-
The Israel Medical Association Journal... Jan 2024Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) refers to the backflow of acidic stomach content into the larynx, pharynx, and upper aerodigestive tract. The diagnosis of LPR is based on...
BACKGROUND
Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) refers to the backflow of acidic stomach content into the larynx, pharynx, and upper aerodigestive tract. The diagnosis of LPR is based on the patient's history and findings of the laryngoscopy associated with LPR. Other possible manifestations consistent with LPR symptoms include laryngeal cancer, vocal fold granulomas, Reinke's space edema, and vocal polyps. In this study, we compared the characteristics of patients with LPR symptoms and incidental laryngeal findings (ILF) in the laryngoscopic evaluation to those without ILF (WILF).
OBJECTIVES
Determine the characteristics of LPR-symptomatic patients with ILF versus WILF.
METHODS
In this retrospective study, we examined 160 medical charts from patients referred to the otolaryngology clinic at Galilee Medical Center for LPR evaluation 2016-2018. The reflux symptoms index (RSI), reflux finding score (RFS), and demographics of the patient were collected. All patients with a positive RSI score for LPR (RSI > 9) were included, and the profiles of patients with versus without ILF on laryngoscopy examination were compared.
RESULTS
Of the 160 patients, 20 (12.5%) had ILF during laryngoscopy. Most had vocal cord findings such as leukoplakia (20%), polyps (15%), and nodules (20%). Hoarseness, throat clearing, swallowing difficulty, breathing difficulties, and total RSI score were significantly higher in patients with ILF.
CONCLUSIONS
Evaluation of LPR symptoms may provide otolaryngologists with a tool to identify patients with other findings on fiberoptic laryngoscopy. A laryngoscopic examination should be part of the examination of every patient with LPR to enable diagnosis of incidental findings.
Topics: Humans; Laryngopharyngeal Reflux; Retrospective Studies; Larynx; Laryngeal Edema; Laryngoscopy
PubMed: 38420641
DOI: No ID Found -
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Feb 2024Closing a recurrent oroantral fistula (OAF) that occurs at an infected sinus augmentation site is a challenge for clinicians. The recurrent OAF has a detrimental impact...
Closing a recurrent oroantral fistula (OAF) that occurs at an infected sinus augmentation site is a challenge for clinicians. The recurrent OAF has a detrimental impact on bone regeneration and subsequent implant placement. This case report includes three cases in which sinus graft infection and OAF occurred after maxillary sinus augmentation (MSA). In these cases, treatments to control sinus infection were performed using an otolaryngologist; then, intraoral interventions comprising mucosal flap procedures, bone grafts, and barrier membrane applications were performed 2-5 times by oral surgeons. Nevertheless, OAF recurred persistently. The failure to stop OAF recurrence may be due to the inability to effectively block air pressure at the OAF site. Following a comprehensive debridement of the infected tissue at the previous sinus augmentation site, a pouch was created through sinus mucosal elevation. The perforated sinus mucosa at the OAF site was covered with a non-resorbable membrane in one case and with resorbable collagen membranes in the other two cases, followed by bone grafting within the pouch. Lastly, this procedure was completed by blocking the entrance of the pouch with a cortical bone shell graft and a resorbable collagen membrane. The cortical bone shell graft, obstructing the air pressure from the nasal cavity, facilitated bone formation, and, ultimately, allowed for implant placement. Within the limitations of the present case report, the application of a guided bone regeneration technique involving a cortical bone shell graft and a barrier membrane enabled the closure of the recurrent OAF and subsequent implant placement.
Topics: Humans; Oroantral Fistula; Maxillary Sinus; Bone Transplantation; Oral Surgical Procedures, Preprosthetic; Collagen
PubMed: 38399630
DOI: 10.3390/medicina60020343 -
Children (Basel, Switzerland) Jan 2024Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a disorder characterized by partial or total airway obstruction during sleep. Studies have shown variability in the level of...
INTRODUCTION
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a disorder characterized by partial or total airway obstruction during sleep. Studies have shown variability in the level of knowledge and awareness about OSAS among pediatricians. The management of childhood obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) depends on the severity of the disease, the presence of comorbidities, and the child's age. The American Pediatric Academy recommends a multidisciplinary approach involving a pediatrician, a sleep specialist, and an otolaryngologist to provide comprehensive care for children with OSAS. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to evaluate the level of knowledge among pediatricians in Italy regarding the diagnosis of pediatric OSAS.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
An anonymized survey was conducted among Italian pediatricians. The survey was administered electronically using Google Forms, and a total of 350 pediatricians were invited to participate. Out of the 350 invitations, 299 pediatricians responded to the survey. The statistical analysis performed consisted of descriptive analysis. The study included 297 pediatricians.
RESULTS
Pediatricians demonstrated proficiency in identifying common nocturnal and day symptoms of OSAS. A majority (68.9%) considered the oral and otorhinolaryngologist areas during checkups. Approximately 70.6% took patient weight into account, and 62.8% were aware of the regional diagnostic-therapeutic-assistance pathway.
CONCLUSIONS
According to the results of this manuscript, there is evidence of a good level of knowledge about OSAS, but disseminating more information about OSAS and all the health issues associated with this syndrome is suggested. This study also has limitations caused by the complexity of the pathology.
PubMed: 38397260
DOI: 10.3390/children11020148 -
Journal of Oral Biology and... 2024The primary goal was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice among otorhinolaryngologists regarding orthodontic intervention for Paediatric Obstructive Sleep...
Interprofessional collaboration in Paediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (POSA) treatment: Assessment of professional orientation levels amongst otolaryngologists in South India.
OBJECTIVE
The primary goal was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice among otorhinolaryngologists regarding orthodontic intervention for Paediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (POSA).
METHODS
An online survey was conducted by sending an email invitation to members of The Association of Otorhinolaryngologists of Karnataka, India. A total of 141 otorhinolaryngologists participated in the survey.
RESULTS
Most of the participants (70.2%) agreed that orthodontic interventions help in opening up the airway, but very few knew about its application in nasal obstruction management.
CONCLUSION
Otorhinolaryngologists are aware of dental effects of POSA and they believe that an interprofessional team is essential for its management. This learning can also be used to initiate interprofessional collaborations and academic and curricular improvisations for enhanced health outcomes.
PubMed: 38389715
DOI: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2024.02.003 -
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal Feb 2024This clinical record revisits the classical and pathognomonic features of craniocervical tetanus in a 65-year-old farmer who presented with acute-onset trismus, multiple...
This clinical record revisits the classical and pathognomonic features of craniocervical tetanus in a 65-year-old farmer who presented with acute-onset trismus, multiple cranial nerve pareses (III, IX, and X), risus sardonicus, and spasm of the head-neck musculature. This paper explores the relevant literature and presents a brief pictorial analysis of the global epidemiologic data. With most countries successfully adopting the maternal and neonatal tetanus elimination (MNTE) program, the incidence and mortality of tetanus across age groups have sharply reduced in high-income and most middle-income nations. In adults, tetanus is now encountered in specialized situations like waning immunity and incomplete vaccination, in the resource-poor and low-income nations, in countries achieving MNTE recently, and as cluster cases in the aftermath of natural disasters involving human settlements. Therefore, present-day practicing otolaryngologists and residents who have limited exposure to the tell-tale clinical features of craniocervical tetanus should consider it during work-up of acute-onset trismus in adults in susceptible situations and with a conducive background. The clinical spectrum of craniocervical tetanus as depicted in this report, including the demonstration of the pathognomonic positive spatula test, provides valuable learning points for otolaryngologists in this regard.
PubMed: 38366878
DOI: 10.1177/01455613231223895 -
Laryngoscope Investigative... Feb 2024Over the past year, the world has been captivated by the potential of artificial intelligence (AI). The appetite for AI in science, specifically healthcare is huge. It...
BACKGROUND
Over the past year, the world has been captivated by the potential of artificial intelligence (AI). The appetite for AI in science, specifically healthcare is huge. It is imperative to understand the credibility of large language models in assisting the public in medical queries.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the ability of ChatGPT to provide reasonably accurate answers to public queries within the domain of Otolaryngology.
METHODS
Two board-certified otolaryngologists (HZ, RS) inputted 30 text-based patient queries into the ChatGPT-3.5 model. ChatGPT responses were rated by physicians on a scale (accurate, partially accurate, incorrect), while a similar 3-point scale involving confidence was given to layperson reviewers. Demographic data involving gender and education level was recorded for the public reviewers. Inter-rater agreement percentage was based on binomial distribution for calculating the 95% confidence intervals and performing significance tests. Statistical significance was defined as < .05 for two-sided tests.
RESULTS
In testing patient queries, both Otolaryngology physicians found that ChatGPT answered 98.3% of questions correctly, but only 79.8% (range 51.7%-100%) of patients were confident that the AI model was accurate in its responses (corrected agreement = 0.682; < .001). Among the layperson responses, the corrected coefficient was of moderate agreement (0.571; < .001). No correlation was noted among age, gender, or education level for the layperson responses.
CONCLUSION
ChatGPT is highly accurate in responding to questions posed by the public with regards to Otolaryngology from a physician standpoint. Public reviewers were not fully confident in believing the AI model, with subjective concerns related to less trust in AI answers compared to physician explanation. Larger evaluations with a representative public sample and broader medical questions should immediately be conducted by appropriate organizations, governing bodies, and/or governmental agencies to instill public confidence in AI and ChatGPT as a medical resource.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
4.
PubMed: 38362184
DOI: 10.1002/lio2.1193 -
Laryngoscope Investigative... Feb 2024Surgeon-performed head and neck ultrasound (US) is increasingly used among otolaryngologists in office-based and surgical settings. However, it is unknown how formal US...
OBJECTIVE
Surgeon-performed head and neck ultrasound (US) is increasingly used among otolaryngologists in office-based and surgical settings. However, it is unknown how formal US training affects otolaryngology residents' diagnostic workup of patients with cervical pathology. This study examined how a formal US course for residents affected their outpatient clinic US performance and diagnostic accuracy.
METHODS
We conducted a randomized cross-over trial, where 13 otolaryngology residents participated in a 6-h formal US course. Participants were randomized to perform head and neck US on four patient cases before and after completing the course. Eight patients with and without neck pathology were invited to participate as test cases. The ultrasound examinations were video recorded and anonymized before two consultants rated the US performance using the Objective Structured Assessment of Ultrasound Skills (OSAUS) scale. Otolaryngology residents wrote an ultrasound report with a diagnosis based on their US examination, which was used to calculate the specificity and sensitivity.
RESULTS
We found a statistically significant difference in the OSAUS score before compared to after the hands-on training ( = .035). The diagnostic accuracy also increased from 62% before the course to 75% after the course ( = .02). Specificity increased from 54% prior to the course to 62% following the course, and sensitivity increased from 64% prior to the course to 79% following the course. The intraclass correlation coefficient with "absolute agreement" was 0.63.
CONCLUSION
This study demonstrates that short, formal ultrasound training can improve otolaryngology residents' ultrasound skills and diagnostic accuracy in an outpatient clinic setting.
LAY SUMMARY
This study looks at the change of otolaryngology residents' diagnostic workup of patients after they take a formal ultrasound course and shows that they get better at using ultrasound and make more accurate diagnoses if they take a formal course.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
Level 2.
PubMed: 38362178
DOI: 10.1002/lio2.1201 -
Cureus Jan 2024Many reports on inpatient dysphagia rehabilitation in acute and convalescent rehabilitation hospitals exist, but there are a few reports on outpatient treatments....
OBJECTIVE
Many reports on inpatient dysphagia rehabilitation in acute and convalescent rehabilitation hospitals exist, but there are a few reports on outpatient treatments. Otolaryngologists still take a trial-and-error approach when treating dysphagia. Here, we explore the effectiveness and limitations of outpatient treatment in ear-nose-and-throat (ENT) clinics.
METHODS
Sixty-four patients (41 males and 23 females) aged 27-101 years (mean 78 years) visited an outpatient clinic specialising in feeding and swallowing conditions (the Fukuyo ENT Clinic). All were able to perform the activities of daily living (ADL) to the extent that outpatient visits were possible; no home visits were made. The weekly outpatient day was staffed by an otolaryngologist and a speech-language-hearing therapist (SLHT). All patients were subjected to fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), followed by appropriate training as revealed by the examinations.
RESULTS
Salivary retention in the glottis valley and piriform sinuses improved (both p < 0.05) in 30 patients who underwent repeat FEES; we compared the initial and final figures. In 14 cases in whom maximal tongue pressure (TP) was measured, this was higher at the final than at the first examination (p < 0.01).
CONCLUSION
Outpatient treatment at ENT clinics for patients who are able to maintain their ADLs to the extent that they are able to walk to a hospital is an option for the treatment of age-related dysphagia. For severe cases, however, house calls and collaboration with the home and nursing care sector will be necessary and should be considered in the future.
PubMed: 38361677
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52395 -
Allergology International : Official... Jul 2024This study aimed to clarify the diagnostic and predictive factors for perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) onset in children by analyzing the results of the Chiba High-risk...
BACKGROUND
This study aimed to clarify the diagnostic and predictive factors for perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) onset in children by analyzing the results of the Chiba High-risk Birth Cohort for Allergy study, which examined newborns with a family history of allergies.
METHODS
Overall, 306 pregnant women were recruited. Their newborns were examined by otolaryngologists and pediatric allergists at 1, 2, and 5 years of age. Participants with clinical and laboratory data available at all consultation points were considered eligible.
RESULTS
Among 187 eligible participants, the prevalence rates of PAR were 2.1%, 4.3%, and 24.1% at 1, 2, and 5 years of age, respectively. AR-specific nasal local findings and eosinophils in nasal smear were observed in a substantial number of patients with PAR at 1 and 2 years of age. Factors present up to 2 years of age that were associated with PAR onset at 5 years of age, in descending order, were as follows: sensitization to house dust mites (HDM), nasal eosinophilia, and sensitization to cat dander. In 44 cases with HDM sensitization, nasal eosinophilia up to 2 years of age achieved a sensitivity of 76.0% and a specificity of 73.7% for predicting PAR onset at 5 years.
CONCLUSIONS
Rhinitis findings and nasal eosinophilia are useful auxiliary diagnostic items for pediatric PAR. Sensitization to HDM and nasal eosinophilia were the most influential factors associated with future PAR onset. A combination of these factors may facilitate the prediction of PAR onset.
Topics: Humans; Female; Child, Preschool; Male; Infant; Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial; Allergens; Prevalence; Infant, Newborn; Risk Factors; Japan; Animals; Pyroglyphidae; Eosinophilia; Pregnancy
PubMed: 38350815
DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2024.01.012 -
Journal of Imaging Informatics in... Apr 2024Nasal base aesthetics is an interesting and challenging issue that attracts the attention of researchers in recent years. With that insight, in this study, we propose a...
Nasal base aesthetics is an interesting and challenging issue that attracts the attention of researchers in recent years. With that insight, in this study, we propose a novel automatic framework (AF) for evaluating the nasal base which can be useful to improve the symmetry in rhinoplasty and reconstruction. The introduced AF includes a hybrid model for nasal base landmarks recognition and a combined model for predicting nasal base symmetry. The proposed state-of-the-art nasal base landmark detection model is trained on the nasal base images for comprehensive qualitative and quantitative assessments. Then, the deep convolutional neural networks (CNN) and multi-layer perceptron neural network (MLP) models are integrated by concatenating their last hidden layer to evaluate the nasal base symmetry based on geometry features and tiled images of the nasal base. This study explores the concept of data augmentation by applying the methods motivated via commonly used image augmentation techniques. According to the experimental findings, the results of the AF are closely related to the otolaryngologists' ratings and are useful for preoperative planning, intraoperative decision-making, and postoperative assessment. Furthermore, the visualization indicates that the proposed AF is capable of predicting the nasal base symmetry and capturing asymmetry areas to facilitate semantic predictions. The codes are accessible at https://github.com/AshooriMaryam/Nasal-Aesthetic-Assessment-Deep-learning .
PubMed: 38343266
DOI: 10.1007/s10278-024-00973-7