Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty

Objectives

(1) Determine the rate of postoperative complications, reoperation, readmission, and death after uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) for sleep apnea through multi-institutional clinical data. (2) Compare outcomes of UPPP between multilevel and single-level procedures for the treatment of sleep apnea.

Study Design

Retrospective database analysis.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program—a nationally validated, prospective, multi-institutional database from 2005 to 2013—was analyzed for patients who underwent UPPP, per corresponding Current Procedural Terminology codes. Patients were categorized into 3 groups: UPPP alone, UPPP + nasal cavity (NC), and UPPP + base of tongue (BOT). Perioperative outcome measures of interest include surgical/medical complications, reoperation, readmission, and death. Comparisons were made among surgical groups through univariate cross-sectional analysis.

Results

A total of 1079 patients underwent UPPP; 413 patients had UPPP + NC; and 200 patients had UPPP + BOT procedures. One death was reported for the entire cohort of patients. Among all 3 groups (UPPP, UPPP + NC, and UPPP + BOT), no differences were noted in the rates of medical complications ( P = .445), surgical complications ( P = .396), reoperation ( P = .332), and readmission ( P = .447). However, the length of hospital stay in days was greatest for the UPPP + BOT group (UPPP, 0.81 ± 0.69; UPPP + NC, 0.87 ± 0.90; UPPP + BOT, 1.50 ± 2.70; P < .001).

Conclusion

These national data demonstrate no significant increase in risk when UPPP is performed as a single- or multilevel procedure. When indicated, UPPP with multilevel procedures may be safely performed for treatment of sleep apnea. These data set a benchmark for perioperative risk in UPPP surgery and will prove useful for counseling patients.

Sialendoscopy for non-stone disorders: The current evidence

OBJECTIVE

Review the current literature on the use of sialendoscopy in the treatment of non-stone disorders of the major salivary glands.

DATA SOURCES

Eligible articles that reported on the use of sialendoscopy in the treatment of non-stone disorders were identified using MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar through May 2016. The search used key words sialendoscopy, salivary endoscopy, salivary scope, salivary duct stenosis, salivary duct stricture, Sjogren's disease, radioiodine sialadenitis, salivary duct obstruction, sialadenitis, chronic sialadenitis, juvenile recurrent parotitis, parotitis, and radiation sialadenitis.

REVIEW METHODS

Full-length prospective and retrospective original articles; systemic reviews; and meta-analysis, including adults and children with adequate data for evaluating the sialendoscopy for non-stone disorders, were included. Individual case reports were excluded.

RESULTS

There is an increasing trend for the use of sialendoscopy for salivary obstruction caused by a wide variety of non-stone disorders worldwide. The studies of sialendoscopy for non-stone disorders are often retrospective, of smaller sample size, and more subjective in measurement of patient outcome. The most common indications currently for the procedure are scars, juvenile recurrent parotitis, radioiodine sialadenitis, and Sjögren syndrome, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although the initial evidence for the use of sialendoscopy for non-stone disorders is not as established as that for stones, it remains a promising gland-preserving tool in the management of non-stone disorders of major salivary glands.

The Effect of Upper Airway Surgery on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Levels and Adherence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background /Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of upper airway surgery (UAS) on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). A secondary objective was to determine if a decrease in CPAP from UAS increases CPAP adherence.

METHODS

Studies were eligible for inclusion if a CPAP titration was performed both prior and following UAS in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Studies that compared adherence to CPAP before and after UAS were included to evaluate the secondary objective.

RESULTS

A total of 11 articles involving 323 patients were included in the review. The results show that there was a mean reduction in CPAP of 1.40 cm H2O (95% CI -2.08 to -0.73). Four of the 11 papers, with a total of 80 patients, evaluated CPAP adherence and found a significant 0.62-hour improvement on average (95% CI 0.22-1.01).

CONCLUSION

Due to high levels of nonadherence, surgical intervention will play a role even in patients who are unlikely to be fully cured by surgery. UAS decreases the apnea-hypopnea index and modestly reduces CPAP while improving CPAP adherence in the majority of patients. The evidence suggests that UAS may have an adjunctive role in the management of OSA.

Efficacy of Upper Airway Stimulation on Collapse Patterns Observed during Drug-Induced Sedation Endoscopy

OBJECTIVE

To describe upper airway collapse patterns observed on drug-induced sedation endoscopy (DISE) during screening for a clinical trial and to evaluate the impact of collapse patterns found on preoperative DISE on response rates to upper airway stimulation (UAS) therapy.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of an ongoing prospective multi-institutional cohort study.

SETTING

Twenty-two participating institutions of the STAR trial.

SUBJECTS AND METHOD

In total, 222 subjects were screened with DISE to determine eligibility for an implantable UAS device. Supine laryngoscopy was performed during moderate sedation (propofol and/or midazolam). Airway collapse pattern and severity were graded at 4 levels, including velum, oropharynx, tongue base, and epiglottis (VOTE classification). Patients with complete concentric collapse (CCC) at the velum were excluded from implantation.

RESULTS

The CCC at the velum was observed in 52 (23%) of screened subjects, and these subjects were subsequently excluded from implantation. Of the 170 subjects without CCC at the velum, 126 (77%) underwent implantation: 121 (96%) had multilevel collapse and 5 (4%) had single-level collapse. When comparing preimplantation DISE findings, UAS responders at 12 months had lower baseline VOTE scores compared with therapy nonresponders.

CONCLUSION

Drug-induced sedation endoscopy is an efficient and safe method for determining UAS eligibility and has the potential to identify UAS nonresponders. Most patients had multilevel airway collapse, illustrating the limitations of single-level upper airway surgery in treating obstructive sleep apnea. Upper airway stimulation is effective therapy for most patients with multilevel airway collapse; however, patients with complete anterior-posterior or lateral soft palate and/or epiglottic collapse may be at increased risk of therapy failure.

Overview of smartphone applications for sleep analysis

Objective

To review and assess the current selection of sleep analysis smartphone applications (apps) available for download.

Methods

The iOS and Google Play mobile app store were searched for sleep analysis apps targeted for consumer use. Alarm clock, sleep-aid, snoring and sleep-talking recorder, fitness tracker apps, and apps geared towards health professionals were excluded. App information and features were obtained from in-store descriptions, and the app developer website.

Results

A total of 51 unique sleep apps in both iOS and Google Play stores were included. The apps were rated 3.8/5 in both stores, and had an average price of $1.12 in the iOS store and $0.58 in the Google Play store. >65% of sleep apps report on sleep structure, including duration, time awake, and time in light/deep sleep, while reporting of REM was limited. The availability of extra features was variable, ranging from 4% to 73% of apps.

Conclusions

There are a variety of sleep analysis apps with a range of functionality. The apps with the most reviews from the each store are featured. Many apps provide data on sleep structure; however the algorithms are not validated by scientific literature or studies. Since patients may inquire about their sleep habits from these apps, it is necessary for physicians to be aware of the most common apps and the features offered and their limitations in order to properly counsel patients.

Cetuximab activity in dysplastic lesions of the upper aerodigestive tract

BACKGROUND

High risk head and neck mucosal premalignancy has a malignant conversion rate of up to 40%, despite adequate surgical therapy. Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) blocking agents, including cetuximab, have shown activity in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and have potential for therapy in high risk premalignancy.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized, prospective, phase II clinical trial to determine the effects of cetuximab on patients with high risk premalignancy. Patients were randomized to treatment with cetuximab 400mg/m(2) on week one followed by 250mg/m(2) on week 2-8 or observation, with the option for crossover to cetuximab therapy for patients originally randomized to the observation arm.

RESULTS

Two of 19 enrolled patients did not complete therapy due to treatment toxicity. Analysis of 17 patients who completed the trial regimen show a trend toward a larger mean decrease in grade of dysplasia in the cetuximab treated group (-1.0) vs. the observation group (-0.2) (P=0.082, one-sided exact Wilcoxon rank sum test). However, in the observation group, none of the 5 patients (0%) achieved complete resolution of dysplasia; while 4 of 12 (33.3%) cetuximab treated patients had no remaining dysplasia after therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of high risk premalignancy of the upper aerodigestive tract with cetuximab alone may result in significant, durable, and complete clinical and histological resolution of moderate to severe dysplasia in at least a subset of high risk patients. These results warrant further investigation in larger studies with increased statistical power.

Three-Year Outcomes of Cranial Nerve Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: The STAR Trial

OBJECTIVE

To describe the 36-month clinical and polysomnography (PSG) outcomes in an obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) cohort treated with hypoglossal cranial nerve upper airway stimulation (UAS).

STUDY DESIGN

A multicenter prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Industry-supported multicenter academic and clinical setting.

SUBJECTS

Participants (n = 116) at 36 months from a cohort of 126 implanted participants.

METHODS

Participants were enrolled in a prospective phase III trial evaluating the efficacy of UAS for moderated to severe OSA. Prospective outcomes included apnea-hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation index, other PSG measures, self-reported measures of sleepiness, sleep-related quality of life, and snoring.

RESULTS

Of 126 enrolled participants, 116 (92%) completed 36-month follow-up evaluation per protocol; 98 participants additionally agreed to a voluntary 36-month PSG. Self-report daily device usage was 81%. In the PSG group, 74% met the a priori definition of success with the primary outcomes of apnea-hypopnea index, reduced from the median value of 28.2 events per hour at baseline to 8.7 and 6.2 at 12 and 36 months, respectively. Similarly, self-reported outcomes improved from baseline to 12 months and were maintained at 36 months. Soft or no snoring reported by bed partner increased from 17% at baseline to 80% at 36 months. Serious device-related adverse events were rare, with 1 elective device explantation from 12 to 36 months.

CONCLUSION

Long-term 3-year improvements in objective respiratory and subjective quality-of-life outcome measures are maintained. Adverse events are uncommon. UAS is a successful and appropriate long-term treatment for individuals with moderate to severe OSA.

TranQuill sling snoreplasty for snoring: A single-arm pilot study for safety and effectiveness

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Determine safety and efficacy of the TranQuill Sling Snoreplasty (TSS) (Surgical Specialties Corp., Vancouver, BC, Canada) for the treatment of snoring in adults with benign snoring or mild obstructive sleep apnea.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, unblinded, single-center pilot study.

METHODS

From February 2014 to July 2014, 20 adult patients with chronic, disruptive snoring assessed by bed partner were recruited to undergo TSS. Subjects with apnea hypopnea index < 15, minimum oxygen saturation > 85%, and body mass index (BMI) < 32 were included. Outcomes were assessed comparing the results of quality-of-life questionnaires, bed partner-assessed snoring, pain visual analog scales, WatchPAT (Itamar Medical Ltd, Caesarea Ind. Park, Israel) home sleep studies, and flexible endoscopy at baseline and 90-day follow-up.

RESULTS

Thirteen males and seven females were enrolled. Average age was 49.1 (range 31-67) and BMI of 25.8 ± 2.66. TranQuill Sling Snoreplasty significantly reduced snoring symptom scores from 8.70 ± 4.27 to 6.42 ± 4.14, P = 0.012. Snoring visual analog scores demonstrated reduction of 17.8 mm (59.4 mm ± 22.1 to 41.6 mm ± 29.2), P = 0.0184. Thirty-five percent (7/20) of subjects reported complications related to the trial, with no serious adverse events.

CONCLUSION

TranQuill Sling Snoreplasty is a safe therapy that improves snoring symptoms in most adult subjects with benign snoring or mild sleep apnea. Further study is required to better identify patients likely to respond to the therapy.

Upper Airway Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Durability of the Treatment Effect at 18 Months

OBJECTIVE

To determine the stability of improvement in polysomnographic measures of sleep disordered breathing, patient reported outcomes, the durability of hypoglossal nerve recruitment and safety at 18 months in the Stimulation Treatment for Apnea Reduction (STAR) trial participants.

DESIGN

Prospective multicenter single group trial with participants serving as their own controls.

SETTING

Twenty-two community and academic sleep medicine and otolaryngology practices.

MEASUREMENTS

Primary outcome measures were the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and the 4% oxygen desaturation index (ODI). Secondary outcome measures were the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ), and oxygen saturation percent time < 90% during sleep. Stimulation level for each participant was collected at three predefined thresholds during awake testing. Procedure- and/or device-related adverse events were reviewed and coded by the Clinical Events Committee.

RESULTS

The median AHI was reduced by 67.4% from the baseline of 29.3 to 9.7/h at 18 mo. The median ODI was reduced by 67.5% from 25.4 to 8.6/h at 18 mo. The FOSQ and ESS improved significantly at 18 mo compared to baseline values. The functional threshold was unchanged from baseline at 18 mo. Two participants experienced a serious device-related adverse event requiring neurostimulator repositioning and fixation. No tongue weakness reported at 18 mo.

CONCLUSION

Upper airway stimulation via the hypoglossal nerve maintained a durable effect of improving airway stability during sleep and improved patient reported outcomes (Epworth Sleepiness Scale and Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire) without an increase of the stimulation thresholds or tongue injury at 18 mo of follow-up.

Implantation of a defibrillator in a patient with an upper airway stimulation device

The patient is a 62-year-old man with continuous positive airway pressure-intolerant obstructive sleep apnea who was enrolled in a study for a hypoglossal nerve upper airway stimulation device (UAS). Nearly 2.5 years later, he was admitted to the hospital for unstable angina. Diagnostic workup revealed a prior myocardial infarction, an ejection fraction of 30% on maximal medical therapy, and episodes of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia. During hospitalization, the patient received an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). This is the first reported case of simultaneous use of a UAS and an ICD, and we report no untoward device interference between the two implantable devices.

The Effect of Glossectomy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Objective

Determine the effect of glossectomy as part of multilevel sleep surgery on sleep-related outcomes in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

Data Sources

PubMED, Scopus.

Review Methods

Two independent researchers conducted the review using PubMed-NCBI and Scopus literature databases. Studies on glossectomy for obstructive sleep apnea that reported pre- and postoperative apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) score with 10 or more patients were included.

Results

A total of 18 articles with 522 patients treated with 3 glossectomy techniques (midline glossectomy, lingualplasty, and submucosal minimally invasive lingual excision) met inclusion criteria. Pooled analyses (baseline vs post surgery) showed a significant improvement in AHI (48.1 ± 22.01 to 19.05 ± 15.46, P < .0001), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS; 11.41 ± 4.38 to 5.66 ± 3.29, P < .0001), snoring visual analog scale (VAS; 9.08 ± 1.21 to 3.14 ± 2.41, P < .0001), and Lowest O2 saturation (76.67 ± 10.58 to 84.09 ± 7.90, P < .0001). Surgical success rate was 59.6% (95% CI, 53.0%-65.9%) and surgical cure was achieved in 22.5% (95% CI, 11.26%-36.26%) of cases. Acute complications occurred in 16.4% (79/481) of reported patients. Glossectomy was used as a standalone therapy in 24 patients. In this limited cohort, significant reductions in AHI (41.84 ± 32.05 to 25.02 ± 20.43, P = .0354) and ESS (12.35 ± 5.05 to 6.99 ± 3.84, P < .0001) were likewise observed.

Conclusion

Glossectomy significantly improves sleep outcomes as part of multilevel surgery in adult patients with OSA. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to analyze the role of glossectomy as a standalone procedure for the treatment of sleep apnea, although the evidence suggests positive outcomes in select patients.

Human papillomavirus status and gene expression profiles of oropharyngeal and oral cancers from European American and African American patients

BACKGROUND

Disparities in prevalence, human papillomavirus (HPV) status, and mortality rates for head and neck cancer have been described between African American and European American patients.

METHODS

We studied the HPV status and gene expression profiles in 56 oropharyngeal/oral cavity tumors and 9 normal tissue samples from European American and African American patients treated in South Carolina between 2010 and 2012.

RESULTS

Overall, 59% of tumors were HPV DNA-positive, but only 48% of those expressed E7 mRNA (HPV-active). The prevalence of HPV-active tumors was 10% in African American patients and 39% in European American patients. Tumors positive for HPV DNA but negative for HPV mRNA exhibited gene expression profiles distinct from those of both HPV-active and HPV-negative cancers, suggesting that HPV DNA-positive/RNA-negative tumors may constitute a unique group.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a direct assessment of differential expression patterns in HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer arising from African American and European American patients, for which there is a paucity of data. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 00: 000-000, 2015.

Facial Nerve Monitoring during Parotidectomy

Objectives

To determine the effectiveness of intraoperative facial nerve monitoring (FNM) in preventing immediate and permanent postoperative facial nerve weakness in patients undergoing primary parotidectomy.

Data Sources

PubMed-NCBI database from 1970 to 2014.

Review Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was conducted. Acceptable studies included controlled series that evaluated facial nerve function following primary parotidectomy with or without FNM (intraoperative nerve monitor vs control). Primary and secondary end points were defined as immediate postoperative and permanent facial nerve weakness (House-Brackmann score, ≥2), respectively.

Results

After a review of 1414 potential publications, 7 articles met inclusion criteria, with a total of 546 patients included in the final meta-analysis. The incidence of immediate postoperative weakness following parotidectomy was significantly lower in the FNM group compared to the unmonitored group (22.5% vs 34.9%; P = .001). The incidence of permanent weakness was not statistically different in the long term (3.9% vs 7.1%; P = .18). The number of monitored cases needed to prevent 1 incidence of immediate postoperative facial nerve weakness was 9, given an absolute risk reduction of 11.7% This corresponded to a 47% decrease in the incidence of immediate facial nerve dysfunction (odds ratio, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.35 to 0.79; P = .002).

Conclusion

In primary cases of parotidectomy, intraoperative FNM decreases the risk of immediate postoperative facial nerve weakness but does not appear to influence the final outcome of permanent facial nerve weakness.

Clinical and quality-of-life outcomes following gland-preserving surgery for chronic sialadenitis

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Gland-preserving salivary surgery utilizing salivary endoscopy has been proposed as a treatment alternative in the management of chronic sialadenitis. This study seeks to determine medium-term clinical and quality-of-life (QOL) outcomes following a gland-preserving approach for chronic sialadenitis.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey with retrospective chart review.

METHODS

All patients undergoing attempted gland-preserving salivary surgery with salivary endoscopy for chronic sialadenitis at a tertiary, academic salivary referral center between October 2008 and April 2013 were identified from a quality assurance database. A research database was constructed to examine clinical factors of interest. A clinical outcomes and QOL survey was mailed to all eligible patients in order to obtain long-term follow-up data.

RESULTS

A total of 206 of 306 (67%) eligible patients returned the survey. The median length of follow-up was 17 months (3-54 months). The majority of patients (89%) endorsed symptom improvement after gland-preserving therapy. Surgical excision was performed on 8% of affected glands. Patients with chronic sialadenitis due to stones reported a greater incidence of symptom resolution (P = 0.0004) and more favorable QOL outcomes (P = 0.0001) than patients with nonstone etiologies.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing gland-preserving salivary surgery with salivary endoscopy for chronic sialadenitis have favorable long-term symptom improvement and gland retention rates. Although patients with stones demonstrated the best outcomes, improvement was documented for all etiologies of chronic sialadenitis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Randomized controlled withdrawal study of upper airway stimulation on OSA: short- and long-term effect

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy and durability of upper airway stimulation via the hypoglossal nerve on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity including objective and subjective clinical outcome measures.

STUDY DESIGN

A randomized controlled therapy withdrawal study.

SETTING

Industry-supported multicenter academic and clinical setting.

SUBJECTS

A consecutive cohort of 46 responders at 12 months from a prospective phase III trial of 126 implanted participants.

METHODS

Participants were randomized to either therapy maintenance ("ON") group or therapy withdrawal ("OFF") group for a minimum of 1 week. Short-term withdrawal effect as well as durability at 18 months of primary (apnea hypopnea index and oxygen desaturation index) and secondary outcomes (arousal index, oxygen desaturation metrics, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire, snoring, and blood pressure) were assessed.

RESULTS

Both therapy withdrawal group and maintenance group demonstrated significant improvements in outcomes at 12 months compared to study baseline. In the randomized assessment, therapy withdrawal group returned to baseline, and therapy maintenance group demonstrated no change. At 18 months with therapy on in both groups, all objective respiratory and subjective outcome measures showed sustained improvement similar to those observed at 12 months.

CONCLUSION

Withdrawal of therapeutic upper airway stimulation results in worsening of both objective and subjective measures of sleep and breathing, which when resumed results in sustained effect at 18 months. Reduction of obstructive sleep apnea severity and improvement of quality of life were attributed directly to the effects of the electrical stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve.

A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial Evaluating Fibrin Sealant in Thyroidectomy Closure

Objectives:

Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of Evicel fibrin sealant when used in thyroid surgery closure, taking into account the following endpoints: postoperative drain output, time to drain removal, length of admission, and adverse events.

Methods:

From June 2010 to January 2014, an institutional review board–approved prospective, randomized, double-blind study of Evicel versus a saline control was conducted on 70 subjects receiving total thyroidectomy or hemithyroidectomy. Twenty-eight received Evicel and 27 received saline; data from 15 subjects were eliminated due to protocol violations. The mean age was 50.3 (range, 21 to 73).

Results:

Comparisons of baseline characteristics, including age, sex, and type of surgery, revealed successful subject randomization. There was no significant difference in drain output between Evicel (median [interquartile range]: 96.3 mL [73.3-139.3 mL]) and placebo (120.0 mL [68.8-161.5 mL], P = .334). Drain time (37.9 hours [25.2-48.7 hours] vs 43.6 hours [37.6-58.1 hours]) and hospital stay (45.5 hours [33.4-53.8 hours] vs 50.9 hours [44.1-69.4 hours]) were also shorter for Evicel, but again these differences were not significant ( P = .101 and .526, respectively). For the subjects undergoing total thyroidectomy, there was a significant reduction in drain output (103.5 mL [80.0-138.6 mL] vs 150.0 mL [120.0-188.5 mL], P = .035) and drain time (40.3 hours [26.2-49.1 hours] vs 47.1 hours [42.0-67.8 hours], P = .035) with Evicel. Hospital stay in this subgroup was shorter with Evicel (50.3 hours [43.6-54.9 hours] vs 59.4 hours [48.4-70.6 hours]), but this result was not significant ( P = .246). No outcomes were significant in the hemithryoidectomy subgroup. Nine adverse events occurred in the Evicel group compared to 3 for placebo ( P = .101).

Conclusions:

Evicel sealant appears to be a safe, effective method to reduce serous drain output following total thyroidectomy but has a limited role in hemithyroidectomy due to low levels of baseline drain output.

Facial Nerve Monitoring during Parotidectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Objectives:

Determine the effectiveness of intraoperative facial nerve monitoring (FNM) in preventing immediate and permanent postoperative facial nerve weakness in patients undergoing primary parotidectomy.

Methods:

Systematic review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed-NCBI database from 1970 to 2014. Acceptable studies included controlled series that evaluated facial nerve function following primary parotidectomy with or without FNM (intraoperative nerve monitor vs. control). Primary and secondary endpoints were defined as immediate postoperative and permanent facial nerve weakness (≥2 House-Brackmann score), respectively.

Results:

A total of 1414 articles were reviewed, resulting in 8 articles that met inclusion criteria. In total, 626 patients were included in the final meta-analysis. The incidence of immediate postoperative weakness following parotidectomy was significantly lower in the FNM group compared with the unmonitored group (22.4% vs 35.0%, P = .001). The incidence of permanent weakness was also lower, but this difference was not statistically significant (4.2% vs 7.6%, P = .10). The number of monitored cases needed to prevent 1 incidence of immediate postoperative facial nerve weakness was 8 given an absolute risk reduction of 12.6%. This corresponded to a 49% decrease in the incidence of immediate facial nerve dysfunction (odds ratio, 0.51; 95% confidence interval, 0.34 to 0.76, P = .001).

Conclusions:

In primary cases of parotidectomy, intraoperative facial nerve monitoring decreases the risk of immediate postoperative facial nerve weakness, but does not appear to influence the final outcome of permanent facial nerve weakness.

Gland-Preserving Transfacial Removal of Parotid Stones

Objectives:

(1) Analyze the evolving technique for gland-preserving transfacial removal of parotid stones including ultrasound, needle localization, and the combination of endoscopy with transfacial removal. (2) Review the success rate for patients treated with gland-preserving transfacial removal of parotid stones in an updated cohort.

Methods:

Case series with chart review at a tertiary care university hospital from 2010 to 2014. Disease: Parotid sialolithiasis. Subjects: Patients with parotid sialolithiasis unmanageable with endoscopy alone. Intervention: Transfacial removal. Outcome measurements: Symptom relief, gland preservation, use of ultrasound, use of needle localization, stone size, stone location, facial nerve visualization, complications, and endoscopic confirmation of stone location prior to stone removal.

Results:

A total of 25 patients underwent transfacial operation for symptomatic parotid sialolithiasis. Ultrasound was used in 88% of cases and needle localization was used in 64% of cases. Sixteen out of 25 patients (64%) had completely successful therapy defined by no symptoms postoperatively with a preserved, functional gland. Ten of the remaining eleven patients without complete symptom resolution did endorse significant symptom improvement, while the final patient eventually underwent parotidectomy. Fifteen out of 25 patients (60%) had a stone that was localized with the endoscope prior to transfacial resection.

Conclusions:

Transfacial removal of certain parotid stones is a functional alternative to parotidectomy for patients in whom endoscopy or shock wave therapy for stone retrieval is ineffective, unavailable, or contraindicated. Ultrasound and needle localization are useful adjuncts in stone retrieval.

Randomized Treatment Withdrawal of Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Objectives:

Describe the therapeutic effect of upper airway stimulation (UAS) therapy withdrawal on objective and subjective measures of sleep apnea severity.

Methods:

From a cohort of 126 participants in a prospective therapy effectiveness trial, 46 subjects were randomized to therapy “ON” and “OFF” groups. Primary outcomes measures were apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen desaturation index (ODI) changes and secondary outcome measures included Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ), sleep architecture, hypoxemia, snoring, and blood pressure.

Results:

Groups did not differ at pretreatment baseline or at 12 months of therapy in polysomnography or self-reported measures. Following randomized controlled trial (RCT) therapy withdrawal, change in AHI and ODI significantly differed in “ON” and “OFF” groups (1.7 versus 18.2 and 1.6 versus 17.0 events/hour P < .0001). Therapy withdrawal worsened ESS, FOSQ, snoring, hypoxemia, and arousal index in the therapy “OFF” but no change was observed in the “ON” group ( P < .001). The therapy “ON” group demonstrated a reduction in blood pressure at 12 months compared to baseline which was maintained through the RCT.

Conclusions:

Withdrawal of therapeutic UAS results in relapse of both subjective and objective measures of OSA.

Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Program Description:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) significantly affects sleep, daytime function, quality of life, public safety, and cardiovascular risk. Although positive pressure remains the primary treatment, suboptimal adherence rates necessitate alternative treatment strategies. Hypoglossal nerve stimulation is a new and emerging treatment option with published prospective clinical trial data. Sleep-boarded otolaryngologists will review the physiology and basic science of upper airway stimulation, demonstrate the current technology and surgical procedure, present safety and efficacy data from recent multicenter clinical trials, and discuss patient selection and cost-effectiveness. A panel will explore future directions and the advantages/disadvantages of this technology as it compares to other sleep apnea treatment options.

Educational Objectives:

(1) Examine the pathophysiology of OSA with a particular focus on the neuromuscular control mechanisms. (2) Interpret the basic science and feasibility studies on hypoglossal nerve stimulation and describe the current technology and surgical procedure. (3) Report the safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness data from published prospective multicenter clinical trials.

The Effect of Upper Airway Surgery on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Levels and Patient Adherence

Objectives:

(1) Determine the effect of upper airway surgery (UAS) on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) pressure by systematic review and meta-analysis. (2) Determine if a decrease in CPAP pressure from UAS could increase CPAP adherence.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. Studies were eligible for inclusion if a CPAP titration was performed both prior and following upper airway surgery in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Studies that compared adherence to CPAP before and after upper airway surgery were included to evaluate the secondary objective.

Results:

A total of 11 articles involving 323 patients were included in the review. There was a mean reduction in CPAP pressure of 1.44 cmH2O [95% confidence interval [CI], –2.09 to 0.78], indicating that UAS reduced CPAP pressure on average. Four of the 11 papers with a total of 80 patients evaluated CPAP adherence. CPAP adherence was improved by 0.62 hours on average [95% CI, 0.22 to 1.01].

Conclusions:

CPAP remains the mainstay treatment of moderate to severe OSA, but due to high levels of nonadherence, surgical intervention will play a role even in patients who are unlikely to be fully cured by surgery. UAS decreases the apnea-hypopnea index, improves symptoms, and modestly reduces CPAP pressure while improving CPAP adherence in the majority of patients. The evidence suggests that UAS may have an important adjunctive role on the management of OSA.

Beyond Stones: Other Indications for Sialendoscopy

Program Description:

Sialendoscopy is recognized as a first-line option in the management of salivary stones. The role of sialendoscopy in nonstone disorders is less clear. This miniseminar focuses on the indications and applications of sialendoscopy for nonstone disorders including ductal scar and trauma, Sjogren disease, radioiodine sialadenitis, and recurrent juvenile parotitis. The moderator will present cases of nonstone disorders to a panel of experts in order to determine their use of sialendoscopy in the management of these disorders. The discussion will conclude with a brief overview of the current best evidence of the role of sialendoscopy in the management of nonstone disorders.

Educational Objectives:

(1) Recognize which nonstone salivary disorders may benefit from sialendoscopy. (2) Learn techniques for applying sialendoscopy to nonstone disorders. (3) Understand the outcomes and limitations of sialendoscopy in the management of nonstone disorders.

A comparison of outcomes using intensity-modulated radiation therapy and 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy in treatment of oropharyngeal cancer

IMPORTANCE

Approximately 50% of head and neck cancer survivors experience dysphagia and related morbidity. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is increasingly used to treat oropharyngeal cancers with excellent oncologic outcomes, but few studies have compared it with conventional 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) to determine whether it can decrease treatment-related toxic and adverse effects.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether IMRT improves percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube and treatment-related toxicity outcomes compared with 3D-CRT in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Retrospective review of 159 patients with oropharyngeal primary tumors with no history of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery of the head and neck who underwent definitive treatment with radiotherapy for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma at the Hollings Cancer Center outpatient clinic, Medical University of South Carolina, from 2000 to 2009.

INTERVENTION

Doses of 70 Gy in 35 daily fractions of radiotherapy delivered via IMRT or 3D-CRT.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary end points included PEG tube dependence 1 year after radiotherapy start, weight loss during treatment, and change in Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status. Secondary end points included overall and disease-free survival, disease recurrence, and toxic effect profiles.

RESULTS

The IMRT group (n = 103) had a significantly lower rate of PEG tube dependence 1 year after treatment initiation than the 3D-CRT group (n = 56) for all patients (P = .02) and for those with advanced T stage (P = .01) and a shorter time to PEG tube removal (P < .001). Acute grade 3 or greater toxic effects to skin and mucous membranes occurred less frequently in the IMRT group (P = .02 and P < .001, respectively). The 2 groups did not differ significantly in weight loss, treatment failure (hazard ratio, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.47-1.41]), overall survival (P = .45), or disease-free survival (P = .26).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The use of IMRT significantly improves PEG tube and toxicity-related outcomes compared with 3D-CRT in the treatment of oropharyngeal primary cancers. Given the association between mucosal toxic effects, PEG tube dependence, and dysphagia, these findings may be an indication of improved swallowing outcomes with IMRT.

Predicting HPV status in head and neck cancer: the predictive value of sociodemographic and disease characteristics

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the human papillomavirus (HPV) status of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) can be reliably predicted based on sociodemographic and disease characteristics alone. DESIGN A retrospective medical chart review of clinical and pathologic features.

SETTING

Tertiary academic medical center.

PATIENTS

We studied patients treated for HNSCC who were tested for markers of HPV or had tissue available for testing between 2006 and 2010.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Four otolaryngology-head and neck surgery trainees were given the database of patient clinical and pathologic features and asked to predict the HPV status for each patient. The trainees' responses were scored for accuracy, positive and negative predictive value, and interrater agreement. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine predictors of HPV positivity.

RESULTS

A total of 174 patients meeting inclusion criteria were identified, 95 of whom were determined to have HPV-positive tumor tissue. Residents were able to accurately predict HPV status in 110 to 125 patients (63%-72%), with positive predictive values of 76% to 84% and negative predictive values of 61% to 69%. The only variables significantly related to HPV status were male sex (P = .01) and oropharyngeal subsite (P = .02). Only 4 patients had a "typical" HPV-positive profile.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of cancer stage, primary site, basaloid features, tumor differentiation, and presence of cystic neck disease and patient age, race, and smoking status did not allow accurate predictions of HPV status in many patients. Clinical testing of tumor tissue remains essential for a diagnosis of HPV-positive disease.

Adjunctive diagnostic techniques for oral lesions of unknown malignant potential: Systematic review with meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to critically review the published evidence concerning adjunctive diagnostic techniques in the diagnosis of oral lesions of unknown malignant potential.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature review with meta-analysis using PubMed to search for articles published from June 1993 through June 2013 to identify prospective studies evaluating any diagnostic method, with tissue biopsy confirmation, in clinically evident oral lesions of unknown malignant potential. Aggregate weighted totals and SEs for true, false-positive, false-negative, and inadequate results were calculated and compared among subgroups.

RESULTS

Forty-eight articles satisfying inclusion criteria were identified. Twenty-five were included in quantitative synthesis.

CONCLUSION

Oral cytology holds higher diagnostic value than specialist's oral examination, which holds higher value than in vivo toluidine blue staining. This study does not support the use of computer-aided or liquid-based cytology. Future studies should be designed to test multiple methods in the same patient population to allow direct comparison among various techniques.

Upper-airway stimulation for obstructive sleep apnea

BACKGROUND

Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with considerable health risks. Although continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) can mitigate these risks, effectiveness can be reduced by inadequate adherence to treatment. We evaluated the clinical safety and effectiveness of upper-airway stimulation at 12 months for the treatment of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea.

METHODS

Using a multicenter, prospective, single-group, cohort design, we surgically implanted an upper-airway stimulation device in patients with obstructive sleep apnea who had difficulty either accepting or adhering to CPAP therapy. The primary outcome measures were the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI; the number of apnea or hypopnea events per hour, with a score of ≥15 indicating moderate-to-severe apnea) and the oxygen desaturation index (ODI; the number of times per hour of sleep that the blood oxygen level drops by ≥4 percentage points from baseline). Secondary outcome measures were the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ), and the percentage of sleep time with the oxygen saturation less than 90%. Consecutive participants with a response were included in a randomized, controlled therapy-withdrawal trial.

RESULTS

The study included 126 participants; 83% were men. The mean age was 54.5 years, and the mean body-mass index (the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters) was 28.4. The median AHI score at 12 months decreased 68%, from 29.3 events per hour to 9.0 events per hour (P<0.001); the ODI score decreased 70%, from 25.4 events per hour to 7.4 events per hour (P<0.001). Secondary outcome measures showed a reduction in the effects of sleep apnea and improved quality of life. In the randomized phase, the mean AHI score did not differ significantly from the 12-month score in the nonrandomized phase among the 23 participants in the therapy-maintenance group (8.9 and 7.2 events per hour, respectively); the AHI score was significantly higher (indicating more severe apnea) among the 23 participants in the therapy-withdrawal group (25.8 vs. 7.6 events per hour, P<0.001). The ODI results followed a similar pattern. The rate of procedure-related serious adverse events was less than 2%.

CONCLUSIONS

In this uncontrolled cohort study, upper-airway stimulation led to significant improvements in objective and subjective measurements of the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. (Funded by Inspire Medical Systems; STAR ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01161420.).

Clinical practice guideline: Bell's Palsy executive summary

The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) has published a supplement to this issue featuring the new Clinical Practice Guideline: Bell's Palsy. To assist in implementing the guideline recommendations, this article summarizes the rationale, purpose, and key action statements. The 11 recommendations developed encourage accurate and efficient diagnosis and treatment and, when applicable, facilitate patient follow-up to address the management of long-term sequelae or evaluation of new or worsening symptoms not indicative of Bell's palsy. There are myriad treatment options for Bell's palsy; some controversy exists regarding the effectiveness of several of these options, and there are consequent variations in care. In addition, there are numerous diagnostic tests available that are used in the evaluation of patients with Bell's palsy. Many of these tests are of questionable benefit in Bell's palsy. Furthermore, while patients with Bell's palsy enter the health care system with facial paresis/paralysis as a primary complaint, not all patients with facial paresis/paralysis have Bell's palsy. It is a concern that patients with alternative underlying etiologies may be misdiagnosed or have an unnecessary delay in diagnosis. All of these quality concerns provide an important opportunity for improvement in the diagnosis and management of patients with Bell's palsy.

Clinical practice guideline: Bell's palsy

OBJECTIVE

Bell's palsy, named after the Scottish anatomist, Sir Charles Bell, is the most common acute mono-neuropathy, or disorder affecting a single nerve, and is the most common diagnosis associated with facial nerve weakness/paralysis. Bell's palsy is a rapid unilateral facial nerve paresis (weakness) or paralysis (complete loss of movement) of unknown cause. The condition leads to the partial or complete inability to voluntarily move facial muscles on the affected side of the face. Although typically self-limited, the facial paresis/paralysis that occurs in Bell's palsy may cause significant temporary oral incompetence and an inability to close the eyelid, leading to potential eye injury. Additional long-term poor outcomes do occur and can be devastating to the patient. Treatments are generally designed to improve facial function and facilitate recovery. There are myriad treatment options for Bell's palsy, and some controversy exists regarding the effectiveness of several of these options, and there are consequent variations in care. In addition, numerous diagnostic tests available are used in the evaluation of patients with Bell's palsy. Many of these tests are of questionable benefit in Bell's palsy. Furthermore, while patients with Bell's palsy enter the health care system with facial paresis/paralysis as a primary complaint, not all patients with facial paresis/paralysis have Bell's palsy. It is a concern that patients with alternative underlying etiologies may be misdiagnosed or have unnecessary delay in diagnosis. All of these quality concerns provide an important opportunity for improvement in the diagnosis and management of patients with Bell's palsy.

PURPOSE

The primary purpose of this guideline is to improve the accuracy of diagnosis for Bell's palsy, to improve the quality of care and outcomes for patients with Bell's palsy, and to decrease harmful variations in the evaluation and management of Bell's palsy. This guideline addresses these needs by encouraging accurate and efficient diagnosis and treatment and, when applicable, facilitating patient follow-up to address the management of long-term sequelae or evaluation of new or worsening symptoms not indicative of Bell's palsy. The guideline is intended for all clinicians in any setting who are likely to diagnose and manage patients with Bell's palsy. The target population is inclusive of both adults and children presenting with Bell's palsy. ACTION STATEMENTS: The development group made a strong recommendation that (a) clinicians should assess the patient using history and physical examination to exclude identifiable causes of facial paresis or paralysis in patients presenting with acute-onset unilateral facial paresis or paralysis, (b) clinicians should prescribe oral steroids within 72 hours of symptom onset for Bell's palsy patients 16 years and older, (c) clinicians should not prescribe oral antiviral therapy alone for patients with new-onset Bell's palsy, and (d) clinicians should implement eye protection for Bell's palsy patients with impaired eye closure. The panel made recommendations that (a) clinicians should not obtain routine laboratory testing in patients with new-onset Bell's palsy, (b) clinicians should not routinely perform diagnostic imaging for patients with new-onset Bell's palsy, (c) clinicians should not perform electrodiagnostic testing in Bell's palsy patients with incomplete facial paralysis, and (d) clinicians should reassess or refer to a facial nerve specialist those Bell's palsy patients with (1) new or worsening neurologic findings at any point, (2) ocular symptoms developing at any point, or (3) incomplete facial recovery 3 months after initial symptom onset. The development group provided the following options: (a) clinicians may offer oral antiviral therapy in addition to oral steroids within 72 hours of symptom onset for patients with Bell's palsy, and (b) clinicians may offer electrodiagnostic testing to Bell's palsy patients with complete facial paralysis. The development group offered the following no recommendations: (a) no recommendation can be made regarding surgical decompression for patients with Bell's palsy, (b) no recommendation can be made regarding the effect of acupuncture in patients with Bell's palsy, and (c) no recommendation can be made regarding the effect of physical therapy in patients with Bell's palsy.

Radiofrequency ablation for treatment of benign thyroid nodules: systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the literature published to date on the use of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules, to evaluate the effectiveness of this treatment, and to attempt an evaluation of factors that may influence treatment outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

METHODS

Systematic literature search was performed by two separate authors in four commonly used literature databases. Trials included in meta-analysis included only those presenting prospective data. Meta-analysis compared pretreatment values to post-treatment outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 46 full-text articles identified, nine articles satisfied inclusion criteria. Two of these articles were randomized controlled trials comparing RFA to placebo or to some other treatment. One article was a randomized controlled trial comparing one RFA treatment to two treatments. The remaining six articles were noncontrolled, prospective observational studies. All analyzed outcomes showed statistically significant improvements from baseline to final follow-up, including reduction in nodule size, improvement of symptom and cosmetic scores, and withdrawal from methimazole. Improvement in nodule size remained significant in both "hot" and "cold" nodule subgroups. Twelve adverse events were identified across all studies out of 306 total treatments. Two of these events qualified as significant adverse events. None of these events resulted in hospitalization or death.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic thyroid nodules that are confirmed benign. However, the paucity of level 1 evidence comparing RFA to surgical or to other nonsurgical treatment modalities is concerning.

Salivary endoscopy for idiopathic chronic sialadenitis

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To describe the findings and therapeutic role of salivary endoscopy for idiopathic chronic sialadenitis.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

The records of 258 patients who underwent salivary endoscopy between November 2008 and May 2012 were reviewed. Included cases presented with recurrent inflammation and swelling of a single major salivary gland, without identifiable etiology on examination and imaging.

RESULTS

A total of 51 cases (20%) were identified. These patients had a mean age of 54.4 years (range, 23-75) and 57% were female. Mean duration of symptoms was 22.8 months (range, 1-102), with most cases (75%) involving the parotid gland. The primary imaging modalities used were ultrasound (62%) and computed tomography (31%). The most common findings on imaging included ductal dilation (42%), enlarged lymph nodes (23%), normal glandular imaging (15%), and possible sialoliths (14%). The most common findings on salivary endoscopy included stenosis (57%), strictures (27%), and inflammatory debris (18%). Occult stones were the cause of sialadenitis in only 4 (8%) cases. Outcomes included complete symptom resolution in 31 patients (61%), improved but occasional symptoms in 14 patients (27%), and no improvement in 6 patients (12%) after a mean follow-up time of 20.0 months (range, 4-45). Excision of the involved gland was required in 2 (4%) patients.

CONCLUSION

Salivary endoscopy is a minimally invasive technique that is effective in the management of idiopathic chronic sialadenitis refractory to medical therapy. It provides diagnostic information in most patients and offers a therapeutic intervention with gland preservation.

Salivary morbidity and quality of life following radioactive iodine for well-differentiated thyroid cancer

OBJECTIVE

Determine the prevalence of sialadenitis in a group of patients treated with radioactive iodine (RAI) for well-differentiated thyroid cancer and assess whether RAI treatment is associated with a reduction in swallowing-related or global head and neck quality of life.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective self-administered questionnaire study.

SETTING

Academic, tertiary care, National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Surviving patients seen for well-differentiated thyroid cancer were identified by review of the cancer center registry. Patients were mailed a baseline questionnaire, the M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI), the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW-QOL), and the Xerostomia-Related Quality of Life Scale (XeQOLS).

RESULTS

The study included 121 women and 24 men, with a mean age of 52 years. Radioactive iodine exposure was correlated with an increase in sialadenitis and was dose dependent (R (2) = 0.335, P < .001). Sialadenitis was 2.47 times more likely to occur in patients who received greater than 150 mCi when compared with those who received less than 150 mCi (P = .04). Radioactive iodine exposure of over 150 mCi was also associated with a reduction in the recreation domain of the UW-QOL (P = .04), the daily swallowing domain of the MDADI (P = .02), and the psychological/personal, pain, and social domains of the XeQOLS (P = .03, .03, and .04, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Patients treated with RAI exhibited an increased risk for sialadenitis as well as a reduction in swallowing-related and global head and neck quality of life. Our findings suggest these patients should be screened for salivary morbidity and may benefit from both pre-RAI prophylaxis and post-RAI intervention.

Joint disease mapping of cervical and male oropharyngeal cancer incidence in blacks and whites in South Carolina

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is an established causal agent for cervical cancer and a subset of oropharyngeal cancers. It is hypothesized that orogenital transmission results in oral cavity infection. In this paper we explore the geographical association between cervical and male oropharyngeal cancer incidence in blacks and whites in South Carolina using Bayesian joint disease mapping models fit to publicly available data. Our results suggest weak evidence for county-level association between the diseases, and different patterns of joint disease behavior for blacks and whites.

Transfacial ultrasound-guided gland-preserving resection of parotid sialoliths

OBJECTIVE

Review surgical techniques and outcomes of ultrasound-guided, transfacial, gland-preserving removal of difficult parotid stones.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

SETTING

Two academic tertiary care centers.

METHODS

Patients who underwent ultrasound-guided, combined transfacial-endoscopic operation for symptomatic parotid sialolithiasis from June 2010 through June 2012 at 2 tertiary care university hospitals were evaluated. Outcome measurements included stone size, stone location, complications, symptom relief, and gland preservation rate.

RESULTS

A total of 14 patients underwent ultrasound-guided, transfacial operation for symptomatic parotid sialolithiasis. Ten of 14 patients (71%) had completely successful therapy defined by no symptoms postoperatively with a preserved, functional gland. Three of the 4 patients without complete symptom resolution did endorse symptom improvement, whereas the fourth patient eventually underwent parotidectomy. Needle localization was used to aid in transfacial stone retrieval in 57% of cases.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided, combined transfacial-endoscopic removal of certain parotid stones is an alternative to parotidectomy for patients in whom endoscopy or shock wave therapy for stone retrieval is ineffective, unavailable, or contraindicated. Needle localization is a useful adjunct in stone retrieval.

Botulinum Toxin for the Treatment of Sialorrhea

Objectives

Botulinum toxin has emerged as an effective approach for the management of sialorrhea. This study presents a critical literature review and meta-analysis to determine the impact of botulinum toxin on drooling severity in patients with sialorrhea.

Data Sources

Ovid MEDLINE and the Cochrane databases.

Review Methods

The above sources were searched to identify studies examining botulinum toxin for the treatment of sialorrhea. Included studies were randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Excluded studies failed to report quantifiable outcome measures of drooling severity at 4 weeks postintervention.

Results

Eight studies involving 181 patients (83 placebo; 98 active) were included in the analysis. Botulinum toxin was found to significantly decrease the severity of drooling in patients with sialorrhea (standardized mean difference [SMD], −1.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], −2.05 to −1.04; P = .06; I2 = 48%) when compared with placebo control using random effects models. The effect was significant in both adult (SMD, −1.29; 95% CI, −1.88 to −0.71) and pediatric (SMD, −1.84; 95% CI, −2.67 to −1.00) populations. Both botulinum toxin A (SMD, −1.53; 95% CI, −2.27 to −0.79) and B (SMD, −1.56; 95% CI, −2.32 to −0.79) produced similar effects. Botulinum toxin doses greater than 50 U (SMD, −3.81; 95% CI, –6.19 to −1.43) produced much stronger effects compared with doses less than or equal to 50 U (SMD, −1.32; 95% CI, −2.28 to −0.36).

Conclusion

Botulinum toxin is a clinically effective therapy that improves drooling severity in patients with sialorrhea. Future studies will need to further evaluate the technique and examine dosages required to achieve optimal outcomes.

A trial of drug-induced sleep endoscopy in the surgical management of sleep-disordered breathing

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To determine the reliability and validity of drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) for patients undergoing surgery for sleep-disordered breathing (SDB).

STUDY DESIGN

Non-randomized, prospective clinical trial.

METHODS

Patients with sleep-disordered breathing were evaluated for multi-level upper airway surgery by awake and drug-induced sleep endoscopy to identify levels and degree of airway collapse. The reliability of a drug-induced sleep endoscopy rating index was assessed by comparing scores of three blinded investigators. The validity was assessed by comparison of drug-induced sleep endoscopy index scores from awake and drug-induced sleep endoscopy; correlation between drug-induced sleep endoscopy scores and Apnea-Hypopnea Index; and determination whether drug-induced sleep endoscopy affected the original surgical plan.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients (22 M, 16 F) underwent preoperative assessment with awake and drug-induced sleep endoscopy. Drug-induced sleep endoscopy was successfully performed in all but one patient (97%) who became combative during propofol infusion. Using an internal airway grading scale, drug-induced sleep endoscopy demonstrated more severity of collapse than awake endoscopy (P = 0.0001). The surgical plan was changed after drug-induced sleep endoscopy in 23 (62%) cases and unchanged in 14 (38%). The majority (73%) had multi-segmental airway collapse with fewer having single-level palatal (16%) or tongue base (11%) collapse. Scoring of drug-induced sleep endoscopy videos demonstrated good intrarater (κ 0.61) and interrater (κ 0.65) correlation.

CONCLUSIONS

Drug-induced sleep endoscopy provides more clinical information to assess airway function and collapse than awake endoscopy alone and assists in the surgical planning. Additional investigation is needed to standardize drug-induced sleep endoscopy techniques, training, and interpretation.

Transfacial Ultrasound-Guided Parotid Stone Removal

Objective: 1) Describe a surgical technique of ultrasound-guided, transfacial, gland-preserving resection of difficult parotid stones. 2) Review outcomes in treated patients.

Method: Study design: Case series with chart review. Time frame: 2008 through 2011. Disease: Parotid sialolithiasis. Subjects: Patients with parotid sialolithiasis unmanageable with endoscopy alone. Setting: Tertiary care university hospital. Intervention: Ultrasound-guided, transfacial resection. Outcome measurements: Stone size, stone location, complications, and symptom relief.

Results: Eleven cases of transfacial ultrasound-guided gland-preserving surgery were performed from 2008 to 2011. There were 8 palpable stones and 3 nonpalpable stones. Mean stone size was 8 mm. Eight patients had single stones and 3 had multiple stones. Localization was performed by ultrasound in 5 cases, by endoscopy in 2 cases and combined in 4 cases. The facial nerve was visualized in 2 cases. One patient developed a postoperative salivary fistula. Seventy-five percent (9/12) were symptom free at follow-up, and 25% (3/12) were improved with mild obstruction.

Conclusion: Transfacial ultrasound-guided surgery for parotid sialoliths provides a safe and effective method of treating difficult parotid stones while avoiding total parotidectomy.

Otolaryngology Review Studies: Adherence to MA/SR Guidelines

Objective: Many high-impact medical journals have adopted methodological standards for conducting systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs). These standards have emerged via the convergence of guidelines advocated by the Cochrane Group, the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality, the Guidelines International Network, and other groups in an effort to further utilize evidence-based medicine (EBM) in clinical practice. The overarching goal of this study is to assess the successful application of these standards across otolaryngology literature.

Method: Studies that employed formal SR/MA techniques and were published within the 16 highest impact general otolaryngology journals (up to December 1, 2011) were selected. Each study was graded by multiple reviewers using a scale based upon the 2009 PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) criteria, including factors pertaining to database searches, study inclusion and exclusion criteria, data management, and bias minimization.

Results: Of the 84,284 studies published in the top 16 English-language academic otolaryngology journals (up to 12/01/2011), 150 employed formal SR/MA techniques. Overall, 45% of these were devoted to head and neck topics, a much greater percentage than in any other otolaryngology subfield. Less than 0.2% of studies published in these journals employ SR/MA techniques, but this percentage has increased steadily over the past 10 years.

Conclusion: Currently, SRs and MAs are regarded as the methodological “gold-standard” for clinical reviews. The prevalence of such studies within the otolaryngology literature is increasing, but opportunity exists for broader application of these approaches and greater adherence to contemporary methodological standards.

Salivary Morbidity following Radioactive Iodine

Objective: 1) Determine the prevalence of sialoadenitis in patients treated with radioactive iodine (RAI) for well-differentiated thyroid cancer. 2) Determine if a reduction in swallowing-related or global head and neck quality of life exists in patients treated with RAI. 3) Assess any dose dependence of the primary objectives.

Method: Surviving patients seen at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center for well-differentiated thyroid cancer were identified by review of the Hollings Cancer Center Registry. Patients were mailed a baseline questionnaire, the M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory, the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire, and the Xerostomia Quality of Life Survey.

Results: Surveys were mailed to 379 patients and 145 were returned (38%). The study included 121 women and 24 men, with a mean age of 52. RAI exposure was correlated with an increase in sialoadenitis and was dose dependent ( R2 = 0.336, P < .001). Of the 41 patients who received 100 or less millicuries (mCi), none reported sialoadenitis, compared to 17 (25%) of 69 patients who received 101 to 200 mCi, and 12 (39%) of 30 patients who received greater than 200 mCi ( P = .001). RAI exposure was not correlated with a reduction in swallowing-related or global head and neck quality of life.

Conclusion: Patients treated with RAI exhibited an increased risk for sialoadenitis but no reduction in swallowing-related or global head and neck quality of life. Our findings suggest these patients should be screened for salivary morbidity and may benefit from prophylactic treatments aimed at protecting the salivary glands prior to RAI exposure.

Extracapsular dissection for benign parotid tumors: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Recent studies suggest that extracapsular dissection (ECD) is an option for the resection of certain benign parotid tumors. This study investigates complication rates and effectiveness of ECD versus superficial parotidectomy (SP) for the treatment of primary benign parotid neoplasms.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic literature review with meta-analysis.

METHODS

Studies available for inclusion evaluated the complications and effectiveness of ECD and SP as surgical techniques for the treatment of solitary, benign parotid tumors. An Ovid/Medline search revealed nine articles that met inclusion criteria. A critical review and meta-analysis of these articles was performed.

RESULTS

The included studies evaluated a total of 1,882 patients. There was no observed difference in tumor recurrence between the ECD and SP groups (odds ratio [OR], 0.557; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.271-1.147). There was a significantly lower rate of transient facial nerve paresis (OR, 0.256; 95% CI, 0.174-0.377) in the ECD group (59 of 741; 8.0%) compared to the SP group (81 of 397; 20.4%); however, there was no observed difference in permanent facial paralysis between the ECD and SP groups (OR, 0.878; 95% CI, 0.282-2.730). Frey's syndrome was less often observed (OR, 0.117; 95% CI, 0.071-0.191) after ECD (27 of 602; 4.5%) compared to SP (75 of 287; 26.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review with meta-analysis suggests that ECD has a similar recurrence rate as SP with fewer postoperative complications. ECD may be considered an alternative surgical modality for select benign parotid neoplasms.