Septal branches of the anterior ethmoidal artery: anatomical considerations and clinical implications in the management of refractory epistaxis.

PURPOSE: Epistaxis is a commonly presenting complaint. In severe cases, nosebleeds may occur despite antero-posterior nasal packing and often in the absence of identifiable sources of bleeding. In such cases, epistaxis may occur from septal branches of the anterior ethmoidal artery (sbAEA). The purposes of this study are to highlight the clinical role of the sbAEA in different fields of endoscopic endonasal surgery and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of their selective endoscopic endonasal ligation in the management of refractory epistaxis. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of all patients presenting with epistaxis who underwent endoscopic endonasal coagulation of sbAEA in three Italian tertiary-care referral centers between October 2010 and October 2017. RESULTS: A total of 30 patients met the inclusion criteria. Sixteen patients had never experienced nosebleeds before, while 14 patients recalled previous epistaxes. Seventeen patients were treated under local anesthetic, while 13 required general anesthesia. No intra- or post-operative complications were observed and none of the patients received nasal packing after the procedure. In all cases the coagulation was effective in controlling the bleeding, with only two relapses in the series (2/30, 6.7%). CONCLUSIONS: The sbAEA are of great interest in endoscopic endonasal surgery, both as surgical landmarks and as feeding vessels for a variety of pedicled nasal flaps. What is more, they can be crucial for the management of refractory epistaxis. Their selective endoscopic coagulation represents an effective and safe procedure in cases of difficult-to-control epistaxis from the upper nasal fossa, with several advantages over nasal packing.

Refractory epistaxis and Stamm's S-point.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Ethmoidal arteries are gaining increasing importance as the main source of severe refractory epistaxis. In this direction, Stamm's S-point, a specific bleeding point in the upper nasal septum, around the projection of the axilla of middle turbinate, posterior to the septal body, was recently described. The aim of this review was to present recent data on S-point and its role in severe refractory epistaxis. RECENT FINDINGS: Due to the hidden location posterior to the septal body, S-point is not easily identified by anterior rhinoscopy. When systematic endoscopic assessment was performed in severe epistaxis to search for the precise bleeding point, S-point was clearly the most identified (23.7-28.3%). Electrocauterization of bleeding point had high success rates (91.5-100%) and decreased the risk of recurrence bleeding. SUMMARY: Stamm's S-point plays an important role in severe refractory epistaxis, due to its frequency and stability. However, this specific bleeding point could not be easily identified, so systematic endoscopic assessment should be performed. Recent data has shifted the paradigm of the main source of severe epistaxis from the sphenopalatine artery to ethmoidal arteries and presented high success rates for electrocauterization of bleeding points as single treatment of severe epistaxis.

New Nasopharyngeal Flap for Posterior Skull-base Reconstruction: The Upper-Tongue Flap.

Introduction Reconstructions of clival resection are still challenging, and additional reconstructive methods may be necessary to achieve full coverage of the skull-base defect in patients with middle- and lower-clivus disease. Objective To describe a new nasopharyngeal flap for the middle and lower clivus. Methods Using nasal endoscopy in a cadaver dissection, we demonstrated a new nasopharygeal flap to cover the lower and middle clival resection. Results We described a new nasopharyngeal flap capable of covering the lower and middle portion of the clivus. Discussion The new nasopharyngeal flap, called the upper-tongue flap, is particularly adequate as an alternative for the reconstruction of middle and lower clivus defects, and it is better used in association with a nasalseptal flap in cases in which the nasalseptal flap alone does not provide enough mucosal coverage. Conclusion The new nasopharyngeal flap can be used in the reconstruction of clival resection.

Relationship of the anterior ethmoid sinus to the lacrimal sac: a computed tomography study.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the anatomical relationship between the lacrimal sac and the agger nasi cell on Computed Tomography (CT); to correlate the right and left sides on each scan. METHODS: CT scans of adult patients were reviewed for pneumatization of the agger nasi and its relationship to the lacrimal sac. The degree of agreement between the right and left sides was also evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 130 CT scans were examined. An agger nasi cell was found medial to the lacrimal sac in 59.23% of scans. On 86.15% of scans, pneumatization was similar on both sides. CONCLUSION: The agger nasi air cell is located medial to the lacrimal sac in more than half of individuals. The right and left sides exhibit the same pneumatization pattern in approximately 80% of cases.

Endoscope-Assisted Middle Fossa Approach: Optimizing the Surgical Corridor for the Resection of Multicompartmental Chordomas.

Background Skull base chordomas are a major therapeutic challenge. The surgical management involves selecting an approach that will offer the patient the best chance of largest/complete removal while minimizing morbidity and mortality. Methods Medical records and imaging review of two skull base chordomas involving the middle fossa and posterior fossa that were successfully treated with an endoscope-assisted middle fossa approach. Results The use of angled endoscopes provided better identification of anatomical landmarks and improved tumor resection when compared with the microscopic surgical exposure. The approach selection, anatomical landmarks, and technical aspects of the intraoperative setting of the endoscope-assisted approach are discussed. Conclusion Endoscopic assistance in the middle fossa approach is a safe and valuable tool for maximizing the reach of the surgical corridor when treating skull base chordomas.

Endoscopic management of congenital meningo-encephalocele with nasal flaps.

The objective of this paper is to present a case of a 2-year-old girl diagnosed with a meningo-encephalocele after episodes of meningitis, and treated with a transnasal endoscopic approach using nasal septal flaps pediculated at the sphenopalatine artery. Endoscopic repair is a viable and minimally invasive alternative to traditional craniotomy, however technical difficulties encountered as well as questions that remain unanswered are discussed.

Nasal Polyposis: More than a Chronic Inflammatory Disorder-A Disease of Mechanical Dysfunction-The São Paulo Position.

Introduction The importance of our study lies in the fact that we have demonstrated the occurrence of mechanical dysfunction within polypoid tissues, which promotes the development of polyps in the nasal cavity. Objective To change the paradigm of nasal polyposis (NP). In this new conception, the chronic nasal inflammatory process that occurs in response to allergies, to pollution, to changes in the epithelial barrier, or to other factors is merely the trigger of the development of the disease in individuals with a genetic predisposition to an abnormal tissue remodeling process, which leads to a derangement of the mechanical properties of the nasal mucosa and, consequently, allows it to grow unchecked. Data Synthesis We propose a fundamentally new approach to intervening in the pathological process of NP, addressing biomechanical properties, fluid dynamics, and the concept of surface tension. Conclusion The incorporation of biomechanical knowledge into our understanding of NP provides a new perspective to help elucidate the physiology and the pathology of nasal polyps, and new avenues for the treatment and cure of NP.

Breaking paradigms in severe epistaxis: the importance of looking for the S-point.

INTRODUCTION: Since the introduction of nasal endoscopy into the field of Otorhinolaryngology, the treatment paradigm for cases of severe epistaxis has shifted toward early and precise identification of the bleeding site. Although severe epistaxis is usually considered to arise from posterior bleeding, an arterial vascular pedicle in the superior portion of the nasal septum, around the axilla projection of the middle turbinate, posterior to the septal body, frequently has been observed. That vascular pedicle was named the Stamm's S-point. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the S-point and report cases of severe epistaxis originating from it. METHODS: A retrospective case series study was conducted. Nine patients with spontaneous severe epistaxis, where the S-point was identified as the source of bleeding, were treated between March 2016 and March 2017. RESULTS: Male predominance (77.8%) with age average of 59.3 years old were reported. Most cases presented comorbidities (88.9%) and were not taking acetylsalicylic acid (66.7%). A predominance of left sided involvement (55.6%) and anteroposterior bleeding being the principal initial presentation (77.8%) was seen. Six patients (66.7%) presented with hemoglobin levels below 10g/dL, and four (44.4%) required blood transfusion. Cauterization of S-point was performed in all patients, with complete resolution of bleeding. No patient experienced recurrence of severe epistaxis. CONCLUSION: The Stamm's S-point, a novel source of spontaneous severe epistaxis, is reported, and its cauterization was effective and safe. Otolaryngologists must actively seek this site of bleeding in cases of severe epistaxis.

Sialendoscopy Training: Presentation of a Realistic Model.

Introduction Several surgical training simulators have been created for residents and young surgeons to gain experience with surgical procedures. Laboratory training is fundamental for acquiring familiarity with the techniques of surgery and skill in handing instruments. Objective The aim of this study is to present a novel simulator for training sialendoscopy. Method This realistic simulator was built with a synthetic thermo-retractile, thermo-sensible rubber which, when combined with different polymers, produces more than 30 different formulas. These formulas present textures, consistencies, and mechanical resistance are similar to many human tissues. Results The authors present a training model to practice sialendoscopy. All aspects of the procedure are simulated: month opening, dilatation of papillae, insert of the scope, visualization of stones, extraction of these stones with grasping or baskets, and finally, stone fragmentation with holmium laser. Conclusion This anatomical model for sialendoscopy training should be considerably useful to abbreviate the learning curve during the qualification of young surgeons while minimizing the consequences of technical errors.

New Nasopharyngeal Flap for Posterior Skull-base Reconstruction: The Upper-Tongue Flap

Abstract Introduction Reconstructions of clival resection are still challenging, and additional reconstructive methods may be necessary to achieve full coverage of the skull-base defect in patients with middle- and lower-clivus disease. Objective To describe a new nasopharyngeal flap for the middle and lower clivus. Methods Using nasal endoscopy in a cadaver dissection, we demonstrated a new nasopharygeal flap to cover the lower and middle clival resection. Results We described a new nasopharyngeal flap capable of covering the lower and middle portion of the clivus. Discussion The new nasopharyngeal flap, called the upper-tongue flap, is particularly adequate as an alternative for the reconstruction of middle and lower clivus defects, and it is better used in association with a nasalseptal flap in cases in which the nasalseptal flap alone does not provide enough mucosal coverage. Conclusion The new nasopharyngeal flap can be used in the reconstruction of clival resection.

Efficacy of syringe-irrigation topical therapy and the influence of the middle turbinate in sinus penetration of solutions.

INTRODUCTION: Topical therapies are the best postoperative treatment option for chronic rhinosinusitis, especially those with high volume and pressure, such as the squeeze bottles. However, they are not an available option in Brazil, where irrigation syringes are used. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of topical sinonasal therapy with syringe and the influence of the middle turbinate on this process METHODS: Intervention study in training models (S.I.M.O.N.T.). After standard dissection, three interventions were performed (Nasal Spray 4 puffs, 60-mL syringe and 240-mL Squeeze Bottle) with normal and Sutured Middle Turbinate. Images of each sinus were captured after the interventions, totalizing 144 images. The images were classified by 10 evaluators according to the amount of residual volume from zero to 3, with zero and 1 being considered poor penetration and 2 and 3, good penetration. The 1440 evaluations were used in this study. RESULTS: Considering all middle turbinate situations, the amount of good penetrations were 8.1% for Spray; 68.3% for Syringe, and 78.3% for Squeeze (p<0.0001). Considering all types of interventions, the Normal Middle Turbinate group had 48.2% of good penetrations and the Sutured Middle Turbinate, 55% (p=0.01). Considering only the Sutured Middle Turbinates, there was no difference between the interventions with Syringe and Squeeze (76.3% vs. 80.4%; p=0.27). CONCLUSION: Topical therapy of irrigation with a 60-mL syringe was more effective than that with nasal spray. The status of the middle turbinate proved to be fundamental and influenced topical therapy. Irrigation with syringe was as effective as the squeeze bottle when the middle turbinate was sutured to the nasal septum.

Relationship of the anterior ethmoid sinus to the lacrimal sac: a computed tomography study

Abstract Objective: To analyze the anatomical relationship between the lacrimal sac and the agger nasi cell on Computed Tomography (CT); to correlate the right and left sides on each scan. Methods: CT scans of adult patients were reviewed for pneumatization of the agger nasi and its relationship to the lacrimal sac. The degree of agreement between the right and left sides was also evaluated. Results: A total of 130 CT scans were examined. An agger nasi cell was found medial to the lacrimal sac in 59.23% of scans. On 86.15% of scans, pneumatization was similar on both sides. Conclusion: The agger nasi air cell is located medial to the lacrimal sac in more than half of individuals. The right and left sides exhibit the same pneumatization pattern in approximately 80% of cases. Level of evidence: 4.

Transnasal endoscopic surgical approaches to the clivus.

Transnasal endoscopic-assisted techniques to the clivus region can be safe and effective. Endoscopic-assisted approaches provide improved visualization and are a superior alternative to open surgical approaches in most cases. Nevertheless, problems such as infection, CSF leakage, and difficulty controlling intradural bleeding still remain. Surgeons must always remember that, although high technology such as endoscopes, image-guided surgery systems, imaging studies, and advanced anesthetic drugs were essential for the development and improvement of the skull base surgery, the success of this type of surgery depends on perfect knowledge of the anatomy, intense endoscopic surgery training, and a multidisciplinary partnership.

Why we should avoid using inferior turbinate tissue as control to Nasal Polyposis studies.

CONCLUSION: The authors are aware that inferior turbinate mucosa presents different properties from middle turbinate mucosa and any data generated using inferior turbinate as control in Nasal Polyposis (NP) should be analysed very carefully. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare the mechanical properties of inferior turbinate mucosa vs middle turbinate mucosa. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The interstitial hydrostatic pressure behaviour was compared during a saline solution infusion between healthy nasal mucosa from inferior turbinate with middle turbinate (four patients). RESULTS: A significant difference, p = 0.02, was found in the response of interstitial hydrostatic pressure during the saline injection when the inferior turbinate vs middle turbinate was compared.

Endoscopic endonasal management of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea after anterior clinoidectomy for aneurysm surgery: changing the paradigm of complication management.

Resection of the anterior clinoid process results in the creation of the clinoid space, an important surgical step in the exposure and clipping of clinoidal and supraclinoidal internal carotid artery aneurysms. Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea is an undesired and potentially serious complication. Conservative measures may be unsuccesful, and there is no consensus on the most appropriate surgical treatment. Two patients with persistent transclinoidal CSF rhinorrhea after aneurysm surgery were successfully treated with a combined endoscopic transnasal/transeptal binostril approach using a fat graft and ipsilateral mucosal nasal septal flap. Anatomical considerations and details of the surgical technique employed are discussed, and a management plan is proposed.

Effectiveness of balloon sinuplasty in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis without polyposis.

INTRODUCTION: Balloon sinuplasty is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure, developed with the aim of restoring patency of the paranasal sinuses ostia with minimal damage to the mucosa. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of balloon sinuplasty in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study comprising 18 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis without polyposis who underwent balloon sinuplasty. Patients were evaluated for clinical criteria, quality of life (Sino-Nasal Outcome Questionnaire Test-20 [SNOT-20]), and computed tomography of the sinuses (Lund-Mackay staging) preoperatively and three to six months after the procedure. RESULTS: Out of 18 patients assessed, 13 were included, with a mean age of 39.9±15.6 years. Ostia sinuplasty was performed in 24 ostia (four sphenoid, ten frontal, and ten maxillary sinus). At the follow-up, 22 (92%) ostia were patent and there was no major complication. There was symptomatic improvement (SNOT-20), with Cronbach coefficients for consistency of the questionnaire items of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.73-0.94) preoperatively and of 0.88 (95% CI: 0.77-0.95) postoperatively, the difference being statistically significant (p<0.001). In addition, there was marked reduction of the computed tomography signs, an average of 4.2 point score (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Sinuplasty is effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life as a treatment option for chronic rhinosinusitis in selected patients.

The endoscopic endonasal approach for extradural and intradural clivus lesions.

OBJECTIVE: To report the use of the endoscopic transnasal transclival approach to treat tumors involving the clivus region. METHODS: The clinical records of 38 patients with clivus lesions were retrospectively reviewed to determine the surgical technique used. All patients were surgically treated using any of the options of the endoscopic transnasal transclival approach at the São Paulo Skull Base Center from 2000-2011. A transsphenoidal, transpterygoidal, retropharyngeal, or a combination of approaches was chosen based on the tumor topography. RESULTS: Chordomas were the most frequent tumor (26 of 38), followed by chondrosarcoma (2 of 38). Biopsy only was performed in 6 patients with metastasis to the clivus, and 1 patient with fibrous dysplasia underwent a planned partial resection. Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 15 of 31 (48%) patients with indications for GTR. For centrally located tumors, GTR was achieved in 75% (15 of 20 patients). Fistula was the most frequent complication (6 of 31; 19%) but was much lower in the most recent series using the nasoseptal flap (1 of 16; 6%). Tumors with lateral extensions or with previous treatment had the worst results. The presence of intradural extension was not a limiting factor for GTR. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic transnasal surgery is an alternative approach to treatment of clivus lesions, and, in expert hands, this technique can obtain good results. Lateral extension and previous treatment were factors that could make the surgery more difficult. Intradural extension did not limit the radicality of the removal.