The Laryngoscope
-
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. ⋯ 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.
-
The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) is overwhelmingly used as the main therapeutic metric in the assessment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in surgical studies. However, using AHI as the sole measure is problematic. This study investigates the utility of other outcome measures for patients with OSA undergoing surgery. ⋯ The literature shows a range of tools based on symptoms and physiology of OSA that can assess effects of treatment. Assessment of surgical treatment for OSA should neither be limited to AHI as an outcome, nor should this be the only outcome stressed.
-
Wrong site surgery has received high public awareness this past decade, yet discussion specific to otolaryngology is limited. ⋯ Future interventions to address these challenges related to otolaryngology-head and neck surgery might involve a standardized protocol to confirm imaging accuracy, a specialty- or procedure-specific checklist, a standardized alternative to site marking when marking is impractical, and other innovations. Evaluation of these interventions is becoming easier given the increasing mandatory reporting of these events that provides more reliable incidence data.
-
Review Biography Historical Article
Lead and the deafness of Ludwig van Beethoven.
To reexamine the cause of Beethoven's hearing loss because of significant recent articles. ⋯ Beethoven's chronic consumption of wine tainted with lead is a better explanation of his hearing loss than other causes.
-
Review Case Reports
Abducens palsy after lumbar drain placement: a rare complication in endoscopic skull base surgery.
To study reports of abducens nerve palsy following dural puncture procedures and to discuss possible etiologic theories, treatment, and prognosis. ⋯ Lumbar puncture procedures carry a rare risk of abducens nerve palsy from ischemic or traction injury. Routine use of lumbar drain during endoscopic skull base surgery is not without risk, and need for its placement should be carefully determined. Knowledge of such rare complications is helpful in risk-benefit analysis as endoscopic skull base techniques gain popularity.