Prognostic Factors for Recovery from Left Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Palsy After Minimally Invasive McKeown Esophagectomy: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy is a serious complication of esophagectomy that affects the patient's phonation and the ability to prevent life-threatening aspiration events. The aim of this single-center, retrospective study was to investigate the clinical course of left RLN palsy and to identify the main prognostic factors for recovery. METHODS: The study cohort consisted of 85 patients who had developed left RLN palsy after minimally invasive McKeown esophagectomy. Vocal cord function was assessed in all participants through laryngoscopic examinations, both in the immediate postoperative period and during follow-up. Permanent palsy was defined as no evidence of recovery after 6 months. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were applied to evaluate the associations between different variables and the outcome of palsy. RESULTS: Twenty-two (25.8%) patients successfully recovered from left RLN palsy. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, active smoking (odds ratio [OR] 0.335, p = 0.038) and the use of thoracoscopic surgery (vs. robotic surgery; OR 0.264, p = 0.028) were identified as independent unfavorable predictors for recovery from palsy. The estimated rates of recovery derived from a logistic regression model for patients harboring two, one, or no risk factors were 13.16%, 31.15-34.75%, and 61.39%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Only one-quarter of patients who had developed left RLN palsy after minimally invasive McKeown esophagectomy were able to fully recover. Smoking habits and the surgical approach were identified as key determinants of recovery. Patients harboring adverse prognostic factors are potential candidates for early intervention strategies.

Multicentre randomized clinical trial on robot-assisted versus video-assisted thoracoscopic oesophagectomy (REVATE trial).

BACKGROUND: Surgery for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma involves dissecting lymph nodes along the recurrent laryngeal nerve. This is technically challenging and injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve may lead to vocal cord palsy, which increases the risk of pulmonary complications. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of robot-assisted oesophagectomy (RAO) versus video-assisted thoracoscopic oesophagectomy (VAO) for dissection of lymph nodes along the left RLN. METHODS: Patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma who were scheduled for minimally invasive McKeown oesophagectomy were allocated randomly to RAO or VAO, stratified by centre. The primary endpoint was the success rate of left recurrent laryngeal nerve lymph node dissection. Success was defined as the removal of at least one lymph node without causing nerve damage lasting longer than 6 months. Secondary endpoints were perioperative and oncological outcomes. RESULTS: From June 2018 to March 2022, 212 patients from 3 centres in Asia were randomized, and 203 were included in the analysis (RAO group 103; VAO group 100). Successful left recurrent laryngeal nerve lymph node dissection was achieved in 88.3% of the RAO group and 69% of the VAO group (P < 0.001). The rate of removal of at least one lymph node according to pathology was 94.2% for the RAO and 86% for the VAO group (P = 0.051). At 1 week after surgery, the RAO group had a lower incidence of left recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy than the VAO group (20.4 versus 34%; P = 0.029); permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy rates at 6 months were 5.8 and 20% respectively (P = 0.003). More mediastinal lymph nodes were dissected in the RAO group (median 16 (i.q.r. 12-22) versus 14 (10-20); P = 0.035). Postoperative complication rates were comparable between the two groups and there were no in-hospital deaths. CONCLUSION: In patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma, RAO leads to more successful left recurrent laryngeal nerve lymph node dissection than VAO, including a lower rate of short- and long-term recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. Registration number: NCT03713749 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Oesophageal cancer often requires complex surgery. Recently, minimally invasive techniques like robot- and video-assisted surgery have emerged to improve outcomes. This study compared robot- and video-assisted surgery for oesophageal cancer, focusing on removing lymph nodes near a critical nerve. Patients with a specific oesophageal cancer type were assigned randomly to robot- or video-assisted surgery at three Asian hospitals. Robot-assisted surgery had a higher success rate in removing lymph nodes near the important nerve without permanent damage. It also had shorter operating times, more lymph nodes removed, and faster drain removal after surgery. In summary, for oesophageal cancer surgery, the robotic approach may provide better lymph node removal and less nerve injury than video-assisted techniques.

Early relapse is an adverse prognostic factor for survival outcomes in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma: results from a nationwide registry study.

BACKGROUND: The prognostic significance of the relapse interval in patients with resected oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) is a matter of ongoing debate. In this large-scale, registry-based, nationwide study, we examined whether the time interval between surgery and the first disease relapse may affect survival outcomes in Taiwanese patients with OCSCC. METHODS: Data made available by the Taiwan Health Promotion Administration as of 2004 were obtained. The study cohort consisted of patients who were included in the registry between 2011 and 2017. Disease staging was performed according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Staging Manual, Eight Edition. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 13,789 patients with OCSCC who received surgical treatment. A total of 2327 (16.9%) patients experienced a first disease relapse. The optimal cutoff value for the relapse interval was 330 days when both 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS) (≤ 330/>330 days, n = 1630/697) were taken into account. In addition, we undertook a propensity score (PS)-matched analysis of patients (n = 654 each) with early (≤ 330 days) versus late (> 330 days) relapse. RESULTS: The median follow-up time in the entire study cohort was 702 days (433 and 2001 days in the early and late relapse groups, respectively). Compared with patients who experienced late relapse, those with early relapse showed a higher prevalence of the following adverse prognostic factors: pT4, pN3, pStage IV, poor differentiation, depth of invasion ≥ 10 mm, and extra-nodal extension. Multivariable analysis revealed that early relapse was an independent adverse prognostic factor for both 5-year DSS and OS (average hazard ratios [AHRs]: 3.24 and 3.91, respectively). In the PS-matched cohort, patients who experienced early relapse showed less favorable 5-year DSS: 58% versus 30%, p < 0.0001 (AHR: 3.10 [2.69 - 3.57]) and OS: 49% versus 22%, p < 0.0001 (AHR: 3.32 [2.89 - 3.81]). CONCLUSION: After adjustment for potential confounders and PS matching, early relapse was an adverse prognostic factor for survival outcomes in patients with OCSCC. Our findings may have significant implications for risk stratification.

Comparison of the effect of 360° versus two-dimensional virtual reality video on history taking and physical examination skills learning among undergraduate medical students: a randomized controlled trial.

Before caring for patients, video instruction is commonly used for undergraduate medical students, and 360° virtual reality (VR) videos have gained increasing interest in clinical medical education. Therefore, the effect of immersive 360° VR video learning compared with two-dimensional (2D) VR video learning in clinical skills acquisition should be evaluated. This randomized, intervention-controlled clinical trial was aimed to assess whether immersive 360° VR video improves undergraduate medical students' learning effectiveness and reduces the cognitive load in history taking and physical examination (H&P) training. From May 1 2018 to October 30 2018, 64 senior undergraduate medical students in a tertiary academic hospital were randomized to receive a 10-min immersive 360° (360° VR video group; n = 32) or 2D VR instructional video (2D VR video group; n = 32), including essential knowledge and competency of H&P. The demographic characteristics of the two groups were comparable for age, sex, and cognitive style. The total procedure skill score, physical examination score, learner's satisfaction score, and total cognitive load in the 360° VR video group were significantly higher than those in the 2D VR video group (effect sizes [95% confidence interval]: 0.72 [0.21-1.22], 0.63 [0.12-1.13], 0.56 [0.06-1.06], and 0.53 [0.03-1.03], respectively). This study suggested that a10-minute 360° VR video instruction helped undergraduate medical students perform fundamental H&P skills as effectively as 2D VR video. Furthermore, the 360° VR video might result in significantly better procedural metrics of physical examinations with higher learner satisfaction despite the higher cognitive load. Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10055-022-00664-0.

Clinical Outcomes of Taiwanese Patients with Resected Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma Who Underwent Reconstruction with Free Versus Local Flaps.

BACKGROUND: We sought to compare the clinical outcomes of Taiwanese patients with resected oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) who underwent reconstruction with free versus local flaps. METHODS: From 2011 to 2017, we examined 8646 patients with first primary OCSCC who received surgery either with or without adjuvant therapy. Of these patients, 7297 and 1349 received free and local flap reconstruction, respectively. Two propensity score-matched groups of patients who underwent free versus local flap (n = 1268 each) reconstructions were examined. Margin status was not included as a propensity score-matched variable. RESULTS: Compared with local flaps, patients who received free flaps had a higher prevalence of the following variables: male sex, age < 65 years, pT3-4, pN1-3, p-Stage III-IV, depth ≥ 10 mm, margin > 4 mm, extranodal extension (ENE), and adjuvant therapy (all p < 0.0001). Multivariable analysis identified the reconstruction method (local vs. free flaps, only overall survival [OS]), age ≥ 65 years, pT3-4, pN1-3, p-Stage III-IV, depth ≥ 10 mm (only OS), margins ≤ 4 mm, and ENE as independent adverse prognosticators for disease-specific survival (DSS) and OS. The results of propensity score-matched analyses revealed that, compared with free flaps, patients who underwent local flap reconstruction showed less favorable 5-year DSS (hazard ratio [HR] 1.26, 82%/77%; p = 0.0100) and OS (HR 1.21, 73%/68%; p = 0.0079). CONCLUSIONS: After adjusting for covariates using multivariate models, and also by propensity score modeling, OCSCC patients who underwent free flap reconstruction showed a higher frequency of clear margins and a significant survival advantage compared with those who received local flaps.

Transoral Vestibular Robotic Surgery for Anterior Central Neck Mass.

ABSTRACT: A 44-year-old female without any systemic diseases had a slowly enlarging anterior neck mass for 1 year. She had received transcervical surgery for a left thyroid cyst 3 years ago. An enhanced computed tomography scan showed a hyper-dense, markedly enhancing, and homogenous mass at the level of the thyrohyoid membrane. under the impression of an ectopic thyroid gland, operation was scheduled. However, she worried about cosmesis pitfalls besides the existing scar from her previous thyroid surgery. Transoral vestibular robotic surgery was arranged to prevent an additional neck incision wound. The mass was removed and confirmed as an ectopic thyroid nodule by pathological examination. No recurrence was found at the 1-year follow-up, and the surgical and aesthetic outcomes were satisfied. The surgery can provide adequate surgical exploration with excellent cosmesis, whereas managing cervical masses. For the cosmetic concerns, this procedure is the potential alternative in other neck surgeries.

Mild simulator sickness can alter heart rate variability, mental workload, and learning outcomes in a 360° virtual reality application for medical education: a post hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

Virtual reality (VR) applications could be beneficial for education, training, and treatment. However, VR may induce symptoms of simulator sickness (SS) such as difficulty focusing, difficulty concentrating, or dizziness that could impair autonomic nervous system function, affect mental workload, and worsen interventional outcomes. In the original randomized controlled trial, which explored the effectiveness of using a 360° VR video versus a two-dimensional VR video to learn history taking and physical examination skills, only the former group participants had SS. Therefore, 28 undergraduate medical students who participated in a 360° VR learning module were included in this post hoc study using a repeated measures design. Data of the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ), heart rate variability (HRV) analysis, Task Load Index, and Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise were retrospectively reviewed and statistically analyzed. Ten (36%) participants had mild SS (total score > 0 and ≤ 20), and 18 (64%) had no SS symptom. Total SSQ score was positively related to the very low frequency (VLF) band power, physical demand subscale, and frustration subscale, and inversely related to physical examination score. Using multilevel modeling, the VLF power mediated the relationship between total SSQ score and physical examination score. Furthermore, frustration subscale moderated the mediating effects of the VLF power. Our results highlight the importance of documenting SS to evaluate a 360° VR training program. Furthermore, the combination of HRV analysis with mental workload measurement and outcome assessments provided the important clinical value in evaluating the effects of SS in VR applications in medical education.

Transseptal Suturing With Turbinate Coblation in Nasal Septoturbinoplasty.

OBJECTIVE: Transseptal suture-assisted septoplasty and coblation are two techniques that can effectively treat septal deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy without the need for post-operative packing. In the existing literature, however, the early post-operative symptoms and surgical outcomes of the combination of these 2 procedures have not been addressed. METHOD: This retrospective study included 65 patients who underwent concomitant nasal septoturbinoplasty. The patients were divided into two groups: the transseptal suture-assisted septoplasty and inferior turbinate coblation group (no-packing group: 33 patients) and the conventional septoturbinoplasty group with merocel packing (packing group: 32 patients). The post-operative symptoms within 14 days, complications and surgical outcomes at 3 months after surgery were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: The patients in the no-packing group experienced less nasal obstruction on the first, second and third days post-operatively than those in the packing group (P < 0.000, P < 0.000, and P = 0.043, respectively). The patients in the no-packing group also had less nasal bleeding (P = 0.000 and P = 0.001), dry mouth sensation (P = 0.016 and P = 0.034) and swallowing disturbance (P = 0.013 and P = 0.012) on the first and second days post-operatively, respectively. In terms of orbital symptoms, the patients in the packing group had more severe epiphora (P = 0.031) and swelling sensations (P = 0.040) on the first day post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS: Transseptal suturing and coblation-assisted septoturbinoplasty can be considered to prevent packing-related comorbidities and reduce post-operative discomfort.

Stapler closure versus manual closure in total laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Total laryngectomy (TL) is a life-saving procedure for individuals with advanced laryngeal cancer and those suffering from recurrence after initial treatment. The present study aimed to evaluate the differences between stapler closure (SC) and manual closure (MC) of the pharynx during TL for patients with laryngeal cancer. DESIGN/SETTING: A systematic literature search was performed using the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases. The data were analysed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (Version 3; Biostat). Dichotomous data were calculated as odds ratios (ORs), and continuous data were calculated as mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). MAIN OUTCOME/RESULTS: A total of seven studies (535 patients) were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled analysis showed that the operative time of TL was significantly reduced in the SC group (MD, -63.2; 95% CI, -106.0 to -20.4). Moreover, the SC group had a lower incidence of pharyngocutaneous fistula (OR = 0.38; 95% CI, 0.18 to 0.83; P = .016) and hospital stay (MD, -2.9; 95% CI, -5.6 to -0.1). The incidence of postoperative surgical site infection (OR = 0.41; 95% CI, 0.02 to 8.73; P = .565) was comparable between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Based on these results, SC may be a useful option for patients who need TL.

A combined analysis of maximum standardized uptake value on FDG-PET, genetic markers, and clinicopathological risk factors in the prognostic stratification of patients with resected oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: Clinical outcomes of patients with resected oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) chiefly depend on the presence of specific clinicopathological risk factors (RFs). Here, we performed a combined analysis of FDG-PET, genetic markers, and clinicopathological RFs in an effort to improve prognostic stratification. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 2036 consecutive patients with first primary OCSCC who underwent surgery between 1996 and 2016. Of them, 345 underwent ultra-deep targeted sequencing (UDTS, between 1996 and 2011) and 168 whole exome sequencing (WES, between 2007 and 2016). Preoperative FDG-PET imaging was performed in 1135 patients from 2001 to 2016. Complete data on FDG-PET, genetic markers, and clinicopathological RFs were available for 327 patients. RESULTS: Using log-ranked tests based on 5-year disease-free survival (DFS), the optimal cutoff points for maximum standardized uptake values (SUV-max) of the primary tumor and neck metastatic nodes were 22.8 and 9.7, respectively. The 5-year DFS rates were as follows: SUVtumor-max ≥ 22.8 or SUVnodal-max ≥ 9.7 (n = 77) versus SUVtumor-max < 22.8 and SUVnodal-max < 9.7 (n = 250), 32%/62%, P < 0.001; positive UDTS or WES gene panel (n = 64) versus negative (n = 263), 25%/62%, P < 0.001; pN3b (n = 165) versus pN1-2 (n = 162), 42%/68%, P < 0.001. On multivariate analyses, SUVtumor-max ≥ 22.8 or SUVnodal-max ≥ 9.7, a positive UDTS/WES gene panel, and pN3b disease were identified as independent prognosticators for 5-year outcomes. Based on these variables, we devised a scoring system that identified four distinct prognostic groups. The 5-year rates for patients with a score from 0 to 3 were as follows: loco-regional control, 80%/67%/47%/24% (P < 0.001); distant metastases, 13%/23%/55%/92% (P < 0.001); DFS, 74%/58%/28%/7% (P < 0.001); and disease-specific survival, 80%/64%/35%/7% (P < 0.001) respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The combined assessment of tumor and nodal SUV-max, genetic markers, and pathological node status may refine the prognostic stratification of OCSCC patients.

Tumor Depth of Invasion (Tumor > 4 cm/Depth > 10 mm and Depth > 20 mm) and Through Cortex/Skin Invasion are Both Valid Criteria for Classifying Tumors as pT4a in AJCC 2018 Oral Cavity Cancer Staging System.

BACKGROUND: According to the AJCC third to seventh edition staging manuals (1988-2010), the presence of through cortex and/or skin invasion in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) identifies T4a tumors. The AJCC eighth edition (2018) introduced a depth of invasion (DOI) > 20 mm as a criterion for pT4a. Subsequently, a revision maintained that tumors > 4 cm with a DOI > 10 mm should be classified as pT4a. We sought to analyze the prognostic impact of the three distinct criteria identifying pT4a disease. METHODS: We examined 667 consecutive patients with pT3-4 buccal/gum/hard palate/retromolar SCC who underwent surgery between 1996 and 2016. pT1/pT2 (n = 108/359) disease were included for comparison purposes. RESULTS: The 5-year outcomes of patients with pT1/pT2/without (n = 406)/with tumor > 4 cm/DOI > 10 mm (n = 261), pT1/pT2/DOI ≤ 20 mm (n = 510)/> 20 mm (n = 157), and pT1/pT2/without (n = 305)/with through cortex/skin invasion (n = 362) were as follows: disease-specific survival (DSS), 98%/89%/79%/65%, p < 0.001, 98%/89%/78%/59%, p < 0.001, and 98%/89%79%/69%, p < 0.001; overall survival (OS), 90%/79%/63%/51%, p < 0.001, 90%/79%/63%/42%, p < 0.001, and 90%/79%/65%/52%, p < 0.001. In pT3-4 disease, a tumor > 4 cm/DOI > 10 mm was an independent adverse prognosticator for 5-year DSS rate, DOI > 20 mm was an independent adverse prognosticator for 5-year DSS and OS rates, whereas through cortex/skin invasion independently predicted 5-year OS rates. CONCLUSIONS: All of the three criteria (tumor > 4 cm/DOI > 10 mm, DOI > 20 mm, and through cortex/skin invasion) identify high-risk patients, which should be reflected in further revisions of pT4a classification in OCSCC.

Vocal fold nodules: A disorder of phonation organs or auditory feedback?

OBJECTIVE: Increasing evidence supports that auditory feedback of one's own voice closely relates to real-time adjustments of vocal control. Previous studies highlighted that the low-frequency modulations of below 3 Hz (LFM) embedded in vocal fundamental frequency (F0) showed a reflex-like response to altered auditory inputs. However, the auditory feedback control of different vocal disorders remains unclear. DESIGN: A cross-sectional, case-controlled study. SETTING: A tertiary medical centre. PARTICIPANTS: Sustained vocalisations of vowel/a/ from adult healthy controls and patients with vocal fold nodules, vocal fold polyps and vocal fold cysts, respectively. The vocalisations were made at a comfortable pitch and at the intensity of 70 ~ 80 dBC under the following four auditory conditions: natural hearing, 90-dBC speech noise, 10-dBC enhanced feedback of self-produced voice and both the noise and voice feedback. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Power spectral analysis of F0 contour of sustained vowel. RESULTS: Patients with vocal fold nodules presented with different audio-vocal feedback behaviour and audio-vocal response to speech noise from the other two vocal pathologies of vocal fold polyp and vocal fold cyst as well as the healthy controls (P < .001, one-way ANOVA). CONCLUSION: The vocal fold nodules may be not only a vocal fold disease but also a disease caused by abnormal audio-vocal feedback. Moreover, the distinct audio-vocal feedback of vocal fold nodules could be revealed by power spectral analysis of vocal fundamental frequencies. Although further investigations are necessary, adjustments of audio-vocal feedback behaviour may provide a new insight and benefit to the treatment of vocal fold nodules in the future.

Voice aerodynamics following office-based hyaluronate injection laryngoplasty.

OBJECTIVES: Neuromuscular control, glottal conformation and aerodynamics are the major factors affecting voice performance. We aimed to characterise the degree to which voice improvements following office-based intracordal hyaluronate injection laryngoplasty (HIL) depend on changes in voice aerodynamics in patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP), by assessing the correlations between these parameters. DESIGN: Prospective case series. SETTING: Otolaryngology Clinics in a Medical Center. PARTICIPANTS: Patients with UVFP within 6 months of their first outpatient visit who received single HIL. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Videolaryngostroboscopy, aerodynamics and laboratory voice analysis were evaluated at baseline and 1 month after HIL. Quantitative laryngeal electromyography was evaluated at baseline to confirm UVFP. RESULTS: Seventy-five newly diagnosed patients with UVFP were analysed. The normalised glottal gap area (NGGA) decreased (P < 0.001) (Cohen's dz  = 0.94) and all aerodynamic parameters improved (all P < 0.05) (Cohen's dz  = 0.38-1.02) following HIL. Patients undergoing thoracic surgery had more profound aerodynamic impairments both before and after HIL. After adjusting for improvements in NGGA, the improvement in aerodynamics was correlated with voice improvement and most notably with maximum phonation time and jitter/shimmer. CONCLUSIONS: Hyaluronate injection laryngoplasty improved glottal conformation, aerodynamics and voice, highlighting the benefit of early HIL intervention for patients with UVFP. Patients with UVFP caused by thoracic surgery continued to have poorer aerodynamics post-HIL, indicating the importance of speech therapy in these patients.

Cognitive Style and Mobile E-Learning in Emergent Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Disorders for Millennial Undergraduate Medical Students: Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Electronic learning (e-learning) through mobile technology represents a novel way to teach emergent otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgery (ORL-HNS) disorders to undergraduate medical students. Whether a cognitive style of education combined with learning modules can impact learning outcomes and satisfaction in millennial medical students is unknown. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of cognitive styles and learning modules using mobile e-learning on knowledge gain, competence gain, and satisfaction for emergent ORL-HNS disorders. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial included 60 undergraduate medical students who were novices in ORL-HNS at an academic teaching hospital. The cognitive style of the participants was assessed using the group embedded figures test. The students were randomly assigned (1:1) to a novel interactive multimedia (IM) group and conventional Microsoft PowerPoint show (PPS) group matched by age, sex, and cognitive style. The content for the gamified IM module was derived from and corresponded to the textbook-based learning material of the PPS module (video lectures). The participants were unblinded and used fully automated courseware containing the IM or PPS module on a 7-inch tablet for 100 min. Knowledge and competence were assessed using multiple-choice questions and multimedia situation tests, respectively. Each participant also rated their global satisfaction. RESULTS: All of the participants (median age 23 years, range 22-26 years; 36 males and 24 females) received the intended intervention after randomization. Overall, the participants had significant gains in knowledge (median 50%, interquartile range [IQR]=17%-80%, P<.001) and competence (median 13%, IQR=0%-33%, P=.006). There were no significant differences in knowledge gain (40%, IQR=13%-76% vs 60%, IQR=20%-100%, P=.42) and competence gain (0%, IQR= -21% to 38% vs 25%, IQR=0%-33%, P=.16) between the IM and PPS groups. However, the IM group had a higher satisfaction score (8, IQR=6-9 vs 6, IQR=4-7, P=.01) compared with the PPS group. Using Friedman's two-way nonparametric analysis of variance, cognitive styles (field-independent, field-intermediate, or field-dependent classification) and learning modules (IM or PPS) had significant effects on both knowledge gain (both adjusted P<.001) and satisfaction (both adjusted P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Mobile e-learning is an effective modality to improve knowledge of emergent ORL-HNS in millennial undergraduate medical students. Our findings suggest the necessity of developing various modules for undergraduate medical students with different cognitive styles. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02971735; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02971735 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6waoOpCEV).

To do or not to do: salvage management for hypopharyngeal cancer after chemoradiation therapy.

PURPOSES: The management of recurrent hypopharyngeal cancer after primary curative-intent radiation or chemoradiation therapy is inconclusive. The benefit of salvage surgery may be reduced by its high complication rate. The improvement of medical care modalities may change the survival after management for loco-reginal recurrences. The present study aims to determine the role of salvage surgery. METHODS: From December 2007 to November 2013, 46 patients with recurrent hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC) after radiation or chemoradiation therapy and without double cancers were recruited. Two year loco-regional failure and overall survival were analyzed and compared between failure patterns. RESULTS: Five-year survival was 24% in patients after loco-regional recurrences. Those who received salvage surgery for loco-regional recurrences had significantly better survival (P < 0.001). Among patients with salvage surgery, 2-year overall survival was significantly higher in recurrent (n = 11) than persistent (n = 24) disease (90 vs 38%, P = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Salvage surgery provides better oncologic outcomes in patients with HPSCC, especially for patients with recurrences after 6 months since completion of primary radiation or chemoradiation. The present data of outcomes can be provided for pretreatment consultation for loco-regional recurrent hypopharyngeal cancers.

Clinical Outcomes in pT4 Tongue Carcinoma are Worse than in pT3 Disease: How Extrinsic Muscle Invasion Should be Considered?

BACKGROUND: The identification of extrinsic tongue muscle invasion in oral cavity cancer remains challenging. Notably, the most recent American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC 2017, 8th edition) staging manual indicates that extrinsic muscle invasion does not lead to the diagnosis of a T4 tumor. Because this approach carries the risk of tumor downstaging, we compared the clinical outcomes of patients with oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) staged as pT3 vs. pT4 according to the AJCC 2010, 7th edition criteria. METHODS: We retrospectively examined the records of consecutive patients with pT3 (n = 135) and pT4 (n = 68) tongue SCC who underwent radical surgery. Of the 68 pT4 tongue SCC, 63 (93%) had extrinsic muscle involvement alone. The 5-year locoregional control (LRC), distant metastasis (DM), and disease-free survival (DFS) rates served as outcome measures. RESULTS: Compared with pT3 tongue SCC, pT4 patients presented significantly more frequently with pN2 disease, extranodal extension, poor tumor differentiation, tumor depth >15 and >20 mm, margin status ≤4 mm, perineural invasion, vascular invasion, and were more frequently treated with surgery plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Less favorable 5-year outcomes were observed in patients with pT4 than pT3 tumors (LRC 50 vs. 75%, p < 0.001; DM 27 vs. 14%, p = 0.013; DFS 43 vs. 69%, respectively, p < 0.001). We identified pT4 disease (vs. pT3) as an independent adverse prognostic factor for LRC and DFS. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest classifying patients with tongue SCC and extrinsic muscle invasion as having pT4 disease.

Clinical Outcomes of Taiwanese Patients with cT4 Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Toward the Identification of the Optimal Initial Treatment Approach for cT4b Patients.

BACKGROUND: The National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend that patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and cT4b disease should be either included in clinical trials or treated with a nonsurgical approach. However, surgery may be feasible in selected patients with adequate safety margins. Using the nationwide Taiwanese Cancer Registry Database, we examined the prognosis of cT4b OSCC patients in relation to their treatment approach. METHODS: Of the 18,910 patients with previously untreated first primary OSCC identified between 2004 and 2010, 492 (2.6 %) had cT4b tumors. Of them, 327 (66 %) received initial treatment with surgery, whereas 165 (34 %) were initially treated with a nonsurgical approach. Of the latter group, 78 patients subsequently underwent surgery. A 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS) ≥45 % was considered as a favorable outcome. RESULTS: Better 5-year DSS and overall survival (OS) rates were observed in cT4b patients initially treated with surgery (vs. nonsurgery; DSS, 51 vs. 38 %; OS, 43 vs. 27 %, respectively, p < 0.001). Of the participants initially treated with surgery, patients with cN0-2 disease had better 5-year survival rates (DSS: cN0, 59 %; cN1, 53 %; cN2, 46 %; OS: cN0, 49 %; cN1, 50 %; cN2, 37 %) than those with cN3 disease (DSS: 0 %; OS: 0 %). Among cT4b patients who initially received a nonsurgical treatment, subjects who subsequently underwent surgery showed better outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Primary surgery is performed in approximately two-thirds of cT4b OSCC patients, with cN0-2 cases showing a good prognosis. Patients who initially received a nonsurgical approach can subsequently be treated with surgery and achieve favorable outcomes.

What should we expect from robotic surgery for second primary oropharyngeal cancer?

The outcomes of second primary oropharyngeal cancer (SPOPC) may not be determined by oropharyngeal cancer but from the other index cancer as well. The management of (SPOPC) remains inconclusive and limited. Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) to maximize the functional outcomes without reducing oncologic effect is suggested as the primary treatment for selected oropharyngeal cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of TORS for the management of SPOPC. Patients who underwent TORS from January 2011 to June 2015 at a tertian referral center in Taiwan were recruited. Loco-regional status, overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and postoperative functional status were evaluated. Fifteen patients received TORS for SPOPC with curative intent, including eleven with tongue-base carcinomas, and four with tonsil carcinomas. One case was terminated because of inadequate exposure and the other 14 cases were completed with negative pathologic margins. Two-year OS and DSS were 53 and 77%, respectively. Patients with SPOPC occurring within 6 months had poorer outcomes (p = 0.044). The median time to feeding-tube removal was 5 days, and one patient had long-term gastric-tube dependence. Patients of age <65 years with synchronous SPOPC and esophageal cancer as the other index cancer were significant worse in oncologic outcomes. We concluded that TORS is a feasible alternative treatment in selected patients with SPOPC. Patients with metachronous T1-2 SPOPC without an esophageal primary can achieve excellent survival after TORS, while TORS can maximize functional preservation with limited destruction in patients with low life expectancy.

In-Office Hyaluronate Injection Laryngoplasty as Palliative Treatment for Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis.

BACKGROUND: Voice and swallowing impairments can impact on both quality of life and survival. Unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) as a result of distant metastasis can cause breathy voice and aspiration. The purpose of this study is to develop and evaluate a less invasive and effective alternative therapy for UVFP. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of prospectively enrolled patients at a tertiary referral center in Taiwan. Among a cohort of 177 patients who received intracordal hyaluronate injections, 2 had UVFP from distant metastasis and met the inclusion criteria. Vocal cord motion was recorded by videostroboscopy, and the normalized glottal gap area was measured. Voice quality, defined by speech language pathologists, and swallowing status were compared, and immediate complications after the injection were investigated. RESULTS: Two patients with UVFP with M1 lesions (both lung) accepted the procedure. The glottal gap area was significantly improved 1 month after in-office hyaluronate injection. Voice quality and aspiration were also improved. No immediate complications were noted in either patient. CONCLUSIONS: In-office intracordal hyaluronate injection is a safe and effective treatment for UVFP, providing a palliative method to help maintain the patient's voice and quality of life.

Office-based narrow band imaging-guided flexible laryngoscopy tissue sampling: A cost-effectiveness analysis evaluating its impact on Taiwanese health insurance program.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Narrow band imaging (NBI)-guided flexible laryngoscopy tissue sampling for laryngopharyngeal lesions is a novel technique. Patients underwent the procedure in an office-based setting without being sedated, which is different from the conventional technique performed using direct laryngoscopy. Although the feasibility and effects of this procedure were established, its financial impact on the institution and Taiwanese National Health Insurance program was not determined. METHODS: This is a retrospective case-control study. From May 2010 to April 2011, 20 consecutive patients who underwent NBI flexible laryngoscopy tissue sampling were recruited. During the same period, another 20 age-, sex-, and lesion-matched cases were enrolled in the control group. The courses for procedures and financial status were analyzed and compared between groups. RESULTS: Office-based NBI flexible laryngoscopy tissue sampling procedure took 27 minutes to be completed, while 191 minutes were required for the conventional technique. Average reimbursement for each case was New Taiwan Dollar (NT$)1264 for patients undergoing office-based NBI flexible laryngoscopy tissue sampling, while NT$10,913 for those undergoing conventional direct laryngoscopy in the operation room (p < 0.001). The institution suffered a loss of at least NT$690 when performing NBI flexible laryngoscopy tissue sampling. CONCLUSION: Office-based NBI flexible laryngoscopy tissue sampling is a cost-saving procedure for patients and the Taiwanese National Health Insurance program. It also saves the procedure time. However, the net financial loss for the institution and physician would limit its popularization unless reimbursement patterns are changed.