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Objective: This study aims to present a series of patients with disseminated rhinosporidosis with diagnostic and therapeutic features. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary health care centre in South India from 2007 to 2020 with disseminated rhinosporidiosis. Twelve patients with multiple sites of involvement like the nose, nasopharynx, oropharynx, larynx, lacrimal sac and skin were included in the study. All patients underwent surgical excision, followed by peroral dapsone for one year. Results: The age group was around 30-55 years, with male predominance (11:1). Pond bathing history was present in 50% (n=6). The most common site of lesion was the nose (100%), oropharynx (83.3%), skin (75%), larynx (50%) and less commonly, nasopharynx (41.6%) and lacrimal sac (25%). One patient underwent surgery four times (8.3%), followed by thrice and twice by five (41.6%) and six (50%) patients, respectively. On two years of follow-up, two patients (16.6%) had a recurrence in the nose and larynx whereas eight patients (66.6%) had no recurrence and two patients (16.6%) were lost to follow-up. Conclusion: This original article highlights the rare occurrence of disseminated rhinosporidiosis, the possibility of which should be kept in mind, mainly when two or more sites are involved. The most significant number of disseminated rhinosporidiosis cases in the literature is reported here. Dissemination with the cutaneous and multisite disease is rarely reported and poses difficulty in management. Early diagnosis and intervention prevent the dissemination of spores into various parts of the body.

Introduction Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETS) is the standard practice in pituitary surgeries. The sellar exposure becomes the main factor which determines the residual disease in ETS. Not many studies can be found in the literature on the influence of anatomical variations of the sphenoid on intraoperative sella exposure.

Although rare, a Petrous Internal Carotid Artery (ICA) pseudoaneurysm is a possible complication following chronic otitis media. A 57-year-old woman was brought to the Emergency Department with multiple painless episodes of right ear bleeding and epistaxis over the last two months. Upon evaluation, bony dehiscence was observed over the petrous carotid’s first (proximal) genu, along with a pseudoaneurysm detected in the Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MR angiogram). The Balloon Occlusion Test (BTO) showed no cross-flow from the opposite side. Consequently, the patient was considered for high-flow bypass surgery between the external carotid artery and the M2 segment of the Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA), utilising a radial artery graft in the neurosurgery specialty. The present rare case report emphasises the significance of maintaining a high index of suspicion and implementing prompt intervention through a multidisciplinary approach. It also raises an open-ended question about whether the petrous carotid pseudoaneurysm is a complication of chronic otitis media or merely a co-incidence.

Introduction With the advances in critical care, the incidence of post intubation tracheal stenosis is increasing. Tracheal resection and anastomosis have been the gold standard for the management of grades III and IV stenosis. Scientific evidence from the literature on the determining factors and outcomes of surgery is not well described.

Summary: Background: The phenotypical profile of cardiovascular malformations in patients with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) is varied. We aimed to describe the profile of cardiac defects among CRS patients detected in the sentinel CRS surveillance in India during 2016–22. Methods: Sentinel sites enrolled infants with suspected CRS based on presence of cardiac defects, hearing impairment, eye signs, or maternal history of febrile rash illness. Suspected CRS cases underwent detailed systemic examination, including echocardiography and serological investigation for rubella. Cardiac defects were categorized as ‘Simple’ or ‘Complex’ as per the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute classification. We compared the distribution of cardiac defects among laboratory confirmed CRS cases and seronegative discarded cases. Findings: Of the 4578 suspected CRS cases enrolled by 14 sites, 558 (12.2%) were laboratory confirmed. 419 (75.1%) laboratory confirmed cases had structural heart defects (simple defects: n = 273, 65.2%, complex defects: n = 144, 34.4%), with ventricular septal defect (42.7%), atrial septal defect (39.4%), patent ductus arteriosus (36.5%), and tetralogy of Fallot as the commonest defects (4.5%). Laboratory confirmed CRS cases had higher odds of left to right shunt lesions (OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.15–2.17). This was mainly on account of a significant association of PDA with CRS (OR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.42–2.21). Mortality was higher among CRS patients with complex heart defects (HR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.26–3.30). Interpretation: Three-fourths of the laboratory confirmed CRS cases had structural heart defects. CRS patients with complex cardiac defects had higher mortality. Detecting CRS infection early and providing timely intervention for cardiovascular defects is critical for the management of CRS patients. Funding: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt of India, through Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

Background: In India, facility-based surveillance for congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) was initiated in 2016 to estimate the burden and monitor the progress made in rubella control. We analyzed the surveillance data for 2016–2021 from 14 sentinel sites to describe the epidemiology of CRS. Method: We analyzed the surveillance data to describe the distribution of suspected and laboratory confirmed CRS patients by time, place and person characteristics. We compared clinical signs of laboratory confirmed CRS and discarded case-patients to find independent predictors of CRS using logistic regression analysis and developed a risk prediction model. Results: During 2016–21, surveillance sites enrolled 3940 suspected CRS case-patients (Age 3.5 months, SD: 3.5). About one-fifth (n = 813, 20.6%) were enrolled during newborn examination. Of the suspected CRS patients, 493 (12.5%) had laboratory evidence of rubella infection. The proportion of laboratory confirmed CRS cases declined from 26% in 2017 to 8.7% in 2021. Laboratory confirmed patients had higher odds of having hearing impairment (Odds ratio [OR] = 9.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.6–16.2), cataract (OR = 7.8, 95% CI: 5.4–11.2), pigmentary retinopathy (OR = 6.7, 95 CI: 3.3–13.6), structural heart defect with hearing impairment (OR = 3.8, 95% CI: 1.2–12.2) and glaucoma (OR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.2–8.1). Nomogram, along with a web version, was developed. Conclusions: Rubella continues to be a significant public health issue in India. The declining trend of test positivity among suspected CRS case-patients needs to be monitored through continued surveillance in these sentinel sites.

Introduction Measurement of the electrically-evoked stapedial reflex threshold (ESRT) is an objective tool used to set the comfort levels in pediatric cochlear implant (PCI) users. The levels of ESRT have a strong correlation with comfort levels. However, the clinical utility of ESRT is limited because the ESRT response is not observed in all cochlear implant users. Objective To assess the effects of probe-tone frequency on ESRT and its relationship with the behavioral comfort levels in PCI users. Methods A total of 14 PCI users aged between 5 and 8 years participated in the study. The ESRT levels were measured using high-frequency probe tones (678 Hz and 1,000 Hz), and the default 226 Hz probe tone. The ESRT was measured with single-electrode stimulation across the three electrode locations (basal [E01]; middle [E11]; and apical [E22]). The ESRT levels measured with different probe tone frequencies were compared with the behavioral comfort levels. Results The mean ESRT levels using 1,000Hz and 678 Hz were lower than those measured using 226 Hz, but there was no main effect of probe-tone frequency (p > 0.05). A significantly high incidence of successful ESRT measurements occurred with higher-frequency probe tone (p

Introduction In the current era, the major indication for septoplasty is nasal obstruction due to deviated nasal septum (DNS). Even though septoplasty is a commonly performed surgery, its effectiveness in relieving nasal obstruction in DNS has not been proven. Objective The present study involved the measurement of both objective (nasal patency) and subjective (quality of life measures) outcome measures for the evaluation of the efficacy of septoplasty as compared with medical management. Methods Patients with DNS presenting with nasal obstruction were included and randomized into a septoplasty group or into a nonsurgical management group, with 70 patients in each group. The improvement in nasal obstruction was assessed subjectively by the visual analogue scale (VAS), and the sino-nasal outcome test-22 (SNOT-22) and the nasal obstruction symptom evaluation (NOSE) questionnaires and was measured objectively by assessment of nasal patency by peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) at 0, 1, 3, and 6 months of treatment in both groups. Results The average VAS, SNOT-22 and NOSE scores for the septoplasty versus the nonsurgical group before treatment were 6.28 versus 6.0, 19.5 versus 15, and 14 versus 12, respectively, and at 6 months post-treatment, the scores were 2.9 versus 5.26, 10 versus 12, and 8 versus 10 (p = 0.001), respectively. The average PNIF scores at 0 and 6 months were 60/50 l/min and 70/60 l/min, respectively, in the septoplasty group (p = 0.001); the scores at 0 and 6 months in the nonsurgical management group were 60/60 l/min and 70/70 l/min, respectively (p = 0.001). Conclusion Surgical correction of DNS by septoplasty improves nasal obstruction better than nonsurgical management at 6 months postsurgery.

Introduction Tracheostomy is done to bypass the obstructed upper airway. Rare complication of this procedure is the fracture of the tube. Early identification and management of this condition is a great challenge to an otolaryngologist. To study the factors associated with the fracture and migration of tracheostomy tube into tracheobronchial tree in paediatric age group. Materials and Methods: This study is a case series study conducted on children with a diagnosis of fractured tracheostomy tube presenting as a foreign body airway over five years duration. Data regarding the possible patient and tube factors responsible for the condition were collected and analysed. Results: Total 11 patients (males-5 and females-6, average age-10.18 years, range 1-15 years) wearing tracheostomy tube for an average period of 2 years (range 3 months-8 years) were included in the study. Aspirated tubes were Jackson’s metallic inner tube, Romson polyvinyl chloride plastic tube and Fuller’s outer tube flange in 5 (45.5%), 4 (36.4%) and 2 (18.1%) patients respectively. The most common fracture site was at the junction between tube and neck plate (90.9%). The most common causes for fracture tube were prolonged use in 10 cases (90.9%), stomal narrowing in 9 cases (81.8%), and infection with peri-stomal granulation tissue in 9 cases (81.8%). Conclusion: A fractured tracheostomy tube is a rare but preventable late complication of tracheostomy. Appropriate training about proper tracheostomy care, timely check-up of tracheostomy tube for signs of wear and tear, scheduled replacement, regular follow up and awareness may prevention this complication.

BackgroundIn the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, an increased incidence of ROCM was noted in India among those infected with COVID. We determined risk factors for rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) post Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among those never and ever hospitalized for COVID-19 separately through a multicentric, hospital-based, unmatched case-control study across India.MethodsWe defined cases and controls as those with and without post-COVID ROCM, respectively. We compared their socio-demographics, co-morbidities, steroid use, glycaemic status, and practices. We calculated crude and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) through logistic regression. The covariates with a p-value for crude OR of less than 0·20 were considered for the regression model.ResultsAmong hospitalised, we recruited 267 cases and 256 controls and 116 cases and 231 controls among never hospitalised. Risk factors (AOR; 95% CI) for post-COVID ROCM among the hospitalised were age 45-59 years (2·1; 1·4 to 3·1), having diabetes mellitus (4·9; 3·4 to 7·1), elevated plasma glucose (6·4; 2·4 to 17·2), steroid use (3·2; 2 to 5·2) and frequent nasal washing (4·8; 1·4 to 17). Among those never hospitalised, age ≥ 60 years (6·6; 3·3 to 13·3), having diabetes mellitus (6·7; 3·8 to 11·6), elevated plasma glucose (13·7; 2·2 to 84), steroid use (9·8; 5·8 to 16·6), and cloth facemask use (2·6; 1·5 to 4·5) were associated with increased risk of post-COVID ROCM.ConclusionsHyperglycemia, irrespective of having diabetes mellitus and steroid use, was associated with an increased risk of ROCM independent of COVID-19 hospitalisation. Rational steroid usage and glucose monitoring may reduce the risk of post-COVID.

Tracheo-innominate artery fistula is a rare complication of tracheotomy with very high mortality rate. Only a few patients survive this complication as reported in the literature. Here we report the case of a 54-year-old gentleman who presented to the emergency department with a history of penetrating neck trauma following a road traffic accident. Neck exploration and tracheotomy were done to secure the airway. After two weeks, the patient had an episode of massive stomal bleed for which he was taken to the operating room and re-explored. A tracheo-innominate artery fistula was detected, and right side aorto-carotid and right side aorto-subclavian anastomoses were done using reversed saphenous vein graft with interruption of flow. Following a successful surgery, the patient was decannulated later, and now lives a healthy normal life. Early diagnosis and immediate intervention are the key in managing this complication. Bedside management also plays a vital role.

Abstract Introduction Chronic suppurative otitis media is a common ailment in developing countries, and it generally presents with otorrhea and hearing loss. Different surgical procedures have been used to treat otitis media; among them is myringoplasty, which is a procedure that includes repair of the tympanic membrane. Platelet concentrates have been used widely in different types of wounds and are found to improve wound healing. Hence, the use of platelet-rich fibrin in myringoplasty will also improve the tympanic membrane healing. Objectives To assess the safety and efficacy of autologous platelet-rich fibrin on graft uptake in myringoplasty. Methods Eighty-six patients were observed during the study period of two years. Forty-three patients in the study group underwent myringoplasty aided with platelet-rich fibrin, and 43 patients in the control group went through the same procedure but without the platelet-rich fibrin. The patients were observed for three months postoperatively by a blinded observer. Results A total of 4.7% of the patients in the study group had postoperative infection, compared with a rate of 19% in the control group (p = 0.039). The graft uptake success rate was found to be 97.7% in the study group as compared with 81% in control group (p = 0.012). The results were found to be statistically significant. Conclusion Being autologous in nature, and by comparing the groups, platelet-rich fibrin is safe for patients. The postoperative graft uptake rate is better in cases in which platelet-rich fibrin was used. The postoperative infection rate was also lower in the same group.

Introduction Chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease (CSOM-AAD) is often associated with ossicular erosion resulting in significant hearing loss. Absence of the stapes suprastructure is a poor prognostic indicator of hearing outcome, which necessitates an effective reconstruction technique for ossicular continuity and restoration of middle ear volume. In the present study, we used a boomerang-shaped conchal cartilage graft. Objective To evaluate the improvement in hearing using a boomerang-shaped conchal cartilage graft for Type III tympanoplasty in cases of CSOM-AAD in which the stapes suprastructure was absent and to study the incidence of intraoperative/postoperative complications of this procedure. Method A total of 21 patients with CSOM-AAD who were found to have absent stapes suprastructure intraoperatively were included. A boomerang-shaped conchal cartilage graft was placed over the stapes footplate for reconstruction following canal wall down mastoidectomy. Pure tone audiogram (500, 1,000, 2,000 and 4,000 Hz) was done preoperatively and at 12 weeks postoperatively. Hearing outcome and incidence of complications were noted. Results There was a statistically significant reduction in the hearing loss for air conduction and air-bone gap (ABG) of 6.1 dB and 6.9 dB respectively (p 0.05). A better hearing outcome was observed at higher frequencies (2,000, 4,000 Hz). No major complications were encountered. Conclusion A boomerang-shaped conchal cartilage graft is effective when used for Type III tympanoplasty, especially at higher (2,000, 4,000 Hz) frequencies, and is comparable to newer materials such as titanium total ossicular reconstruction prosthesis (TORP). No major intraoperative/postoperative complications were noted.

All of us walk with faith, unaware of what lies ahead in our life, until we have that fall, my story is about how I lost my balance and regained it in a better form. Little did I know about this rare brain tumor that was slowly taking over my neural commands. To fight for my life was the only aim prior to surgery and getting back to living my life after neurosurgery was aiming higher than before. This narrative essay is about my trials and tribulations of a rare brain tumor that presented with audio-vestibular symptoms. It portrays vividly my experience of this brain tumor, and importantly vestibular rehabilitation that which allows the brain to achieve recovery of neural functions due to its inherent properties of neural plasticity.

Introduction: Unknown Primary Cancers (UPCs) present a major diagnostic challenge to both clinicians and pathologists. Hence, there is a strong need to effectively diagnose these cases. Aim: To study the cytological features of metastatic deposits from UPCs and the role of appropriate immunomarkers in identifying the primary site. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective descriptive study conducted between December 2012 to December 2015 in the Department of Pathology in JIPMER, Puducherry, India. Patients presenting with suspicious nodal or other probable metastatic deposits were subjected to Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC). Morphologic features were studied and provisional/differential diagnosis were made, following which whenever essential, Immunocytochemistry (ICC) using appropriate panels of immunomarkers was performed on smears or cell blocks. Only the cases with subsequent histological/clinicoradiological correlation were statistically analysed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 16.0) software and the distribution of data was expressed in frequencies and percentages and the p-value

Introduction Vitamin D is known to have immunomodulatory functions and has action on chronic inflammatory processes, such as nasal polyposis. Objective The present study assessed the levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with nasal polyposis, as compared with healthy control subjects, and identified their association with disease severity in nasal polyposis. It further assessed the levels of 25-hydroxyl vitamin D and hs-CRP in patients with nasal polyposis and atopy and compared it with patients with nasal polyposis without atopy. Methods This was a cross-sectional study involving 2 groups: 80 patients with nasal polyposis and 80 healthy subjects. In patients with nasal polyposis, the disease severity is assessed by the sino-nasal outcome test (SNOT20) and by the Lund & Mackay staging system. Levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D and hs-CRP were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Result The mean 25-hydroxyl vitamin D levels (ng/ml) was 12.01 ± 7.29 for cases and 22.87 ± 14.95 for controls, with p

Cavernous haemangioma of the maxillary sinus often presents with recurrent epistaxis and nasal obstruction. Clinical features usually mimics sinonasal mass or antrochoanal polyp. We report this case of a 13 years old female patient with unilateral maxillary sinus cavernous haemangioma which was managed successfully by both endoscopic and Caldwell Luc approach. The patient presented with features of antrochoanal polyp. Radiologically, it was suspected to be an Angiomatous Antrochoanal polyp and histologically proved to be a cavernous haemangioma. Postoperative period was uneventful.

Introduction: Laryngotracheal trauma is a rare life-threatening emergency that requires early identification and immediate intervention. Here, we present 26 patients with laryngotracheal trauma from a tertiary hospital in India. The aim was to describe the clinical presentation and management of laryngotracheal trauma patients. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study of laryngotracheal trauma patients treated between January 2011 and March 2016. Patients who presented with a breach in the laryngotracheal framework were included, while those who had penetrating neck injuries superficial to strap muscles/platysma, burn injuries, caustic ingestion, or endotracheal injuries were excluded from the study. Results: Of 253 patients with neck injury, 26 (23 adults, three children; 21 males, five females; age range, 5-60 years) presented with a breach in the laryngotracheal framework (15 blunt neck-trauma patients and 11 penetrating neck-trauma patients). The most common cause of neck injury was road traffic accidents, seen in 12 patients (46.2%). Computed tomography (CT) was performed in all blunt trauma cases and in four patients with penetrating trauma. All penetrating trauma patients underwent neck exploration. Twelve blunt trauma patients (46.1%) were managed conservatively, while three (11.5%) required surgical intervention. The most common neck exploration finding noted in patients with a penetrating injury was fracture of the thyroid cartilage, which was seen in eight patients (30.8%). Twenty patients (76.9%) had a normal voice, five patients (19.2%) had a hoarse voice, and one patient (3.8%) had a breathy voice post treatment. Conclusion: Early intervention of laryngotracheal trauma is crucial. The role of a CT scan is essential in decision making in blunt trauma cases.

Chondroid syringoma is a rare, skin appendageal tumor. It is also known as mixed tumor of skin, as it histologically resembles mixed tumor of salivary gland (pleomorphic adenoma). It is most commonly a benign tumor, but a few malignant counterparts have been described in history. It usually presents as a solid, slow-growing, solitary, and painless nodule in the head and neck region. Malignant counterpart is rare and commonly affects trunk and extremities. Early diagnosis and surgery by wide local excision are the most reliable treatments to date. Recurrences are common and hence close follow-up is advised. In this study, we present a case of malignant chondroid syringoma of face with extensive extension into nose and paranasal sinuses, which was recurrent and managed by surgical excision and radiotherapy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case with extension and bone destruction into nose and sinuses.

Abstract Introduction Eustachian tube (ET) dysfunction plays an important role not only in the pathophysiology of various middle ear disorders, but also in predicting the outcome of the treatment. As there is no single test that assesses both the anatomic and physiological functions of the ET, a combination of tympanometry and dynamic slow motion video endoscopy may improve the sensitivity of ET function assessment. Objective To find out if there is any correlation between dynamic slow motion nasal video endoscopy and impedance audiometry in assessing ET function in patients with middle ear diseases. Methods Ours was a descriptive study performed with 106 patients attending the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Outpatient Department of a tertiary care center in South India with features suggestive of middle ear disease. All patients underwent impedance audiometry and dynamic slow motion nasal video endoscopy, and were graded based on the severity of the ET pathology. Results A total of 47 out of 97 patients with abnormal endoscopy findings also had abnormal impedance audiometry. The correlation was greater among the patients with higher grades of ET dysfunction. The endoscopy findings of 106 cases, when correlated with middle ear manometry, revealed that 56 cases showed complete agreement, and 50 cases showed disagreement. The nasal endoscopy results, when correlated with middle ear manometry studies by using McNemar's chi-squared (χ2) test, showed a significant association between the 2 tests (p = 0.017). Conclusion There is a significant alteration in middle ear pressure as the severity of the ET tube dysfunction increases. Impedance audiometry and nasal endoscopy provide a better measure of ET function.

Abstract Introduction Otogenic lateral sinus thrombosis is a rare intracranial complication of otitis media in the modern age of antibiotic treatment, but it is potentially a dangerous complication. Objectives The aim of this study is to focus on the various clinical presentations, management options and sequelae in a series of fifteen patients with otogenic lateral sinus thrombosis. Methods Retrospective chart review of inpatients treated for otogenic lateral sinus thrombosis at our tertiary care institution between 2010 and 2015. Results A total of 15 patients (11 males and 4 females) with ages ranging from 9 to 60 years were diagnosed with otogenic lateral sinus thrombosis. The most commonly reported symptoms were headache, ear discharge and hard of hearing, which were experienced by all 15 (100%) patients. In contrast to previous studies found in the literature, 7 (47%) patients in our series presented with neck pain and neck abscess. Imaging studies and microbiological cultures were performed for all patients, who also underwent a mastoidectomy procedure. Internal jugular vein ligation was performed on 5 (33%) patients. Incision and drainage of the neck abscess was performed on 7 (47%) patients. All patients had a satisfactory resolution of their symptoms, and the mortality rate was of 0%. Conclusions Otogenic lateral sinus thrombosis, though a rare complication, can still occur; therefore, keeping a high level of suspicion is important, especially in developing countries. We also describe the patients with neck abscess associated with this rare condition. Combining parenteral antibiotics with surgical intervention is the treatment of choice.

Abstract Introduction Chronic otitis media is a widely prevalent condition in developing countries and is a cause of correctable hearing loss. The most frequent ossicular chain defect found during surgery for chronic otitis media has been a discontinuity of the incudostapedial joint. This study observes the effect of incudostapedial reconstruction using conchal cartilage on the hearing of the patient. Objectives To evaluate improvement in hearing by incudostapedial reconstruction using conchal cartilage interposition graft in tympanoplasty and to identify the independent factors associated with erosion of the long process of incus among patients with chronic suppurative otitis media tubotympanic type. Methods This study was conducted in the department of ear, nose and throat (ENT) amongst 22 patients with tubotympanic-type chronic suppurative otitis media who were found to have erosion of the long process during tympanoplasty. These patients underwent incudostapedial reconstruction using conchal cartilage. Their hearing was again reassessed at 12 weeks postsurgery, and the changes were observed. Results A statistically significant improvement in air conduction by 15.14 dB was found after undergoing incudostapedial reconstruction using conchal cartilage (p 0.05). A total of 59.1% of patients in the study had an improvement in hearing ranging from 11 to 20 dB. It was also found that 50% of the patients had a postoperative hearing of 10 to 20 dB. Conclusion Conchal cartilage interposition graft effectively improved hearing when used for the reconstruction of the incudostapedial joint during tympanoplasty in patients of chronic suppurative otitis media.

Introduction: Tonsillectomy is one of the most common procedures done in Ear, Nose and Throat department. Various methods of tonsillectomy have come into practice starting from dissection and snare to the recent coblation methods. Dissection and Snaring causes endothelial injury and release of tissue thromboplastin that results in aggregation of platelets and platelet plug formation and controls bleeding. It causes open wound that results in the exposure of nerves. On the other hand, CO2 LASER produces a characteristic wound that results in very minimal thermal effects on nearby non-targeted tissues. Postoperative morbidity is determined by the degree of thermal injury to the oropharyngeal mucosa that is less with dissection method. Reduced intraoperative time reduces unnecessary hospital stay and also increases patients turnover. Aim: To compare CO2 LASER tonsillectomy and dissection tonsillectomy in terms of intraoperative time, intraoperative bleeding and postoperative pain. Materials and Methods: This was a randomised study done on 126 consenting patients; randomised into two groups. Inclusion criteria were; children and young adults of age group 7-18 years with chronic tonsillitis and fulfilling diagnostic Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) criteria. Results: The mean operative time for CO2 LASER group was 31.2 minutes (range 20 to 45 minutes) and 53.89 minutes (range 20 to 90 minutes) for dissection group with p

The presentation of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC) can be clandestine and deceptive. The NPC presenting as a deep neck space infection with airway compromise and intracranial extension is a rare occurrence. We report a case of 60-year-old male presenting with headache followed by right sided neck swelling with breathing difficulty with a Computed Tomography (CT) scan revealing a collection in deep neck space and destructive mass in the nasopharynx. We discuss the varied presentation of NPC from a trivial headache till life threatening stridor and furthermore review the literature emphasising on the same.

Introduction: Cerebrospinal Fluid (CFF) fistulae are repaired endoscopically with varying degrees of success around the world. Large series are still uncommon, and the results varied primarily because of the different techniques by different surgeons and also because of a variation in the patient profile in each series, for example, many series deal primarily with traumatic CSF leaks where the defects are larger and outcomes poorer. Aim: To analyse the surgical outcomes of Endoscopic CSF rhinorrhea closure. Materials and Methods: This is a series of 34 cases operated upon primarily by one surgeon in two different centres over a period of 10 years. Results: Of the 34 cases, 76% of the patients were women. Among the patients only 20.6% patients had a history of trauma preceding the CSF leak. The most common site of leak was in the fovea ethmoidalis in 19 (55.8%) followed by 10 (29.4%) in the cribriform plate. An overlay technique of placing the multiple layers of fascia and mucosa was used in 26 (76.5%) patients and underlay technique in the remaining. Postoperative lumbar drain was used in all patients. Conclusion: Based on the treatment outcome of the 34 patients, it can be concluded that the success rate of a single endoscopic procedure in our experience is 97% and 100% following the second. Endoscopic approach for closure of CSF leak is safe with minimal complications and little morbidity.

Context: Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (VEMP) is an emerging tool to diagnose Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). The clinical utility of VEMP has been reported only in small accord in Indian literature. Aim: To study the latency and amplitude of VEMP in patients with BPPV and compare it with that of normal subjects. Settings and Design: The study included two groups. Group one (control group) were 18 normal subjects. Group two (test group) were 15 subjects with unilateral BPPV. Materials and Methods: Those subjects who fulfilled the selection criteria based on case history and audiological assessment were taken for the VEMP recording. The VEMP response consist of positive and negative successive waves (pInI), with latency values in adults about 13 and 23 milliseconds respectively. Statistical Analysis: Data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 12 (Chicago, IL, USA). Unpaired t-test was employed to measure the statistical difference between control group and test group. Results: The difference in n23 and the peak to peak amplitude between the ipsilateral and contralateral ears of the test group were statistically significant, whereas such a difference in the p13 latency turned out to be statistically insignificant. It should be noted that, out of 15 patients in the test group, five patients showed only artifact tracer recordings in both the ears which is considered as no response. The heterogeneity of the results extended from absence of VEMP to prolongation of both p13, n23; prolongation of p13 alone; and even side to side variations. Conclusion: Absent response from the ipsilateral ear, prolonged latency of n23 and decreased peak to peak amplitude (p13, n23), indicates the disease pathology. However, large sample size is required to draw further conclusions and to consolidate the usage of VEMP in the diagnosis of BPPV.

First branchial cleft anomalies are uncommon, accounting for less than 10% of all branchial abnormalities. Their rare occurrence and varied presentation have frequently led to misdiagnosis and inadequate and inappropriate treatment of these conditions leading to repeated recurrences and secondary infection. In this paper, a case of 11-year girl with type 2 first branchial cleft defect is described. She first presented with a nonhealing ulcer of upper neck from childhood. Diagnosis had previously been missed and treated as tubercular ulcer. We confirmed the correct diagnosis by history and computerized tomography fistulogram. The lesion was completely excised with no further recurrence.

Thyroglossal cysts are one of the most common midline neck masses. They usually present as midline painless cystic neck mass in the first three decades of life. These anomalies are very rare in elderly patients and may pose difficult diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Here, we report a case of giant thyroglossal cyst in a 72-year-female patient who presented with stridor, hoarseness of voice, and vocal cord paresis with gross distortion of normal airway anatomy secondary to pressure effect of the mass. The gross distortion and displacement of airway along with respiratory distress in this patient posed a difficult situation in securing the airway. The airway was secured by a unique way of orotracheal intubation with the help of a ventilating airway exchange catheter. The cyst was excised in toto under general anaesthesia. The stridor completely resolved after surgery and tracheostomy was avoided.