Quality Assessment of Online Patient Information for Cosmetic Botulinum Toxin.

BACKGROUND: In an era of widespread Internet access, patients increasingly look online for health information. Given the frequency with which cosmetic botulinum toxin injection is performed, there is a need to provide patients with high-quality information about this procedure. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to examine the quality of printed online education materials (POEMs) about cosmetic botulinum toxin. METHODS: An Internet search was performed to identify 32 websites of various authorship types. Materials were evaluated for accuracy and inclusion of key content points. Readability was measured by Flesch Reading Ease and Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level. Understandability and actionability were assessed with the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Printed Materials. The effect of authorship was measured by undertaking analysis of variance between groups. RESULTS: The mean [standard deviation] accuracy score among all POEMs was 4.2 [0.7], which represents an accuracy of 76% to 99%. Mean comprehensiveness was 47.0% [16.4%]. Mean Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level and Flesch Reading Ease scores were 10.7 [2.1] and 47.9 [10.0], respectively. Mean understandability and actionability were 62.8% [18.8%] and 36.2% [26.5%], respectively. There were no significant differences between accuracy (P > 0.2), comprehensiveness (P > 0.5), readability (P > 0.1), understandability (P > 0.3), or actionability (P > 0.2) by authorship. CONCLUSIONS: There is wide variability in the quality of cosmetic botulinum toxin POEMs regardless of authorship type. The majority of materials are written above the recommended reading level and fail to include important content points. It is critical that providers take an active role in the evaluation and endorsement of online patient education materials.

Assessing the educational quality of 'YouTube' videos for facelifts.

OBJECTIVES: Facelifts are among the most common facial plastic procedures performed. Given the existence of a variety of surgical approaches and the proximity of key anatomical structures, the development of proper surgical skills and knowledge is necessary to ensure positive outcomes. Many surgical learners utilize YouTube videos as supplemental tools in their education. Our aim was to gauge the quality and quantity of available YouTube videos describing the surgical approach to rhytidectomy. METHODS: The YouTube video platform was searched using predefined keywords. Videos meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed and scored by 3 practicing facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons. Thirteen different intraoperative, pre/postoperative, and video quality characteristics were scored on a binary scale by each grader. Descriptive statistics were obtained and interrater reliability was assessed using Kappa's coefficient. RESULTS: Thirteen videos met criteria for analysis. A high degree of interrater reliability was confirmed using Kappa's coefficient, with κ values = 0.73, 0.75, and 0.59 for each combination of scorers. In general, YouTube videos were found to be deficient in discussing key criteria of rhytidectomy, particularly with regards to pre/postoperative points such as indications, patient selection, and possible complications. Intraoperative benchmarks were also lacking, with 8/13 videos not discussing the facial nerve and 8/13 failing to demonstrate an appropriate facelift incision. CONCLUSIONS: YouTube instructional videos depicting rhytidectomy lack discussion of key tenets of successful facelift surgery. Until improvement in the educational quality of such material occurs, surgical trainees should implement discretion when choosing YouTube videos to complement their learning. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Not Applicable.

Curcumin decreases malignant characteristics of glioblastoma stem cells via induction of reactive oxygen species.

BACKGROUND: Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most common and lethal form of primary brain tumor in adults. Following standard treatment of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, patients are expected to survive 12-14 months. Theorized cause of disease recurrence in these patients is tumor cell repopulation through the proliferation of treatment-resistant cancer stem cells. Current research has revealed curcumin, the principal ingredient in turmeric, can modulate multiple signaling pathways important for cancer stem cell self-renewal and survival. METHODS: Following resection, tumor specimens were dissociated and glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) were propagated in neurosphere media and characterized via immunocytochemistry. Cell viability was determined with MTS assay. GSC proliferation, sphere forming and colony forming assays were conducted through standard counting methods. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was examined using the fluorescent molecular probe CM-H2DCFA. Effects on cell signaling pathways were elucidated by western blot. RESULTS: We evaluate the effects of curcumin on patient-derived GSC lines. We demonstrate a curcumin-induced dose-dependent decrease in GSC viability with an approximate IC50 of 25 µM. Treatment with sub-toxic levels (2.5 µM) of curcumin significantly decreased GSC proliferation, sphere forming ability and colony forming potential. Curcumin induced ROS, promoted MAPK pathway activation, downregulated STAT3 activity and IAP family members. Inhibition of ROS with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine reversed these effects indicating a ROS dependent mechanism. CONCLUSIONS: Discoveries made in this investigation may lead to a non-toxic intervention designed to prevent recurrence in glioblastoma by targeting glioblastoma stem cells.

The role of brachytherapy in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme.

Brachytherapy (BT) for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) involves the use of radioactive isotopes to deliver ionizing radiation directly into the tumor bed. Its application as a means to prolong survival in GBM patients over the past few decades has come with variable success. The objective of this review is to describe the utility of BT in GBM, and to report the outcomes and adverse events associated with its use in different multimodal treatment approaches. A search of the literature was conducted using the PubMed database. The most recent search was performed in September 2015. Thirty-two series involving 1571 patients were included in our review. The longest median overall survival (MOS) following BT for newly diagnosed GBM reached 28.5 months. Overall, 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 46-89 %, 20-57 %, and 14-27 %. For recurrent GBM, the longest reported MOS after BT was 15.9 months. One-, 2- and 3-year survival rates for recurrent GBM were 10-66 %, 3-23 %, and 9-15 %. Adverse events were reported in 27 % of patients. Reoperation for radiation necrosis occurred in 4 and 27 % of patients following low- and high-dose rate BT, respectively. BT is a feasible option for extending survival in carefully selected GBM patients. As patient outcomes and overall survival improve with more aggressive radiotherapy, so does the risk of radiation-related complications. The most effective use of BT is likely as a part of multimodal treatment with other novel therapies.

Open airway reconstruction in adults: Outcomes and prognostic factors.

PURPOSE: The purpose was to assess the success of open tracheal resection and re-anastomosis for non-malignant tracheal stenosis in adults. Successful operations were defined as T-tube or tracheostomy-free status by 6months post-operatively. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective chart review was performed and data were recorded in a de-identified manner. The primary outcome was T-tube or tracheostomy-free status by 6months following tracheal resection. Clinical and demographic characteristics were evaluated as potential prognostic variables. RESULTS: Thirty-two patients met inclusion criteria, with a median age of 46. Seven patients underwent tracheal resection with primary closure, without stenting. Successful tracheal resection was defined as tracheostomy or T-tube free by 6months post-operation, and this was possible in 21 patients (66%). Eighty-two percent of patients with cricoid cartilage-sparing tracheal resection had a successful outcome, versus 30% of patients who underwent cricoid cartilage resection (HR 5.02, 95% CI 1.46-17.3; p=0.011). Patients with a history of tracheostomy-dependence were four times more likely to remain tube-dependent at 6months (HR 4.15, 95% CI 1.56-10.86; p=0.004). CONCLUSIONS: Tracheal stenosis remains a very difficult problem to treat. In our series, we confirm that patients with cricoid involvement or with a history of tracheostomy were more likely to be tube dependent at 6-months post-operation.

The role of 5-aminolevulinic acid in brain tumor surgery: a systematic review.

Recently, 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) has been utilized as an adjuvant to the surgical resection of primary brain tumors and metastases. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to further understand the role of 5-ALA in neurosurgery. Our goal was to identify the utility of 5-ALA during resection by evaluating its sensitivity and specificity for different tumor types, as well as the extent of tumor resection achieved while using 5-ALA. A search of the literature was conducted using the PubMed database for the period January 1990 through May 2014. Surgical series in which 5-ALA was used for brain neoplasm resections were evaluated for tumor histology, sensitivity, specificity, extent of resection, complications, and outcomes. Twenty-two series, involving 1163 patients, were included in our review. 5-ALA sensitivity was highest in high-grade gliomas (85 %) and meningiomas (81 %). 5-ALA specificity was high in meningiomas (100 %), as well as metastases (84 %) and high-grade gliomas (82 %). Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved using 5-ALA in 66.2 % of all gliomas and 69.6 % of meningiomas, regardless of histological subtype. 5-ALA may be a useful tool in increasing the extent of resection and achieving GTR in intracranial tumors. The resection of tumors for which 5-ALA has high sensitivity and specificity, such as high-grade gliomas, may lead to an increase in extent of resection when compared to operations using only standard white light. Further evidence for the use of 5-ALA in meningiomas and certain subtypes of metastases may be needed to qualify its efficacy.

Quantifying Facial Distortion in Modern Digital Photography.

BACKGROUND: Advancements in digital cameras and the advent of smartphones have magnified the importance of clinical photography in facial plastic surgery. Here, we aim to examine the effect of different camera types, focal lengths, and distances from subjects on facial distortion. METHODS: Twelve subjects underwent a series of frontal photographs using a smartphone camera and a full-frame digital single-lens reflex camera. Photos were captured at six distances from the subject. Seven focal lengths were used at each distance for the full-frame camera. Measurements of facial landmarks were made for each photo, with those made at 60 inches using the full-frame camera considered the gold standard and used for comparison. RESULTS: Distortion of facial features using the full-frame camera occurred when photos were captured 8 inches away using short focal lengths. A 12%-19% increase in vertical stretching of the midface occurred when using focal lengths of 24, 35, and 50 mm (p < 0.05 for all). The same features were distorted when a smartphone camera was used at 8 inches (18% increase, p < 0.01) and 12 inches (12% increase, p < 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Distortion of midfacial features using both smartphones and full-frame cameras occurs with short, 'selfie' distances between the camera and subject. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2 Laryngoscope, 134:1234-1238, 2024.

Factors Predicting Discharge Disposition Following Head and Neck Free Flap Reconstruction.

OBJECTIVES: Patients undergoing head and neck free flap reconstruction (HNFFR) may have significant change to their baseline functional status requiring inpatient rehabilitation (IPR) after discharge. We sought to identify patient/procedure characteristics predictive of discharge destination. METHODS: Patients undergoing elective HNFFR between July 2017 and July 2022 were reviewed for discharge destination. Those discharged to IPR versus home were compared across patient/procedure characteristics and physical/occupational therapy metrics. Significance was assessed via bivariate and multivariable analyses. RESULTS: Of the 531 patients, 102 (19.2%) required IPR postoperatively. Patients discharged to IPR versus home were significantly older (70.1 [11.6] vs. 64.1 [13.1] years; p < 0.001) and more likely to lack family assistance (26.5% vs. 8.6%; p < 0.001), require baseline assistance for activities of daily living (ADLs) (31.4% vs. 9.8%; p < 0.001), have baseline cognitive dysfunction (15.7% vs. 6.1%; p = 0.001), were more likely to have neoplasm as the surgical indication for HNFFR (89.2% vs. 80.0%; p = 0.033) and more likely to have a tracheostomy postop (62.7% vs. 51.7%), and had a significantly longer length of stay (11.2 [8.0] vs. 6.8 [8.3] days; p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in gender, donor site, use of tube feeds, and use of assistive devices between the two groups. Following logistic regression, the strongest predictors of discharge to IPR include lack of family assistance (OR = 3.8; p < 0.001) and baseline assistance for ADLs (OR = 4.0, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Certain patient factors predict the need for discharge to rehab after HNFFR. Perioperative identification of these factors may facilitate patient counseling and discharge planning with potential to reduce hospital length of stay and further optimize patient care. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III Laryngoscope, 134:2721-2725, 2024.

Functional and Symmetry Outcomes After Forehead Flap Reconstruction of Medial Peri-Ocular Defects.

BACKGROUND: Orbital defects have a profound impact on orbital function and symmetry of the face and are difficult to reconstruct given the complexity of this area. The paramedian forehead flap (PMFF) has not been well studied in reconstruction of orbital defects. METHODS: Retrospective review of patients who underwent reconstruction of periorbital defects with PMFF between 2016 and 2021. Variables were ocular adnexal asymmetry, functional outcomes, and orbital complications. RESULTS: Eighteen patients met inclusion criteria. Mean defect size was 11.1 ± 7.5 cm. The most common subsite involved was medial canthus in 88.9% of patients. There was no statistically significant difference between mean medial canthus to midline ratio and mean medial brow to midline ratio when compared to the assumed normal of 1. The medial canthus to pupil ratio and medial canthus to lateral canthus ratio had a statistically significant mean difference from 1.0 (p = 0.003 for both). In 22.2% of patients, the orbit was functional with impairment; the remaining had no impairment. Surgical sequelae occurred in 12/18 (66.7%) of patients, most commonly epiphora in 9/18 (50%) of patients, and ectropion in 5/18 (27.7%). CONCLUSION: The PMFF is feasible for medial periorbital reconstruction with acceptable functional and symmetrical outcomes and low morbidity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 133:2584-2589, 2023.

Design, printing optimization, and material testing of a 3D-printed nasal osteotomy task trainer.

BACKGROUND: For difficult or rare procedures, simulation offers an opportunity to provide education and training. In developing an adequate model to utilize in simulation, 3D printing has emerged as a useful technology to provide detailed, accessible, and high-fidelity models. Nasal osteotomy is an essential step in many rhinoplasty surgeries, yet it can be challenging to perform and difficult to receive adequate exposure to this nuanced portion of the procedure. As it currently stands, there are limited opportunities to practice nasal osteotomy due to the reliance on cadaveric bones, which are expensive, difficult to obtain, and require appropriate facilities and personnel. While previous designs have been developed, these models leave room for improvement in printing efficiency, cost, and material performance. This manuscript aims to describe the methodology for the design of an updated nasal osteotomy training model derived from anatomic data and optimized for printability, usability, and fidelity. Additionally, an analysis of multiple commercially available 3D printing materials and technologies was conducted to determine which offered superior equivalency to bone. METHODS: This model was updated from a first-generation model previously described to include a more usable base and form, reduce irrelevant structures, and optimize geometry for 3D printing, while maintaining the nasal bones with added stabilizers essential for function and fidelity. For the material comparison, this updated model was printed in five materials: Ultimaker Polylactic Acid, 3D Printlife ALGA, 3DXTECH SimuBone, FibreTuff, and FormLabs Durable V2. Facial plastic surgeons tested the models in a blinded, randomized fashion and completed surveys assessing tactile feedback, audio feedback, material limitation, and overall value. RESULTS: A model optimizing printability while maintaining quality in the area of interest was developed. In the material comparison, SimuBone emerged as the top choice amongst the evaluating physicians in an experience-based subjective comparison to human bone during a simulated osteotomy procedure using the updated model. CONCLUSION: The updated midface model that was user-centered, low-cost, and printable was designed. In material testing, Simubone was rated above other materials to have a more realistic feel.

Tap-Tap: Learning Endonasal and Percutaneous Nasal Osteotomy Techniques on 3D-Printed Midface Models.

Nasal osteotomy is one of the most challenging steps of rhinoplasty. Lack of hands-on training and confidence with this procedure adds to the complexity for learners and trainees. As three-dimensional (3D) printing becomes increasingly accessible, simulation on 3D printed models has the potential to address this educational need in a safe, reproducible, and clinically realistic manner. The simulation session described in this communication, which utilized our low-cost, 3D-printed nasal osteotomy ($12.37) task trainer, produced both educational and confidence benefits for trainees. Here we describe the design, organization, curriculum, and pilot data for a 3D-printed nasal osteotomy task trainer for the simulation of endonasal and percutaneous nasal osteotomy.

The Impact of Surgical and Nonsurgical Interventions on Overall Oral, Palpebral Fissure, and Brow Height Symmetry in a Patient with Facial Synkinesis.

Background: The treatment of facial nerve synkinesis remains complex and variable. Objective: To compare oral, palpebral fissure, and brow symmetry among surgical and nonsurgical interventions in patients with facial synkinesis. Methods: Patients with facial nerve synkinesis at a single tertiary care center between 2008 and 2022 were analyzed before and after interventions using Emotrics software. Symmetry was compared among treatment combination groups (chemodenervation and rehabilitation [CR] vs. chemodenervation and surgery [CS] vs. chemodenervation, surgery, and rehabilitation [CSR]) and among surgical intervention groups (selective neurectomy [SN] vs. selective neurectomy with facelift [SnFa] vs. no surgery). Results: Of the 29 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 72.4% were female and the median age was 60.6 years (interquartile range 49.9-67.6). The median follow-up was 32.6 months; patients who received surgery had a greater follow-up time (57.4 months vs. 26.5 months, p = 0.045). The use of a trimodal approach (CSR) was associated with improved symmetry versus CR for smile angle (p = 0.021). Among surgical interventions, the greatest improvement in palpebral fissure symmetry was in patients who received SN versus no surgery (p = 0.039); the greatest improvement in smile angle was in patients who received SnFa versus no surgery (p = 0.008). Conclusion: We recommend a comprehensive approach to the management of facial synkinesis consisting of chemodenervation, rehabilitation, and surgery tailored to each patient's needs.

Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Nasopharynx with Skull Base Involvement: Retrospective National Cohort Analysis of Treatment Paradigms, Outcomes, and Provider Density.

Objectives This article examines a national cohort of patients with nasopharyngeal adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) for incidence, skull base invasion, overall survival, and treatment paradigms. Design, Setting, and Participants Retrospective national population-based study using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program data of patients with ACC of the nasopharynx (NACC) and skull base between 2004 and 2016. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary outcomes included 5-year overall survival and odds of radiation treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA 15.0 (STATACorp). p -Values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results Of the 2,385 cases of ACC, 70 cases were classified as NACC. Twenty-one percent (15) involved invasion of the skull base or posterior pharyngeal wall, and 42% (30) were either stage 3 or stage 4. The 5-year overall survival for patients with NACC without skull base invasion was 67% which dropped to 40% with invasion into the skull base. Radiation was used as the primary form of therapy for 62% of NACC and 73% of NACC invading into skull base. Odds of receiving radiation therapy and 5-year survival were not affected by socioeconomic status or density of providers. Conclusion NACC is rare in incidence and was most commonly treated with radiation therapy when advanced in stage. Prognosis was dependent on invasion through posterior pharyngeal wall and skull base. Provider density and socioeconomic status did not affect odds of radiation or overall survival for NACC.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Nasal Obstruction and Associations with Patient-Reported Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Nasal obstruction is a common problem, with significant impact on quality of life. Accurate diagnosis may be challenging because of the complex and dynamic nature of the involved anatomy. Computational fluid dynamics modeling has the ability to identify specific anatomical defects, allowing for a targeted surgical approach. The goal of the current study is to better understand nasal obstruction as it pertains to disease-specific quality of life by way of a novel computational fluid dynamics model of nasal airflow. METHODS: Fifty-three patients with nasal obstruction underwent computational fluid dynamics modeling based on computed tomographic imaging. Nasal resistance was compared to demographic data and baseline subjective nasal patency based on Nasal Obstructive Symptom Evaluation scores. RESULTS: Mean Nasal Obstructive Symptom Evaluation score among all patients was 72.6. Nasal Obstructive Symptom Evaluation score demonstrated a significant association with nasal resistance in patients with static obstruction (p = 0.03). There was a positive correlation between Nasal Obstructive Symptom Evaluation score and nasal resistance in patients with static bilateral nasal obstruction (R2 = 0.32) and poor correlation in patients with dynamic bilateral obstruction caused by nasal valve collapse (R2 = 0.02). Patients with moderate and severe bilateral symptoms had significantly higher nasal resistance compared to those with unilateral symptoms (p = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: Nasal obstruction is a multifactorial condition in most patients. This study shows correlation between simulated nasal resistance and Nasal Obstructive Symptom Evaluation score in a select group of patients. There is currently no standardized diagnostic algorithm or gold standard objective measure of nasal airflow; however, computational fluid dynamics may better inform treatment planning and surgical techniques on an individual basis. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Risk, V.

Opioid Prescribing Patterns Among Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons in the Medicare Population.

Objective: To evaluate opioid prescribing patterns among American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) members in the Medicare population. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of AAFPRS members in the Medicare Part D Prescriber dataset. Results: From 2014 to 2016, there was a significant decrease in the number of days of opioids supplied per beneficiary (5.9 vs. 4.9 days, p < 0.005), as well as the opioid prescription cost per beneficiary ($14.52 vs. $11.79, p = 0.005). The highest prescription rate was found in the Midwest (20.5%) and lowest in the Northeast (14.0%), however, the difference between geographic regions was not significant (p = 0.11). There was a significant decrease in the number of total opioid days supplied per beneficiary in the South (p = 0.001), Midwest (p = 0.05), and West regions (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in opioid prescription rate (p = 0.89) or total opioid days supplied per beneficiary (p = 0.26) when states were stratified by age-adjusted opioid-specific death rate. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a national trend toward fewer opioid days supplied and less opioid cost per Medicare beneficiary among AAFPRS members between 2014 and 2016.

Diagnosis of Stapedial Myoclonus Using Endoscopic Visualization.

BACKGROUND: Stapedial myoclonus is an uncommon condition involving the rhythmic contraction of the stapedial tendon that may result in a host of symptoms, including tinnitus . There is a dearth of robust diagnostic modalities to diagnose stapedial myoclonus, and most patients are treated without definitive diagnosis. Herein, we hypothesize that stapedial myoclonus can be readily diagnosed by awake otoendoscopy (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/MAO/A997). CASE REPORT: A 21-year-old healthy male professional singer presented with a rhythmic "thumping sound" heard in both ears for 5 years. Symptoms were triggered by singing and were worse on the right side. Work-up, including otologic exam, audiologic testing, and high resolution imaging, was unrevealing. Given symptomatology, stapedial tendon myoclonus was suspected.While awake in the operating room, an inferior myringotomy was made, and both 1.9 mm 0 and 30 degree 3-CCD Hopkins rod endoscopes were used to visualize the middle ear space using a transcanal approach. There was robust movement of the tendon with patient vocalization that corresponded precisely with the timing of tinnitus. The patient subsequently underwent transection of the right stapedial tendon under general anesthesia using otoendoscopic visualization. The pyramidal eminence was also removed to avoid future regeneration. The patient underwent an identical procedure on the contralateral ear 3 months later with complete resolution of symptoms bilaterally. CONCLUSION: Stapedial myoclonus was diagnosed by transtympanic otoendoscopy in an awake patient. This approach may be readily applied in awake patients suspected of having stapedial myoclonus. Transection of the stapedial tendon in these patients resolves tinnitus.

A Call for Universal Acceptance of the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology.

OBJECTIVES: The Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (MSRSGC) established a standardized, tiered reporting system for salivary gland fine-needle aspiration (FNA) that has gained international acceptance among cytologists. Our goal was to review the key features of the MSRSGC to familiarize the surgical community with this system and its application to the FNA evaluation of salivary gland masses. METHODS: A comprehensive review of the MSRSGC and its application in clinical practice. RESULTS: The MSRSGC consists of six major diagnostic categories: 1) nondiagnostic, 2) non-neoplastic, 3) atypia of undetermined significance, 4) neoplasm (benign or salivary gland neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential), 5) suspicious for malignancy, and 6) malignant. Each diagnostic category is associated with an implied risk of malignancy with implications for clinical management. CONCLUSIONS: The MSRSGC is similar to the system used for reporting thyroid FNA, which is familiar to most otolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons. As this reporting system continues to gain popularity among pathologists, widespread understanding by surgeons will be important to standardize communication and classification of salivary gland cytopathology to improve clinical care. Laryngoscope, 130:80-85, 2020.

Hearing Vital Signs: Mobile Audiometry in the Emergency Department for Evaluation of Sudden Hearing Loss.

Emergency departments (EDs) are a common location for patients to present with sudden hearing loss (SHL). Unfortunately, high-quality, rapid quantitative measurement of hearing loss is challenging. Herein, we aim to evaluate the accuracy of tablet-based audiometry in patients complaining of SHL. Prospective tablet-based testing was completed in the ED in patients complaining of SHL. Air conduction thresholds (ACTs) obtained via tablet-based audiometry were compared to same-day measurements with a clinical-grade audiometer. Hearing loss (HL) was defined as >20 dB ACT for any frequency. In participant-level analysis, 30+ dB HL in 3 consecutive frequencies was used to define SHL. In the ED, mobile audiogram ACTs were within 5 dB (77%) and 10 dB (89.6%) of those determined by conventional audiometry. The sensitivity and specificity for mobile audiometry to detect 3 or more consecutive thresholds with 30+ dB HL were 100% and 62.5%, respectively. Findings have implications for increasing access to high-quality audiometry.

National Geographical Variation in Sinus Balloon Dilation.

OBJECTIVE: The primary aim of this study was to describe national variations in sinus balloon dilation (SBD), examine the relationship between endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and SBD prevalence patterns, and evaluate associations between reimbursement rates and regional variations in sinus surgery. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective observational study. SETTING: Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment (PUP) Part B Data from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2016. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Physicians in the PUP Part B Database Performing ESS or SBD in 2016. States were stratified into average- or high-volume utilizers based on the number of ESS procedures and SBD procedures per population and compared. RESULTS: Eight states were classified as high-volume utilizers of SBD-Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, South Dakota, and Texas. Only 3 of these states-Kansas, Mississippi, and Nevada-were classified as high-volume utilizers of ESS. Reimbursement rates were significantly higher for SBD as compared to ESS ($1538 [interquartile range (IQR), 1473-1664] vs $335 [IQR, 261-412] per procedure, P < .001). High-volume utilizer SBD states had a higher number of otolaryngologists (13.0 [IQR, 7-16] vs 6.0 [IQR, 2-3]) otolaryngologists per state (P < .001) and a trend toward an increased rate of performing ESS procedures (19 [IQR, 19-41] vs 6.0 [IQR, 2-32], P = .034) procedures per million residents) than average-volume utilizer SBD states. CONCLUSIONS: The southern United States has a significantly higher rate of SBD procedures performed compared to the rest of the country, but these rates do not appear to be directly related to statewide variations in SBD reimbursement.

Clinical Traits Characterizing an Exacerbation-Prone Phenotype in Chronic Rhinosinusitis.

OBJECTIVE: Acute exacerbation of chronic rhinosinusitis (AECRS) is associated with significant quality-of-life decreases. We sought to determine characteristics associated with an exacerbation-prone phenotype in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional. SETTING: Tertiary care rhinology clinic. SUBJECTS: Patients with CRS (N = 209). METHODS: Patient-reported number of sinus infections, CRS-related antibiotics, and CRS-related oral corticosteroids taken in the last 12 months were used as metrics for AECRS frequency. Sinonasal symptom burden was assessed with the 22-item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22). Ninety patients reporting 0 for all AECRS metrics were considered to have had no AECRS in the prior 12 months. A total of 119 patients reported >3 on at least 1 AECRS metric and were considered as having an exacerbation-prone phenotype. Characteristics associated with patients with an exacerbation-prone phenotype were identified with exploratory regression analysis. RESULTS: An exacerbation-prone phenotype was positively associated with comorbid asthma (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj] = 3.68, 95% CI: 1.42-9.50, P = .007) and SNOT-22 (ORadj = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04-1.09, P < .001). Polyps were negatively associated (ORadj = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.11-0.68, P = .005) with an exacerbation-prone phenotype. SNOT-22 score ≥24 identified patients with an exacerbation-prone phenotype with a sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 57.8%. Having either a SNOT-22 score ≥24 with a nasal subdomain score ≥12 or a SNOT-22 score ≥24 with an ear/facial discomfort subdomain score ≥3 provided >80% sensitivity and specificity for detecting patients prone to exacerbation. CONCLUSIONS: In total, these results point to a CRS exacerbation-prone phenotype characterized by high sinonasal disease burden with comorbid asthma but interestingly without polyps.