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Complementary/integrative medicine (CIM) is an evolving area of collaboration between oncology, patient and their beliefs, and practitioners of complementary medicine. Evidence-informed decision-making is necessary to advise patients on which treatments may be incorporated into standard of care treatments for cancer. Patients use CIM for a variety of reasons and often have unrealistic expectations of cure or disease modifications; on the other hand, there is increasing evidence that symptoms, side effects, and dysfunction related to cancer and its treatment can be ameliorated by CIM approaches to improve patient satisfaction and quality of life. Open communication between patients and providers is paramount.

Objective Harmonic Focus (Ethicon, Johnson and Johnson, Cincinnati, OH, USA), LigaSure Small Jaw (Medtronic, Covidien Products, Minneapolis, MN, USA), and Thunderbeat Open Fine Jaw (Olympus, Japan) are electrosurgical instruments used widely in head and neck surgery. The study aims to compare device malfunctions, adverse events to patients, operative injuries, and interventions related to Harmonic, LigaSure, and Thunderbeat use during thyroidectomy. Methods The US Food and Drug Administration's Manufacture and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database was queried for adverse events associated with Harmonic, LigaSure, and Thunderbeat from January 2005 to August 2020. Data were extracted from reports pertaining to thyroidectomy. Results Of the 620 adverse events extracted, 394 (63.5%) involved Harmonic, 134 (21.6%) LigaSure, and 92 (14.8%) Thunderbeat. The reported device malfunctions most frequently associated with Harmonic was damage to the blade (110 (27.9%)), LigaSure was inappropriate function (47 (43.1%)), Thunderbeat was damage to the tissue or Teflon pad (27 (30.7%)), respectively. Burn injury and incomplete hemostasis were the most commonly reported adverse events. The operative injury reported most frequently when using Harmonic and LigaSure was burn injury. No operator injuries were reported with Thunderbeat use. Conclusion The most frequently reported device malfunctions were damage to the blade, inappropriate function, and damage to the tissue or Teflon pad. The most frequently reported adverse events to patients was a burn injury and incomplete hemostasis. Interventions aimed at improving physician education may help reduce adverse events attributed to improper use.

Objectives To provide a consensus statement describing best practices and evidence regarding head and neck cancer survivorship. Methods Key topics regarding head and neck cancer survivorship were identified by the multidisciplinary membership of the American Head and Neck Society Survivorship, Supportive Care & Rehabilitation Service. Guidelines were generated by combining expert opinion and a review of the literature and categorized by level of evidence. Results Several areas regarding survivorship including dysphonia, dysphagia, fatigue, chronic pain, intimacy, the ability to return to work, financial toxicity, lymphedema, psycho‐oncology, physical activity, and substance abuse were identified and discussed. Additionally, the group identified and described the role of key clinicians in survivorship including surgical, medical and radiation oncologists; dentists; primary care physicians; psychotherapists; as well as physical, occupational, speech, and respiratory therapists. Conclusion Head and neck cancer survivorship is complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach centered around patients and their caregivers. As survival related to head and neck cancer treatment improves, addressing post‐treatment concerns appropriately is critically important to our patient's quality of life. There continues to be a need to define effective and efficient programs that can coordinate this multidisciplinary effort toward survivorship.

Introduction Warthin’s tumor, also known as papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum, is one of the most common benign salivary gland neoplasms. The current first-line treatment for Warthin’s tumor is parotidectomy. However, surgical resection has the risk of complications including facial nerve weakness and Frey’s syndrome. Recently, ultrasound-guided ethanol sclerotherapy (UGES) has been found to be efficacious in the treatment of a variety of head and neck lesions. Case report We present a patient with multifocal Warthin’s tumor who was managed with partial parotidectomy and two cycles of ultrasound-guided ethanol sclerotherapy. Discussion Ethanol sclerotherapy has been used as a minimally invasive alternative to surgical excision or observation alone for a variety of head and neck masses. To our knowledge, this is the first case presented in the literature where sclerotherapy was used in conjunction with a partial parotidectomy. Minimizing the extent of surgical resection can reduce the risk of facial nerve weakness and Frey’s syndrome and negate the need for fat grafting for defect reconstruction. Conclusion UGES may serve as a safe and reliable procedure that can be performed in conjunction with partial parotidectomy for patients who wish to achieve definitive diagnosis while also minimizing the risk of complications associated with extensive parotidectomy.

Objectives: Fireworks are used commonly for celebrations in the United States, but can lead to severe injury to the head and neck. We aim to assess the incidence, types, and mechanisms of head and neck injuries associated with fireworks use from 2010 to 2019. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study, using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, of individuals presenting to United States Emergency Departments with head and neck injuries caused by fireworks and flares from 2010 to 2019. Incidence, types, and mechanisms of injury related to fireworks use in the US population were assessed. Results: A total of 541 patients (349 [64.5%] male, and 294 [54%] under 18 years of age) presented to emergency departments with fireworks-related head and neck injuries; the estimated national total was 20 584 patients (13 279 male, 9170 white, and 11 186 under 18 years of age). The most common injury diagnoses were burns (44.7% of injuries), laceration/avulsion/penetrating trauma (21.1%), and otologic injury (15.2%), which included hearing loss, otalgia, tinnitus, unspecified acoustic trauma, and tympanic membrane perforation. The remaining 19% of injuries were a mix, including contusion, abrasion, hematoma, fracture, and closed head injury. Associations between fireworks type and injury diagnosis (chi-square P Conclusions: Fireworks-related head and neck injuries are more likely to occur in young, white, and male individuals. Burns are the most common injury, while otologic injury is a significant contributor. Annual rates of fireworks-related head and neck injuries have not changed or improved significantly in the United States in the past decade, suggesting efforts to identify and prevent these injuries are insufficient.

Platinum and taxane-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy with surgery (NAC + S) is a novel de-intensified treatment modality that is currently under investigation.All patients treated for HPV positive OPSCC with NAC + S at a single institution between 2006 and 2020 were contacted to complete the University of Washington Quality of life questionnaire (UW-QOL) at least 2 years following the completion of treatment.The UW-QOL surveys were received from 25 of 48 eligible patients (52.1%). The mean follow-up time was 4.3 years (range 2.0-7.6 years). The overall mean score for the physical subscale was 92.4 (Standard deviation, SD = 10.9), and the social-emotional subscale was 91.1 (11.8). Compared to the normative cohort, the NAC + S cohort had a worse appearance (Mean scores Normative vs. NAC + S: 93 vs. 84.0, p = 0.009).NAC + S offers favorable long-term QOL, as evidenced by near-normal scores in most QOL domains.

Background Implantable Dopplers (IDs) are widely used for postoperative free flap vascular monitoring. However, IDs may contribute to free flap complications or failure and better understanding of device malfunctions is needed. Methods The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database was queried for all reports of ID adverse events from two leading manufacturers (Cook Vascular and Synovis Life Technologies) in free flap surgery from January 2010 to March 2020. Reports were reviewed and categorized. A comparison of reoperations within select categories was performed using Chi-square analysis. Results Of 209 included reports, the most common device malfunctions were venous anastomotic coupler misalignment (35.4%) and coupler ring detachment (24.4%). Synovis devices were used in 100% of reports of vessel compression and Cook Vascular devices were used in 77.7% of reports of probe detachment. Of 74 patient-related adverse events, the most common were reoperation (47.3%) and vessel occlusion (28.4%). Of five reported events of flap failure, two were associated with loss of ID signal. The proportion of Doppler signal loss events leading to reoperation was significantly greater than the proportion of any other Doppler-related event leading to reoperation. Intraoperative coupler replacement was the most commonly reported intervention (n = 86), and venous anastomosis with hand-suturing occurred in 30 device malfunctions. Conclusion This study demonstrates a variety of ID-related malfunctions. One-third of device malfunctions were associated with patient complications, and false-positive Doppler signal loss contributed substantially to the requirement of surgical re-exploration. These are important considerations for surgical teams utilizing IDs in free tissue transfer procedures.

Background: Approximately 85% of the U.S. military active duty population is male and less than 50 years of age, with elevated levels of known risk factors for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), including smoking, excessive use of alcohol, and greater numbers of sexual partners, and elevated prevalence of human papilloma virus (HPV). Given the recent rise in incidence of OPSCC related to the HPV, the Department of Defense Serum Repository provides an unparalleled resource for longitudinal studies of OPSCC in the military for the identification of early detection biomarkers. Methods: We identified 175 patients diagnosed with OPSCC with 175 matched healthy controls and retrieved a total of 978 serum samples drawn at the time of diagnosis, 2 and 4 years prior to diagnosis, and 2 years after diagnosis. Following immunoaffinity depletion, serum samples were analyzed by targeted proteomics assays for multiplexed quantification of a panel of 146 candidate protein biomarkers from the curated literature. Results: Using a Random Forest machine learning approach, we derived a 13-protein signature that distinguishes cases versus controls based on longitudinal changes in serum protein concentration. The abundances of each of the 13 proteins remain constant over time in control subjects. The AUC for the derived Random Forest classifier was 0.90. Conclusions: This 13-protein classifier is highly promising for detection of OPSCC prior to overt symptoms. Impact: Use of longitudinal samples has significant potential to identify biomarkers for detection and risk stratification.

Patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have a poor prognosis, with a significant risk of progression or death despite multimodal treatment with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the programmed death receptor-1 (PD1) have dramatically changed the treatment landscape for recurrent/metastatic disease, improving overall survival in both the first- and second-line palliative settings. This success has driven the investigation of treatment strategies incorporating immunotherapy earlier into the multimodal curative-intent or salvage treatment of both locally advanced and recurrent/metastatic HNSCC. This review encompassed the following three subjects, with a focus on recently reported and ongoing clinical trials: (1) the use of neoadjuvant immunotherapy prior to surgery for locally advanced HNSCC, (2) the use of immunochemoradiotherapy for locally advanced head and neck cancers, and (3) novel uses of immunotherapy in the salvage of recurrent/metastatic HNSCC via a combined modality, including reirradiation paradigms. The results of these studies are eagerly awaited to improve patient outcomes in this challenging disease.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate 2-year follow-up swallowing function in patients with human papillomavirus-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+ OPSCC) who completed neoadjuvant chemotherapy and transoral robotic surgery (NAC+S). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective analysis of patients with OPSCC treated with NAC+S between 2010 and 2021. SETTING A single academic institution. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study of patient-reported swallowing function, assessed with the MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) at least 2 years after completion of treatment. The inclusion criteria are patients with HPV+ OPSCC who underwent NAC+S at least 2 years ago. Those requiring adjuvant radiation or chemoradiation or experiencing relapse were excluded from the study. RESULTS Completed MDADIs were received from 37 patients at a median 3.8 years posttreatment (interquartile range, 2.0-8.6 years). Of those, 94.6% (n = 35) were male and 81.1% (n = 30) were White. The median age at OPSCC diagnosis was 59.0 years (interquartile range, 41-80 years). The most frequent primary subsite of OPSCC was the base of the tongue (n = 20, 54.1%), followed by the tonsils (n = 16, 43.2%). In addition, 75.7% (n = 28) had stage IVa disease (TNM seventh edition), and 29 (78.4%) had scores ≥80, classified as optimal function. When compared with patients who received bilateral neck dissection, patients who received unilateral neck dissection were associated with an age

The present study was developed to evaluate the effectiveness of a simple rapid technique for de-epithelializing cutaneous flaps and grafts in parotidectomy reconstruction.109 patients who underwent a parotidectomy with abdominal free dermal fat graft (FDFG) reconstruction between 2018 and 2021 were evaluated based on demographic factors, past medical/surgical history, type of parotidectomy performed, operative factors, and post-operative complications. These data were then stratified based on de-epithelialization technique as well as tumor malignancy status to determine any differences in complication rates or perioperative factors between electrocautery (EC) and cold knife (CK) techniques within both benign and malignant subgroups.77 of the 109 participants underwent FDFG de-epithelialization using monopolar electrocautery (EC) and the remaining 32 participants underwent de-epithelialization using traditional cold knife (CK) technique. There was no statistical difference among the two groups in overall complication rate. The EC group had a significantly shorter operation time ("EC vs. CK": 144.2 min vs. 174.7 min; p = 0.031). Additionally, histopathologic samples showed that both techniques left the underlying dermis intact and without damage.This study demonstrated that there is no difference in complication rate or histology of FDFGs de-epithelialized using EC compared to CK. It was also shown that when controlling for confounders by looking solely at the benign subgroup of patients, EC de-epithelialization was a faster technique than CK. These findings suggest that EC is just as effective as CK, and may actually be a more efficient surgical technique to accomplish de-epithelialization of FDFG.

OBJECTIVE Thyroid and parathyroid surgeries are frequently performed with the aid of electromyogram endotracheal tubes. However, the most common adverse events have not been reported comprehensively. This study aimed to summarize the device adverse events, patient complications, and subsequent interventions related to electromyogram endotracheal tubes. METHODS In this retrospective cross-sectional analysis, the US Food and Drug Administration's Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database was queried for electromyogram endotracheal tube adverse events between 2010 and 2020. Data were extracted for devices used in thyroid and parathyroid surgery. RESULTS Of 198 included reports, the most common device-related adverse events were loss of response to nerve stimulation (34.8%), cuff perforation (18.2%), and tube lumen obstruction (13.6%). Of 98 patient complications, the most common included ventilation failure (n = 50), airway trauma (n = 22), and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (n = 5). There was 1 periprocedural death reported. Reported interventions include reintubation performed in 60.1% of all device adverse events, extended hospitalization in 27.3% of airway trauma events, and 5 tracheostomies performed for ventilation failure events. Forty-one events resulted in case delays and 13 events led to aborted cases. The most reported adverse events occurred in 2018 (n = 35) and 2015 (n = 30). CONCLUSIONS The most commonly reported adverse events associated with electromyogram endotracheal tubes include loss of response to nerve stimulation, cuff perforation, ventilation failure, and airway trauma. Subsequent interventions include reintubation, tracheostomy, extended hospitalization, and aborted cases. Surgical teams should consider these adverse events when consenting patients and using these devices in thyroid and parathyroid cases.

Microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) is a rare and locally aggressive neoplasm with preponderance for local recurrence but rarely nodal or distant metastasis. A 38-year-old male was referred to our clinic for definitive treatment of known recurrent and concern for multifocal MAC from previous biopsy. The patient was treated with modified Mohs and reconstruction with an anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap for tissue coverage. This case highlights the rare nature of multifocal MAC, treatment challenges of Mohs clearance versus wide local excision, and reconstructive challenge associated with large post treatment defects.

Examination of contributions of Otolaryngologists to head and neck reconstructive surgery. Historical Evaluation. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery as a surgical specialty has come to dominate the related fields of head and neck cancer ablative surgery as well as reconstruction as a result of those leaders who established our profession. While some otolaryngologists have always been at the forefront of head and neck surgery and reconstruction; as surgery has become more specialized in the past century, that expertise has been increasingly consolidated within specific academic institutions and training programs. An examination of the various academic trends, world events, and scientific breakthroughs which allowed the advancement of head and neck reconstruction reveals a fascinating history of our specialty.

Objective To review current literature describing the management of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and to propose an evidence-based algorithm for otolaryngologists. Data sources A literature review using PubMed and Scopus was conducted to identify manuscripts that describe TMJ disorder etiology, diagnostic methods, and management across the fields of otolaryngology, general practice medicine, physical therapy, dentistry, and maxillofacial surgery. Review methods Two reviewers subjectively evaluated the studies based on the inclusion criteria, incorporating them into a comprehensive algorithm. Conclusions TMD is one of the most common conditions presenting to otolaryngology outpatient clinics. Etiologies of TMD vary widely, including myofascial, intraarticular, neurologic, traumatic, or psychiatric in origin. When conservative measures fail to produce symptom relief, alternative treatments and referral to outside specialists including psychiatry, physical therapy, dentistry, and maxillofacial surgery may be indicated. Premature or inappropriate referrals may lead to patients suffering TMD for extended periods of time, with alternating referrals between various specialists. Thus, we present a TMD treatment algorithm for otolaryngologists to aid in the decision-making process in managing TMD. Implications for practice Patients frequently present to otolaryngology outpatient clinics for symptoms of TMD. Multidisciplinary practice may be necessary to effectively treat TMD of varying etiology and severity. Following conservative treatment, appropriate referrals and treatment plans will reduce ineffective use of resources, deferral of treatment, and patient suffering. For this reason, a comprehensive algorithm for otolaryngologists will improve resource utilization and efficiency of treatment to ultimately provide improved treatment outcomes for patients.

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the effect of resident involvement and the ‘July effect’ on peri-operative complications after parotidectomy.MethodThe American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for parotidectomy procedures with resident involvement between 2005 and 2014.ResultsThere were 11 733 cases were identified, of which 932 involved resident participation (7.9 per cent). Resident involvement resulted in a significantly lower reoperation rate (adjusted odds ratio, 0.18; 95 per cent confidence interval, 0.05–0.73; p = 0.02) and readmission rate (adjusted odds ratios 0.30; 95 per cent confidence interval, 0.11–0.80; p = 0.02). However, resident involvement was associated with a mean 24 minutes longer adjusted operative time and 23.5 per cent longer adjusted total hospital length of stay (respective p < 0.01). No significant difference in surgical or medical complication rates or mortality was found when comparing cases among academic quarters.ConclusionResident participation is associated with significantly decreased reoperation and readmission rates as well as longer mean operative times and total length of stay. Resident transitions during July are not associated with increased risk of adverse peri-operative outcomes after parotidectomy.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ethanol ablation in the treatment of benign head and neck cystic lesions. Methods A total of 25 patients who received ethanol ablation (EA) of head and neck cystic lesions by an otolaryngologist at a single institution between October 2017 and October 2020 were identified. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, treatment details, and treatment outcomes at follow up visits were obtained by retrospective review of electronic medical records. Results 25 patients who underwent ethanol ablation of head and neck cystic lesions were included, with a mean age of 49.1 years old (Interquartile range (IQR),32.5–65.5 years) and 12 males (47.0%). The most common cysts treated with EA were thyroglossal duct cysts (n = 8, 32.0%) and lymphoepithelial parotid cysts (n = 7, 28.0%). The mean volume prior to treatment was 10.57 mL (IQR, 1.58–8.81 mL). Mean volume following EA was 1.30 mL (range, 0.10–0.97 mL) with 74.40% cyst reduction by volume (IQR, 48.56–96.29%) (p = 0.002). The mean time to the last follow-up was 5 months (range, 3–6 months). One patient received surgery despite treatment success to obtain a definitive diagnosis of the mass. No other patients received further surgical management. The treatment success of EA, as defined by >70% volume reduction or the resolution of symptoms, was 92.0%. All patients were satisfied with the outcome and had no reported complications. Conclusion EA is an effective and safe alternative to surgery for the treatment of head and neck cystic lesions that can be performed in an outpatient setting by an otolaryngologist.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) compared to nonrobotic surgery (NRS) on overall survival in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). We performed a retrospective study of patients with HPV+ and HPV- OPSCC undergoing TORS or NRS with neck dissection using the National Cancer Database from the years 2010-2016. Among patients with OPSCC in our cohort, 3167 (58.1%) patients underwent NRS and 2288 (41.9%) underwent TORS. TORS patients demonstrated better overall survival than NRS patients (HPV+ patients: aHR 0.74, p = 0.02; HPV- patients: aHR 0.58, p < 0.01). Subsite analysis showed TORS was correlated with improved survival in base of tongue (BoT) primaries for both HPV+ (aHR 0.46, p = 0.01) and HPV- (aHR 0.42, p = 0.01) OPSCC. Compared to NRS, TORS is associated with improved overall survival for HPV+ and HPV- OPSCC, as well as greater overall survival for BoT primaries.

OBJECTIVES Limited data is available on head and neck cancer (HNC) patients presenting with brain metastases (BM) at initial diagnosis. We sought to evaluate the incidence, management, and treatment outcomes of these patients using the National Cancer Database (NCDB). METHODS We identified 465,925 patients diagnosed with HNC between 2010 and 2015 in the NCDB. 14,583 of these patients presented with metastatic disease to any site. 440 of these patients had BM at the time of initial diagnosis. Overall survival was compared using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox proportional hazard modeling, propensity score matching, and subgroup analyses were performed. RESULTS The median age overall was 62.0 years. Nasopharynx NOS (13.2%) and Parotid Gland (10.9%) were the most common anatomical sites with the highest frequency of BM. The overall median survival time was 7.1 months. Predictors for the presence of BM included distant metastasis to the bone, liver, or lung on univariate analysis, and bone or lung on multivariate analysis. High-risk Human Papilloma Virus status was associated with a lower chance of BM. No pattern was determined when comparing lymph node level involvement and BM. The median survival for patients receiving radiation therapy and multi-agent chemotherapy was 8.4 and 11.7 months, respectively. Immunotherapy administered as first course therapy did not influence median survival. Most patients received radiation (62.7%) therapy and chemotherapy (50.2%). CONCLUSIONS The data extracted and analyzed from the NCDB should work to aid in the surveillance and management of BM in patients with HNC. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 Laryngoscope, 131:E2543-E2552, 2021.

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the second-generation molecular tests in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules with indeterminate fine-needle aspiration biopsy results.We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Cochrane Library for studies published between January 2017 and March 2021. Inclusion criteria were indeterminate thyroid results from fine-needle aspiration (FNA) that included Bethesda categories III and IV, use of Afirma GSC, Thyroseq v3, and ThyGeNext as an index test, and conclusive histopathological results. Studies with no post-surgical diagnoses were excluded. For each included study, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were obtained. Sensitivity and specificity were pooled jointly using a bivariate binomial random-effects model. Statistical significance was indicated at p-value less than 0.05.Our search yielded 431 non-duplicate articles, of which 15 were included in the study (7 GSC, 6 Thyroseq v3, and 2 ThyGeNext). ThyGeNext studies were excluded from the meta-analysis due to the small sample size. Pooled data for GSC studies on 472 thyroid nodules showed a sensitivity of 96.6 (95% confidence interval: 89.7-98.9%), specificity of 52.9% (23.4-80.5%), PPV of 63% (51-74%), and NPV of 96% (94-98%). Pooled data for ThyroSeq studies on 530 thyroid nodules showed a sensitivity of 95.1% (91.1-97.4%), specificity of 49.6% (29.3-70.1%), PPV of 70% (55-83%), and NPV of 92% (86-97%). There was no statistically significant difference in diagnostic performances of the two tests (p-values for sensitivity = 0.89, specificity = 0.82, PPV = 0.43, NPV = 0.17).High sensitivity and high NPV in GSC and Thyroseq v3 have potential to help rule out malignancy among thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytology results. There was no difference in diagnostic performances between the two molecular tests indicating that either test is appropriate to determine the malignancy of thyroid nodules. Further long-term outcome data are warranted to make a clear recommendation.

Tracheoesophageal speech is the most common voicing method used by laryngectomees. This method requires the installation of tracheoesophageal prosthesis (TEP), which requires continuous maintenance to achieve optimal speaking abilities and prevent fluid leakage from the esophagus to the trachea. The present manuscript describes the available types of TEPs, the procedures used to maintain them, the causes for their failure due to fluid leakage, and the methods used for their prevention. Knowledge and understanding of these issues can assist the otolaryngologist in caring for laryngectomees who use tracheoesophageal speech.

The Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has created an unprecedented economic and public health crisis in the United States. Following efforts to mitigate disease spread, with a significant decline in some regions, many states began reopening their economies. As social distancing guidelines were relaxed and businesses opened, local outbreaks of COVID-19 continue to place person on healthcare systems. Among medical specialties, otolaryngologists and their staff are among the highest at risk for becoming exposed to COVID-19. As otolaryngologists prepare to weather the storm of impending local surges in COVID-19 infections there are several practical measures that can be taken to mitigate the risk to ourselves and our staff.

Purpose The pulsed-electron avalanche knife (PEAK) PlasmaBlade TnA (Medtronic, n.d.) is a relatively new electrosurgical technology that is used widely in head and neck surgery (Medtronic Manuals, n.d.). This study aims to summarize device malfunctions, patient complications, and subsequent interventions related to PEAK PlasmaBlade TnA during tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. Materials and methods The US Food and Drug Administration's Manufacture and User Facility Device Experience database was queried for reports of PlasmaBlade TnA adverse events from June 6, 2009, to August 30, 2020. Data were extracted from reports pertaining to tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy. Results 128 reports were identified, from which 163 adverse events were extracted. Of these, 23 (14.6%) were related to patients, and 140 (85.4%) were related to device malfunction. The most frequently reported patient-related adverse event was a burn injury (17 [73.9%]). The most common device malfunctions were dislodgment of device component (39 [27.9%]), followed by tip ignition (32 [22.9%]), damaged tip or wire during operation (28 [20%]), and melted device (24 [17.1%]). Conclusions PEAK PlasmaBlade TnA have demonstrated utility in tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy but are associated with adverse events. Interventions aimed at improving both physician and patient education may help reduce adverse events attributed to improper use. Further study is needed to clarify optimal approaches to education.

Prior to thyroid surgery, a subset of patients chronically uses steroids to manage medical conditions such as Grave's disease, auto-immune conditions, or organ transplantation. Existing literature describes adverse effects of prolonged steroid use on surgical outcomes, however there remains a paucity of data investigating the specific effects of steroid use on postoperative outcomes after thyroidectomy. This study aims to identify complication risks steroid users are predisposed to after thyroidectomy.The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database (ACS-NSQIP) was queried to identify and isolate all patients who had undergone thyroidectomy procedures by Current Procedure Terminology codes from 2005 through 2018. Univariate analysis was performed to compare steroid uses and non-steroid users. Coarsened exact matching was utilized to homogenize the two cohorts based on demographics and preoperative comorbidities.A total of 153,595 thyroidectomies were initially included. After Coarsened exact matching, 116,861 patients were categorized as non-steroid users, and 2,965 as steroid users. The steroid cohort demonstrated significantly higher rates of any complication (P0.001) as well as overall surgical, cardiopulmonary, and renal complications. Individual complications such as superficial surgical site infections (P = 0.013), pulmonary embolism (P = 0.016), deep vein thrombosis (P = 0.011), progressive renal insufficiency (P = 0.006), and unplanned readmission (P = 0.026) were also increased.Patients with chronic steroid use undergoing thyroidectomy are at an increased risk for surgical, cardiopulmonary, and renal complications. Further research on preoperative steroid management is necessary for optimizing outcomes in this population.

Objectives: Recent literature suggests that outpatient head and neck surgery is safe and may decrease costs. This study assesses whether outpatient parotidectomy differs in complication type and rate from inpatient surgery. Methods: Patients who underwent parotidectomy at our institution from 2011 to 2019 were retrospectively reviewed and divided by inpatient or outpatient status. Complications including infection, seroma, salivary fistula, hematoma, and flap necrosis, as well as readmission rates were tabulated. Drain placement, related to tumor size, was also analyzed using a receiver operating curve. Results: 144 patients had available data for analysis. Nine of the 144 patients had complications. Seven of 98 outpatients and two of 46 inpatients had complications. There was no statistically significant difference in complication rate between the two groups ( P = .518). Tumor size ≥4.62 cm3 was associated with drain placement ( P = .044). Conclusion: Outpatient parotidectomy is a safe and viable alternative for carefully selected patients.

Communities often call upon their university hospitals to help with health screening events. Otolaryngologists can play an important role in prevention and education. We recently evaluated 285 community members at an oral cancer screening event at a community health "expo." An intake form and oral exam identified 67 with conditions that warranted further evaluation: 16 for dental follow-up; 25 for further ear, nose, and throat (ENT) evaluation; and 26 for primary care follow-up. One patient was identified with laryngeal cancer after referral for dysphonia. The event served to increase awareness of oral cancer among high-risk patients via educational materials and podium presentations. There was a positive effect on our university's credibility and reputation in the local community. Medical students interested in ENT received valuable supervised hands-on experience. This screening event identified opportunities for collaboration with local dental societies and primary care physicians for prevention and early detection of oral cancer.

Objective There is increasing literature supporting the use of extracapsular dissection (ECD) for the treatment of select superficial lobe parotid tumors, though no objective criteria for selection has been proposed. Prior studies have suggested the minimum distance between the parotideomasseteric fascia and the tumor edge or minimum fascia-tumor distance (MFTD) as a useful measurement for the identification of superficial parotid tumors. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the utility of the minimum fascia-tumor distance in selecting candidates for extracapsular dissection of benign parotid tumors. Methods This is a retrospective case-control study at a tertiary academic otolaryngology clinic. Twenty-three patients with prior surgical excision of benign parotid tumors that underwent surgeon-performed ultrasonography prior to excision of tumor were identified. Ultrasound images were reviewed and the minimum fascia-tumor distance was recorded and categorized by less than 3 mm or as 3 mm or greater. The primary outcome was successful completion of extracapsular dissection versus more extensive resection. Results Thirteen patients had a minimum fascia-tumor distance less than 3 mm; eleven of thirteen (84.6%) successfully underwent extracapsular dissection. Ten patients had a minimum fascia-tumor distance of 3 mm or greater; one of ten (10%) successfully underwent extracapsular dissection. A minimum fascia-tumor distance less than 3 mm was sensitive, specific, and accurate in predicting successful ECD at 91.7%, 81.8%, and 87.0% respectively (OR 49.5, 95% CI 3.4–573.2). Conclusion Minimum fascia-tumor distance may be a useful measurement in identifying candidates for removal of benign parotid tumors with extracapsular dissection.

Background Although complication rates after thyroidectomy are well described in the literature, the timing of these events is less understood. This study delineates the timeline and risk factors for early adverse events after thyroidectomy. Materials and methods This study included a retrospective review of 161,534 patients who underwent thyroidectomy between 2005 and 2018 using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Time to specific complications was analyzed for all patients undergoing thyroidectomy, with further stratification of hemithyroidectomy and total thyroidectomy cohorts. Univariate analyses were conducted to analyze demographics, preoperative comorbidities, and complications. A multivariate logistic regression model was generated to identify significant risk factors for 7-day postoperative complications. Results The overall complication rate was 3.28%. A majority of complications arose before discharge including the following: blood transfusion (96%), hematoma formation (68%), pneumonia (53%), and cardiac arrest (67%). Approximately 37% of unplanned reoperations occurred before discharge in the hemithyroidectomy versus 63% in the total thyroidectomy cohort. Greater than 65% of mortalities occurred after discharge in both groups. Complications generally occurring within 7 d for the entire cohort included the following: pneumonia (3; 2-8 [median postoperative day; interquartile range]), pulmonary embolism (6; 2-12), cardiac arrest (1; 0-5), myocardial infarction (2; 1-6), blood transfusions (0; 0-1), and hematoma formation (0; 0-2). Superficial surgical site infection (9; 6-16) occurred later. Patients who underwent outpatient surgery had a decreased risk of complications (odds ratio 0.41) in the 7-day postoperative period. Conclusions Although early complications after thyroidectomy are rare, they have a distinct time course, many of which occur after discharge. However, in selected patients undergoing outpatient thyroidectomy, overall risk of complications is decreased. Understanding timing helps establish better preoperative communication and education to improve postoperative expectations for the provider and patient.

The primary aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare complications between outpatient vs inpatient parotidectomy. A systematic review was performed to identify patients undergoing either outpatient or inpatient partodiectomy, in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, using PUBMED, SCOPUS, CINAHL, and the Cochrane library. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Postoperative complications (hematoma, seroma/sialocele, salivary fistula formation, Frey syndrome, surgical site infection [SSI]) were compared. Our search yielded 4958 nonduplicate articles, of which 13 studies were ultimately included (11 retrospective cohort, 2 prospective cohort), encompassing a total of 1323 patients (outpatient 46.33% vs inpatient 53.67%). There was no significant difference in total complications, hematoma, seroma, salivary fistula, or SSI rates between outpatient and inpatient groups. No significant difference in total complications was found between outpatient and inpatient groups when stratified by surgical approach (partial/superficial and total parotidectomy). Our findings suggest outpatient parotidectomy may be as safe as inpatient parotidectomy in appropriately selected patients.

Objective To evaluate surgical approaches and outcomes associated with accessory parotid gland neoplasms. Data sources MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Review methods A systematic review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) was performed. Studies were included if they reported surgical management and outcomes of patients with accessory parotid gland neoplasms. Results After screening 3532 records, 15 studies were included with a total of 187 patients. Benign tumors consisted of 61.5% of cases. External open, transoral, and preauricular endoscopic approaches were used for 82.3%, 11.3%, and 6.5% of cases, respectively. Accessory lobe resection alone, concurrent with partial parotidectomy, and concurrent with total parotidectomy were used in 54.8%, 43.0%, and 2.2% of cases, respectively. Complication rates were similar between histology groups (7.8% benign vs. 8.3% malignant, p = 0.82). Accessory lobe resection with concurrent partial parotidectomy had the lowest overall complication rate (6.3%). Resections limited to the accessory lobe were found to have an overall complication rate of 8.7%. Conclusion The results offer an overview of the surgical management and complications for accessory parotid gland tumors. Overall surgical complication rates found in these case series may be lower for management of accessory gland tumors than rates available in the literature for tumors within the main parotid gland.

We read with great interest, “Follow-Up Phone Interviews and Attendance Motivation From A Free Head and Neck Cancer Screening.” Having recently hosted a community head and neck cancer screening event and shared these findings with the otolaryngology community, we greatly appreciate this most recent contribution to the ongoing discussion. Identifying the motivational factors for being screened is a valuable addition to the literature, as these are important considerations for institutions seeking to hold their own head and neck cancer screening events.

There has been an increasing use of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) as studies have demonstrated its effectiveness for treating a variety of conditions. Postoperative complications of TORS include hemorrhage, tooth injury, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and prolonged percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube dependency. Dental injury has not been adequately discussed although it has been reported to be a common complication in multiple studies, with repair costs ranging from $700 to $3000 and average time spent to address the injury estimated to be 2.6 h. The incidence of this injury is likely due to the standard dental guard, which is not customizable to the patient’s teeth, therefore, not optimal for dental protection. Many alternative dental guards have been proposed to reduce the rate of dental injury. However, the previously presented alternatives are high cost, not time efficient, or have the potential for molding error rendering them less effective. We propose a guard that is cheap, time efficient, and effective in preventing dental injury. A retrospective study of 124 patients who underwent TORS over a period of 6 years with the proposed dental guard was conducted. No dental complications were observed in any of these cases. A cost analysis showed that this guard saved $4526.64 for our relatively small patient cohort. This guard can save money, time, and stress for both the patient and the surgeon, as well as reduce the number and severity of medico-legal claims related to perioperative dental injury.

Parathyroid cysts (PCs) are rare pathologies and are typically non-functional (do not secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH)). The aetiology of PCs is highly debated, and management is complex. We present a unique case of a parathyroid adenoma contained within a functional PC and highlight the limitations of intraoperative PTH monitoring during the surgical resection of functional PCs.

Background Currently, the first line treatment for Warthin's tumor (WT) is parotidectomy. There is a paucity of data evaluating the safety and efficacy of non-surgical treatments for patients not amenable to surgery. Ultrasound guided ethanol sclerotherapy (UGES) has been successfully used for the management of lymphangiomans of the head and neck, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cysts. This is the first study to implement and assess the success of UGES for management of WT. Methods We report two patients with WT, with a total of 3 masses, who underwent UGES. All procedures were performed in the clinic. The primary outcome measured was the tumor volume reduction rate (VRR), patient satisfaction, and complications observed at follow-up. Results Both patients experienced a significant reduction in tumor size upon follow up. VRR for the three treated tumors were 67.30%, 98.32%, and 55.73%. Patient were very satisfied with the results and noted significant cosmetic improvement. No complications were observed at follow-up. Conclusions Ultrasound guided ethanol sclerotherapy may be a viable option for conservative treatment of Warthin's tumor in patients unsuitable or unwilling to undergo surgical resection.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and 30-day morbidity and mortality risk in patients undergoing tracheostomy using the American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP).This is a retrospective, cross-sectional, cohort study.Patients were identified with Current Procedural Terminology codes in the ACS-NSQIP database.Patients who underwent tracheostomy from 2005 to 2018 were queried. They were stratified into four BMI classes and matched to normal BMI cohorts. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors for complications, readmissions, and unplanned reoperations within 30 days.Among 3784 patients meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria, obesity was shown to be a significant independent risk factor for overall complications (OR 1.439, 95% CI 1.226-1.689, p 0.001), postoperative acute renal failure (OR 10.715, 95% CI 1.213-94.646, p = 0.033), and unplanned readmissions (OR 1.702, 95% CI 1.095-2.647, p = 0.018). A significantly lower rate of postoperative transfusions was observed for obese patients (OR 0.581, 95% CI 0.432-0.781, p 0.001).Obesity was found to be independently associated with an increased risk of overall complication, developing acute renal failure, and having an unplanned 30-day readmission following tracheostomy. The risk of postoperative transfusion appears to be lower in obese patients.4.

e18549 Background: The standard of care for OPSCC includes chemoradiation (CRT) or surgery with adjuvant radiation (RT). However, RT is associated with significant life long morbidity. We assessed the efficacy of a two-drug induction regimen, followed by transoral robotic assisted surgery (TORS) & neck dissection for locally advanced OPSCC. Methods: This is an IRB approved single-arm phase II study for untreated stage III or IVA (AJCC 7th edition) OPSCC patients (pts) with an ECOG < 2 and GFR > 50 cc. Induction cisplatin 75 mg/m2 and docetaxel 75 mg/m2 was administered every 21 days for 3 cycles. Patients then underwent TORS and neck dissection(s). At post-op visits, flexible laryngoscopy, blood tests, and imaging with PET/CT and/or MRI were done. Short and long term toxicity, progression-free survival, overall survival, and quality of life (QOL) were evaluated in all pts. Results: Twenty oropharyngeal pts were treated, 19 were male, 17 were Caucasian, and 19 were HPV+. Median age at dx was 57. Three pts were stage III, and 17 were stage IVA. Pathologic CR at the primary site occurred in 15 pts and CR among LN neck dissections occurred in 13 pts. Four pts were given dose-reduced chemo and 1 pt was changed to carboplatin per protocol because of renal dysfunction. Pre vs post tx QOL scores did not change. At a mean follow-up of 40.7 months (range 13 to 55), 18 pts are alive and NED. Three pts recurred a mean of 2.2 mos after surgery, and were treated with salvage CRT. Two pts died of metastatic disease, the third is alive and well. All 3 pts had positive LN (9 LN, 3 LN and 1 LN) at surgery. A fourth pt had 12 pos LN and received radiation. He has not recurred. A retrospective review of an additional 20 twenty pts treated in the same way, were also reviewed for efficacy. Mean age was 61.5. Two pts died of metastatic disease. Twenty pts have been followed for > 13 mos (17 are alive and well, 2 died, and 1 LFU), and their mean follow-up is 43.5 mos. Conclusions: Cisplatin + docetaxel followed by TORS & neck dissection(s) appears to be an effective model for the definitive treatment for OPSCC, while avoiding the adverse effects of RT. Clinical trial information: NCT02760667.

This case report describes the use a new flexible robotic system in otolaryngology, the FlexRobot® for cricopharyngeal myotomy in cadaver dissections, and for the treatment of a patient with esophageal stenosis and secondary dysphagia and dysphonia. The Flexrobot® facilitates access to the hypopharynx with increased proximity to the surgical field and improved optics, allowing more exact dilatation and injection in our patient. It also would allow surgeons to reach deep inside the cavity of the hypopharynx into anatomical regions that are typically inaccessible without an open approach, as shown in our cadaveric procedure, where full exposure of the posterior aspect of the cricopharyngeus and isolation of the muscle belly were achieved. While esophageal dysmotility can be treated through botulinum toxin injection and esophageal dilation as demonstrated in our patient, for longer term results, operative cricopharyngeal myotomy is superior. Surgical complications include infection, hematoma, mucosal damage, fistula, and recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis. While endoscopic procedures avoid the risk of recurrent laryngeal nerve or great vessel injury and lower the risk of perforation and fistula, they create the potential for mediastinitis as a consequence of opening the pharyngoesophageal muscosa and violating the buccopharyngeal fascia. Based on the cadaveric procedure, we believe that the robotic approach would reduce the risk of mediastinitis as a result of better visualization of the buccopharyngeal fascia and the robot's precise instrument control.

The investigators of this study hypothesized that fractures of the mandibular condyle can be repaired using short-segment intramedullary implants and purely endoscopic surgical technique, using a basic science, human cadaver model in an academic center. Endoscopic instrumentation was used through a transoral mucosal incision to place intramedullary implants of 2 cm in length into osteotomized mandibular condyles. The surgical maneuvers that required to insert these implants, including condyle positioning, reaming, implant insertion, and seating of the mandibular ramus, are described herein. Primary outcome was considered as successful completion of the procedure. Ten cadaveric mandibular condyles were successfully repaired with rigid intramedullary internal fixation without the use of external incisions. Both insertion of a peg-type implant and screwing a threaded implant into the condylar head were possible. The inferior portion of the implant remained exposed, and the ramus of the mandible was manipulated into position on the implant using retraction at the sigmoid notch. The results of this study suggest that purely endoscopic repair of fractures of the mandibular condyle is possible by using short-segment intramedullary titanium implants and a transoral endoscopic approach without the need for facial incisions or punctures. The biomechanical advantages of these intramedullary implants, including improved strength and resistance to mechanical failure compared with miniplates, have been recently established. The combination of improved implant design and purely endoscopic technique may allow for improved fixation and reduced surgical- and implant-related morbidity in the treatment of condylar fractures.

Service to others is something that physicians understand and undertake on a daily basis. Military physicians are in a unique role of serving both our patients and our nation. Millions of Americans have answered the call to military service since the attacks of September 11, 2001. As otolaryngologists, we will increasingly care for veterans of the Global War on Terror. Service to our nation is a mutual goal that brings together people from very different walks of life.

Endoscopic techniques have become the preferred approach to address cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks in the skull base, as they offer a minimally invasive method to directly visualize and repair the defect. The alternative technique of open craniotomy can still be considered for cases refractory to endoscopic repair; however, few studies have investigated the potential benefits of endoscopic repair for cases of persistent leaks after attempted transcranial repair. We report two such cases of successful long-term endoscopic repair of a persistent CSF leak, and demonstrate that endoscopic repair is a viable option to salvage an unsuccessful intracranial repair.

Objective: 1) To identify and define the cervical esophageal branches (CEB) of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), in vivo. 2) To study the feasibility of positively identifying the nonlaryngeal, ...

OBJECTIVES: The facial trauma surgeon should be able to list indications for endoscopic treatment of mandibular condyle fractures and discuss the limitations and complications of the technique. BACKGROUND: The ideal treatment of mandibular subcondylar fractures continues to be debated. Acceptable results are often obtained with conservative measures such as mandibular maxillary fixation followed by elastics. On the other hand, an open approaches result in potential risk injury to the facial nerve. These 2 arguments have cautioned many surgeons from open treatment of condylar fractures. Recent advances in endoscopic techniques have made the mandibular condyle more accessible with less risk to the facial nerve. As with any new technique, endoscopic treatment of mandibular subcondylar fractures is not without its own limitations and complications. METHODS: This was a retrospective case series. RESULTS: Three patients with mandibular subcondylar fractures with complications following endoscopic treatment were reviewed. There were a total of 4 condylar fractures (1 patient had bilateral fractures). There was 1 incidence of temporary facial nerve paresis, 1 failure of hardware positioning, 1 screw placement into the mandibular foramen, 2 condyles where adequate reduction of the fracture was impossible, and 1 failure to secure a screw into the proximal fracture segment. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic management of mandibular subcondylar fractures is a novel treatment with novel types of complications. Although promising, endoscopic treatment of mandibular subcondylar fractures should be approached prudently to avoid potential pitfalls.