Search

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on operative practices of otology and neurotology providers internationally. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. METHODS: A 78-question survey was distributed to otologists and neurotologists between May 12, 2020 and June 8, 2020 to assess the impact of the pandemic on surgical practices. Sections within the survey delineated time periods: prior to the crisis, onset of the crisis, during the crisis, postcrisis transition. RESULTS: Of 396 survey respondents, 284 participants from 38 countries met inclusion criteria.Respondents were 16.9% female and 82.4% male, with a most common age range of 40 to 49 years (36.3%). 69.8% of participants had been in practice for over 10 years and most respondents worked in an academic medical center (79.2%). The average operative weekly caseload was 5.3 (SD 3.9) per surgeon prior to the crisis, 0.7 (SD 1.2) during the COVID-19 crisis, and 3.5 (SD 3.3) for those who had begun a postcrisis transition at the time of survey administration (p 

OBJECTIVE To review our hearing preservation rates and speech recognition outcomes in patients undergoing cochlear implantation with a recently developed lateral wall electrode. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS Retrospective case series of all patients, both pediatric and adult, undergoing cochlear implantation with the Advanced Bionics Hifocus™ SlimJ electrode between December 2017 and January 2020. Main outcomes included hearing preservation rates using several definitions, speech recognition testing primarily through Arizona Biosciences (AzBio) and Consonant-Nucleus-Consonant (CNC) testing, intra- and postoperative complications. RESULTS Sixty-one ears underwent implantation with the new electrode. Hearing preservation rates were 13.0% to 36.0% depending on the definition used. Speech recognition testing showed significant increases from pre- to postoperative condition (Implant-only AzBio: 24.1 to 48.3, P = .004, binaural AzBio: 46.1 to 65.9, P = .002, Implant-only CNC: 9.7 to 35.1, P

Management of jugular paragangliomas (PGL) has evolved toward subtotal resection (STR). The purpose of this study is to analyze neural preservation and adjuvant treatment for long-term local control.Retrospective chart review.Tertiary neurotology practice.Adults undergoing surgical treatment of jugular PGL between 2006 and 2019. Patients, disease, and treatment variables were collected retrospectively. Single predictor logistic regression was used to ascertain predictors of regrowth or need for salvage radiation.A total of 41 patients (median age, 47 years; 76% female) were identified. Most patients presented with advanced-stage disease (Glasscock-Jackson stage III-IV = 76%). Subtotal resection (STR) was performed in 32 (78%) patients. Extended STR (type 1) was the most commonly performed conservative procedure (n = 19, 59%). Postoperative new low cranial neuropathy (LCN) involving CN X and XII was rare (n = 3 and n = 1, respectively). Seventeen patients (41%) underwent postsurgical therapy for tumor regrowth or recurrence, including 15 patients who underwent adjuvant (n = 4) or salvage (n = 11) radiation. Overall tumor control of 94.7% was achieved at a mean follow-up of 35 months. All patients treated with combined modality treatment had local control at last follow-up. Logistic regression identified no single predictor for postsurgical radiation treatment or salvage-free survival.Management of jugular PGL with a conservative approach is safe and effective with a low rate of new LCN deficit. Active surveillance of residual tumor with salvage radiation for growth results in excellent long-term tumor control.

To assess the relative lifetime costs, benefits, and cost-effectiveness between the 2 approaches, canal wall-up (CWU) and canal wall-down (CWD) tympanomastoidectomy, used in the treatment of cholesteatomas.Markov state transition model.Tertiary academic health system.A Markov state transition model was used to simulate outcomes across the patient lifetime. Outcome and complication probabilities were obtained from the existing literature. Costs were calculated from the payer perspective, with procedure, hospital, clinic, and physician cost derived from Medicare reimbursement. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were used to represent effectiveness and utility. One-way and probability sensitivity analyses (PSAs) were conducted.The base case analysis, assuming a 40-year-old patient, yielded a lifetime cost of $14,214 for a patient treated with the CWU approach assuming second-look surgery and $22,290 with a CWD approach. CWU and CWD generated a benefit of 17.11 and 17.30 QALYs, respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for CWU was $43,237 per QALY. The Monte Carlo PSA validated the base case scenario. Using a standard $50,000 willingness-to-pay threshold, CWD was the more cost-effective approach and was selected 54.8% of the time by the simulation.Both CWU and CWD were found to be cost-effective, with CWD being cost-effective 54.8% of the time at a WTP threshold of $50,000. The assumptions used in the analysis were validated by the results of 1-way and PSA.

Objectives/hypothesis Meniere's disease (MD) is a debilitating condition characterized by hearing loss, vertigo, and tinnitus. The objective of this study was to systematically investigate outcomes in MD after cochlear implantation (CoI), with and without labyrinthectomy. Study design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods A systematic review of articles in Medline and Embase was performed to identify all studies of patients with MD who underwent CoI. This analysis evaluates outcomes of speech recognition, pure tone audiometry, vertigo, tinnitus, and quality of life. Results Of 321 studies identified, 37 were included, involving 216 patients. Mean age at implantation was 61.4 years (range 27-85 years) with average length of follow-up at 1.7 years (range 0-9 years). Forty-four (20.4%) patients underwent labyrinthectomy. Meta-analysis demonstrated significant improvements in audiometric outcomes following CoI. There was a statistically significant improvement in Hearing in Noise Test performance, with a mean difference improvement of 44.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] [8.8, 80.6]) at 6 months and 60.1 (95% CI [35.3, 85.0]) at 12 months. The Freiburger Monosyllabic Test (FMT) and Consonant-Nucleus-Consonant (CNC) also improved significantly, with mean difference improvements of 46.2 (95% CI [30.0, 62.4]) for FMT and 19.3 (95% CI [8.1, 30.4]) for CNC. There was a statistically significant decrease in tinnitus, as measured by a mean difference reduction of 48.1 (95% CI [1.0, 95.2]) in the Tinnitus Handicap Index. Conclusions CoI with and without simultaneous labyrinthectomy is a viable treatment option for patients with MD, yielding high rates of tinnitus suppression and vertigo control. Post-CoI MD patients demonstrate similar postoperative speech perception outcomes to non-MD implant recipients. Laryngoscope, 131:1845-1854, 2021.

To assess the prevalence of distress and burnout in otolaryngology trainees, including associations with relevant sociodemographic and professional factors, and to compare these results with those of attending otolaryngologists.A cross-sectional survey of trainees and attending physicians.Twelve academic otolaryngology programs.Distress and burnout were measured with the Expanded Physician Well-being Index and the 2-item Maslach Burnout Inventory. The Patient Health Questionnaire-2 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 were used to screen for depressive disorders and anxiety disorders, respectively. Associations with sociodemographic and professional characteristics were assessed.Of the 613 surveys administered to trainees and attending physicians, 340 were completed (56%). Among 154 trainees, distress was present in 49%, professional burnout in 35%, positive depressive disorder screening in 5%, and positive anxiety disorder screening in 16%. In univariable analysis, female gender, hours worked in a typical week (HW), and nights on call in a typical week (NOC) were significantly associated with distress. In multivariable analysis, female gender (odds ratio, 3.91;Otolaryngology trainees experience significant work-place distress (49%) and burnout (35%). Gender, HW, and NOC had the strongest associations with distress and burnout.

To ascertain the prevalence of and associations with distress and professional burnout among academic otolaryngology attending physicians.Cross-sectional survey.Twelve US academic otolaryngology programs.A questionnaire was administered that encompassed sociodemographic and professional features, the Expanded Physician Well-being Index for distress, the 2-item Maslach Burnout Inventory for professional burnout, the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 screen for major depressive disorder, and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 screen for generalized anxiety disorder.The survey response rate was 56% and included 186 attending physicians. The average respondent age was 47 years; 72% were men; 93% were married or partnered; and 86% had children. Distress was present in 40%, professional burnout in 26%, positive depression screening in 8%, and positive anxiety screening in 11%. In a univariable setting, age, hours worked in a typical week, nights on call in a typical week, and years of practice were significantly associated with distress, although in a multivariable setting, only hours worked in a typical week remained significantly associated with a positive Expanded Physician Well-being Index screen (odds ratio for each 10-hour increase, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.73-3.93;Distress or professional burnout occurs in more than a quarter of academic otolaryngology attending physicians, whereas the prevalence of depression or anxiety is approximately 10%. The number of hours worked per week had the strongest association with distress and burnout. These findings may be used to develop and implement programs to promote physician well-being and mitigate professional burnout.

Objective: Herein we describe the diagnosis and management of total ossicular replacement prosthesis (TORP) displacement following tympanoplasty with ossicular chain reconstruction (OCR). Methods: Case report with literature review. Results/Case: A 40-year-old male with otorrhea and tympanic membrane perforation underwent a right revision tympanoplasty with OCR using a TORP with a tragal chondroperichondrial graft. On postoperative day (POD) 4, he developed vertigo and profound right-sided hearing loss. Temporal bone computed tomography showed the prosthesis in the vestibule. After a steroid taper with mild improvement in symptoms, the TORP was removed two weeks later and the patient continued to improve. Conclusion: TORP displacement into the vestibule is a very rare complication following OCR. Conservative management with high dose steroids may improve symptoms, however further middle ear exploration and surgical management may be warranted depending on the depth of displacement into the inner ear as well as symptom severity.

To assess the safety of using a microdrill in endoscopic vs microscopic stapes surgery.A retrospective review of 29 adult ears with otosclerosis who underwent either an endoscopic or microscopic approach to microdrill stapedotomy.Determine if transcanal endoscopic stapes surgery with the microdrill is as safe as microscopic stapes surgery. Secondary outcome: Bone and air pure-tone averages, air-bone gap, speech discrimination, overall surgical cost, and operative time were measured and analyzed. Complications such as post-operative dysgeusia, vertigo, readmission, revision and hearing loss were noted.29 patients with otosclerosis were retrospectively reviewed, in total 14 endoscopic and 15 microscopic approaches were included, all performed over one-year period. None of the endoscopic surgeries require conversion to the microscope. No statistically significant audiometric differences between the endoscopic vs microscopic approaches in air pure-tone averages and air-bone gap. There were 82.8% air-bone gap closure to15 dB with no significant difference in the percent of such closures between the endoscopic (85.7%) and microscopic groups (80%, P = .68). Three prostheses were used: 4.25 mm (17.2%), 4.5 mm (58.6%) and the 4.75 mm (24.1%) smart/eclipse. Endoscopic median operative time was 51 min vs 42 min for microscopic approach (P =.004).The endoscopic with microdrill approach is criticized to lack depth perception, especially when using a microdrill to perform in stapedotomies. Our study showcases that using the microdrill use produces minimal differences in outcomes, cost, and is a safe modality to stapes surgery in both approaches.

(1) Characterize a large cohort of patients undergoing total ossicular chain reconstruction with titanium prosthesis. (2) Analyze long-term hearing outcomes of the same cohort.Case series with chart review.Tertiary care center.This study reviews patients who underwent total ossicular chain reconstruction (OCR) with titanium prostheses (TORPs) at a single tertiary care center from 2005 to 2015. Patient charts were reviewed for demographic data, diagnosis, and operative details. Patients were included in statistical analysis if length of follow-up was 2 years or more. Evaluation of hearing improvement was made by comparing preoperative air-bone gap (ABG) and ABG at follow-up at 2 years.In total, 153 patients were identified who met inclusion criteria. The mean age of included patients was 40 years (range, 6-89 years). Sixty patients (39%) had a history of OCR, and 120 patients (78%) had a diagnosis of cholesteatoma at the time of OCR. Preoperatively, the mean ABG was 36 ± 12, whereas the mean ABG at 2-year follow-up improved to 26 ± 13. This was statistically significant (Titanium prostheses lead to significant improvement in hearing over long periods. The results are sustained as far out as 5 years following surgery. In addition, rates of revision surgery with titanium TORPs are low. Based on this series, there are no readily identifiable predictors for outcomes following total OCR.

We describe our experience using the extracorporeal video microscope, the "exoscope" for various applications within the field of lateral skull base surgery.A retrospective case series was performed investigating patient demographics, indications for surgery, procedure type, operative time, approach to the skull base, complications, adequacy of visualization, and surgeon comfortability.Six cases were performed with a three dimensional surgical exoscope, obviating the use of a traditional binocular microscope.Academic, tertiary referral center.Type of surgical approach, operative time, patient demographics, surgical complications, and surgeon comfortability.The following procedures were performed; four vestibular schwannoma resections via suboccipital craniotomy and two combined transmastoid and transtemporal approaches for temporal lobe encephalocele repairs. The average operative time was 227 and 577 minutes for temporal lobe encephalocele repairs and vestibular schwannoma cases, respectively. No intraoperative complications were encountered during these cases. None of the procedures required abandonment of the exoscope in favor of the microscope during the procedure. Advantages include high-resolution three-dimensional visualization, increased degrees of freedom for exoscope adjustment, and reduced surgeon fatigue in a fixed, unnatural posture. Limitations include decreased depth perception and increased operative time.The exoscope system is a safe and effective alternative or adjunct to the existing binocular operating microscope for lateral skull based procedures. The exoscope provides the surgeon with a comfortable, high-resolution visualization without compromising surgical exposure and patient safety.4.

To determine the diagnostic efficacy and clinical value of preoperative computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) among patients with suspected temporal bone encephaloceles (TBE).Retrospective chart review from 2006 to 2018.Tertiary referral center.The subjects underwent surgery for a clinically suspected TBE or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Preoperative imaging test characteristics of CT and MRI, including sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV), were calculated for TBE scans and compared with intraoperative findings.Fifty-seven subjects with otorrhea, middle ear effusion, hearing loss, and/or meningitis with suspected TBE or CSF leak were identified. All had preoperative CT scans, and 61% (35/57) had preoperative MRI scans. Intraoperatively, 37 of 57 patients (65%) were found to have a TBE. CT scans (17% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, 46% NPV) were less sensitive than MRI (58% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, 24% NPV) for detecting TBEs. Furthermore, the time from initial scan to operative repair was significantly longer in those who had a CT followed by MRI scan compared with CT alone or a fused CT-MRI scan (mean = 68 vs 15 days, respectively;CT and MRI provide complementary information that may aid surgical planning. However, imaging cannot always rule out TBE. In cases with high clinical suspicion, surgical confirmation is often required for definitive diagnosis and treatment. The cost of an additional preoperative study should be considered before its use.

Objective To describe the utility and nuances of transcanal endoscopic surgery (TCES) on glomus tympanicum tumors from a single surgeon's experience. Patients/intervention Twelve patients, eight female and four males, diagnosed pre-operatively with glomus tympanicum tumors. They all underwent endoscopic resection by a single surgeon. Main outcome measures Feasibility of endoscopic resection of glomus tympanicum tumors without conversion to a microscopic approach. Secondary outcomes include tumor stage, pre and post-operative audiometry, vertigo, sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and integrity of the facial nerve, ossicles, chorda tympani and tympanic membrane. Results Twelve patients underwent TCES, eight patient's pathology results were glomus tympanicum, ranging from Glasscock-Jackson grade I-III. Due to loss in follow up, 6/8 patients had complete audiometric data, which were analyzed. Average pre-operative air-bone-gap (ABG) was 5.41 compared to post-operative ABG of 5.08 (p > 0.89). No patients resulted in any, post-operative vertigo, tinnitus, SNHL, facial nerve injury or chorda tympani nerve injury. Two patients had intentional tympanic membrane perforations secondary to tumor adherence to the membrane. They were repaired with tragal perichondrium graft. No patients have had any recurrences. Conclusions Endoscopic resection of glomus tympanicum tumors is a feasible and effective, alternative visualization modality for the neurotologist. Surgical pearls are described herein.

Objective We describe our experience using the extracorporeal video microscope, the "exoscope" for repair of a temporal bone encephalocele. Method The patient is a 69-year-old male with a right temporal lobe encephalocele herniating through a tegmen defect. He underwent definitive tegmen defect repair and bipolar cauterization of the encephalocele. The authors elected for a combined transmastoid and transtemporal approach in order to isolate the tegmen defect and provide watertight repair. The Synaptive robotic BrightMatter (Toronto, ON) drive video exoscope monitor system was used for the entirety of the case including both the transmastoid approach and transtemporal craniotomy. Results No intraoperative complications were encountered during either the transmastoid (mastoidectomy) or transtemporal craniotomy. The authors were able to complete the entire case without abandonment of the exoscope in favor of the traditional binocular microscope. Advantages of this technology in clinical practice includes high-resolution three-dimensional visualization, increased degrees of freedom for exoscope adjustment, and reduced surgeon fatigue in a fixed, unnatural posture. Limitations include decreased depth perception and increased operative time. Conclusion The exoscope system is a safe and effective alternative or adjunct to the existing binocular operating microscope for lateral skull based procedures. The exoscope provides the surgeon with a comfortable, high-resolution visualization without compromising surgical exposure and patient safety.SDC video link: http://links.lww.com/MAO/A837.

Objective To evaluate the audiometric outcomes following endoscopic ossicular chain reconstruction (OCR). Study design Retrospective case series. Setting Two tertiary referral centers. Patients Sixty two ears with ossicular discontinuity. Intervention(s) Endoscopic and microscopic OCR in patients with ossicular discontinuity. Main outcome measures Bone and air pure-tone averages (PTA), air-bone gap (ABG), and word recognition scores (WRS). Results Sixty two ears were included for analysis. Patients that underwent ossiculoplasty were subdivided based on prosthesis type (total ossicular replacement prosthesis [TORP] and partial ossicular replacement prosthesis [PORP], primary and staged ossiculoplasties, and surgical approach [microscopic and total endoscopic]). Forty two ears required PORP reconstructions, while 20 ears required TORP reconstructions. The microscope was used to reconstruct the ossicular chain in 31 cases, while an exclusive endoscopic approach was used in the remaining 31 patients. Controlling for the prosthesis, there were no significant postoperative differences in bone PTA, air PTA, and ABG between primary and staged ossiculoplasties, or surgical approach. Conclusions Controlling for the type of prosthesis, there were no significant differences in hearing outcomes with respect to staged ossicular chain reconstruction or whether the endoscope or microscope was used for visualization. Thus, in this series, endoscopic OCR yields similar audiometric outcomes when compared with microscopic OCR.

Background One study has investigated postoperative growth rates following subtotal resection of petroclival meningiomas utilizing linear measurements, which are insensitive to the multidimensional complex growth of meningiomas, to estimate tumor volume. Objective To describe petroclival meningioma growth patterns following less-than-complete resection utilizing volumetric analysis and to identify variables associated with tumor progression. Methods Patients with surgically resected WHO grade I petroclival meningiomas were retrospectively reviewed (1999-2015). Image analysis software was utilized to perform volumetric analyses of tumor size and growth on serial MRI studies. The impact of preoperative and postoperative variables on tumor growth after subtotal resection was analyzed. An increase in tumor volume of at least 20% was defined as "tumor growth." Results Twenty-three patients had immediate preoperative and serial postoperative MRI studies available for review. The mean preoperative tumor volume was 20.9 cm3 (range 0.4-54.6). The mean extent of resection was 75.5% (range 31.5%-100.0%). At a mean follow-up of 24.8 mo, 12 tumors (66.7%) exhibited radiological tumor growth, while 6 tumors did not change in size. The median annual volumetric growth rate was 2.82 cm3/yr (range -0.34 to 10.1). Extent of resection and immediate postoperative tumor volume were significantly correlated with the annual volumetric growth rate following resection. At last follow-up, 3 (13%) patients required further intervention. Conclusion The majority of petroclival meningiomas exhibit growth following subtotal resection. Extent of resection is strongly associated with risk for disease progression following surgery.

Objectives 1) Examine angular insertion depths (AID) and scalar location of Med-El (GmbH Innsbruck, Austria) electrodes; and 2) determine the relationship between AID and audiologic outcomes controlling for scalar position. Study Design Retrospective review. Methods Postlingually deafened adults undergoing cochlear implantation with Flex 24, Flex 28, and Standard electrode arrays (Med-El) were identified. Patients with preoperative and postoperative computed tomography scans were included so that electrode location and AID could be determined. Outcome measures were 1) speech perception in the cochlear implant (CI)-only condition, and 2) short-term hearing preservation. Results Forty-eight implants were included; all electrodes (48 of 48) were positioned entirely within the scala tympani. The median AID was 408° (interquartile [IQ] range 373°–449°) for Flex 24, 575° (IQ range 465°–584°) for Flex 28, and 584° (IQ range 368°–643°) for Standard electrodes (Med-El). The mean postoperative CNC score was 43.7% ± 21.9. A positive correlation was observed between greater AID and better CNC performance (r = 0.48, P < 0.001). Excluding patients with postoperative residual hearing, a strong correlation between AID and CNC persisted (r = 0.57, P < 0.001). In patients with preoperative residual hearing, mean low-frequency pure-tone average (PTA) shift was 27 dB ± 14. A correlation between AID and low-frequency PTA shift at activation was noted (r = 0.41, P = 0.04). Conclusion Favorable rates of scala tympani insertion (100%) were observed. In the CI-only condition, a direct correlation between greater AID and CNC score was noted regardless of postoperative hearing status. Deeper insertions were, however, associated with worse short-term hearing preservation. When patients without postoperative residual hearing were analyzed independently, the relationship between greater insertion depth and better performance was strengthened. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 127:2352–2357, 2017

Objective To quantify the potential effectiveness of cochlear implantation for tinnitus suppression in patients with single-sided deafness using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory. Methods The study included 12 patients with unilateral tinnitus who were undergoing cochlear implantation for single-sided deafness. The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory was administered at the patient's cochlear implant candidacy evaluation appointment prior to implantation and every cochlear implant follow-up appointment, except activation, following implantation. Patient demographics and speech recognition scores were also retrospectively recorded using the electronic medical record. Results A significant reduction was found when comparing Tinnitus Handicap Inventory score preoperatively (61.2 ± 27.5) to the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory score after three months of cochlear implant use (24.6 ± 28.2, p = 0.004) and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory score beyond 6 months of CI use (13.3 ± 18.9, p = 0.008). Further, 45% of patients reported total tinnitus suppression. Mean CNC word recognition score improved from 2.9% (SD 9.4) pre-operatively to 40.8% (SD 31.7) by 6 months post-activation, which was significantly improved from pre-operative scores (p = 0.008). Conclusion The present data is in agreement with previously published studies that have shown an improvement in tinnitus following cochlear implantation for the large majority of patients with single-sided deafness.

To describe and assess intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in the insertion of osseointegrated auditory implants with a newly designed surgical instrumentation set through a punch type technique.Retrospective case series.Patients who underwent bone anchored auditory implant surgery using the Minimally Invasive Ponto Surgery (Oticon Medical, Somerset, NJ) surgical set through a punch technique at nine neurotology tertiary referral based practices were identified. Demographic data, skin thickness at implant site, implant used, duration of surgery, adverse intraoperative events, and postoperative outcomes were recorded.Seventy-five patients comprised the study cohort (32 males, 43 females). Most patients (57. 3%) were aged 51 to 75 years while 30.7% of the cohort comprised those aged 18 to 50 years and 12% were over 75 years. All but two patients received 4 mm fixtured implants and 68% received the Oticon Medical BioHelix implant. Two patients received 3 mm fixture implants and 32% received the Oticon Medical Wide Ponto implant. Mean surgical time was 12.2 minutes (6-45 min, standard deviation of 6.88 min). In three instances, surgery was converted to a linear incision to control brisk bleeding. Skin condition was Holgers 0 to 1 in 91.8%, while 5.5% had Holgers 2, and 2.7% had Holgers 3 at the first postoperative visit. At second postoperative visit, 94.3% had Holgers 0 to 1, 4.3% had Holgers 2, and 1.4% had Holgers 3. All instances of adverse skin reactions were treated with topical or systemic antibiotics and/or local debridement. There were no instances of implant loss. One patient had his implant traumatically displaced to a 45-degree angle necessitating implant replacement at a second site.Punch technique placement of osseointegrated auditory implants using the Minimally Invasive Ponto Surgery surgical set represents a safe technique that further simplifies a progressively minimally invasive surgery.

Objectives: To analyze hearing outcomes following Type 3 tympanoplasty with stapes columella grafting after canal wall down mastoidectomy and determine disease recurrence rates in patients undergoing this procedure. Methods: This retrospective cohort analysis examines patients undergoing Type 3 tympanoplasty with stapes columella grafting following canal wall down mastoidectomy for cholesteatoma at a tertiary care center from 2005 to 2015. Patient charts were reviewed for demographic data, diagnosis, and operative details. Patients were included in statistical analysis if they were found to have undergone the aforementioned procedure. Evaluation of hearing improvement was made by comparing preoperative air-bone gap (ABG) and ABG at follow-up at 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. Results: Nineteen patients met criteria for this study. Erosion of the otic capsule, posterior fossa plate, or tegmen was noted in 37% of cases, highlighting disease severity. Eighteen (95%) had undergone prior otologic surgery. Mean time to short-term follow-up was 6 ± 3 months. The average short-term ABG was 26 ± 11 dB HL; 26% achieved an ABG Conclusion: In some patients undergoing canal wall down mastoidectomy for advanced or recurrent cholesteatoma, Type 3 tympanoplasty with stapes columella grafting yields marginal hearing benefit. This type of reconstruction is a viable option in this challenging patient cohort, particularly as it is associated with low rates of revision surgery.

Objectives This study characterizes primary petroclival meningioma growth rates, before intervention, using volumetric analysis. In addition, predictors of growth are analyzed. Methods Patients with previously untreated petroclival meningiomas were retrospectively reviewed (1999-2015). Image analysis software was used to perform volumetric analyses of tumor size and growth. Three-dimensional segmentation volumetric analyses were compared with volumes estimated utilizing three orthogonal dimensions. Tumor growth was defined as a 15% increase in volume. Results Thirty-four patients who underwent at least two magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies before intervention were included. The mean age was 55.2 years, and 65.7% were women. The mean tumor volume at presentation was 5.6 cm (range, 0.1-25.8 cm) as determined from segmentation volumetric analysis. At a mean follow-up of 44.5 months (range, 3.7-125.1 mo), 88.2% of tumors grew. The mean annual volumetric growth rate was 2.38 cm/yr (-0.63 to 25.9 cm/yr). Tumor volume, T2 hyperintensity within the tumor, peritumoral edema, and ataxia and/or cerebellar symptoms at presentation were all significantly associated with greater rates of tumor growth. Ultimately, 10 (29.4%) patients underwent treatment during the follow-up period. Conclusion Our experience demonstrates that the vast majority (88%) of untreated petroclival meningiomas grow; the mean volumetric growth rate was noted to be 2.38 cm/yr. We found a significant association between increased growth rate and larger tumor size at diagnosis, T2 hyperintensity within the tumor, peritumoral edema, and the presence of ataxia and/or cerebellar symptoms.

Objective Patients with incidental or minimally symptomatic superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) are usually observed, without surgical repair. However, it remains unknown whether a labyrinthine fistula of the superior semicircular canal is associated with progressive conductive or sensorineural hearing loss over time. Study Design Retrospective review at two tertiary care academic referral centers. Methods Adults analyzed were diagnosed with SSCD by high-resolution temporal bone computed tomography and vestibular evoked myogenic potential testing and observed with a minimum of two sequential audiograms. Patients with other potential causes of hearing impairment were excluded. Results A total of 40 ears in 30 adult patients (median age: 59 years; 63% female) were analyzed. Median audiometric follow-up was 23 months (range 1–136 months). None experienced a sudden hearing loss over the follow-up period. In patients with audiometric follow-up of at least 20 months (median 34 months), the median change in air-conduction pure tone average and air–bone gap was 0.9 decibels (dB) per year (interquartile range [IQR] 0–2.1) and 0.7 dB per year (IQR 0–2.0), respectively. Speech discrimination scores did not differ when comparing median initial (100%) and median final (98%) scores (P = 0.77). There was no statistically significant change in bone-conduction thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz over the period of observation. Conclusion The risk of progressive hearing loss with observed SSCD is low during short- and intermediate-term follow-up. Further studies are necessary to determine whether late hearing loss occurs. Such information may be critical toward patient counseling regarding the need for and timing of surgery. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 127:1181–1186, 2017

OBJECTIVE To analyze disease presentation, treatment, and clinical course of a consecutive series of patients with primary cerebellopontine angle (CPA) epidermoids. PATIENTS Forty-seven consecutive patients with previously untreated CPA epidermoids. INTERVENTION(S) Observation and microsurgery. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Disease- and treatment-associated morbidity, recurrence. RESULTS Forty-seven patients (mean age 39 years; 53% women) were analyzed and the average duration of follow-up was 42 months. The most common presenting symptom was headache (27; 57%); 13 (28%) exhibited preoperative asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss, 3 (6%) facial nerve paresis, and 3 (6%) hemifacial spasm. Thirteen patients (28%) were initially observed over a mean interval of 56 months; however, five experienced disease progression requiring operation. Thirty-nine patients (83%) underwent surgical resection; 18 (46%) received gross total, 5 (13%) near total, and 16 (41%) aggressive subtotal resection. Three patients (8%) recurred at a median of 53 months; two after subtotal and one after gross total resection. Ninety-three percent of patients with useful hearing maintained serviceable hearing following treatment and one patient (3%) experienced mild long-term postoperative facial nerve paresis (HB II/VI). All patients with preoperative facial nerve paresis recovered normal function postoperatively. There were no episodes of stroke or death. CONCLUSIONS Surgical intervention is effective in alleviating symptoms of cranial neuropathy and brainstem compression from CPA epidermoids. Gross total resection is preferred; however, aggressive subtotal removal should be considered with adherent or extensive disease as reoperation rates are low, even in the setting of aggressive subtotal resection. Conservative observation with serial imaging is a viable initial strategy in asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic patients.

This study explores the current literature regarding associations between phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors and ototoxicity and provides a detailed summary and discussion of the findings.A comprehensive electronic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library for studies published from database inception through March 21, 2018.Basic science articles, epidemiological studies, randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case reports, reviews, meta-analyses, press releases, and newsletters were included. The PRISMA search strategy was used to select papers. Search terms are included in the appendix (http://links.lww.com/MAO/A733).Twenty-two articles met the inclusion criteria. Among case reports, there were a total of nine patients, all male, with an average age of 57.4 years (37-79 years, SD = 13.87 years). Of the cases of hearing loss, 25% (2/8 cases) were bilateral and 75% (6/8) were unilateral; 22% (2/9) were associated with tinnitus; and 33% (3/9) had accompanying vestibular symptoms (including vertigo and dizziness). Among multipatient studies, all prospective studies failed to find a significant association between ototoxicity and PDE-5 inhibitor use. Results of the retrospective studies were also heterogeneous. Many key molecules in the PDE-5 inhibition pathway have been demonstrated to exist in the cochlea. However, mirroring the clinical studies, the basic science mechanisms have suggested both ototoxic and otoprotective effects.Currently, the literature is inconclusive regarding the interaction between PDE-5 inhibitor use and ototoxicity. Future study such as a double-blinded placebo controlled randomized trial with audiometric assessment would provide more sound evidence. Similarly, a unified molecular model is necessary.

Objectives To highlight superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) involving the superior petrosal sinus (SPS), and to propose a novel classification system for SPS associated SSCD with potential surgical implications. Study design Multicenter retrospective review. Setting Three tertiary referral centers. Patients All patients diagnosed with SPS associated SSCD (1/2000 to 8/2016). Radiographic findings and clinical symptoms were analyzed. Intervention Surgical repair or observation. Main outcome measure Radiographic findings and clinical symptoms were analyzed. Results Thirty-three dehiscences (30 patients) involving the SPS were identified. The average age at the time of presentation was 52.5 years (median, 56.9; range, 4.9-75.3 yr), and 53.3% of patients were men. Three patients had bilateral SPS associated SSCD. The most common associated symptoms at presentation were episodic vertigo (63.6%), subjective hearing loss (60.6%), and aural fullness (57.6%). Four distinct types of dehiscence were identified: class Ia. SSCD involving a single dehiscence into an otherwise normal appearing SPS; class Ib. SSCD involving a single dehiscence into an apparent venous anomaly of the SPS; class IIa. SSCD involving two distinct dehiscences into the middle cranial fossa and the SPS; class IIb. SSCD involving a single confluent dehiscence into the middle cranial fossa and the SPS. Conclusions SSCD involving the SPS represents a small but distinct subset of SSCD cases. This scenario can create a unique set of symptoms and surgical challenges when intervention is sought. Clinical findings and considerations for surgical intervention are provided to facilitate effective diagnosis and management.

Introduction Hearing loss in children is a common entity worldwide. We examined the prevalence and etiology of hearing loss among primary school children in Mbarara, Uganda. Methods Cross-sectional study in primary school children aged 5–14 was performed to determine the prevalence of hearing loss. Ugandan primary school children were screened for disabling hearing loss (threshold >30 dB) and confirmatory audiometry was performed on those who failed the screening. Results There were 639 children screened. Thirty-five (5.5%) of children screened failed and were referred for further testing. Two children were lost to follow-up. The percentage of children with true hearing loss was 3.1%. Conclusions The incidence of failed hearing screening and hearing loss in Mbarara, Uganda is similar to other populations. Hearing loss is a significant problem in Uganda and efforts should be made for primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of hearing loss.

Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of resorbable mesh cranioplasty at reducing postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak and pseudomeningocele formation after translabyrinthine tumor resection. Study design Case series with chart review. Setting Tertiary academic referral center. Patients Fifty-three consecutive cases using a resorbable mesh cranioplasty after translabyrinthine tumor resection were reviewed. Intervention Temporal bone defects were repaired with a dural substitute, layered fat graft, and a resorbable mesh plate secured with screws. Main outcome measures Primary outcome measures included the incidence of postoperative CSF wound leak or rhinorrhea, pseudomeningocele formation, and surgical site infection. Results Fifty-three cases (average age, 54.0 yr; range, 19.3-75.1 yr) were analyzed. The average body mass index was 30.8 kg/m2 (range, 17.9-48.3 kg/m2), and the average tumor size was 18.8 mm (range, 8-38 mm). One patient (1.9%) experienced CSF rhinorrhea on postoperative Day 16, which resolved after transmastoid middle ear and eustachian tube packing. One patient (1.9%) experienced a surgical site infection requiring surgical debridement and mesh removal 4 months after surgery. Compared with 1,441 prior translabyrinthine surgeries analyzed from our institution using a traditional fat graft closure without mesh, the rate of postoperative CSF leak was significantly less using the resorbable mesh cranioplasty technique (p = 0.0483). Conclusion Resorbable mesh cranioplasty is a safe and effective method to reduce postoperative CSF leak and pseudomeningocele formation after translabyrinthine craniotomy for tumor excision.

Temporal lobe encephaloceles are characterized by protrusion of brain parenchyma through a structural defect in the floor of the middle fossa. They have been reported to cause cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks, conductive hearing loss, meningitis, and seizures. The association between temporal encephaloceles and epileptiform activity is particularly rare.All patients who presented to a single tertiary referral center between 2011 and 2014 with intractable seizures and radiographic evidence of a middle cranial fossa encephalocele were evaluated. Five patients from this subset who underwent surgical repair of their encephalocele are presented.Middle cranial fossa approach for encephalocele repair.Postoperative epileptiform activity.Five patients underwent a craniotomy for resection of a temporal lobe encephalocele with repair of a middle fossa floor defect. After surgery, CSF rhinorrhea resolved, when present, and all patients remained seizure-free through their last available follow-up. Range of follow-up time was 3.5 months to 4 years. Average follow-up time was 19.7 months.Temporal lobe encephaloceles are an infrequent cause of seizures. Given that these lesions can be missed with standard imaging modalities, they are likely underdiagnosed upon initial medical evaluation. This diagnosis should be considered in patients with intractable seizures. If an encephalocele is found, focused resection of epileptogenic tissue associated with herniation and repair of the temporal floor defect can provide definitive treatment.

Objective To describe the incidence and management of patients with facial nerve stimulation (FNS) associated with cochlear implant (CI) use in the setting of a prior temporal bone fracture. Patients One adult CI recipient is reported who experienced implant associated FNS with a history of a temporal bone fracture. Additionally, a literature search was performed to identify similar patients from previous descriptions of CI related FNS. Main outcome measures Presence of FNS after implantation and ability to modify implant programming to avoid FNS. Results The patient in the present report experienced FNS for middle and basal electrodes during intraoperative neural response telemetry (NRT) in the absence of any surgical exposure or manipulation of the facial nerve. FNS was absent during device activation, but it recurred during follow-up programming sessions. However, additional programming has prevented further FNS during regular implant use. Four other patients with FNS after temporal bone fracture were identified from the literature, and the present case represents the one of two cases in which reprogramming allowed for implant use without FNS. Conclusions CI associated FNS is uncommon in patients with a history of a temporal bone fracture, but it is likely that fracture lines provide a lower impedance pathway to the adjacent facial nerve and thus reduce the threshold for FNS. The present report suggests that, in the setting of a prior temporal bone fracture, NRT is not always a reliable predictor of FNS during implant use, and programming changes can help to mitigate FNS when it occurs.

Cholesterol granuloma is the most common primary lesion of the petrous apex. Management of petrous apex cholesterol granuloma has evolved in recent years from primary surgical treatment to conservative observation. In this article, a case of spontaneous resolution of a petrous apex cholesterol granuloma is described. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first known report of spontaneous involution of a petrous apex cholesterol granuloma. Radiographic differential diagnosis of petrous apex lesions and the natural history of cholesterol granulomas are discussed.

(1) To investigate the outcomes of cochlear implant receiver-stimulator (RS) placement using a tight subperiosteal pocket technique without device fixation and (2) to compare the efficiency of this approach with the traditional bony well and trough technique.Case series with planned chart review.Single tertiary academic referral center.All cochlear implant surgeries utilizing a tight subperiosteal pocket without additional fixation or use of a bone well were identified retrospectively. Revision cases were only included if the tight subperiosteal pocket technique was used during the initial surgery. Patients with less than 6 months of postoperative follow-up were excluded. Primary outcome measures included RS migration, flap complications, device failure, and percentage reduction in operative time.Two hundred twenty-eight cases (average age 45.3 years) met inclusion criterion and were analyzed. At a mean follow-up of 18.1 months, no patient experienced RS migration. One patient experienced a postoperative hematoma that was managed with observation. One patient developed a surgical site infection that resolved following exploration and intravenous antibiotics. The subperiosteal pocket technique resulted in an 18.9% reduction in total operative time compared to a more conventional RS placement method (P.01).The tight subperiosteal pocket without fixation is a safe, durable, and time-saving technique for RS placement during cochlear implantation. Notably, device migration and flap complications are very uncommon.

OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the use of aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) impact the growth of vestibular schwannoma (VS). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case series. SETTING Single academic, tertiary care center. PATIENTS Patients with VS who underwent at least two magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies before intervention. INTERVENTION(S) Serial MRI studies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) VS tumor growth, defined as more than or equal to 2 mm increase in the maximum tumor diameter between consecutive MRI studies, or between the first and last available study. Mean growth rate was also calculated, defined as the change in tumor size divided by length of follow-up. RESULTS A total of 564 VS patients met inclusion criteria, with 234 (41.2%) taking some type of NSAID. Aspirin use was not associated with VS tumor growth, presenting tumor diameter, or mean VS growth rate. Further, aspirin dosage did not impact growth outcomes or presenting tumor diameter. A total of 96 (17.0%) patients took an NSAID other than aspirin. Neither non-aspirin NSAID use nor degree of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selectivity, including aspirin, was significantly associated with VS tumor growth, presenting tumor diameter, or mean VS growth rate. CONCLUSIONS While previous studies have suggested a relationship between aspirin usage and VS growth, we found no significant association in our series of 564 observed VS. Furthermore, there was no apparent relationship between aspirin dosage, non-aspirin NSAID use, and COX-2 selectivity with VS growth, presenting tumor diameter at presentation, or mean VS growth rate.

Purpose The purpose of the present investigation was to determine whether there are significant differences in patient/healthcare provider perceptions of patient's dizziness severity, dizziness disability/handicap, anxiety, and signs of autonomic system activation. Materials and methods This was a prospective investigation of 30 patient–provider dyads drawn as a sample of convenience from an otology clinic in a large, tertiary care, medical center. Patients completed both the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and the Vestibular Symptom Scale (VSS) prior to vestibular function testing. Providers were instructed to complete the same measures following the patient's clinic visit from what they estimated was the patient's point of view. The two measures were analyzed for concordance and discordance. Results Patient/provider differences in DHI and VSS vertigo subscale scores were not significantly different. However, difference scores on the VSS anxiety/autonomic subscale indicated that providers significantly under-estimated patient anxiety and symptoms of autonomic system activation. Conclusions The results suggest that providers may be missing information pertinent to the role anxiety and autonomic system activation may play in patient visits for complaints of dizziness. We suggest that this problem can be mitigated by administrating to patients prior to their clinic visit a standardized measure that quantifies patient self-report dizziness, vertigo, anxiety and autonomic system arousal. Patterns of response by patients on these measures can enable providers to diagnose correctly dizziness disorders that are rooted in clinically significant anxiety either related to, or unrelated to, a history of vestibular system impairment.

Objective The majority of patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS) initially experience audiovestibular dysfunction prompting medical evaluation. Over the past several years, the authors have noticed a significant disparity in clinical presentation among patients with preexisting cognitive impairment compared with the general population. The objective of the current study is to review the clinical presentation of 5 consecutive patients with baseline cognitive delay who were ultimately diagnosed with VS. Design Retrospective review. Setting Two tertiary academic referral centers. Patients Consecutive subjects with baseline cognitive impairment who were evaluated for VS between 2010 and 2013. Main outcome measures Presenting symptoms and tumor characteristics. Results Five adult subjects were identified. The most common reasons for seeking medical care included worsening ataxia and headaches, despite the fact that all patients had profound ipsilateral hearing loss. Additionally, 2 patients endorsed facial numbness, and 2 had partial facial paresis. MRI revealed a median preoperative tumor size of 4.7 cm (4.3-5.7 cm), and all patients had varying degrees of hydrocephalus and peritumoral vasogenic edema. Conclusion Preexisting cognitive impairment is a risk factor for late presentation of VS. Patients with normal cognitive function most commonly seek medical care after unilateral hearing loss and tinnitus. In contrast, individuals with poor cognitive capacity may be unable to acknowledge such symptoms or communicate their presence. In such patients, the diagnosis of VS is elusive, and clinicians should maintain a low threshold for imaging to avoid further delays in diagnosis and treatment.

To evaluate tumor control following subtotal resection of advanced jugular paragangliomas in patients with functional lower cranial nerves and to investigate the utility of salvage radiotherapy for residual progressive disease.Case series with planned chart review.Tertiary academic referral center.Patients who presented with advanced jugular paragangliomas and functional lower cranial nerves were analyzed. Primary outcome measures included extent of resection, long-term tumor control, need for additional treatment, and postoperative lower cranial nerve function.Twelve patients (mean age, 46.2 years; 7 women, 58.3%) who met inclusion criteria were evaluated between 1999 and 2013. The mean postoperative residual tumor volume was 27.7% (range, 3.5%-75.0%) of the preoperative volume. When the residual tumor volume was less than 20% of the preoperative volume, no tumor growth occurred over an average of 44.6 months of follow-up (P.01). Four tumors (33.3%) demonstrated serial growth at a mean of 23.5 months following resection, 2 of which were treated with salvage stereotactic radiotherapy providing control through the last recorded follow-up. No patient experienced permanent postoperative lower cranial neuropathy as a result of surgery.Subtotal resection of jugular paragangliomas with preservation of the lower cranial nerves is a viable management strategy. If more than 80% of the preoperative tumor volume is resected, the residual tumor seems less likely to grow.

Objective: This study aimed to better identify factors associated with recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) involving the temporal bone. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary hospital. Sixty patients who were diagnosed over a 10-year period with SCC involving the temporal bone and underwent surgical resection were analyzed. All patients were staged based on the University of Pittsburgh staging system. Demographic, intraoperative, and pathologic data were analyzed with respect to recurrence. Results: Thirteen (21.7%) patients were T1, 8 (13.3%) T2, 7 (11.7%) T3, and 32 (53.3%) T4. Eighteen patients (30.0%) recurred in the study period. The mean time to recurrence was 5.8 months. Tumors originating in the skin overlying the parotid gland and the external auditory canal had higher recurrence rates than those from the auricle/postauricular skin and temporal bone ( P = .05). Direct parotid and perineural spread accounted for 15.0% of all routes of temporal invasion but resulted in 22.2% of all recurrences ( P = .04). Increased N stage was statistically associated with increased risk of recurrence ( P = .01). Cervical, as compared to perifacial and parotid, lymph node involvement was associated with increased risk of recurrence (odds ratio = 6.91; 95% confidence interval, 1.11–42.87). Conclusion: We have identified multiple factors that are associated with increased recurrence of SCC involving the temporal bone.

To determine the risk factors for unanticipated readmission, prolonged index admission, and discharge to a facility after vestibular schwannoma surgery.Retrospective cohort study of those undergoing surgery for vestibular schwannoma in the Nationwide Readmissions Database (2013-2014). Main outcome measures included readmission rate, length of stay, discharge destination.There were 4585 cases identified. The overall unanticipated readmission rate was 8.1%, and 9.1% had a prolonged length of stay (PLOS) of ≥7 days. Mean and median LOS were 4.63 and 4.00 days, respectively, and90% of patients were discharged after 7 days. Disposition to a facility occurred in 6.7% of cases. Teaching hospitals were protective against unintended readmission (odds ratio [OR] 0.44, p .001). Major functional loss was associated with PLOS (OR 12.55, p .001). High volume centers were associated with decreased risk of PLOS (OR 0.46, p .001) and facility discharge (OR 0.68, p .001). The most common readmission diagnoses included "other nervous system complications" (n = 128), cerebrospinal fluid leak (n = 71), "other postoperative infection" (n = 61), and meningitis (n = 59).Unanticipated readmission and prolonged LOS following vestibular schwannoma surgery are common, with varied sociodemographic, hospital, and patient factors independently associated with each. Further studies are needed to investigate targeted interventions aimed at minimizing readmission and prolonged LOS using the factors outlined above.

Objective To describe a contemporary, pragmatic approach to managing cholesteatoma in the only hearing ear. Study design Retrospective case series. Setting Single tertiary referral center. Patients All patients that underwent cholesteatoma surgery, having profound hearing loss in the contralateral ear. Intervention(s) Cholesteatoma surgery. Main outcome measure(s) Surgical strategy, preoperative and postoperative audiometric outcomes, short- and long-term complications, recidivism. Results Twenty-eight patients met criteria, representing 0.25% of all chronic ear surgeries performed between 1970 and 2012. Patients undergoing surgery in the latter half of the study underwent intact canal wall procedures and ossicular chain reconstruction more frequently despite having similar severities of disease. All patients with inner ear fistula underwent an open-cavity operation. In the early postoperative period, 86% of ears had stable or improved hearing levels, and all patients maintained preoperative bone conduction thresholds. At a mean follow-up of 48 months, 79% of patients maintained stable or improved pure tone thresholds, whereas 2 subjects experienced delayed sensorineural hearing loss and 2 experienced isolated declining speech discrimination. Notably, 3 of the latter 4 patients were diagnosed with labyrinthine fistula and had undergone radical mastoidectomy. None of the patients who received an intact canal wall tympanomastoidectomy experienced worsening bone conduction thresholds, whereas 1 subject demonstrated a delayed decline in speech discrimination and another recurred. Conclusion It is commonly held that the radical or classic modified radical mastoidectomy is the procedure of choice when managing cholesteatoma in the only hearing ear while intact canal wall techniques are contraindicated. Over the last 20 years, we have adopted a less-rigid, functional approach favoring intact canal wall procedures in the absence of inner ear fistula rather than unequivocally committing to an open cavity. This strategy has been influenced by advancements in preoperative evaluation, increasing familiarity and refinement of closed-cavity techniques, postoperative imaging surveillance options, and the potential for cochlear implant "salvage" in the rare case of profound hearing loss. Based on the current series, this approach appears safe when performed by an experienced surgeon, and reliable long-term patient follow-up is maintained.

OBJECTIVE To report the clinical presentation, management strategies, and outcomes of 14 endolymphatic sac tumors (EST). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case series. SETTING Collective experience accrued from 2 tertiary referral centers. PATIENTS All patients with ESTs. INTERVENTION Microsurgery, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Treatment-related morbidity, recurrence. RESULTS Fourteen ESTs (13 patients) met inclusion criteria. Eight tumors were sporadic, and 6 were associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL). Twelve lesions were managed primarily, whereas 2 were referred for treatment of sizable recurrences after subtotal resection. Including all patients, the median age at diagnosis was 36 years, and the median duration of posttreatment follow-up was 78 months. Among primary tumors, the median delay between symptom onset and diagnosis was 36 months, and the median tumor diameter at presentation was 23 mm with most lesions demonstrating intracranial involvement. Subjects with VHL frequently presented with smaller, less extensive tumors and were more commonly female compared with patients with sporadic disease. Of the 9 ESTs presenting with normal facial nerve function, 8 maintained good (HB 1-2) posttreatment capacity. Two of 5 ears with useful preoperative hearing maintained pretreatment hearing levels after surgery. One of 12 tumors managed primarily recurred after microsurgical resection. Primary SRS was used in 1 medically infirm patient providing durable tumor control (94 mo) at last follow-up. Among recurrent tumors, 2 were managed successfully with reexcision, whereas 1 underwent salvage surgery followed by 2 sequential treatments of SRS for 2 separate intracranial recurrences; no in-field recurrence has been detected to date. CONCLUSION ESTs are rare primary neoplasms of the temporal bone that may occur sporadically or in association with VHL. Outcomes after treatment of small less-extensive tumors are favorable compared with patients with advanced primary or recurrent disease. Furthermore, subtotal resection carries a high risk of bulky or multifocal recurrence. As such, early gross total resection remains the management strategy of choice for primary and recurrent ESTs; however, SRS should be considered in poor surgical candidates or in cases of focal intracranial recurrence when the morbidity of salvage surgery is high.

OBJECTIVE To compare presentation, operative findings, and outcomes among pediatric patients undergoing primary stapedectomy for congenital stapes footplate fixation (CSFF) and juvenile otosclerosis (JO). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review. SETTING Combined experience from 2 tertiary academic referral centers. PATIENTS Pediatric patients with CSFF and JO. INTERVENTION Primary stapedectomy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) 1) Preoperative and postoperative audiometric data using the 1995 AAO-HNS reporting guidelines; 2) Notable operative findings, and postoperative complications. RESULTS Forty-four pediatric ears met inclusion criteria (27 CSFF, 17 JO). Patients with CSFF presented with a more significant hearing loss (mean PTA 52 dB versus 42 dB; p = 0.04), underwent surgery at a younger age (12.2 versus 16.3 yr; p < 0.001), and more commonly had coincident ossicular malformations (37% versus 0%; p = 0.004). Subjects with JO demonstrated a smaller postoperative ABG (mean 8.8 dB versus 17.2 dB; p = 0.04), although both groups experienced a statistically significant improvement following surgery. Mean bone conduction thresholds remained stable for both groups. There were no instances of profound sensorineural hearing loss, perilymph gusher, facial nerve paresis, or tympanic membrane perforation. CONCLUSION When performed by an experienced surgeon, stapedectomy is safe and effective in managing carefully selected pediatric patients with CSFF and JO. CSFF is associated with a more severe hearing loss at presentation and concurrent ossicular anomalies are common. Both groups experience substantial benefit from stapedectomy, although ABG closure rates are superior in patients with JO. These data may be helpful in preoperative assessment and patient counseling.

Objective To increase otolaryngology resident experience with drilling and dissection of the internal auditory canal (IAC) via a translabyrinthine approach. Study design Pilot study involving temporal bone education and drilling with completion of pre- and post-drilling surveys. Methods Participants observed an educational presentation on IAC anatomy and drilling, followed by manipulation of IAC nerves using a prosected cadaveric temporal bone. Participants then drilled the IAC and identified nerves using temporal bones with previously drilled mastoidectomies and labyrinthectomies. Pre- and post-drilling 5-point Likert-based surveys were completed. Results 7 participants were included in this study ranging in experience from PGY1 through PGY 5. The median number of times the IAC had been drilled previously was 0. Participants reported statistically significantly improved familiarity with the translabyrinthine approach after the session with median scores increasing from 2 to 3 (p = 0.02), and a near-significant increase in familiarity with IAC anatomy with median scores increasing from 3 to 4 (p = 0.06). Prior to the session, 71% of participants either disagreed or strongly disagreed that they had an idea of what the procedure would be like in a real operating room, whereas after the session 0% reported disagreement. 100% of participants were very satisfied with the overall experience. Conclusions An educational session and temporal bone drilling experience using prosected bones significantly increased the reported familiarity with the translabyrinthine approach. Experiences such as this may enhance resident exposure to advanced lateral skull base approaches in a safe environment, and increase comprehension of the complex anatomic relationships of the IAC.

To investigate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic middle ear paraganglioma (glomus tympanicum) resection.Case series with chart review.Multi-institutional tertiary university medical centers.Adult patients with middle ear paragangliomas treated via a transcanal endoscopic approach from 1/2012 to 11/2015.All tumors were initially approached via a transcanal endoscopic technique. An operating microscope was used only if the tumor could not be adequately visualized or resected with endoscopic techniques alone.The main outcome was completeness of tumor resection via the endoscopic technique. Secondary measures were resolution of pulsatile tinnitus, audiometric outcomes, surgical duration, and surgical complications.Endoscopic resection was attempted on 14 middle ear paragangliomas. Thirteen patients (93%) were women with a mean age of 61.6 years. The mean tumor size was 6.2 mm (SD, 3.3). Eleven cases (79%) had complete resection via an exclusive endoscopic approach. The mean surgical duration was 108.1 minutes (SD, 55.6). One case required use of an operating microscope via a transcanal route and two cases required postauricular incisions with mastoidectomy. There were no significant postoperative complications. Two patients (14%) had tympanic membrane perforations repaired intraoperatively without residual perforation on follow-up. All patients had normal postoperative facial nerve function. Pulsatile tinnitus resolved after surgery in all 13 patients who presented with this symptom preoperatively. The mean pure-tone average improved by 5.9 dB (SD, 4.6) after surgery.Endoscopic management of middle ear paraganglioma is safe, feasible, and effective.

Objective To determine the sensitivity and specificity of ocular and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) in the diagnosis of superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SCD) and to describe the VEMP response characteristics that are most sensitive to SCD and compare the findings to previous reports. Study Design Case series with chart review. Setting Two tertiary neurotologic referral centers. Subjects and Methods Cervical and ocular VEMP peak-to-peak amplitudes and thresholds from 39 adult patients older than 18 years with surgically confirmed SCD were compared with 84 age-matched controls. Results Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, cervical VEMP (cVEMP) amplitudes, cVEMP thresholds, and ocular VEMP (oVEMP) amplitudes had areas under the curve of 0.731, 0.912, and 0.856, respectively, all of which were statistically significant ( P.0001). For cVEMP thresholds, at the clinical equivalent ≤85-dB normalized hearing level (nHL) threshold, the sensitivity and specificity were 97.3% and 31.3%, respectively. At the ≤70-dB nHL threshold, the sensitivity and specificity were 73.0% and 94.0%, respectively. For oVEMP amplitudes12.0 µV, the sensitivity and specificity were 78.6% and 81.7%, respectively. Conclusion Data from this multicenter study suggest that both cVEMP thresholds and oVEMP amplitudes remain good diagnostic tests for identifying SCD, with each test dependent on a number of factors. The sensitivity and specificity of these individual tests may vary slightly between centers depending on testing parameters used.

To describe the incidence, clinical presentation, and performance of cochlear implant (CI) recipients with tip fold-over.Retrospective case series.Tertiary referral center.CI recipients who underwent postoperative computed tomography (CT) scanning.Tip fold-over was identified tomographically using previously validated software that identifies the electrode array. Electrophysiologic testing including spread of excitation or electric field imaging (EFI) was measured on those with fold-over.Location of the fold-over; audiological performance pre and postselective deactivation of fold-over electrodes.Three hundred three ears of 235 CI recipients had postoperative CTs available for review. Six (1.98%) had tip fold-over with 5/6 right-sided ears. Tip fold-over occurred predominantly at 270 degrees and was associated with precurved electrodes (5/6). Patients did not report audiological complaints during initial activation. In one patient, the electrode array remained within the scala tympani with preserved residual hearing despite the fold-over. Spread of excitation supported tip fold-over, but the predictive value was not clear. EFI predicted location of the fold-over with clear predictive value in one patient. At an average follow-up of 11 months, three subjects underwent deactivation of the overlapping electrodes with two of them showing marked audiological improvement.In a large academic center with experienced surgeons, tip fold-over occurred at a rate of 1.98% but was not immediately identifiable clinically. CT imaging definitively showed tip fold-over. Deactivating involved electrodes may improve performance possibly avoiding revision surgery. EFI may be highly predictive of tip fold-over and can be run intraoperatively, potentially obviating the need for intraop fluoroscopy.

Objective Describe the safety profile and surgical outcomes of a combined transmastoid-middle cranial fossa suture "pull-through" technique for repair of lateral skull base defects. Study design Retrospective. Setting Tertiary care hospital. Patients Patients undergoing surgery for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula and/or encephalocele. Intervention Combined transmastoid and middle fossa approach using suture pull-through technique. Main outcome measures The primary outcome measures of interest were recurrence of CSF fistula or encephalocele, and postoperative air-bone gap. Results Twenty-six patients were included; mean age at surgery was 60 ± 14 years and 65% of patients were female. The majority of defects involved both the tegmen mastoideum and tympani (69%); multiple defects were present in 11 patients. Small craniotomy (2 × 3 cm) was performed and defects were repaired using composite grafts constructed with fascia, bone, and/or cartilage, and dural substitute affixed with suture. The suture tail was left long and passed from the middle fossa through the defect into the mastoid. At average follow-up of 8.3 months, no patients of recurrent CSF leak were noted. Significant improvements in both mean pure-tone average and air-bone gap were noted for the entire cohort (p = 0.04 and p = 0.02, respectively). Conclusion A combined transmastoid-middle cranial fossa for the repair of lateral skull base CSF fistula and encephaloceles using the suture "pull-through" technique is efficacious and the complication profile is favorable. This method facilitates reliable placement of a composite graft in the center of lateral skull base defects through a small craniotomy that minimizes temporal lobe retraction.

Patients with auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) exhibit altered neural synchrony in response to auditory stimuli. Cochlear implantation (CI) is thought to improve neural synchrony in response to auditory stimuli and improve speech perception relative to conventional hearing amplification (HA).Retrospective review.Tertiary otologic practice.Subjects included patients with ANSD treated at Vanderbilt University from 1999 to 2011. Sixteen patients underwent CI, and 10 received binaural HAs. Pretreatment performance was assessed through speech reception thresholds and parent questionnaire (Infant-Toddler Meaningful Auditory Integration Scale [IT-MAIS]). Posttreatment outcomes were assessed using IT-MAIS and closed-/open-set speech perception scores.Two HA users underwent neuromaturation and were excluded from further analysis. For the remaining patients, median duration of device use was 48 months. All CI patients had a prior binaural HA trial with failure of auditory skills development. Median available pretreatment IT-MAIS score was 13 and 30 for CI and HA groups, respectively (rank sum test, P = .32). Posttreatment, 6 of 16 CI patients and 4 of 8 HA patients achieved open-set speech perception scores ≥ 60%. No differences between groups were found in posttreatment IT-MAIS scores (rank sum test, P = .11) or the percentage of patients achieving the above levels of open-set speech perception (Fisher exact test, P = .67).A wide range of speech perception outcomes are observed in ANSD patients. In our ANSD population, patients who exhibited failure of auditory skills development with HAs were able to achieve comparable overall speech perception outcomes after CI relative to those who continued to make appropriate auditory progress with HAs alone.

The aims of this study were to investigate short- and long-term rates of hearing preservation after cochlear implantation and identify factors that impact hearing preservation.Retrospective review.Patients undergoing cochlear implantation with conventional-length electrodes and air-conduction thresholds ≤80 dB HL at 250 Hz preoperatively were included. Hearing preservation was defined as air-conduction thresholds ≤80 dB HL at 250 Hz.The sample included 196 patients (225 implants). Overall, the rate of short-term hearing preservation was 38% (84/225), with 18% (33/188) of patients preserving hearing long term. Multivariate analysis showed better preoperative hearing was predictive of hearing preservation at short (odds ratio [OR]: 0.93, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.91-0.95, P.001) and long-term follow-up (OR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.91-0.97, P.001). Lateral wall electrodes and mid-scala electrodes had 3.4 (95% CI: 1.4-8.6, P = .009) and 5.6-times (95% CI: 1.8-17.3, P = .003) higher odds of hearing preservation than perimodiolar arrays at short-term follow-up, respectively. Long-term data revealed better hearing preservation for lateral wall (OR: 7.6, 95% CI: 1.6-36.1, P = .01), but not mid-scala (OR: 3.1, 95% CI: 0.4-23.1, P = .28), when compared to perimodiolar electrodes. Round window/extended round window (RW/ERW) approaches were associated with higher rates of long-term hearing preservation (21%) than cochleostomy approaches (0%) (P = 0.002) on univariate analysis.Better preoperative residual hearing, lateral wall electrodes, and RW/ERW approaches are predictive of higher rates of long-term functional hearing preservation.4. Laryngoscope, 128:482-489, 2018.

To characterize the risk and predictors of growth during observation of vestibular schwannomas (VS).Retrospective case series.Single academic, tertiary care center.Five hundred sixty-four consecutive VS patients who underwent at least two magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies before intervention.Serial MRI studies.Tumor growth, defined as a ≥2 mm increase in the maximum tumor diameter between consecutive MRI studies, or between the first and last study.A total of 1296 patients (1995-2015) with VS were identified. Of those, 564 patients (median age 59.2 years; 53.5% female) were initially observed and underwent multiple MRI studies (median follow-up 22.9 months, interquartile range [IQR] 11.7-42.7). The median maximum tumor diameter at presentation was 1.00 cm (IQR 0.6-1.51 cm). In all, 40.8% of tumors demonstrated growth and 32.1% underwent intervention (21.5% microsurgery, 10.5% radiation) during the surveillance period. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that for each tumor, the risk of growth or intervention was significantly increased for larger initial VS diameters (HR = 2.22; 95% CI: 1.90-2.61) and when disequilibrium was a presenting symptom (HR = 1.70; 95% CI: 1.30-2.23). Patient age, sex, aspirin use, and presenting symptoms of asymmetric hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo were not associated with tumor growth.To date, this is the largest series of observed VS reported in the literature. Risk of VS growth is significantly increased among patients who present with larger tumors and who have concomitant disequilibrium.IRB:: 151481.No cohort with this sample size has assessed vestibular schwannoma growth rates in conjunction with this number of variables.To characterize vestibular schwannoma growth rates and predictors of growth.

OBJECTIVE To correlate objective measures of vestibular and audiometric function as well as subjective measures of dizziness handicap with the surface area of the superior canal dehiscence (SCD). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective chart review and radiological analysis. SETTING Single tertiary academic referral center. PATIENTS Preoperative computed tomography imaging, patient survey, audiometric thresholds, and vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing in patients with confirmed SCD. INTERVENTION(S) Image analysis techniques were developed to measure the surface area of each SCD in computed tomography imaging. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Preoperative ocular and cervical VEMPs, air and bone conduction thresholds, air-bone gap, dizziness handicap inventory scores, and surface area of the SCD. RESULTS Fifty-three patients (mean age 52.7 yr) with 84 SCD were analyzed. The median surface area of dehiscence was 1.44 mm (0.068-8.23 mm). Ocular VEMP amplitudes (r = 0.61, p