Examining Use and Effectiveness of Teletherapy for Patients with Dysphonia

OBJECTIVE(S)/HYPOTHESIS

Virtual therapy (teletherapy) for patients with dysphonia has become ubiquitous in the COVID-19 era. However, barriers to widespread implementation are evident, including unpredictable insurance coverage attributed to limited evidence supporting this approach. In our single-institution cohort, our objective was to show strong evidence for use and effectiveness of teletherapy for patients with dysphonia.

STUDY DESIGN

Single institution, retrospective cohort study.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was an analysis of all patients referred for speech therapy with dysphonia as primary diagnosis from 4/1/2020 to 7/1/2021 and in whom all therapy sessions were delivered in a teletherapy format. We collated and analyzed demographics and clinical characteristics and adherence to the teletherapy program. We assessed changes in perceptual assessments and vocal capabilities (GRBAS, MPT), patient-reported outcomes (V-RQOL), and metrics of session outcomes (complexity of vocal tasks, carry-over of target voice) pre- and post-teletherapy using student's t test and chi-square test.

RESULTS

Our cohort included 234 patients (mean [SD] age 52 [20] years) residing a mean (SD) distance of 51.3 (67.1) miles from our institution. The most common referral diagnosis was muscle tension dysphonia (n = 145, 62.0% patients). Patients attended a mean (SD) of 4.2 (3.0) sessions; 68.0% (n = 159) of patients completed four or more sessions and/or were deemed appropriate for discharge from teletherapy program. Statistically significant improvements were seen in complexity and consistency of vocal tasks with consistent gains in carry-over of target voice for isolated tasks and connected speech.

CONCLUSIONS

Teletherapy is a versatile and effective approach for treatment of patients with dysphonia of varying age, geography, and diagnoses.

Comparative Treatment Outcomes for Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis: 5-Year Update

The North American Airway Collaborative (NoAAC) previously published a 3-year multi-institutional prospective cohort study showing variation in treatment effectiveness between 3 primary surgical techniques for idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS). In this report, we update these findings to include 5 years of data evaluating treatment effectiveness. Patients in the NoAAC cohort were re-enrolled for 2 additional years and followed using the prespecified published protocol. Consistent with prior data, prospective observation of 487 iSGS patients for 5 years showed treatment effectiveness differed by modality. Cricotracheal resection maintained the lowest rate of recurrent operation (5%), followed by endoscopic resection with adjuvant medical therapy (30%) and endoscopic dilation (50%). These data support the initial observations and continue to provide value to providers and patients navigating longitudinal decision-making. Level of evidence: 2-prospective cohort study.

Effect of Augmentative Technology on Communication and Quality of Life After Tracheostomy or Total Laryngectomy

OBJECTIVE

Surgical procedures that render patients acutely aphonic can cause them to experience significant anxiety and distress. We queried patient perceptions after tracheostomy or laryngectomy and investigated whether introducing augmentative technology was associated with improvement in patient-reported outcomes.

METHODS

Participants included hospitalized patients who acutely lost the ability to speak due to tracheostomy or total laryngectomy from April 2018 to December 2019. We distributed questions regarding the patient communication experience and relevant questions from the validated V-RQOL questionnaire (Voice-Related Quality of Life). Patients were offered a tablet with the electronic communication application Verbally. Pre- and postintervention groups were compared with chi-square analyses.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 35 patients (n = 18, preintervention; n = 17, postintervention). Prior to using augmentative technology, 89% of patients who were aphonic reported difficulty communicating, specifically noting breathing or suctioning (56%), treatment and discharge plans (78%), or immediate needs, such as pain and using the bathroom (39%). Communication difficulties caused anxiety (55%), depression (44%), or frustration (62%), and 92% of patients were interested in using an electronic communication device. Patients reported less trouble communicating after the intervention versus before (53% vs 89%, P = .03), including less difficulty communicating about treatment or discharge plans (35% vs 78%, P < .01). V-RQOL scores were unchanged.

DISCUSSION

Acute loss of phonation arising from surgery can be highly distressing for patients, and use of augmentative technology may alleviate some of these challenges by improving communication. Further studies are needed to identify what additional strategies may improve overall well-being.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Electronic communication devices may benefit patients with acute aphonia.

COVID-19 Vaccines and Professional Obligations for Otolaryngologists

The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation recently released a position statement with the following conclusion: "Otolaryngologists have a professional obligation to provide medically indicated care to all patients. They should not use vaccination status as a prerequisite to offer services except in exceptional circumstances. We all have a collective obligation to educate and encourage appropriate best public health practices and evidence-based infection control mitigation strategies including vaccination." We reflect on how this statement is consistent with time-honored principles and professional obligations inherent to the doctor-patient relationship, as well as consonant with the collective lessons that we have learned practicing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Serial Intralesional Steroid Injection for Subglottic Stenosis: Systemic Side Effects and Impact on Surgery-Free Interval

Objectives

In-office serial intralesional steroid injections (SILSIs) have become a commonly used treatment for subglottic stenosis. We characterized the impact of SILSIs on the time between operating room visits and incidence of glucocorticoid systemic side effects.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Setting

Academic tertiary care center.

Methods

All patients with subglottic stenosis receiving SILSIs at 1 institution from 2016 to 2020 were included. Surgery-free interval was compared using paired t tests. Side effect incidence was calculated with Kaplan-Meier methodology for visualization.

Results

Nineteen patients and 207 procedures were included. The majority of patients were White (95%) and female (95%) and had idiopathic subglottic stenosis (53%). Mean surgery-free interval for all patients was 8.7 months (95% CI, 5.6-11.8) before initiating SILSIs. Of 11 patients with calculable surgery-free interval, 10 experienced improvement, with a mean surgery-free interval increase of 4.6 months (95% CI, 2.4-6.7). Seven patients have not required surgery since initiation of SILSIs, with a mean follow-up time of 28 months (95% CI, 25-31). Noncutaneous systemic side effects occurred at a mean 3.2 months (95% CI, 2.4-4.0) from first injection and included Cushing’s syndrome, increased intraocular pressure, central serous chorioretinopathy, and new insulin requirement in the setting of diabetes.

Conclusions

Ninety-one percent of patients who initiated SILSIs and had a subsequent return to the operating room experienced a mean 4.6-month increase in surgery-free interval. Systemic side effects of glucocorticoids occurred in 32% of patients after initiating SILSIs. This should be considered in preprocedure counseling and side effect monitoring during treatment.

Patient perceptions of trust formation in the surgeon-patient relationship: A thematic analysis

OBJECTIVE

Trust is crucial to the success of any personal or professional relationship. Literature on trust in the surgeon-patient relationship has been largely explored through quantitative methodologies, primarily examining why trust may or may not exist. We aimed to qualitatively elucidate the mechanisms of how trust develops between otolaryngologists and their patients.

METHODS

Patients were recruited by surgery scheduling staff following an outpatient visit where a decision had been made to proceed with surgery at a tertiary academic medical center. We used qualitative realist thematic analysis of phone interviews to explore participants' (n = 17) perceptions and conceptualization of trust formation within the surgeon-patient relationship.

RESULTS

Thematic analysis revealed three themes regarding trust formation in the surgeon-patient relationship: 1) Trust Across Various Contexts; 2) Impact of Prior Knowledge; and 3) Interpersonal Connection during the Clinical Encounter.

CONCLUSION

An interpersonal surgeon-patient connection is crucial to the formation of trust. Trust is also influenced by surgeon and institutional reputation and witnessed surgeon interactions with the healthcare team.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Patients perceive trust in a surgeon as carrying unique importance. To optimize conditions for trust development in this context, surgical care paradigms should promote meaningful preoperative interpersonal surgeon-patient relationships and positive surgeon and institutional reputations.

Postacute COVID-19 Laryngeal Injury and Dysfunction

Objective

Patients with COVID-19 are at risk for laryngeal injury and dysfunction secondary to respiratory failure, prolonged intubation, and other unique facets of this illness. Our goal is to report clinical features and treatment for patients presenting with voice, airway, and/or swallowing concerns postacute COVID-19.

Study Design

Case series.

Setting

Academic tertiary care center.

Methods

Patients presenting with laryngeal issues following recovery from COVID-19 were included after evaluation by our laryngology team. Data were collected via retrospective chart review from March 1, 2020, to April 1, 2021. This included details of the patient’s COVID-19 course, initial presentation to laryngology, and subsequent treatment.

Results

Twenty-four patients met inclusion criteria. Twenty (83%) patients were hospitalized, and 18 required endotracheal intubation for a median (range) duration of 14 days (6-31). Ten patients underwent tracheostomy. Patients were evaluated at a median 107 days (32-215) after their positive SARS-CoV-2 test result. The most common presenting concerns were dysphonia (n = 19, 79%), dyspnea (n = 17, 71%), and dysphagia (n = 6, 25%). Vocal fold motion impairment (50%), early glottic injury (39%), subglottic/tracheal stenosis (22%), and posterior glottic stenosis (17%) were identified in patients who required endotracheal intubation. Patients who did not need intubation were most frequently treated for muscle tension dysphonia (67%).

Conclusion

Patients may develop significant voice, airway, and/or swallowing issues postacute COVID-19. These complications are not limited to patients requiring intubation or tracheostomy. Multidisciplinary laryngology clinics will continue to play an integral role in diagnosing and treating patients with COVID-19–related laryngeal sequelae.

Laryngotracheobronchial Amyloidosis: Patterns of Presentation and Management

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the pattern of presentation and management of laryngotracheobronchial amyloidosis at a tertiary care academic center over a 27 year period.

METHODS

In a retrospective review, the electronic medical record at a tertiary care academic center was queried for encounters with 3 laryngologists between 1996 and 2019 which included the ICD-9 or ICD-10 diagnosis of amyloidosis. Demographics, clinical presentation, referral diagnoses, medical history, family history, laboratory values, radiology studies, and treatment modalities of subjects were collated. Results were analyzed using standard univariate descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Seventeen subjects were identified with an average age at diagnosis of 58 years (range 26-76 years). The most common amyloid type on biopsy was immunoglobulin light chain (AL) subtype. The most common location of laryngeal amyloid at diagnosis was the glottis and disease was more likely to be bilateral at the time of diagnosis in this location. Supraglottic disease more often had a unilateral presentation and had a tendency to spread to additional laryngeal subsites. Nearly 25% of subjects had associated systemic disease, including multiple myeloma, auto-immune disease, and familial ATTR mutation.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall rate of associated systemic disease was low in our study cohort; however, it is higher than typically referenced in extant literature. Our cohort demonstrates that while laryngeal amyloidosis is a chronic condition, the behavior is generally indolent with a low treatment burden.

Discordant SARS-CoV-2 Detection in the Nasopharynx Versus Trachea for Patients With Tracheostomies

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Patients with tracheostomies have an anatomically altered connection between their upper and lower airways that could impact SARS-CoV-2 testing. Our goal was to evaluate for discordance in SARS-CoV-2 detection in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and tracheostomies based on the site analyzed.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review METHODS: This single-institution study evaluated hospitalized patients with COVID-19 who had tracheostomies placed during their treatment. We analyzed SARS-CoV-2 RNA nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) results after tracheostomy. All included patients had nasopharyngeal (NP) and tracheal (TR) samples taken within a 48-hour period, allowing us to characterize rate of test concordance.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients met our inclusion criteria. Thirty-two (71.1%) patients had entirely concordant results after tracheostomy. However, 13 (28.9%) patients had at least one set of discordant results, the majority of which were NP negative and TR positive. There were no statistically significant differences in demographic or clinical variables, including time to tracheostomy and time to testing, among patients with concordant versus discordant SARS-CoV-2 results.

CONCLUSION

This represents the first study to examine SARS-CoV-2 RNA NAAT concordance between NP and TR sites in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and tracheostomies. One-third of patients demonstrated discordant testing when NP and TR specimens were collected within a 48-hour time period. Thus, patients with tracheostomies may have a higher false-negative rate if only one site is assessed for SARS-CoV-2. We recommend analyzing samples from both the nasopharynx and trachea for these patients until more prospective data exist.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV Laryngoscope, 2021.

Hospital Visitation Policies During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic

A significant change for patients and families during SARs-CoV-2 has been the restriction of visitors for hospitalized patients. We analyzed SARs-CoV-2 hospital visitation policies and found widespread variation in both development and content. This variation has the potential to engender inequity in access. We propose guidance for hospital visitation policies for this pandemic to protect, respect, and support patients, visitors, clinicians, and communities.

Patient Perceptions of Trust in Trainees During Delivery of Surgical Care: A Thematic Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Trust is an essential element of an effective physician-patient relationship. There is limited literature examining trust between trainees and patients in the surgical setting. The goal of this study was to investigate how otolaryngology patients perceive trust in trainees during delivery of surgical care.

DESIGN

We extracted trainee-specific data from a larger, qualitative interview study examining trust in the surgeon-patient relationship. We then used realist thematic analysis to explore preoperative otolaryngology patients' perceptions of trust in trainees during delivery of surgical care.

SETTING

Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor, MI, a tertiary academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Using convenience sampling, adults 18 years or older scheduled to undergo elective otolaryngologic surgery between February and June 2019 were invited, and 12 agreed to participate in the study.

RESULTS

All participants (n = 12) self-identified as White/Caucasian with a mean age of 60 years (range, 28-82). Participants were 50% (n = 6) female and 50% (n = 6) male. Thematic analysis of participants' perspectives about trust in trainees during delivery of surgical care revealed 3 themes. Trust in trainees is conditional based on (i) level of trainee involvement; (ii) trust in the attending surgeon; and, (iii) trust in the institution.

CONCLUSION

Trust in trainees during delivery of surgical care is conditional on types of tasks trainees perform, bounded by trust in their attending surgeon, and positively influenced by institutional trust. Trainees and surgical educators must look to innovative methods to engender trust more efficiently in the clinic and immediate pre-operative setting. Such approaches can have a positive impact on patient outcomes, facilitate stronger trainee-attending interpersonal relationships, and empower surgeons to practice the professional values integral to surgical care.

Association of Social Determinants of Health with Time to Diagnosis and Treatment Outcomes in Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether social determinants of health (SDH) factors are associated with time to diagnosis, treatment selection, and time to recurrent surgical intervention in idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) patients.

METHODS

Adult patients with diagnosed iSGS were recruited prospectively (2015-2017) via clinical providers as part of the North American Airway Collaborative (NoAAC) and via an online iSGS support community on Facebook. Patient-specific SDH factors included highest educational attainment (self-reported), median household income (matched from home zip code via U.S. Census data), and number of close friends (self-reported) as a measure of social support. Main outcomes of interest were time to disease diagnosis (years from symptom onset), treatment selection (endoscopic dilation [ED] vs cricotracheal resection [CTR] vs endoscopic resection with adjuvant medical therapy [ERMT]), and time to recurrent surgical intervention (number of days from initial surgical procedure) as a surrogate for disease recurrence.

RESULTS

The total 810 participants were 98.5% female, 97.2% Caucasian, and had a median age of 50 years (IQR, 43-58). The cohort had a median household income of $62 307 (IQR, $50 345-$79 773), a median of 7 close friends (IQR, 4-10), and 64.7% of patients completed college or graduate school. Education, income, and number of friends were not associated with time to diagnosis via multivariable linear regression modeling. Univariable multinominal logistic regression demonstrated an association between education and income for selecting ED versus ERMT, but no associations were noted for CTR. No associations were noted for time to recurrent surgical procedure via Kaplan Meier modeling and Cox proportional hazards regression.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient education, income, and social support were not associated with time to diagnosis or time to disease recurrence. This suggests additional patient, procedure, or disease-specific factors contribute to the observed variations in iSGS surgical outcomes.

Multi-Institutional Analysis of Outcomes in Supraglottic Jet Ventilation with a Team-Based Approach

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To evaluate the safety and complications of endoscopic airway surgery using supraglottic jet ventilation with a team-based approach.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Subjects at two academic institutions diagnosed with laryngotracheal stenosis who underwent endoscopic airway surgery with jet ventilation between January 2008 and December 2018 were identified. Patient characteristics (age, gender, race, follow-up duration) and comorbidities were extracted from the electronic health record. Records were reviewed for treatment approach, intraoperative data, and complications (intraoperative, acute postoperative, and delayed postoperative).

RESULTS

Eight hundred and ninety-four patient encounters from 371 patients were identified. Intraoperative complications (unplanned tracheotomy, profound or severe hypoxic events, barotrauma, laryngospasm) occurred in fewer than 1% of patient encounters. Acute postoperative complications (postoperative recovery unit [PACU] rapid response, PACU intubation, return to the emergency department [ED] within 24 hours of surgery) were rare, occurring in fewer than 3% of patient encounters. Delayed postoperative complications (return to the ED or admission for respiratory complaints within 30 days of surgery) occurred in fewer than 1% of patient encounters. Diabetes mellitus, active smoking, and history of previous tracheotomy were independently associated with intraoperative, acute, and delayed complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Employing a team-based approach, jet ventilation during endoscopic airway surgery demonstrates a low rate of complications and provides for safe and successful surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4 Laryngoscope, 2021.

Evaluation of Safety of Intralesional Cidofovir for Adjuvant Treatment of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis

Importance

The use of intralesional cidofovir injections for recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) remains controversial owing to concern regarding the risks of its use, including increased risk of dysplasia or carcinogenesis.

Objective

To describe the rates of dysplasia, development of malignant lesions, and adverse events associated with use of intralesional cidofovir injections as adjuvant treatment for RRP compared with patients treated without adjuvant cidofovir.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this case series performed at a tertiary care referral center, review of electronic medical records on all adult and pediatric patients (N = 154) treated for RRP with adequate follow-up from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2016, was performed. Data were collected on the use of cidofovir, development and presence of dysplasia or malignant lesions, complications, and intersurgical interval.

Exposures

Adjuvant intralesional cidofovir or surgical excision only.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcomes measured were the development of dysplasia, malignant lesions, and complications from treatment. These outcomes were determined before collection of data.

Results

Of the 154 patients included in the analysis, 83 patients (53.9%) received adjuvant intralesional cidofovir and 71 patients (46.1%) underwent surgical excision only. One hundred patients (64.9%) were male; mean age was 27.7 (95% CI, 24.3-31.2) years. Patients were followed up for a median (interquartile range) of 70 (24-118) months in the noncidofovir group and 91 (47-152) months in the cidofovir group. There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of development of dysplasia (2.8%; 95% CI, -8.3% to 13.2%) or malignant lesions (2.2%; 95% CI, -5.3% to 11.2%) between the groups. No nephrotoxic effects were observed in the treated cohort, and only 5 minor complications that occurred in 628 injections were noted in the cidofovir group; 3 were related to direct laryngoscopy and 2 were related to needle malfunction.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort of patients with RRP, adjuvant intralesional cidofovir injections did not appear to cause major complications or an increased rate of development of dysplasia and cancer.

Comparative Treatment Outcomes for Patients With Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis

Question

What are the outcomes of the 3 most common surgical approaches for idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS)?

Findings

In this cohort study of 810 patients with iSGS who underwent 1 of the 3 most common surgical treatments, 23% of patients underwent a recurrent surgical procedure during the 3-year study period, but recurrence differed by modality (cricotracheal resection, 1%; endoscopic resection with adjuvant medical therapy, 12%; and endoscopic dilation, 28%). Among successfully treated patients, those who underwent cricotracheal resection reported the highest quality of life but the greatest perioperative risk and worst long-term voice outcomes.

Meaning

These results show the feasibility of integrating an engaged rare disease community with a network of surgeons to facilitate rapid and nuanced treatment comparisons; findings may help inform treatment decision-making in iSGS.

Importance

Surgical treatment comparisons in rare diseases are difficult secondary to the geographic distribution of patients. Fortunately, emerging technologies offer promise to reduce these barriers for research.

Objective

To prospectively compare the outcomes of the 3 most common surgical approaches for idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS), a rare airway disease.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this international, prospective, 3-year multicenter cohort study, 810 patients with untreated, newly diagnosed, or previously treated iSGS were enrolled after undergoing a surgical procedure (endoscopic dilation [ED], endoscopic resection with adjuvant medical therapy [ERMT], or cricotracheal resection [CTR]). Patients were recruited from clinician practices in the North American Airway Collaborative and an online iSGS community on Facebook.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was days from initial surgical procedure to recurrent surgical procedure. Secondary end points included quality of life using the Clinical COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Questionnaire (CCQ), Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10), Eating Assessment Test-10 (EAT-10), the 12-Item Short-Form Version 2 (SF-12v2), and postoperative complications.

Results

Of 810 patients in this cohort, 798 (98.5%) were female and 787 (97.2%) were white, with a median age of 50 years (interquartile range, 43-58 years). Index surgical procedures were ED (n = 603; 74.4%), ERMT (n = 121; 14.9%), and CTR (n = 86; 10.6%). Overall, 185 patients (22.8%) had a recurrent surgical procedure during the 3-year study, but recurrence differed by modality (CTR, 1 patient [1.2%]; ERMT, 15 [12.4%]; and ED, 169 [28.0%]). Weighted, propensity score–matched, Cox proportional hazards regression models showed ED was inferior to ERMT (hazard ratio [HR], 3.16; 95% CI, 1.8-5.5). Among successfully treated patients without recurrence, those treated with CTR had the best CCQ (0.75 points) and SF-12v2 (54 points) scores and worst VHI-10 score (13 points) 360 days after enrollment as well as the greatest perioperative risk.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of 810 patients with iSGS, endoscopic dilation, the most popular surgical approach for iSGS, was associated with a higher recurrence rate compared with other procedures. Cricotracheal resection offered the most durable results but showed the greatest perioperative risk and the worst long-term voice outcomes. Endoscopic resection with medical therapy was associated with better disease control compared with ED and had minimal association with vocal function. These results may be used to inform individual patient treatment decision-making.

Systemic Bevacizumab for Treatment of Respiratory Papillomatosis: International Consensus Statement

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of this study is to develop consensus on key points that would support the use of systemic bevacizumab for the treatment of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), and to provide preliminary guidance surrounding the use of this treatment modality.

STUDY DESIGN

Delphi method-based survey series.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary, multi-institutional panel of physicians with experience using systemic bevacizumab for the treatment of RRP was established. The Delphi method was used to identify and obtain consensus on characteristics associated with systemic bevacizumab use across five domains: 1) patient characteristics; 2) disease characteristics; 3) treating center characteristics; 4) prior treatment characteristics; and 5) prior work-up.

RESULTS

The international panel was composed of 70 experts from 12 countries, representing pediatric and adult otolaryngology, hematology/oncology, infectious diseases, pediatric surgery, family medicine, and epidemiology. A total of 189 items were identified, of which consensus was achieved on Patient Characteristics (9), Disease Characteristics (10), Treatment Center Characteristics (22), and Prior Workup Characteristics (18).

CONCLUSION

This consensus statement provides a useful starting point for clinicians and centers hoping to offer systemic bevacizumab for RRP and may serve as a framework to assess the components of practices and centers currently using this therapy. We hope to provide a strategy to offer the treatment and also to provide a springboard for bevacizumab's use in combination with other RRP treatment protocols. Standardized delivery systems may facilitate research efforts and provide dosing regimens to help shape best-practice applications of systemic bevacizumab for patients with early-onset or less-severe disease phenotypes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5 Laryngoscope, 131:E1941-E1949, 2021.

Voice-Related Quality of Life Is Associated with Postoperative Change in Subglottic Stenosis

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the impact of subglottic stenosis (SGS) on voice-related quality of life (V-RQOL) and quantify the effect of treatment on voice outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series.

METHODS

Retrospective review of SGS patients treated from 1996 to 2018 at a single institution to assess for 1) V-RQOL association with individual patient cumulative treatment number and 2) V-RQOL correlation with treatment type, time between treatments, and degree of stenosis. Analysis included both parametric and nonparametric statistical comparison across treatment types and multivariable and univariate linear regression.

RESULTS

Sixty-one patients, predominantly white (93%) and female (93%), were included. Etiology of SGS included idiopathic (61%), iatrogenic (16%), granulomatosis with polyangiitis (16%), and other (7%). The plurality of patients had four or more treatments (44%), with the remainder having one (28%), two (13%), or three treatments (15%). Analysis of change between pre- and postoperative V-RQOL scores was completed for 130 treatments. These included dilation with laser incision (52%), in-office injection (34%), dilation without division (8%), cricotracheal resection (1%), and all other treatment (8%). For every 10% improvement in airway caliber postoperatively, there was a 1.3-point improvement in calculated V-RQOL (r = 0.27, P = .02). After adjustment for treatment type, age, sex, and SGS etiology, this association held (beta = 1.5, P = .02). Change in V-RQOL was not associated with treatment type, treatment number, or time between treatments.

CONCLUSION

Patients with subglottic stenosis who have greater degree of change in airway caliber experience greater improvement in V-RQOL scores following treatment. V-RQOL scores are not associated with treatment type or time between individual treatments.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:360-365, 2021.

Airway Management for Endoscopic Laryngotracheal Stenosis Surgery During COVID-19

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic presents unique challenges for surgical management of laryngotracheal stenosis. High viral concentrations in the upper aerodigestive tract, the ability of the virus to be transmitted by asymptomatic carriers and through aerosols, and the need for open airway access during laryngotracheal surgery create a high-risk situation for airway surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room personnel. While some surgical cases of laryngotracheal stenosis may be deferred, patients with significant airway obstruction or progressing symptoms often require urgent surgical intervention. We present best practices from our institutional experience for surgical management of laryngotracheal stenosis during this pandemic, including preoperative triage, intraoperative airway management, and personal protective measures.

Facial Nerve Surgery in the Rat Model to Study Axonal Inhibition and Regeneration

This protocol describes consistent and reproducible methods to study axonal regeneration and inhibition in a rat facial nerve injury model. The facial nerve can be manipulated along its entire length, from its intracranial segment to its extratemporal course. There are three primary types of nerve injury used for the experimental study of regenerative properties: nerve crush, transection, and nerve gap. The range of possible interventions is vast, including surgical manipulation of the nerve, delivery of neuroactive reagents or cells, and either central or end-organ manipulations. Advantages of this model for studying nerve regeneration include simplicity, reproducibility, interspecies consistency, reliable survival rates of the rat, and an increased anatomic size relative to murine models. Its limitations involve a more limited genetic manipulation versus the mouse model and the superlative regenerative capability of the rat, such that the facial nerve scientist must carefully assess time points for recovery and whether to translate results to higher animals and human studies. The rat model for facial nerve injury allows for functional, electrophysiological, and histomorphometric parameters for the interpretation and comparison of nerve regeneration. It thereby boasts tremendous potential toward furthering the understanding and treatment of the devastating consequences of facial nerve injury in human patients.

Otolaryngologists and the Doctor-Patient Relationship during a Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced otolaryngologists and their patients to confront issues that they have rarely if ever previously faced. Prominent among these is the need to put the collective good ahead of the interests of individual patients with otolaryngologic disorders. We argue that the individual doctor-patient relationship remains paramount even at a time when public health principles mandate systems-level thinking.

COVID-19 Pandemic: What Every Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck Surgeon Needs to Know for Safe Airway Management

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has unfolded with remarkable speed, posing unprecedented challenges for health care systems and society. Otolaryngologists have a special role in responding to this crisis by virtue of expertise in airway management. Against the backdrop of nations struggling to contain the virus's spread and to manage hospital strain, otolaryngologists must partner with anesthesiologists and front-line health care teams to provide expert services in high-risk situations while reducing transmission. Airway management and airway endoscopy, whether awake or sedated, expose operators to infectious aerosols, posing risks to staff. This commentary provides background on the outbreak, highlights critical considerations around mitigating infectious aerosol contact, and outlines best practices for airway-related clinical decision making during the COVID-19 pandemic. What otolaryngologists need to know and what actions are required are considered alongside the implications of increasing demand for tracheostomy. Approaches to managing the airway are presented, emphasizing safety of patients and the health care team.

Delivery of Interleukin-4-Encoding Lentivirus Using Multiple-Channel Bridges Enhances Nerve Regeneration

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Facial nerve injury is a source of major morbidity. This study investigated the neuroregenerative effects of inducing an anti-inflammatory environment when reconstructing a facial nerve defect with a multichannel bridge containing interleukin-4 (IL-4)-encoding lentivirus.

STUDY DESIGN

Animal study.

METHODS

Eighteen adult Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups, all of which sustained a facial nerve gap defect. Group I had reconstruction performed via an IL-4 multichannel bridge, group II had a multichannel bridge with saline placed, and group III had no reconstruction.

RESULTS

Quantitative histomorphometric data were assessed 10 weeks after injury. On post hoc analysis, the IL-4 bridge group demonstrated superior regeneration compared to bridge alone on fiber density (mean = 2,380 ± 297 vs. 1,680 ± 441 fibers/mm² , P = .05) and latency time (mean = 2.9 ms ± 0.6 ms vs. 3.6 ms ± 0.3 ms, P < .001). There was significantly greater regeneration in the IL-4 bridge group versus unreconstructed defect for total fiber and density measurements (P ≤ .05). Comparison of facial motor-evoked distal latencies between the IL-4 bridge group versus bridge alone revealed significant electrophysiological improvement at week 8 (P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

Inflammation has been implicated in a variety of otolaryngologic disorders. This study demonstrates that placement of a multichannel bridge with lentivirus encoding IL-4 improves regenerative outcomes following facial nerve gap injury in rodents. This effect is likely mediated by promotion of an anti-inflammatory environment, and these findings may inform future therapeutic approaches to facial nerve injury.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA Laryngoscope, 2020.

Current landscape in motoneuron regeneration and reconstruction for motor cranial nerve injuries

The intricate anatomy and physiology of cranial nerves have inspired clinicians and scientists to study their roles in the nervous system. Damage to motor cranial nerves may result from a variety of organic or iatrogenic insults and causes devastating functional impairment and disfigurement. Surgical innovations directed towards restoring function to injured motor cranial nerves and their associated organs have evolved to include nerve repair, grafting, substitution, and muscle transposition. In parallel with this progress, research on tissue-engineered constructs, development of bioelectrical interfaces, and modulation of the regenerative milieu through cellular, immunomodulatory, or neurotrophic mechanisms has proliferated to enhance the available repertoire of clinically applicable reconstructive options. Despite these advances, patients continue to suffer from functional limitations relating to inadequate cranial nerve regeneration, aberrant reinnervation, or incomplete recovery of neuromuscular function. These shortfalls have profound quality of life ramifications and provide an impetus to further elucidate mechanisms underlying cranial nerve denervation and to improve repair. In this review, we summarize the literature on reconstruction and regeneration of motor cranial nerves following various injury patterns. We focus on seven cranial nerves with predominantly efferent functions and highlight shared patterns of injuries and clinical manifestations. We also present an overview of the existing reconstructive approaches, from facial reanimation, laryngeal reinnervation, to variations of interposition nerve grafts for reconstruction. We discuss ongoing endeavors to promote nerve regeneration and to suppress aberrant reinnervation and the development of synkinesis. Insights from these studies will shed light on recent progress and new horizons in understanding the biomechanics of peripheral nerve neurobiology, with emphasis on promising strategies for optimizing neural regeneration and identifying future directions in the field of motor cranial neuron research.

Comparison of Myelin-Associated Glycoprotein With Vincristine for Facial Nerve Inhibition After Bilateral Axotomy in a Transgenic Thy1-Gfp Rat Model

IMPORTANCE

Aberrant synkinetic movement after facial nerve injury can lead to prominent facial asymmetry and resultant psychological distress. The current practices of neuroinhibition to promote greater facial symmetry are often temporary in nature and require repeated procedures.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), a specific neuroinhibitor, can prevent neuroregeneration with efficacy comparable with that of vincristine, a well-established neurotoxin.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Rats transgenic for Thy-1 cell surface antigen-green fluorescent protein (Thy1-Gfp) were randomized into 3 groups. Each rat received bilateral crush axotomy injuries to the buccal and marginal mandibular branches of the facial nerves. The animals received intraneural injection of saline, MAG, or vincristine.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The animals were imaged via fluorescent microscopy at weeks 1, 3, 4, and 5 after surgery. Quantitative fluorescent data were generated as mean intensities of nerve segments proximal and distal to the axotomy site. Electrophysiological analysis, via measurement of compound muscle action potentials, was performed at weeks 0, 3, 4, and 5 after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 12 rats were included in the study. Administration of MAG significantly reduced fluorescent intensity of the distal nerve in comparison with the control group at week 3 (mean [SD], MAG group: 94 [11] intensity units vs control group: 130 [11] intensity units; P < .001), week 4 (MAG group: 81 [19] intensity units vs control group: 103 [9] intensity units; P = .004), and week 5 (MAG group: 76 [10] intensity units vs control group: 94 [10] intensity units; P < .001). In addition, rats treated with MAG had greater fluorescent intensity than those treated with vincristine at week 3 (mean [SD], MAG group: 94 [11] intensity units vs vincristine group: 76 [6] intensity units; P = .03), although there was no significant difference for weeks 4 and 5. At week 5, both MAG and vincristine demonstrated lower distal nerve to proximal nerve intensity ratios than the control group (control group, 0.94; vs MAG group, 0.82; P = .01; vs vincristine group; 0.77; P < .001). There was no significant difference in amplitude between the experimental groups at week 5 of electrophysiological testing.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Lower facial asymmetry and synkinesis are common persistent concerns to patients after facial nerve injury. Using the Thy1-Gfp rat, this study demonstrates effective inhibition of neuroregeneration via intraneural application of MAG in a crush axotomy model, comparable with results with vincristine. By potentially avoiding systemic toxic effects of vincristine, MAG demonstrates potential as an inhibitor of neural regeneration for patients with synkinesis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

NA.

Effect of Motor versus Sensory Nerve Autografts on Regeneration and Functional Outcomes of Rat Facial Nerve Reconstruction

Cranial nerve injury is disabling for patients, and facial nerve injury is particularly debilitating due to combined functional impairment and disfigurement. The most widely accepted approaches for reconstructing nerve gap injuries involve using sensory nerve grafts to bridge the nerve defect. Prior work on preferential motor reinnervation suggests, however, that motor pathways may preferentially support motoneuron regeneration after nerve injury. The effect of motor versus sensory nerve grafting after facial nerve injury has not been previously investigated. Insights into outcomes of motor versus sensory grafting may improve understanding and clinical treatment of facial nerve paralysis, mitigating facial asymmetry, aberrant reinnervation, and synkinesis. This study examined motor versus sensory grafting of the facial nerve to investigate effect of pathway on regeneration across a 5-mm rodent facial nerve defect. We enrolled 18 rats in 3 cohorts (motor, sensory, and defect) and recorded outcome measures including fiber count/nerve density, muscle endplate reinnervation, compound muscle action potential, and functional whisker twitch analysis. Outcomes were similar for motor versus sensory groups, suggesting similar ability of sensory and motor grafts to support regeneration in a clinically relevant model of facial nerve injury.

Association of low neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios (NLR) and high lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratios (LMR) with overall survival and response to induction chemotherapy (IC) when used to select patients (pts) with locally advanced squamous cell of the larynx (LSCC) for combined chemoradiation (CRT)

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Background: University of Michigan Cancer Center (UMCC) protocol 9520 treated pts with stage III/IV LSCC with 1 cycle of cisplatin & 5-FU (PF) to select pts for definitive therapy. Pts whose tumors attained a ≥ 50% response after 1 cycle of PF underwent CRT. Those who had a < 50% response to IC were treated with total laryngectomy + RT. Correlative science from UMCC 9520 demonstrated that an increased percentage of CD4+ cells predicted response to PF & suggested improved survival. Published retrospective data also has demonstrated that lower NLR & higher LMR are associated with improved prognosis in p16- SCC of the oropharynx & pyriform sinus, while cancers with higher NLR & lower LMR have a worse prognosis. Similar to our previous correlative analysis, this study is also a secondary analysis of the predictive value of NLR & LMR in a prospective trial of bio-selective IC. Methods: NLR & LMR were calculated from pre-treatment CBC for all pts (N = 87) enrolled onto UMCC 9520. Results: All 87 pts received IC with PF. 65/87 (75%) responded to IC & received CRT. Results of response to IC compared the NLR & LMR ratios by logistic regression analysis & was used to create NLR & LMR cut points. Among pts with LMR ≥ 3, the response rate (RR) was 89% while the RR was 64% with LMR < 3 (p = 0.008). Among pts with NLR < 4.7, the RR was 79% while the RR of pts with > 4.7 was 58% (p = 0.06). Overall & disease specific survivals were greater in pts with LMR ≥ 3, (log rank p = 0.04, p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions: Higher LMR & lower NLR are associated with favorable responses to IC & LMR ≥ 3 is associated with improved survival. This data correlates strongly with our published results from UMCC 9520, whereby elevated circulating CD4+ lymphocytes predict response to IC & survival. This important information may help direct the design of future laryngeal preservation protocols.

The White Lesion, Hyperkeratosis, and Dysplasia

Laryngeal mucosal precursor lesions represent a challenging clinical entity. Updated classification systems allow for grade-based categorization. Multiple management options exist, with treatment decisions made jointly by physician and patient and focused on both appropriate lesion treatment and preservation of laryngeal structure and function. Traditional methods include cold steel and CO₂ laser excision, with newer modalities using angiolytic lasers for lesion ablation. Both operating room-based and office-based treatment options exist, and there are advantages and disadvantages to each approach. Research is ongoing to advance the understanding of lesion biology, and to optimize prevention and treatment.

Survival Outcomes in Patients with T2N0M0 (Stage II) Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx

Objective Emerging data have demonstrated suboptimal outcomes among patients with stage II larynx cancer. Our objective is to report survival outcomes for T2N0M0 larynx cancer and to determine the cause-specific survival. Study Design Case series with planned data collection. Setting Tertiary academic center. Subjects Adults with T2N0M0 squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx treated with curative intent. Methods A head and neck cancer epidemiology database was queried for eligible subjects from 2003 to 2014. Data were extracted from the electronic medical record and research database, and survival analyses were performed. Results Thirty-four patients with previously untreated stage II larynx cancer were identified (median follow-up 48 months). Patients included 27 males and 7 females with a mean age of 59 years. The majority of tumors arose from the glottis (59%). Of the cohort, 12% were treated with surgery, 65% radiation therapy, and 24% chemoradiation therapy. The estimated 2-year overall survival was 81%, (95% confidence interval [CI], 59%-92%), disease-specific survival was 91% (95% CI, 69%-98%), and recurrence-free survival was 84% (95% CI, 65%-93%). Four of 5 patients with persistent or recurrent disease posttreatment were successfully salvaged with total laryngectomy with 100% locoregional control. There were 11 mortalities (2 disease related, 2 due to metachronous primaries, 3 treatment related, and 4 from other/unknown causes). Conclusion Stage II laryngeal cancer has suboptimal survival outcomes. This appears to be a reflection of medical comorbidities, propensity for metachronous primaries, and the sequelae of late treatment effects rather than poor locoregional control.

Survival Rates Using Individualized Bioselection Treatment Methods in Patients With Advanced Laryngeal Cancer

Importance

Use of chemoradiotherapy for advanced laryngeal cancer led to a major shift in treatment as an alternative to laryngectomy. Despite widespread adoption of chemoradiotherapy, survival rates have not improved and the original premise of matching neoadjuvant chemotherapy tumor response to determine subsequent treatment has not been followed.

Objective

To determine whether improved survival could be achieved by incorporating a single cycle of neoadjuvant chemotherapy to select patients with advanced disease for either laryngectomy or concurrent chemoradiotherapy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

An unselected cohort of 247 patients with laryngeal cancer in an academic institution between 2002 and 2012 was evaluated. Patients with limited disease (stages I and II) underwent endoscopic resection, radiotherapy, or chemoradiotherapy for deeply invasive T2 lesions. For patients with advanced disease (stages III and IV), neoadjuvant chemotherapy, concurrent chemoradiotherapy, or primary surgery was recommended. Overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) were analyzed. Median follow-up was 48 months. The study was conducted from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2012; data analysis was completed December 1, 2015.

Interventions

Endoscopic resection, radiotherapy, chemoradiotherapy, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, concurrent chemoradiotherapy, and primary surgery.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Overall survival and DSS.

Results

Of the 247 patients, 191 (77.3%) were male; mean (SD) age was 59.6 (10.4) years. Of 94 patients with limited disease, 33 (35.1%) underwent endoscopic resection; 50 (53.2%), radiotherapy alone; and 11 (11.7%), chemoradiotherapy for deeply invasive T2 lesions. Of 153 patients with advanced disease, 71 (46.4%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy; 50 (32.7%), concurrent chemoradiotherapy; and 32 (20.9%), surgery. Five-year OS and DSS was 75% (95% CI, 68%-81%) and 83% (95% CI, 77%-88%), respectively, for the entire cohort. The DSS was 92% (95% CI, 83%-97%) for patients with stage I or II and 78% (95% CI, 69%-84%) for patients with stage III or IV disease. For patients with advanced disease, 5-year OS and DSS ranged from 78% (95% CI, 55%-90%) and 91% (95% CI, 67%-98%), respectively, for surgery; to 76% (95% CI, 63%-85%) and 79% (95% CI, 67%-88%), respectively, for neoadjuvant bioselection; and to 61% (95% CI, 44%-75%) and 66% (95% CI, 48%-79%), respectively, for primary chemoradiotherapy. Propensity-adjusted, multivariable controlling for known prognostic factors DSS was significantly improved in the neoadjuvant group compared with the chemoradiotherapy group (hazard ratio [HR], 0.48; 95% CI, 0.29-0.80).

Conclusions and Relevance

Superior survival rates were achieved with a bioselective treatment approach using a single cycle of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Good survival rates were also achieved in patients selected for primary surgery, and both neoadjuvant chemotherapy and primary surgery were better than survival rates with concurrent chemoradiotherapy, suggesting that the optimal individualized treatment approach for patients with advanced laryngeal cancer has not yet been defined.

Pediatric laryngeal neurofibroma: case report and review of the literature

Presentation of a case of pediatric laryngeal neurofibroma (LNF) and review of the world literature. Comprehensive review of the world literature using Pubmed and Google scholar. Pediatric LNF was identified in 62 cases reported in the world literature. The most common presenting symptom is stridor and the most common location of the tumor in the larynx is the aryepiglottic fold. Recent reports demonstrate increased utilization of endoscopic resection with reduced need for tracheostomy. Pediatric LNF is a rare disorder. Review of the world literature since 1940 suggests a recent trend away from aggressive open resection and toward more conservative endoscopic resection with excellent functional results.

Biomarkers in advanced larynx cancer

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To determine if tumor biomarkers were predictive of outcome in a prospective cohort of patients with advanced larynx cancer treated in a phase II clinical trial.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospectively collected biopsy specimens from 58 patients entered into a Phase II trial of organ preservation in advanced laryngeal cancer were evaluated for expression of a large panel of biomarkers, and correlations with outcome were determined.

METHODS

Tissue microarrays were constructed from pretreatment biopsies and stained for cyclin D1, CD24, EGFR, MDM2, PCNA, p53, survivin, Bcl-xL, Bcl-2, BAK, rhoC, and NFκB. Pattern of invasion and p53 mutations were assessed. Correlations with overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), time free from indication of surgery, induction chemotherapy response, and chemoradiation response were determined. Cox models were used to assess combinations of these biomarkers.

RESULTS

Low expression of BAK was associated with response to induction chemotherapy. Low expression of BAK and cytoplasmic NFκB was associated with chemoradiation response. Aggressive histologic growth pattern was associated with response induction chemotherapy. Expression of cyclin D1 was predictive of overall and disease-specific survival. Overexpression of EGFR was also associated with an increased risk of death from disease. Bcl-xL expression increased significantly in persistent/recurrent tumors specimens when compared to pretreatment specimens derived from the same patient (P = 0.0003).

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of biomarker expression in pretreatment biopsy specimens can lend important predictive and prognostic information for patients with advanced larynx cancer.

Spontaneous laryngeal reinnervation following chronic recurrent laryngeal nerve injury

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To enhance understanding of spontaneous laryngeal muscle reinnervation following severe recurrent laryngeal nerve injury by testing the hypotheses that 1) nerve fibers responsible for thyroarytenoid muscle reinnervation can originate from multiple sources and 2) superior laryngeal nerve is a source of reinnervation.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, controlled, animal model.

METHODS

A combination of retrograde neuronal labeling techniques, immunohistochemistry, electromyography, and sequential observations of vocal fold mobility were employed in rat model of chronic recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. The current study details an initial set of experiments in sham surgical and denervated group animals and a subsequent set of experiments in a denervated group.

RESULTS

At 3 months after recurrent laryngeal nerve resection, retrograde brainstem neuronal labeling identified cells in the characteristic superior laryngeal nerve cell body location as well as cells in a novel caudal location. Regrowth of neuron fibers across the site of previous recurrent laryngeal nerve resection was seen in 87% of examined animals in the denervated group. Electromyographic data support innervation by both the superior and recurrent laryngeal nerves following chronic recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.

CONCLUSIONS

Following chronic recurrent laryngeal nerve injury in the rat, laryngeal innervation is demonstrated through the superior laryngeal nerve from cells both within and outside of the normal cluster of cells that supply the superior laryngeal nerve. The recurrent laryngeal nerve regenerates across a surgically created gap, but functional significance of regenerated nerve fibers is unclear.

Osteoblastoma of the thyroid cartilage treated with voice preserving laryngeal framework resection

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

Osteoblastoma is a slow-growing, locally destructive benign bone neoplasm, rarely occurring in the laryngeal cartilage. We present the case of a professional voice user diagnosed with laryngeal osteoblastoma after microdirect laryngoscopy and endoscopic biopsy. Her treatment required a unique operation, with elements of partial laryngectomy and maintenance of vital endolaryngeal soft tissues, in order to optimize vocal outcome.

A new member of the multidisciplinary ALS team: the otolaryngologist

The multidisciplinary approach to treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has improved the overall care of patients suffering from this disease ( 1 , 2 ). This approach typically has included neurologists, physiatrists, occupational therapists, respiratory therapists and speech therapists. Dysphonia, dysarthria, and dysphagia are three of the most common bulbar manifestations of ALS, and are often the presenting symptoms in bulbar-onset patients. Despite this, otolaryngologists are often not included in ALS management until a tracheostomy is considered. The otolaryngologist can play an important role in early diagnosis and subsequent management of bulbar manifestations of ALS, and would be a valuable member of the multidisciplinary team.

Potential for promoting recurrent laryngeal nerve regeneration by remote delivery of viral gene therapy

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

The aims of this study were to demonstrate the ability to enhance nerve regeneration by remote delivery of a viral vector to the crushed recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), to demonstrate the usefulness of a crushed RLN model to test the efficacy of viral gene therapy, and to discuss future potential applications of this approach.

STUDY DESIGN

Animal study.

METHODS

Adult Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to two groups. In the experimental group, an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector carrying a zinc-finger transcription factor, which stimulates endogenous insulinlike growth factor I production (AAV2-TO-6876vp16), was injected into the crushed RLN. In the control group, an AAV vector carrying the gene for green fluorescent protein was injected into the crushed RLN. Unilateral RLN paralysis was confirmed endoscopically. At 1 week, laryngeal endoscopies were repeated and recorded. Larynges were cryosectioned in 15-μm sections and processed for acetylcholine histochemistry (motor endplates) followed by neurofilament immunoperoxidase (nerve fibers). Percentage nerve-endplate contact (PEC) was determined and compared. Vocal fold motion was evaluated by blinded reviewers using a visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

The difference between PEC on the crushed and uncrushed sides was statistically less in the experimental group (0.54 ± 0.18 vs. 0.30 ± 0.26, P = .0006). The VAS score at 1 week was significantly better in the experimental group (P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

AAV2-TO-6876vp16 demonstrated a neurotrophic effect when injected into the crushed RLN. The RLN offers a conduit for viral gene therapy to the brainstem that could be useful for the treatment of RLN injury or bulbar motor neuron disease.

Chemotherapy alone for organ preservation in advanced laryngeal cancer

BACKGROUND

For patients with advanced laryngeal cancer, a trial was designed to determine if chemotherapy alone, in patients achieving a complete histologic complete response after a single neoadjuvant cycle, was an effective treatment with less morbidity than concurrent chemoradiotherapy.

METHODS

Thirty-two patients with advanced laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer received 1 cycle of induction chemotherapy, and subsequent treatment was decided based on response.

RESULTS

A histologic complete response was achieved in 4 patients and were treated with chemotherapy alone. All 4 patients' cancer relapsed in the neck and required surgery and postoperative radiotherapy (RT). Twenty-five patients were treated with concomitant chemoradiation. Three patients were treated with surgery. Overall survival and disease-specific survival at 3 years were 68% and 78%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Chemotherapy alone is not feasible for long-term control of regional disease in patients with advanced laryngeal cancer even when they achieve a histologic complete response at the primary site.

Neuroprotection using gene therapy to induce vascular endothelial growth factor-A expression

Engineered zinc-finger protein (ZFP) transcription factors induce the expression of endogenous genes and can be remotely delivered using adenoviral vectors. One such factor, Ad-32Ep65-Flag (Ad-p65), targets and induces expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF; also called VEGF-A) splice variants in their normal biological stoichiometry. We show that Ad-p65 transfection of primary motor neurons results in VEGF variant expression and a significant increase in axon outgrowth in these cells. Given the neuroprotective effects of VEGF and its ability to increase neurite outgrowth, we examined the efficacy of Ad-p65 to enhance motor neuron regeneration in vivo using rats that have undergone recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN)-crush injury. Injection of Ad-p65 after RLN crush accelerated the return of vocal fold mobility and the percentage of nerve-endplate contacts in the thyroarytenoid muscle. Overall, adenoviral delivery of an engineered ZFP transcription factor inducing VEGF-A splice variant expression enhances nerve regeneration. ZFP transcription factor gene therapy to increase expression of the full complement of VEGF-A splice variants is a promising avenue for the treatment of nerve injury and neurodegeneration.

Disorders of cranial nerves IX and X

The glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves mediate the complex interplay between the many functions of the upper aerodigestive tract. Defects may occur anywhere from the brainstem to the peripheral nerve and can result in significant impairment in speech, swallowing, and breathing. Multiple etiologies can produce symptoms. In this review, the authors broadly examine the normal functions, clinical examination, and various pathologies of cranial nerves IX and X.