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Objective: Validation of a contemporary International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD‐10‐CM) congenital esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal atresia (EA/TEF) cohort in the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database. Study Design: Database study, validation. Setting: Tertiary care center. Methods: Search methods used to validate an ICD‐9‐CM EA/TEF cohort in PHIS were modified for ICD‐10‐CM. A retrospectively and prospectively maintained clinical database at a single high‐volume EA/TEF center was used for comparison. Patients treated between October 1, 2015 and July 31, 2022 were included. Searches progressively narrowed the cohort by ICD‐10‐CM diagnosis codes, expansion to include incorrectly coded as 'iatrogenic, age less than 30 days, and use of at least 1 ICD‐10‐CM procedure code. Results of PHIS data and institution data were compared for accuracy. Results: The most refined search of PHIS and the EA/TEF clinical database yielded 93 and 84 patients, respectively. The sensitivity was 99% and positive predictive value was 94%. A PHIS search using these methods and encompassing 49 children's hospitals yielded an EA/TEF cohort of 2479 patients. Conclusion: We present a validated search method in the PHIS database to identify a high‐fidelity cohort of EA/TEF patients for multi‐institutional study. We have demonstrated that a carefully maintained clinical database may be used to validate cohorts in PHIS. This cohort allows for improved practice variability and outcomes study of EA/TEF patients. Similar methods may be employed to generate other rare disease cohorts in PHIS. Level of Evidence: Level 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Children undergoing cervical and/or thoracic operations are at risk for recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, resulting in vocal fold movement impairment (VFMI). Screening for VFMI is often reserved for symptomatic patients. Objective: Identify the prevalence of VFMI in screened preoperative patients prior to an at‐risk operation to evaluate the value of screening all patients at‐risk for VFMI, regardless of symptoms. Methods: A single center, retrospective review of all patients undergoing a preoperative flexible nasolaryngoscopy between 2017 and 2021, examining the presence of VFMI and associated symptoms. Results: We evaluated 297 patients with a median (IQR) age of 18 (7.8, 56.3) months and a weight of 11.3 (7.8, 17.7) kilograms. Most had a history of esophageal atresia (EA, 60%), and a prior at‐risk cervical or thoracic operation (73%). Overall, 72 (24%) patients presented with VFMI (51% left, 26% right, and 22% bilateral). Of patients with VFMI, 47% did not exhibit the classic symptoms (stridor, dysphonia, and aspiration) of VFMI. Dysphonia was the most prevalent classic VFMI symptom, yet only present in 18 (25%) patients. Patients presenting with a history of at‐risk surgery (OR 2.3, 95%CI 1.1, 4.8, p = 0.03), presence of a tracheostomy (OR 3.1, 95%CI 1.0, 10.0, p = 0.04), or presence of a surgical feeding tube (OR 3.1, 95%CI 1.6, 6.2, p = 0.001) were more likely to present with VFMI. Conclusion: Routine screening for VFMI should be considered in all at‐risk patients, regardless of symptoms or prior operations, particularly in those with a history of an at‐risk surgery, presence of tracheostomy, or a surgical feeding tube. Level of Evidence: 3 Laryngoscope, 133:3564–3570, 2023 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis: The recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is at risk during pediatric cervical, thoracic, and cardiac surgery. We aim to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of RLN monitoring techniques in all pediatric patients. Study Design: Retrospective case series. Methods: Retrospective review of patients/procedures with RLN(s) at risk and RLN monitoring at Boston Children's Hospital July 2019–October 2020. Primary outcomes: pre/postoperative vocal fold mobility by awake flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy (FFL). Results: One hundred one patients (median [interquartile range, IQR] age 14.6 months [4.6–49.7 months], weight 10 kg [5.2–16.2 kg]) underwent 122 procedures with RLN(s) at risk. RLN monitoring attempted 111 cases, successful 96 (84%). Surgical indications: esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula, and tracheobronchomalacia. Sixty‐two (56%) procedures in reoperative field. Median follow‐up 112 days (IQR 41–230). Pre/postoperative FFL performed 84 procedures (69%), 19 new postoperative RLN injuries (16%), median age 12 months, reoperative fields 11 (18%). Prass probes: 34 cases (28 successful, 82%), 6 injuries (18%), age 12.2 (5.8–23.6) months. Dragonfly electrodes: 45 cases (37 successful, 82%), 8 injuries (18%), age 7.5 (3.8–19) months. Nerve integrity monitoring (NIM) integrated electrode endotracheal tube: 33 cases (33 successful, 100%), 5 injuries (15%), age 90 (58.8–136.7) months. Automatic periodic stimulation (APS): 16 cases, 13 successful (81%), four injuries (25%), age 7.2 (5.3–20.6) months. NIM RLN monitoring is significantly more successful than Prass, Dragonfly (95%CI −0.3 to 0.02, P =.02; and 95%CI 0.05–0.31, P =.008). Rates of injury are not different between types of RLN monitoring (P =.94), with APS use (P =.47), or with monitoring success (95%CI −0.36 to 0.09, P =.28). Conclusions: RLN monitoring is feasible in pediatric patients of all ages. Although NIM type RLN monitoring success is superior, all forms offer similar rates of nerve protection. Level of Evidence: 3 Laryngoscope, 132:889–894, 2022 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objectives: Gender disparity exists in medicine, such as differences in pay and promotion opportunities. We hypothesize that there is also a gender difference in graduate medical education as manifested by operative case volume. This study compares surgical case volume by gender for graduating US otolaryngology residents.Study Design: Cohort study.Methods: With data use approval from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, we evaluated the key indicator case log summaries of graduating otolaryngology residents from 2009-2017. Mean and standard deviation were used for all cases, and t-tests were used to compare cases by resident gender. The Bonferroni method was used to adjust for multiple comparisons across years.Results: Data from 1740 male and 804 female residents were evaluated. Across all years, the average number of key indicator cases reported was 778.8 and 813.6 by female and male residents, respectively, with an average difference of 34.8 cases per graduating year (95% confidence interval [CI] 19.4, 50.2; P < .001). When a resident self-reported the role of resident surgeon/supervisor, the average number of key indicator cases reported was 602.6 and 643.9 by female and male residents, respectively, with an average difference of 41.3 cases per graduating year (95% CI, 28.0, 54.6; P < .001).Conclusion: Gender-based discrepancies in surgical case volume exist among graduating otolaryngology residents. This disparity is partially attributed to the self-reported role in the surgery. This study has identified those discrepancies so that training programs can implement strategies to ensure improved gender parity.Level Of Evidence: 2b Laryngoscope, 130:1651-1656, 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To discuss the presentation, evaluation, and management of pediatric laryngeal web.Study Design: Retrospective case series.Setting: Single tertiary care center.Subjects: All patients with laryngeal web at Boston Children's Hospital in the past 22 years.Methods: No exclusion criteria. Charts mined for age at presentation, presenting symptoms, degree/location of web, associated syndromes, number/type of surgical procedures, and postoperative outcomes.Results: Thirty-seven patients were included (13 male, 24 female). Average age at diagnosis was 3.7 years (0-19.5 years). Mean follow-up was 4.4 years (range, 0-16.4 years). There were 26 congenital webs (70.2%) and 11 acquired webs (29.8%). Presenting symptoms were vocal (29 patients, 78.4%) and respiratory (22 patients, 60%). Underlying syndromes or synchronous airway lesions included the following: premature (n = 5), congenital heart disease (n = 18), subglottic stenosis (n = 5), 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (n = 10), and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (n = 4). There were 20 type 1 webs, 6 type 2 webs, 8 type 3 webs, and 3 type 4 webs; 10 had subglottic extension of the laryngeal web. Twelve patients were managed conservatively with observation. Eighty-four interventions were performed: 18 open and 66 endoscopic (sharp division, 32; dilation, 33; mitomycin C, 14; laser, 5; keel, 6; triamcinolone injection, 8; stent, 15; removal of granulation tissue, 5). Tracheotomy was required in 11 patients, and 5 patients were decannulated. Voice improved in 12 patients, with respiratory symptoms in 12 patients. Web recurred in 17 patients. One patient died due to airway complications.Conclusions: Pediatric laryngeal web is an uncommon but challenging lesion. Patients need to be evaluated for comorbid syndromes and synchronous airway lesions. Management includes open and endoscopic procedures. Procedures should be tailored to the child's presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small studies have aimed to assess the parity of these exams in children.[2] LITERATURE REVIEW VFSS (also known as modified bariums swallow study, or MBSS) was first described in children by Logemann et al. in 1983.[3] Frequently referred to as the "gold standard", this is likely because VFSS was the first reliable instrumental assessment available in the pediatric population.[4] VFSS is usually performed by a speech language pathologist (SLP) and a radiologist. Instrumental swallow assessments, including video fluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallow (FEES), are complimentary to clinical feeding evaluations. [Extracted from the article]

ER results in the greatest rate of lasting symptom improvement and resolution though are associated with higher complication rates than IIA and conservative therapy. IIA is safe and can be considered in place of a conservative treatment to determine which patients are likely to improve from ER, and may result in permanent improvement or resolution in a minority of patients. As many as 52% (37%-66% 95% confidence interval (CI)) of patients with symptomatic T1LC improve with only conservative management, including feeding therapy, thickened liquids, and reflux management. [Extracted from the article]

This may allow for pre- and postoperative evaluations of vocal fold mobility in patients undergoing procedures that place the recurrent laryngeal nerves at risk, such as cardiothoracic or cervical surgeries, especially when it may not be feasible for an otolaryngologist to be available to perform screening FFL. Vocal fold immobility (VFI) can cause significant morbidity for pediatric patients, including respiratory distress, poor airway protection resulting in aspiration and recurrent respiratory tract infections, and dysphonia. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: Simulation-based boot camps have gained popularity over the past few years, with some surgical specialties implementing mandatory national boot camps. However, there is no consensus in otolaryngology on boot camp timing, learner level, or curriculum. The purpose of this study is to examine the current landscape and gather opinions regarding future curriculum and standardization of boot camps in otolaryngology.Methods: A survey was developed to examine current resident participation and boot camp content while also seeking opinions regarding improving boot camp enrollment and standardizing curriculum. A cross-sectional survey of all otolaryngology residency program directors in the United States and Puerto Rico was performed via SurveyMonkey. Responses were collected anonymously, and results were analyzed by descriptive statistical analysis.Results: Of the 45% (48 of 106) who responded, 76.6% reported their residents participate in boot camps. The most common skills taught were basic suturing and airway management skills. The majority (95%) was likely to send residents to a local boot camp, with 56% favoring early postgraduate year (PGY)-1 participation and 42% favoring a 1-day boot camp. Subsidized expenses, improved regional access, and supplementary boot camp information would help the program director in their decision to send residents to boot camp. Only 32% felt boot camps should be standardized, and 27% felt they should be mandatory.Conclusion: Many otolaryngology residency programs participate in boot camps. Additional data on the benefits of boot camps, improved access, and reduced financial burden may improve participation. Further discussion of ideal timing, PGY level, and standardized curriculum should occur in conjunction with the otolaryngology academic societies and oversight from accreditation and certifying bodies.Level Of Evidence: NA Laryngoscope, 129:2707-2712, 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Describe the impact of hearing loss, tympanostomy tube placement before palatoplasty, and number of tubes received on speech outcomes in children with cleft palate. Study Design Case series with chart review. Setting Tertiary care children's hospital. Subjects and Methods Records from 737 children born between April 2005 and April 2015 who underwent palatoplasty at a tertiary children's hospital were reviewed. Exclusion criteria were cleft repair at an outside hospital, intact secondary palate, absence of postpalatoplasty speech evaluation, sensorineural or mixed hearing loss, no tubes, first tubes after palatoplasty, or first clinic after 12 months of age. Data from 152 patients with isolated cleft palate and 166 patients with cleft lip and palate were analyzed using Wilcoxon rank-sum, χ2, and Fisher exact test and logistic regression. Results Most patients (242, 76.1%) received tubes before palatoplasty. Hearing loss after tubes, but not before, was associated with speech/language delays at 24 months ( P = .005) and language delays ( P = .048) and speech sound production disorders (SSPDs, P = .040) at 5 years. Receiving tubes before palatoplasty was associated with failed newborn hearing screen ( P = .001) and younger age at first posttubes type B tympanogram with normal canal volume ( P = .015). Hearing loss after tubes ( P = .021), language delays ( P = .025), SSPDs ( P = .003), and velopharyngeal insufficiency ( P = .032) at 5 years and speech surgery ( P = .022) were associated with more tubes. Conclusion Continued middle ear disease, reflected by hearing loss and multiple tubes, may impair speech and language development. Inserting tubes before palatoplasty did not mitigate these impairments better than later tube placement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) has a well-established role in the evaluation of an adult head and neck mass (HNM) but remains underused in children. The objectives of this study were to assess the diagnostic accuracy, safety profile, use of anesthesia, and influence on surgical decision making of FNAB of HNM in the pediatric population.Study Design: Case series with chart review.Setting: Tertiary care children's hospital.Subjects and Methods: In total, 257 consecutive patients with HNM who underwent 338 FNABs from July 2007 to July 2014 were reviewed. Patients ranged in age from 0 to 21 years (mean, 9.3 years); lesions ranged in size from 0.3 to 12.5 cm (mean, 2.4cm). Fine-needle aspiration biopsies were performed in the interventional radiology suite, operating room, clinic, or ward.Results: The most common patient final diagnoses included reactive lymphadenopathy (n = 99, 38.5%), benign thyroid colloid nodule (n = 31, 12.1%), malignancies (n = 21, 8.2%), and atypical mycobacterial infection (n = 15, 5.8%). On surgical histopathologic and clinical follow-up, overall sensitivity of FNAB was 94.6% and specificity was 97.7%. The complication rate was 2.1%, and general anesthesia or sedation was used for 73% of FNAB. Surgery occurred only 9 times following the 191 patients with negative FNAB results, indicating that 95.3% of unnecessary surgeries were avoided with the assistance of the FNAB result.Conclusions: Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is an accurate and safe diagnostic tool for guiding management of persistent lymphadenopathy, thyroid nodules, and other HNM in pediatric patients. Negative FNABs can often obviate the need for surgical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/hypothesis: Despite careful selection processes, residency programs face the challenge of training residents who fall below minimal performance standards. Poor performance of a resident can endanger both patient safety and the reputation of the residency program. It is important, therefore, for a program to identify such residents and implement strategies for their successful remediation. The purpose of our study was to gather information on evaluation and remediation strategies employed by different otolaryngology programs.Study Design: Cross-sectional survey.Methods: We conducted a national survey, sending a questionnaire to the program directors of 106 otolaryngology residency programs. We collected information on demographics of the program, identification of problematic residents, and remediation strategies.Results: The response rate was 74.5%, with a 2% cumulative incidence of problematic residents in otolaryngology programs during the past 10 years. The most frequently reported deficiencies of problematic residents were unprofessional behavior with colleagues/staff (38%), insufficient medical knowledge (37%), and poor clinical judgment (34%). Personal or professional stress was the most frequently identified underlying problem (70.5%). Remediation efforts included general counseling (78%), frequent feedback sessions (73%), assignment of a mentor (58%), and extra didactics (47%). These remediation efforts failed to produce improvement in 23% of the identified residents, ultimately leading to their dismissal.Conclusions: The apparent deficiencies, underlying causes, and remediation strategies vary among otolaryngology residency programs. Based on the results of this survey, we offer recommendations for the early identification of problematic residents and a standardized remediation plan.Level Of Evidence: NA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/hypothesis: Evidence shows a positive association between quality of surgical training received and patient outcomes. Traditionally, improved patient outcomes are linked with increased operative volume. However, generalizing this finding to surgeons in training is unclear. In addition, reduced exposure due to work-hour restrictions calls for alternative methods to determine the quality of training. The purpose of this study was to identify the indicators of high-quality training by surveying the trainees and trainers.Methods: A questionnaire was developed based on input from faculty and previous studies. The survey was divided into three sections asking about the indicators of quality training, methods to measure them, and interventions for improvement. The questionnaire was administered to program directors (PDs) and senior residents of otolaryngology training programs nationwide.Results: The strongest indicators of quality training that were agreed upon by both residents and PDs were having faculty development as an ideal trainer while having a balanced level of supervision and independence, logbooks for exposure to volume and variety of pathology, continuous evaluation and provision of feedback. However, structured teaching, simulation-based training, and trainee exam scores failed to reach an agreement as a metric of high-quality surgical training.Conclusion: Measuring quality of a residency training program is imperative to produce competent surgeons and ensuring patient safety. The results of this study will help the residency programs to better train their residents and improve the quality of their teaching.Level Of Evidence: N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis: To determine the proportion of female otolaryngologists in leadership positions relative to their number in the specialty, their membership in various otolaryngology organizations, and age. Study Design: Cross-sectional analyses of otolaryngology organization membership with a subgroup analysis on female membership and leadership proportion comparing 5-year male/female cohort groups. Methods: Information on the number of members and leaders was obtained from various specialty societies by direct communication and from their Web sites between June and December 2010. The number of female and male otolaryngologists and their age distribution in 5-year age groups was obtained from the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS). Statistical analyses were used to determine whether women had proportional membership and leadership representation in various specialty societies. Additionally, female representation in other leadership roles was analyzed using the male/female ratio within the 5-year cohort groups. Results: Female otolaryngologists were found to constitute approximately 11% of practicing otolaryngologists. The American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology had a higher proportion of female members (22%) compared to five other societies. When the gender composition within each organization was taken into account, female representation in specialty society leadership positions was proportionate to their membership across all societies. When gender and age were considered, women have achieved proportionate representation in each of the specialty societies' leadership positions. There was also proportionate representation of females as program directors, American Board of Otolaryngology directors, Residency Review Committee members, and journal editors/editorial board members. Finally, fewer female chairs or chiefs of departments/divisions were seen, but when age was taken into consideration, this difference was no longer significant. Conclusion: Women have achieved parity in otolaryngology leadership positions. As the number and seniority of women increase, the specialty should continue to monitor representation of women in leadership positions. Laryngoscope, 2012 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives/Hypothesis: To determine whether the characteristics of acute mastoiditis in children have changed in the post-heptavalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) era. Study Design: Case series. Methods: Clinical data for all patients admitted for acute mastoiditis at an urban tertiary children's hospital from July 1, 1996, to June 30, 2009, were reviewed. Patients with a known immune deficiency or cholesteatoma were excluded. Patients were divided into pre-PCV7 (July 1996 to December 2002; n = 38) and post-PCV7 (January 2003 to June 2009; n = 58) groups. Statistical analyses were used to compare the two groups. Results: Ninety-six children met the inclusion criteria. There was a 53% increase in admission for acute mastoiditis in the post-PCV7 era. The pre- and post-PCV7 groups had similar demographic features, presenting history, signs and symptoms, laboratory study results, and medical management. Computed tomography scan abnormalities seen in the two groups were similar except for subperiosteal abscess, which was seen more frequently in the post-PCV7 group. Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most common pathogen isolated in both groups. The patients in the post-PCV7 group had shorter hospital stays, despite undergoing more extensive surgery to address their disease. Conclusions: The number of acute mastoiditis admissions did not decrease with the widespread use of PCV7. Computed tomography findings and surgical procedures required to address acute mastoiditis indicate that the post-PCV7 group had more advanced disease. S pneumoniae remains the main pathogen in acute mastoiditis, and its nonsusceptibility to penicillin and ceftriaxone may be increasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the effect of vocal nodule size on voice in pediatric patients. Study Design: Vocal nodules were graded according to a validated grading scale by three pediatric otolaryngologists. Subjects and Methods: Patients evaluated from 2003 to 2007 with a diagnosis of vocal nodules were included. Results: Forty patients (21 female) with a mean age of 7.5 years were identified. Vocal nodules were rated as grade 1 (17 patients), grade 2 (15 patients), and grade 3 (8 patients). Pitch range was reduced in patients with larger nodules (P = 0.001). There was no statistical association between nodule grade and fundamental frequency abnormality, perturbation, shimmer, decreased respiratory support, air loss, or significant muscle tension. Conclusions: Voice characteristics in patients with vocal nodules were evaluated. Other than pitch reduction, objective and subjective voice measurements are not statistically different in varying vocal nodule sizes; however, many of the measures did show a trend towards significance. Vocal rehabilitation is complex in children with nodules and may not directly correlate with vocal nodule size. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine resource utilization in managing subglottic stenosis. Study Design: The Kids’ Inpatient Database (KID) 2003 was analyzed. Subjects and Methods: International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code 478.74 was the inclusion criteria. Results: Two thousand forty-six admissions with subglottic stenosis were sampled; there were 10 deaths (0.49%). States with the most admissions were Ohio, California, and Illinois; these did not have the highest spending per admission. Two hundred eighteen (10.7%) underwent a laryngeal graft procedure; states with the most were Ohio (35.8%), Texas, California, and Florida. Indicators of increased resource utilization include length of stay, nonelective admission, race, primary payer, hospital location, and type. Conclusions: For subglottic stenosis, three states account for 37% of admissions, and four states account for 56% of laryngeal graft procedures in 2003. The mean total charges were $53,787; 90% of admissions had total charges less than $139,253. Patients who underwent surgical procedures had total charges of $76,409. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: Investigations that seek to generalize findings or to understand uncommon diseases must be conducted at multiple centers. This study describes the process of obtaining regulatory approval for a minimal risk genetic study in a multi-center setting as undertaken by the Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP) Task Force. Study design and setting: Sequential cohort of American children’s hospitals. A single protocol was submitted to each Institutional Review Board (IRB). Results: Documentation was prepared for 14 IRBs over 2.5 years. The median time between enlistment and approval at the first 8 sites was 15 months. Institutions varied considerably in their requirements and in the issues that were raised. Protocols were submitted sequentially and accumulated experience was used in the preparation of applications to subsequent IRBs. Nevertheless, there was no correlation between the accumulated experience and the number of issues that were raised. Conclusion: Despite uniform federal standards, all local IRBs required unique and individualized submissions. For multicenter studies, investigators should seriously consider the establishment of cooperative authorization agreements. On a simpler level, a standardized format for applications needs to be adopted nationwide. EBM rating: B-3b [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: To compare postoperative complication rates of coblation and electrocautery adenotonsillectomies. Study design: Retrospective chart review. Results: From January 2000 to June 2004, 1997 pediatric patients underwent adenotonsillectomy. 745 coblation, and 1252 electrocautery tonsillectomies were performed. Primary bleed, secondary bleed, and dehydration were seen in 3, 35, and 23 coblation, and 9, 41, and 64 electrocautery tonsillectomies, respectively. Data analysis revealed no significant difference in primary and secondary hemorrhage rate, but a higher dehydration rate in the electrocautery group (P = 0.0423). A total of 602 coblation, 763 curette/cautery, and 632 electrocautery adenoidectomies were performed. Neck pain was seen in 0, 17, and 3 patients, respectively. Data analysis showed a higher incidence of neck pain with the curette/cautery technique compared with coblator and cautery techniques (P = 0.0006 and P = 0.0119, respectively). Conclusions: Coblation tonsillectomy had similar rates of primary and secondary hemorrhage when compared with electrocautery tonsillectomy but a lower incidence of postoperative dehydration. Coblation adenoidectomy caused less postoperative neck pain than curette/cautery adenoidectomy without significant advantage over cautery adenoidectomy. EBM rating: B-3b [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

OBJECTIVES: Two unusual cases of pediatric aerodigestive tract trauma postintubation with subsequent complications are described. Pediatric retropharyngeal dissection from trauma has not been reported previously. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective chart review in a pediatric tertiary care center. RESULTS: A 6‐year‐old girl underwent attempted nasotracheal intubation. She sustained retropharyngeal dissection, receiving positive pressure ventilation before this injury was noted. She developed subcutaneous emphysema. The child was managed conservatively and did well. An 8‐year‐old boy sustained a 4‐cm laceration of his posterior trachea, developing pneumomediastinum after intubation. On transfer to our institution, he underwent direct laryngobronchoscopy and was reintubated with the tip of the endotracheal tube distal to the laceration. Postoperatively, the child accidentally pulled his tube and coughed, resulting in severe subcutaneous emphysema with increased pneumomediastinum. An emergent tracheotomy was performed. The patient subsequently did well. CONCLUSION: A higher index of suspicion with more careful surveillance may prevent further morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minor blunt cervical injuries in children are relatively common occurrences leading to serious sequelae in only rare circumstances, yet sufficient impact of even a seemingly minor event may lead to a significant posterior tracheal wall laceration, resulting in pneumomediastinum with or without pneumothorax. Three cases demonstrate how the mechanism of injury does not always match either the severity of initial presentation or the consequent necessary level of emergent management. Pneumomediastinum without pneumothorax often can be treated conservatively; however, the onset of massive pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax may necessitate both tracheotomy and tube thoracostomy as initial treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifty-two patients with branchial anomalies (BA) treated at the Children's National Medical Center between 1983 and 1993 were reviewed to determine the incidence of different types of anomalies and to analyze the authors' method of diagnosis and management. First BA was seen in 25%, second in 40%, third in 8%, and fourth in 2%. In 25%, the origin of the anomaly was undetermined. Our incidence of first BA was significantly higher than the incidence reported in other series. Of the anomalies, sinuses were more common than cysts or fistulae. Sinuses tend to present at an earlier age than cysts, which take time to enlarge and present clinically. Repeated incision and drainage and incomplete excisions were frequently seen with first, third, and fourth anomalies due to misdiagnosis. Recent trend has been to utilize radiographic studies more frequently, and they have been found to be helpful in guiding surgical therapy, particularly with the more complicated cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To describe mediastinitis in infants. Study Design: Case series. Setting: Tertiary-care, academic, pediatric hospital. Subjects: Four infants managed during eight months. Results: Patients were eight months (two patients), nine months, and 18 months old. They had retropharyngeal phlegmons and were started on clindamycin/cephalosporin. Interval imaging scans revealed abscess formation with mediastinal extension. All retropharyngeal abscesses were drained; three patients required video-assisted thoracoscopic debridement. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (two patients) and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (two patients) were cultured. Peak white blood cell counts were 15,000, 18,400, 30,200, and 44,900. The patients survived without long-term morbidity. Conclusions: In infants with pediatric deep neck space infections, increased vigilance should be maintained for progression to mediastinal extension. Optimal management includes imaging of the neck and chest as indicated, broad-spectrum antibiotic coverage, and aggressive surgery as warranted to clear the neck space infections with appropriate surgical consultants to manage the mediastinal process. Despite high morbidity and mortality in adult mediastinitis, infant mediastinitis may be a different disease process as all patients survived without sequelae. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article offers information on a report examining whether children with an enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) should play contact sports. The topics addressed include details on an association and impacts of sudden hearing drops (SHD) with the EVA and an information on the treatment of the EVA using corticosteroids.

The article provides an answer to a question whether children with orbital subperiosteal abscess are able to be managed medically rather than surgically.

The author discusses components of career development which includes mentoring and networking. He states that an individual's network can be an extremely powerful tool for sharing professional experiences, enhancing one's reputation and career. An overview of the importance of mentoring, networking and leadership is offered. The author suggests medical schools to emphasize on the development of a network.

The article discusses a study on the role of postoperative stenting in choanal atresia surgery. It also discusses several risks associated with the use of postoperative stents which includes pressure necrosis of the columella which may be caused by the pressure by the stents, cosmetic deformity and septal cartilage necrosis. It reviews literatures associated with the postoperative stenting which revealed that repair without stenting reduces the intensity of postoperative management.

Objective: Review the clinical presentation, histological subtypes, staging, treatment modalities, and survival rates for non‐orbital pediatric head and neck rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). Method: A retrospective chart review of patients treated from 1996 to 2011 for nonorbital primary head and neck RMS at a pediatric tertiary care center. Baseline demographics, clinical presentation, staging, histology, treatment modalities, and survival outcome were analyzed. Results: Sixteen patients (7 M) were diagnosed with primary head and neck RMS, median age of 6.9 years (range, <1‐19 years). The majority of tumors were of parameningeal location (11/16). Fifty‐six percent (9/16) were metastatic at presentation (stage at diagnosis: 1, n = 1; 2, n = 2; 3, n = 4; 4, n = 9). Nine had skull base erosion and/or cranial nerve deficits. Ten patients had embryonal and sihad alveolar histology. Upfront resection gross resection was feasible in 4 patients (3 of which were non‐parameningeal), all with positive margins. All patients received chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy. Second look surgery was performed in 2 patients. Conclusion: Most patients presented with advanced disease in our series. Majority were parameningeal, thus limiting the role to biopsy only. Primary excision for non‐paramenigeal RMS is ideal. The role of second look surgery after chemotherapy and radiation is still unknown; however, it was successful in 2 patients in our small review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: 1) Report outcomes of balloon dilation in the endoscopic management of pediatric SGS. 2) Determine the role of balloon dilation in both primary vs adjuvant therapy. Method: Retrospective review of treatment with noncompliant, high‐pressure balloons for SGS in the past 2 years at a tertiary pediatric hospital. Fifty‐one dilations in 28 children with SGS were performed. Mean age was 39.2 months. Mean SGS grade was 2.40. Results: Overall, 18 (64.2%) had successful balloon treatment. Fifteen children had primary and 13 had secondary balloon dilation. Those with primary, 10 (66.6%), were able to avoid open reconstruction/tracheotomy, and 5 were temporized (36 days average) until definitive open reconstruction. Those with secondary, 9 (69.2%), were able to decannulate. Eight of 10 failed balloon dilations had concomitant airway pathologies, compared with only 6 of 12 where treatment was successful (P =. 02). There was no statistical association in successful vs failed treatment by age (49.6 vs 29.3, P =. 43), degree of stenosis (2.39 vs 2.60, P =. 41), presence of lung disease (33.3% vs 70%, P =. 07) or soft nature of stenosis (61.1% vs 40%, P =. 28). Conclusion: Balloon dilation plays an important role in the primary or adjuvant management of pediatric SGS. Presence of concomitant airway lesions is significantly associated with balloon dilation treatment failure. Meticulous surveillance of the dilated airway is necessary given this failure rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Determine if there are changes in the central apnea index (CAI) when pediatric patients undergo adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Method: Retrospective review conducted at 2 tertiary children's hospitals over 10 years. Children 1 to 18 years old who underwent adenotonsillectomy for OSA and had both pre‐ and postoperative full‐night polysomnography (PSG), with central sleep apnea (CSA) on preoperative PSG, were eligible. Criteria for diagnosis of CSA was CAI greater than 1. Results: A total of 101 children with OSA had pre‐ and postoperative PSG. Fifteen of these patients had preoperative CSA. Ten of the children (66.7%) were male, and the mean age was 67.7 months (SD, 62.7). The mean preoperative CAI was 3.9 (SD, 2.9), while the postoperative CAI was 1.9 (SD, 4.8). The CAI ranged from 1.1 to 11.1. There was significant improvement (P =. 008) of the CAI following adenotonsillectomy. There was also significant improvement (P =. 004) of the obstructive apnea hypopnea index (OAHI), with the mean preoperative OAHI of 22.8 (SD 19.8) decreasing to an OAHI of 5.5 (SD 6.5) postoperatively. Conclusion: Children with OSA and mild central sleep apnea on preoperative PSG showed significant improvement in the CAI following adenotonsillectomy. Future studies are needed to determine the incidence and clinical significance of central sleep apnea in children with OSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]