary approach (RGAA) retrieved fewer lymph nodes (LNs) than open thyroidectomy (OT). RBABA showed a significantly lower permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy rate than OT. According to SUCRA values, endoscopic transoral approach (EOA) ranked the highest in retrieved LNs (0.84), the proportion of stimulated serum thyroglobulin less than 1.0 ng/ml (0.77), and the pain score (0.77). Endoscopic bilateral areola approach (EBAA) ranked the highest in the transient RLN palsy rate (0.72). The endoscopic gasless transaxillary approach (EGAA) ranked the highest in the transient hypoparathyroidism rate (0.78). RBABA ranked the highest in the rate of permanent RLN palsy (0.94) and hypoparathyroidism (0.77). OT ranked the highest in operative time (0.92).
CONCLUSIONS
Each surgical method of total thyroidectomy has benefits and limitations. EOA performed the best in maintaining surgical integrality and reducing the pain score, while taking a long operative time. Generally, RBABA showed the best advantage in protecting parathyroid glands and RLN but with the longest operative time. OT had the best advantage in operative time. Therefore, OT and EOA are ideal methods for patients with a higher risk of central LN metastasis. RBABA and EOA may not be suitable for elderly patients or those with high anesthesia risk.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Thyroidectomy; Bayes Theorem; Network Meta-Analysis; Thyroid Neoplasms; Vocal Cord Paralysis; Hypoparathyroidism; Adenocarcinoma; Pain; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 37916941
DOI: 10.1097/JS9.0000000000000819