Intraoperative Visualization and Treatment of Salivary Gland Dysfunction in Sjögren's Syndrome Patients Using Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Sialendoscopy (CEUSS).

In sialendoscopy, ducts are dilated and the salivary glands are irrigated with saline. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound sialendoscopy (CEUSS), using microbubbles, may facilitate the monitoring of irrigation solution penetration in the ductal system and parenchyma. It is imperative to test CEUSS for its safety and feasibility in Sjögren's syndrome (SS) patients. CEUSS was performed on 10 SS patients. The primary outcomes were safety, determined by the occurrence of (serious) adverse events ((S)AEs), and feasibility. The secondary outcomes were unstimulated and stimulated whole saliva (UWS and SWS) flow rates, xerostomia inventory (XI), clinical oral dryness score, pain, EULAR Sjögren's syndrome patient reported index (ESSPRI), and gland topographical alterations. CEUSS was technically feasible in all patients. Neither SAEs nor systemic reactions related to the procedure were observed. The main AEs were postoperative pain (two patients) and swelling (two patients). Eight weeks after CEUSS, the median UWS and SWS flow had increased significantly from 0.10 to 0.22 mL/min (p = 0.028) and 0.41 to 0.61 mL/min (p = 0.047), respectively. Sixteen weeks after CEUSS, the mean XI was reduced from 45.2 to 34.2 (p = 0.02). We conclude that CEUSS is a safe and feasible treatment for SS patients. It has the potential to increase salivary secretion and reduce xerostomia, but this needs further investigation.

Long-term outcomes of implant-based dental rehabilitation in head and neck cancer patients after reconstruction with the free vascularized fibula flap.

The study aimed at evaluating, comprehensively, implant-based dental rehabilitation in head and neck cancer patients after maxillofacial reconstruction with a vascularized free fibula flap (FFF). Data were obtained by retrospectively reviewing the medical records of patients treated in Amsterdam UMC-VU Medical Center. Dental implant survival and implant success according to the Albrektsson criteria were analyzed. Additionally, prosthetic-related outcomes were studied, with a focus on functional dental rehabilitation. In total, 161 implants were placed in FFFs, with a mean follow-up of 4.9 years (range 0.2-23.4). Implant survival was 55.3% in irradiated FFFs and 96% in non-irradiated FFFs. Significant predictors for implant failure were tobacco use and irradiation of the FFF. Implant success was 40.4% in irradiated FFFs and 61.4% in non-irradiated FFFs, mainly due to implant failure and non-functional implants. Implant-based dental rehabilitation was started 45 times in 42 patients, out of 161 FFF reconstructions (27.9%). Thirty-seven patients completed the dental rehabilitation, 29 of whom achieved functional rehabilitation. Irradiation of the FFF negatively influenced attainment of functional rehabilitation. For patients with functional rehabilitation, the body mass index varied at different timepoints: FFF reconstruction, 24.6; dental implantation 23.5; and after placing dental prosthesis, 23.9. Functional implant-based dental rehabilitation, if started, can be achieved in the majority of head and neck cancer patients after FFF reconstruction. Actively smoking patients with an irradiated FFF should be clearly informed about the increased risk for implant and prosthetic treatment failure.

A Novel Treatment Concept for Advanced Stage Mandibular Osteoradionecrosis Combining Isodose Curve Visualization and Nerve Preservation: A Prospective Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the mandible is a severe complication of radiation therapy in head and neck cancer patients. Treatment of advanced stage mandibular osteoradionecrosis may consist of segmental resection and osseous reconstruction, often sacrificing the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN). New computer-assisted surgery (CAS) techniques can be used for guided IAN preservation and 3D radiotherapy isodose curve visualization for patient specific mandibular resection margins. This study introduces a novel treatment concept combining these CAS techniques for treatment of advanced stage ORN. METHODS: Our advanced stage ORN treatment concept includes consecutively: 1) determination of the mandibular resection margins using a 3D 50 Gy isodose curve visualization, 2) segmental mandibular resection with preservation of the IAN with a two-step cutting guide, and 3) 3D planned mandibular reconstruction using a hand-bent patient specific reconstruction plate. Postoperative accuracy of the mandibular reconstruction was evaluated using a guideline. Objective and subjective IAN sensory function was tested for a period of 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Five patients with advanced stage ORN were treated with our ORN treatment concept using the fibula free flap. A total of seven IANs were salvaged in two men and three women. No complications occurred and all reconstructions healed properly. Neither non-union nor recurrence of ORN was observed. Sensory function of all IANs recovered after resection up to 100 percent, including the patients with a pathologic fracture due to ORN. The accuracy evaluation showed angle deviations limited to 3.78 degrees. Two deviations of 6.42° and 7.47° were found. After an average of 11,6 months all patients received dental implants to complete oral rehabilitation. CONCLUSIONS: Our novel ORN treatment concept shows promising results for implementation of 3D radiotherapy isodose curve visualization and IAN preservation. Sensory function of all IANs recovered after segmental mandibular resection.

Sialendoscopy increases saliva secretion and reduces xerostomia up to 60 weeks in Sjögren's syndrome patients: a randomized controlled study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of sialendoscopy of the major salivary glands on salivary flow and xerostomia in patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS). METHODS: Forty-five patients with SS were randomly assigned to a control group (no irrigation, control, n = 15), to irrigation of the major salivary glands with saline (saline, n = 15) or to irrigation with saline followed by corticosteroid application (triamcinolone acetonide in saline, saline/TA, n = 15). Unstimulated whole saliva flow (UWSF), chewing-stimulated whole saliva flow (SWSF), citric acid-stimulated parotid flow, Clinical Oral Dryness Score (CODS), Xerostomia Inventory (XI) and EULAR SS Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI) scores were obtained 1 week before (T0), and 1, 8, 16, 24, 36, 48 and 60 weeks after sialendoscopy. Data were analysed using linear mixed models. RESULTS: Irrespective of the irrigation protocol used, sialendoscopy resulted in an increased salivary flow during follow-up up to 60 weeks. Significant between-group differences in the longitudinal course of outcomes were found for UWSF, SWSF, XI and ESSPRI scores (P = 0.028, P = 0.001, P = 0.03, P = 0.021, respectively). UWSF at 60 weeks was higher compared with T0 in the saline group (median: 0.14 vs median: 0.10, P = 0.02) and in the saline/TA group (median: 0.20, vs 0.13, P = 0.035). In the saline/TA group SWSF at 48 weeks was higher compared with T0 (median: 0.74 vs 0.38, P = 0.004). Increase in unstimulated salivary flow was also reflected in improved CODS, XI and ESSPRI scores compared with baseline. CONCLUSION: Irrigation of the major salivary glands in patients with SS increases salivary flow and reduces xerostomia.

Intraoperative visualisation and treatment of salivary glands in Sjögren's syndrome by contrast-enhanced ultrasound sialendoscopy (CEUSS): protocol for a phase I single-centre, single-arm, exploratory study.

INTRODUCTION: We established a promising sialendoscopic treatment for in vivo enhancement of salivation in salivary glands affected by Sjögren's syndrome (SS). In this technique, the ducts of the salivary glands are irrigated with saline and steroids. This allows for dilatation of ductal strictures and removal of debris. Unfortunately, it is not possible to assess the delivery and penetration of saline or medications in the ductal system and parenchyma. To address this problem, we will conduct contrast-enhanced ultrasound sialendoscopy (CEUSS) using sulphur hexafluoride microbubbles. To the best of our knowledge, microbubbles have never been used for the treatment of salivary glands in SS. It is, therefore, imperative to test this application for its safety and feasibility. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A single-arm phase I study will be performed in 10 SS patients. Under local anaesthesia, ultrasound (US) guided infusion of the parotid and submandibular glands with microbubbles will be performed. Continuous US imaging will be used to visualise the glands, including the location of strictures and occlusions. Main outcomes will be the evaluation of safety and technical feasibility of the experimental treatment. Secondary outcomes will consist of determinations of unstimulated whole mouth saliva flow, stimulated whole mouth saliva flow, stimulated parotid saliva flow, clinical oral dryness, reported pain, xerostomia, disease activity, salivary cytokine profiles and clinical SS symptoms. Finally, salivary gland topographical alterations will be evaluated by US. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Medical Ethics Committee of the Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (NL68283.029.19). data will be presented at national and international conferences and published in a peer-reviewed journal. The study will be implemented and reported in line with the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials' statement. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS: The Netherlands Trial Register: NL7731, MREC Trial Register: NL68283.029.19; Pre-results.

Collaboration Around Rare Bone Diseases Leads to the Unique Organizational Incentive of the Amsterdam Bone Center.

In the field of rare bone diseases in particular, a broad care team of specialists embedded in multidisciplinary clinical and research environment is essential to generate new therapeutic solutions and approaches to care. Collaboration among clinical and research departments within a University Medical Center is often difficult to establish, and may be hindered by competition and non-equivalent cooperation inherent in a hierarchical structure. Here we describe the "collaborative organizational model" of the Amsterdam Bone Center (ABC), which emerged from and benefited the rare bone disease team. This team is often confronted with pathologically complex and under-investigated diseases. We describe the benefits of this model that still guarantees the autonomy of each team member, but combines and focuses our collective expertise on a clear shared goal, enabling us to capture synergistic and innovative opportunities for the patient, while avoiding self-interest and possible harmful competition.

Motor vehicle accidents-related maxillofacial injuries: a multicentre and prospective study.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this European multicenter prospective study was to obtain more precise information about the demographic characteristics and etiologic/epidemiologic patterns of motor vehicle accidents (MVA)-related maxillofacial fractures. STUDY DESIGN: Of the 3260 patients with maxillofacial fractures admitted within the study period, 326 traumas were caused by MVAs with a male/female ratio of 2.2:1. RESULTS: The maximum incidence was found in Zagreb (Croatia) (18%) and the minimum in Bergen (Norway) (0%). The most frequent mechanisms were car accidents, with 177 cases, followed by motorcycle accidents. The most frequently observed fracture involved the mandible, with 199 fractures, followed by maxillo-zygomatic-orbital (MZO) fractures. CONCLUSIONS: In all the 3 groups (car, motorcycle, and pedestrian), mandibular and MZO fractures were the 2 most frequently observed fractures, with some variations. The importance of analyzing MVA-related facial injuries and their features and characteristics should be stressed.

Wound dehiscences following pre-implant bone augmentation with autogenous iliac crest bone grafts: A retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate possible risk factors associated with wound dehiscences following pre-implant alveolar bone augmentation with autologous anterior iliac crest bone grafts covered with resorbable collagen membranes or human demineralised bone laminae. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data of 161 patients who underwent bone augmentation prior to the insertion of dental implants were analysed. The preoperative dental status, locations of alveolar bone augmentation sites and location of wound dehiscences were recorded. Gender, age, smoking, alcohol exposure, and dental and medical histories were reviewed. Information was also collected on the surgeons, augmentation technique, application of a collagen membrane, fixation screw type and suture material. Univariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate pre- and perioperative variables as predictors of dehiscences. RESULTS: A total of 42 (26.1%) of the 161 augmented patients developed a wound dehiscence following surgery. Most commonly affected sites were the anterior maxilla, followed by the anterior mandible. Males developed wound dehiscences with higher probability than females (odds ratio female = 0.444; P = 0.025; 95% CI: 0.214 to 0.903). Furthermore, marginal associations (P < 0.10) are found for smoking and an anterior location of the augmentation. Smokers were found to have higher probability of a wound dehiscence (odds ratio 2.089; P = 0.064; 95% CI: 0.957 to 4.500) compared to non-smokers. A posterior location of the augmentation was associated with lower probability of a wound dehiscence (odds ratio 0.188; P = 0.076; 95% CI: 0.035 to 0.802) compared to an anterior location. CONCLUSIONS: Based on this study population, smoking in males seems to be the most important risk factor for the development of wound dehiscences after pre-implant alveolar bone augmentation procedures.

The "European Mandibular Angle" research project: the analysis of complications after unilateral angle fractures.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the complications and outcomes of surgical treatment of angle fractures managed at departments of maxillofacial surgery in several European countries. STUDY DESIGN: Patients hospitalized with unilateral isolated angle fractures between 2013 and 2017 were included. The following data were recorded: gender and age of patients, fracture etiology, presence of the third molar, maxillomandibular fixation, osteosynthesis technique, and complications. RESULTS: In total, 489 patients were included in the study. The Champy technique was found to be the most frequently chosen osteosynthesis technique. Sixty complications were observed, at a rate of 12.3%. Complications were associated with the absence of third molars (P < .05). Instead, the Champy technique was associated with fewer complications (P < .05), in comparison with the other adopted techniques. CONCLUSIONS: The management of angle fractures still represents a challenging task with a significant complication rate. The Champy technique still seems to be a valid option for the treatment of such injuries.

The "European zygomatic fracture" research project: The epidemiological results from a multicenter European collaboration.

PURPOSE: Fractures of the zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) are common injuries that may lead to loss of an aesthetically pleasing appearance and functional impairment. The aim of this study was to analyze the demographics, causes, characteristics, and outcomes of zygomatic fractures managed at several European departments of oral and maxillofacial surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is based on a multicenter systematic database that allowed the recording of all patients with ZMC fractures between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2017. The following data were recorded: gender, age, personal medical history, etiology, side of zygomatic fracture, classification of ZMC fracture, associated maxillofacial fractures, symptoms at diagnosis, type of performed treatment, and sequelae/complications. RESULTS: A total of 1406 patients (1172 males, 234 females) were included in the study. Statistically significant correlations were found between assault-related ZMC fractures and the A3 class (p < .0000005) and between Infraorbital Nerve (ION) anesthesia and B class (p < .00000005). CONCLUSION: The most frequent cause of ZMC fractures was assault, followed by falls. The most frequently involved decade of age was between 20 and 29 years. The decision and type of surgical treatment of ZMC fractures depends on several issues that need to be considered on a case by case basis.

Depth of invasion in patients with early stage oral cancer staged by sentinel node biopsy.

BACKGROUND: To investigate if depth of invasion (DOI) can predict occult nodal disease in patients with cT1-2N0 (7th TNM) oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) staged by sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). METHODS: In 199 OSCC patients, DOI measurements and SLNB were performed. RESULTS: Metastases were found in 64 of 199 patients (32%). Of these 64 patients, the mean DOI was 6.6 mm compared to 4.7 mm in patients without metastases (P = .003). The ROC-curve showed an area under the curve of 0.65 with a most optimal cutoff point of 3.4 mm DOI (sensitivity 83% and specificity 47%). Regional metastases were found in 15% of patients with DOI ≤ 3.4 mm. CONCLUSION: DOI seems to be a poor predictor for regional metastasis in patients with cT1-2N0 OSCC. Therefore, staging of the neck using SLNB in patients with early stage oral cancer should also be performed in tumors with limited DOI and probably in T3 (8th TNM) OSCC ≤4 cm diameter.

The "European Mandibular Angle" Research Project: The Epidemiologic Results From a Multicenter European Collaboration.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze the demographic variables and causes and characteristics of mandibular angle fractures managed at several European departments of maxillofacial surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was based on a multicenter systematic database that allowed the recording of data from all patients with mandibular angle fractures between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2017. The following data were recorded: gender, age, etiology, side of angle fracture, associated mandibular fractures, presence of third molar, intermaxillary fixation, and osteosynthesis. RESULTS: The study included 1,162 patients (1,045 male and 117 female patients). A significant association was found between the presence of a third molar and the diagnosis of an isolated angle fracture (P < .0000005). Furthermore, assaults were associated with the presence of voluptuary habits (P < .00005), a younger mean age (P < .00000005), male gender (P < .00000005), and left-sided angle fractures (P < .00000005). CONCLUSIONS: Assaults and falls actually represent the most frequent causes of angle fractures. The presence of a third molar may let the force completely disperse during the determination of the angle fracture, finding a point of weakness.

Feasibility of intraoperative detection of sentinel lymph nodes with 89-zirconium-labelled nanocolloidal albumin PET-CT and a handheld high-energy gamma probe.

BACKGROUND: PET/CT lymphoscintigraphy using 89Zr-nanocolloidal albumin has the potential to improve the preoperative identification of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs), especially if located in the near proximity of the primary tumour. This study aims to demonstrate the feasibility of PET/CT lymphoscintigraphy followed by intraoperative detection of 89Zr-nanocolloidal albumin containing SLNs with the use of a handheld high-energy gamma probe. METHODS: PET/CT lymphoscintigraphy was performed after peritumoural injection of 89Zr-nanocolloidal albumin in five patients with oral cavity carcinoma planned for surgical resection. SLN biopsy procedure was performed 18 h later. SLNs were detected using detailed information of PET/CT and the high-energy gamma probe. RESULTS: In all patients, SLNs were identified on PET/CT lymphoscintigraphy. Intraoperative detection using the high-energy gamma probe was possible in 10 of 13 SLNs, at a short distance from the SLN. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that intraoperative detection of SLNs containing 89Zr-nanocolloidal albumin using a handheld high-energy gamma probe is feasible, but its clinical use and sensitivity seem to be limited. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CCMO NL37222.092.11.

Sialendoscopy enhances salivary gland function in Sjögren's syndrome: a 6-month follow-up, randomised and controlled, single blind study.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect of sialendoscopy of the major salivary glands on salivary flow and xerostomia in patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS). METHODS: Forty-nine patients with SS were randomly assigned to a control group (n=15) and two intervention groups: irrigation of the major glands with saline (n=16) or with saline followed by triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in saline (n=18). Unstimulated whole saliva flow (UWS), chewing-stimulated whole saliva flow (SWS), citric acid-stimulated parotid flow (SPF), Clinical Oral Dryness Score (CODS), Xerostomia Inventory (XI) score and the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) SS Patient-Reported Index (ESSPRI) were obtained 1 week (T0) before, and 1 (T1), 8 (T8), 16 (T16) and 24 (T24) weeks after sialendoscopy. RESULTS: Median baseline UWS, SWS and SPF scores were 0.14, 0.46 and 0.22 mL/min, respectively. After intervention, significant increases in UWS and SWS were observed in the saline group (at T8 (P=0.013) and T24 (P=0.004)) and the saline/TA group (at T24 (P=0.03) and T=16 (P=0.035)). SPF was increased significantly in the saline/TA group at T24 (P=0.03). XI scores declined after sialendoscopy in both intervention groups. Compared with the control group, CODS, XI and ESSPRI improved in the intervention groups. UWS, SWS and SPF were higher in the intervention groups compared with the control group, but these differences were not significant except for SPF in the saline/TA group at T24 (P=0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Irrigation of the major salivary glands in patients with SS enhances salivary flow and reduces xerostomia up to 6 months after sialendoscopy.

Postoperative Airway Obstruction by a Bone Fragment.

Postoperative airway obstructions are potentially life-threatening complications. These obstructions may be classified as functional (sagging tongue, laryngospasm, or bronchospasm), pathoanatomical (airway swelling or hematoma within the airways), or foreign body-related. Various cases of airway obstruction by foreign bodies have previously been reported, for example, by broken teeth or damaged airway instruments. Here we present the exceptional case of a postoperative airway obstruction due to a large fragment of the patient's maxillary bone, left accidentally in situ after transoral surgical tumor resection. Concerning this type of airway obstruction, we discuss possible causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Although it is an exceptional case after surgery, clinicians should be aware of this potentially life-threatening complication. In summary, this case demonstrates that the differential diagnosis of postoperative airway obstructions should include foreign bodies derived from surgery, including tissue and bone fragments.

Complications of Sialendoscopy in Patients With Sjögren Syndrome.

PURPOSE: Recent literature suggests that sialendoscopy of the major salivary glands could alleviate symptoms of Sjögren syndrome (SS) and restore salivary function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the authors' experience of sialendoscopy of the salivary glands in patients with SS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective case series study, the surgical data of patients with SS who had undergone sialendoscopy at the VU University Medical Center (Amsterdam, The Netherlands) from November 2014 through April 2015 were used. Outcome measurements were successful entry to the salivary gland and completion of sialendoscopy as planned. Furthermore, pre- and postoperative complications were scored. Descriptive analysis of the data was performed. RESULTS: Surgical data of sialoendoscopic procedures in 26 patients with SS (24 women and 2 men; mean age, 57 yr; range, 27 to 72 yr) were analyzed. Sialendoscopy was successfully performed in 78 of 104 salivary glands (75%; 50 parotid and 28 submandibular glands) in the 26 patients. Sialendoscopy failed in 26 of the 104 sialoendoscopic procedures (25%; 2 parotid and 24 submandibular glands). In 16 salivary glands, the ductal orifice could not be identified. In 7 salivary glands, sialendoscopy could not be performed because of partial or complete stenosis of the salivary duct. In 3 salivary glands, sialendoscopy was not performed because of a ductal perforation. Three patients developed a postoperative infection. CONCLUSION: The overall rate of complications was limited and the sialoendoscopic complications in patients with SS could be regarded as minor. Most complications were seen for sialendoscopy of the submandibular glands in this specific patient category. Careful preoperative selection of patients and salivary glands could contribute to a lower rate of complications and more predictable results.

The added value of SPECT-CT for the identification of sentinel lymph nodes in early stage oral cancer.

PURPOSE: To assess the role of single-photon emission computed tomography with computed tomography (SPECT-CT) for the identification of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in patients with early stage (T1-T2) oral cancer and a clinically negative neck (cN0). METHODS: In addition to planar lymphoscintigraphy, SPECT-CT was performed in 66 consecutive patients with early stage oral cancer and a clinically negative neck. The addition of SPECT-CT to planar images was retrospectively analyzed for the number of additional SLNs, more precise localization of SLNs, and importance of anatomical information by a team consisting of a nuclear physician, surgeon, and investigator. RESULTS: Identification rate for both imaging modalities combined was 98% (65/66). SPECT-CT identified 15 additional SLNs in 14 patients (22%). In 2/15 (13%) of these additional SLNs, the only metastasis was found, resulting in an upstaging rate of 3% (2/65). In 20% of the patients with at least one positive SLN, the only positive SLN was detected due to the addition of SPECT-CT. SPECT-CT was considered to add important anatomical information in two patients (3%). In 5/65 (8%) of the patients initially scored SLNs on planar lymphoscintigrams were scored as non-SLNs when SPECT-CT was added. There were four false-negative SLN biopsy procedures in this cohort. CONCLUSIONS: The addition of SPECT-CT to planar lymphoscintigraphy is recommended for the identification of more (positive) SLNs and better topographical orientation for surgery in sentinel lymph node biopsy for early stage oral cancer.

Additional non-sentinel lymph node metastases in early oral cancer patients with positive sentinel lymph nodes.

To determine risk factors for additional non-sentinel lymph node metastases in neck dissection specimens of patients with early stage oral cancer and a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). A retrospective analysis of 36 previously untreated SLNB positive patients in our institution and investigation of currently available literature of positive SLNB patients in early stage oral cancer was done. Degree of metastatic involvement [classified as isolated tumor cells (ITC), micro- and macrometastasis] of the sentinel lymph node (SLN), the status of other SLNs, and additional non-SLN metastases in neck dissection specimens were analyzed. Of 27 studies, comprising 511 patients with positive SLNs, the pooled prevalence of non-SLN metastasis in patients with positive SLNs was 31 %. Non-SLN metastases were detected (available from 9 studies) in 13, 20, and 40 % of patients with ITC, micro-, and macrometastasis in the SLN, respectively. The probability of non-SLN metastasis seems to be higher in the case of more than one positive SLN (29 vs. 24 %), the absence of negative SLNs (40 vs. 19 %), and a positive SLN ratio of more than 50 % (38 vs. 19 %). Additional non-SLN metastases were found in 31 % of neck dissections following positive SLNB. The presence of multiple positive SLNs, the absence of negative SLNs, and a positive SLN ratio of more than 50 % may be predictive factors for non-SLN metastases. Classification of SLNs into ITC, micro-, and macrometastasis in the future SLNB studies is important to answer the question if treatment of the neck is always needed after positive SLNB.

Altered nasal airflow: an unusual complication following implant surgery in the anterior maxilla.

Dental implants have been in routine clinical use for over three decades and are a predictable treatment modality. However, as with all other aspects of dentistry, complications occur. A 50-year-old female patient with complaints of a long ongoing unpleasant altered nasal airflow presented herself at the VU University Medical Center Amsterdam. Visual inspection of the right nasal cavity revealed that the apical part of a dental implant placed in the upper right first incisor region had perforated the nasal floor and was partially protruding into the nasal cavity. Subsequent treatment consisted of a transnasal resection of the apical part of the dental implant to the level of the nasal floor. After a 12-month follow-up period, the patient reported having no altered nasal airflow. In conclusion, dental implants protruding into the nasal cavity can cause an alteration to the airflow. Furthermore, a partial removal of the apical part of the dental implant is a viable method of treating dental implants that extend into the nasal cavity.

Management of the clinically N0 neck in squamous cell carcinoma of the maxillary alveolus and hard palate.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate active surveillance strategy in the clinically negative neck in maxillary squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). METHODS: One hundred fourteen consecutive patients diagnosed with oral maxillary SCC were analyzed retrospectively from 3 centers in The Netherlands. Analysis parameters included regional disease-free survival of N0 patients stratified for T classification, elective radiotherapy (RT) of the neck; and overall survival of the whole cohort, stratified by N classification; salvage neck surgery rates. RESULTS: Within the N0 cohort, 26.0% of the patients developed neck metastasis in the follow-up visits. Regional recurrence was not related to T classification or postoperative RT of the neck. Regional and locoregional recurrence were associated with diminished overall survival (p < .05). Regional metastasis was operable in 22 of 26 cases (85%). Only 1 patient presented with inoperable neck metastasis without local recurrence. CONCLUSION: Watchful waiting was feasible in this cohort. If meticulous follow-up is not available, elective neck dissection is recommended. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1794-1798, 2016.