Minimally invasive subperiosteal pocket technique for Osia 2 system- implantation without fixation.

The CochlearTM Osia® 2 is an active transcutaneous implant designed to treat patients with different types of hearing loss. Due to its size, implantation needs appropriate practice since the necessity of extended flap creation and bone work can be an issue in some cases. The goal of our study was to determine whether fixation of the OSI200 implant was necessary for the performance of patients with conductive or mild mixed hearing loss.The vibroacoustic performance of the Osia 2 system, with and without BI300 fixation, was evaluated through tests conducted on a head model. In addition, three patients underwent surgery using the modified minimally invasive subperiosteal pocket technique; the OSI200 implant was placed in a tight subperiosteal pocket without fixing it with the BI300 implant. To evaluate the audiological performance of the non-fixated Osia 2 system, we compared the preoperative unaided pure tone and suprathreshold testing with the Baha 5 sound processor and the non-fixated Osia 2 system aided thresholds.Initial results indicate that omitting fixation does not significantly impair the function of the Osia 2 system. The findings of the clinical assessment support the fact that the Osia 2 system performed better than the Baha 5 system on Softband, both in pure tone and suprathreshold tests.According to our results, we have found that utilizing the subperiosteal pocket method and implanting Osia 2 without BI300 fixation may be a viable option. This approach has shown promising results in terms of improving hearing ability with minimalization of surgery related complications.

Pediatric morphometric study to guide the optimized implantation of the Osia® 2 implant system.

PURPOSE: Continuous technological advances result in the availability of new bone conduction hearing implants, of which their suitability for pediatric patients is of major concern. The CochlearTMOsia® 2 is a new active osseointegrated steady-state implant system that uses digital piezoelectric stimulation to treat hearing loss. The implant in the United States was approved for patients aged 12 years and above, whereas the CE mark is independent of age, the only requirement is body weight of at least 7 kg. Therefore, further clinical studies are required to assess device characteristics in younger patients. The aim of our study was to perform a morphometric study among 5-12-year-old children, and to develop a surgical protocol for Osia 2 system implantation based on these findings. METHODS: We examined retrospectively cranial CT scans of 5-12-year-old patients from our clinical database. We measured the bone and soft-tissue thickness in the region of interest, and the position of the sigmoid sinus. 3D printed temporal bones were also used for planning. RESULTS: Soft-tissue thickness varied between 3.2 ± 0.5 mm and 3.6 ± 0.6 mm and bone thickness varied between 3.5 ± 1.1 mm and 4.7 ± 0.3 mm. The sigmoid sinus was located 1.3 ± 0.2 cm posterior to the ear canal, and the anterior distance was 4.8 ± 0.9 to 7.1 ± 1.1 mm. CONCLUSIONS: Our morphometric studies showed that patients aged 5-12 have different anatomical dimensions compared to adults, but that implantation of the Osia 2 system is feasible in these patients using an altered implant positioning recommended by our data. The Cochlear™ Osia® 2 is, therefore, an option for hearing rehabilitation in younger pediatrics.

Application field of VOXEL-MAN Tempo 3D virtual reality simulator in surgery of pars petrosa of temporal bone / A VOXEL-MAN Tempo 3D virtuálisvalóság-szimulátor alkalmazása a sziklacsont sebészetében.

Összefoglaló. Bevezetés: Az emberi sziklacsont a halántékcsont része, egy bonyolult és változatos anatómiai felépítésu struktúra. A sziklacsonton végzett beavatkozások elott, a mutéti szövodmények megelozése érdekében, nélkülözhetetlen a biztos anatómiai tudás és kézügyesség megszerzése, valamint az egyes mutéti lépések és mozdulatok begyakorlása. A VOXEL-MAN Tempo 3D fül-orr-gégészeti szimulátor a virtuális valóság és a robotika alkalmazásával nyújt gyakorlási lehetoséget. Célkituzés: A Szegedi Tudományegyetem 2019-ben VOXEL-MAN fül-orr-gégészeti szimulátort helyezett üzembe az Orvosi Készségfejlesztési Központban. A cikk fül-orr-gégész szakorvos szerzoi a VOXEL-MAN Tempo szimulátor megismerését követoen bemutatják a készüléket, és megfogalmazzák a szimulátorral végzett beavatkozásokkal szemben támasztott igényüket. Módszer: A szerzok a megfogalmazott szempontoknak megfeleloen értékelik a VOXEL-MAN Tempo szimulátort, és meghatározzák, milyen szerepet szánnak neki a gyakorlati képzésben. Eredmények: A szimulátor virtuálisan, mégis valósághuen mutatja meg a sziklacsont anatómiai viszonyait, a fontos anatómiai struktúrák valós térbeli elhelyezkedését és egymástól, illetve a sebészi eszköztol mért távolságát. A rendszer lehetové teszi a fülmutétek valósághu elvégzését (kétkezes csontmunka fúróval és szívóval, vérzés szimulálása) taktilis visszacsatolással. Az egy- vagy kétkezes feladatokkal fejleszthetjük a sebészi készségeket. A fülmutétek csontmunkája reprodukálható módon elvégezheto valódi beteg halántékcsontjáról készített rutin, nagy felbontású komputertomográfiás vizsgálat anyagából. Következtetés: Tapasztalataink alapján a szimulátor kiválóan alkalmas az egyes mutéti lépesek begyakorlására. A jövoben fontos szerepet szánunk a virtuális rendszernek a fül-orr-gégészeti graduális és a fülsebészeti posztgraduális képzésben. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(16): 623-628. INTRODUCTION: The pars petrosa of the human temporal bone is a structure of complex and diverse anatomy. Prior to surgical interventions, in order to prevent surgical complications, it is essential to acquire sound anatomical knowledge and dexterity as well as to practice each surgical step and movement. The VOXEL-MAN Tempo 3D simulator uses virtual reality and robotics to provide an opportunity to practice. OBJECTIVE: In 2019, the University of Szeged installed a VOXEL-MAN Virtual Reality simulator at the Medical Skills Development Center. After learning about the VOXEL-MAN Tempo simulator, the authors present the device and articulate their need for interventions with the simulator. METHOD: The VOXEL-MAN Tempo simulator is evaluated according to the formulated criteria and the role assigned to it in the practical training is determined. RESULTS: The simulator shows the anatomical structure of the temporal bone virtually, yet realistically, the real spatial location of the important anatomical structures and their distance from each other and from the surgical instrument. The system allows ear surgery to be performed realistically (two-handed bone work with a drill and suction) with tactile (vibration) and visual (bleeding) feedback. One can improve surgical skills with one- or two-handed tasks. Bone work in ear surgeries can be performed in a reproducible manner from routine, high-resolution computer tomography of the temporal bone of a real patient. CONCLUSION: With reference to our experience, the simulator is excellent for practicing each surgical step. In the future, we intend to use this virtual system in undergraduate and postgraduate training in otolaryngology. Orv Hetil. 2021; 162(16): 623-628.

[Nasolabial suspension of the malar fat pad: a new, minimally invasive and reversible technique for facial symmetrization in permanent facial paralysis]. / A középarc lágy részeinek nasolabialis függesztése: új, minimálinvazív és reverzibilis módszer az arc statikus szimmetrizálására végleges arcidegbénulásban.

Introduction: For the treatment of asymmetry of the midface due to permanent peripheral facial nerve palsy of different etiologies - which means a great psychical burden for the patients - several surgical solutions have been described. Aim: Our goal was to elaborate a minimally invasive surgical technique, that, on one hand, restores an adequate nasolabial fold, which is the most determinative keystone of facial symmetry. On the other hand, our technique can give an appropriate lift for the malar fat pad with shorter operative time and burden, with much lower complication rate and shorter recovery period compared to the classic static sling suspension techniques. Method: Out method is based on the formation of a neo-nasolabial fold, which is then suspended to the temporal fascia by permanent threads thus restoring facial symmetry and giving a lifting effect on the midfacial soft tissues as well. Results: Between 2014 and 2017, six patients had been operated with this nasolabial lifting technique of the malar fat pad without any major complications under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis at our Department. Conclusions: As our surgical exploration is minimal, the postoperative period is shorter, no visible scars remain on the face and the complication rate is negligible. If necessary, suspension could easily be adjusted, and as the technique is reversible, no other possible facial reconstruction methods are excluded. Our method can symmetrize the face in resting position completely on the long term, which is the most important issue for our patients according to their feedback. Orv Hetil. 2019; 160(22): 869-872.

Isolated Recovery of Adductor Muscle Function Following Bilateral Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injuries.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: The aim of this study was to analyze the phoniatric and respiratory outcomes of a subset of bilateral vocal cord paralysis (BVCP) patients who were all treated with unilateral endoscopic arytenoid abduction lateropexy (EAAL). EAAL is a nondestructive, minimally invasive glottis widening operation, which does not damage either the surgically treated or the contralateral vocal cord. Therefore, it does not impair the regeneration potential of the recurrent laryngeal nerve. STUDY DESIGN: Case series. METHODS: Ten out of 21 BVCP patients who were treated with EAAL showed signs of isolated adduction recovery at 1 year and were chosen for this study. Functional results (objective and subjective voice analysis, spirometric measurement) and vocal cord movements were assessed preoperatively, 1 week and 1 year after EAAL. Laryngeal electromyography was performed on the 12th postoperative month. RESULTS: The volitional adductor movement seen on laryngoscopy was corroborated by laryngeal electromyography evaluation. Peak inspiratory flow increased significantly after EAAL. Quality-of-life scores also showed high patient satisfaction. Shimmer showed consistent improvement along with harmonic-to-noise ratio and average maximal phonation time in parallel with the improving vocal cord movement. Complex voice analysis and subjective self-evaluation tests also demonstrated significant improvement. CONCLUSIONS: EAAL, as a minimally invasive, nondestructive airway widening technique, does not interfere with the potential regeneration process that can still occur after BVCP, allowing for laryngeal functional recovery. It is a safe and effective treatment for BVCP that allows a simple solution with good phonatory, swallowing, and respiratory benefits by unilateral passive and reversible vocal cord lateralization. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 129:2334-2340, 2019.

Glottic configuration changes and outcomes of endoscopic arytenoid abduction lateropexy.

INTRODUCTION: Endoscopic arytenoid abduction lateropexy (EAAL) is an effective glottis enlarging procedure for the treatment of bilateral vocal cord palsy (BVCP). The postoperative glottic configuration changes can be evaluated by modern, high-resolution, 3D image reconstructions. Functional results are described by spirometry as well as objective and subjective phoniatric tests. METHODS: Unilateral EAAL was performed in ten malignant thyroid gland tumor patients (eight women, two men), who had BVCP after thyroid surgery. Slicer 3D® software was used for morphometric analysis. Pre- and postoperative peak inspiratory flow (PIF) and standard phoniatric parameters were compared. RESULTS: The glottic gap improved significantly (+ 60%). Significant improvement of PIF was found in all cases. Phoniatric tests revealed better quality of voice and patient satisfaction. Their voices changed from a severely impaired to a socially acceptable, almost normal, quality. CONCLUSION: The results support our clinical observations that the ideal position of the lateralization sutures is the one which provides a physiological abduction position of the arytenoid cartilage. Considering these good results, the surgical indications for minimally invasive endoscopic arytenoid lateropexy may be extended.

Functional outcomes of endoscopic arytenoid abduction lateropexy for unilateral vocal cord paralysis with dyspnea.

In unilateral vocal cord paralysis (UVCP), hoarseness is usually the leading symptom; however, the diminished airway might lead to breathing problems as well, especially with exertion. The application of the classic resection glottis enlarging or medialization procedures might shift the breathing and/or the voice to a worse condition. The non-destructive endoscopic arytenoid abduction lateropexy (EAAL) might be a solution for this problem. The aim of our study was to analyze the phonatory and respiratory outcomes of this treatment concept. The first year phoniatric [Jitter, Shimmer, harmonics-to-noise ratio (HNR), maximum phonation time (MPT), fundamental frequency (F 0), Voice Handicap Index (VHI), Dysphonia Severity Index (DSI), Global-Roughness-Breathiness scale (GRB)], peak inspiratory flow (PIF), and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated in ten UVCP patients treated by EAAL for dyspnea generally presented on exertion. PIF, Jitter, QoL, GRB, and VHI significantly improved. DSI, HNR, and MPT got non-significantly better. F 0 slightly increased in all patients, a mild deterioration of shimmer was observed. These results prove that improving respiratory function is not necessarily associated with a deterioration in voice quality. The EAAL provides a significant improvement in breathing and the vibratory parameters of the postoperative, more tensed and straightened vocal cords proved to be more advantageous than the original (para) median 'loose' position. The over-adduction of the contralateral side more or less compensates for the disadvantageous, more lateral position of the operated side. EAAL might be an alternative treatment for unilateral vocal cord paralysis associated with breathing problems.

Vascular mapping of the retroauricular skin - proposal for a posterior superior surgical incision for transcutaneous bone-conduction hearing implants.

BACKGROUND: Passive transcutaneous osseointegrated hearing implant systems have become increasingly popular more recently. The area over the implant is vulnerable due to vibration and pressure from the externally worn sound processor. Good perfusion and neural integrity has the potential to reduce complications. The authors' objective was to determine the ideal surgical exposure to maintain perfusion and neural integrity and decrease surgical time as a result of reduced bleeding. METHODS: The vascular anatomy of the temporal-parietal soft tissue was examined in a total of 50 subjects. Imaging diagnostics included magnetic resonance angiography in 12 and Doppler ultrasound in 25 healthy subjects to reveal the arterial network. Cadaver dissection of 13 subjects formed the control group. The prevalence of the arteries were statistically analyzed with sector analysis in the surgically relevant area. RESULTS: The main arterial branches of this region could be well identified with each method. Statistical analysis showed that the arterial pattern was similar in all subjects. The prevalence of major arteries is low in the upper posterior area though large in proximity to the auricle region. CONCLUSIONS: Diverse methods indicate the advantages of a posterior superior incision because the major arteries and nerves are at less risk of damage and best preserved. Although injury to these structures is rare, when it occurs, the distal flow is compromised and the peri-implant area is left intact. Hand-held Doppler is efficient and cost-effective in finding the best position for incision, if necessary, in subjects with a history of surgical stress to the retroauricular skin. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This was a non-interventional study.

Secondary correction of nasal deformities in cleft lip and palate patients: surgical technique and outcome evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Nasal deformity associated with cleft lip and palate is a highly challenging reconstructive problem in rhinoplasty. In the literature, several operative solutions and evaluation methods have been described, however these do not offer a standard procedure for the surgeon. Our aim was to standardize our surgical technique-as much as the uniqueness of each case allowed it-based on the most frequent deformities we had faced; and to evaluate our results via a postoperative patient satisfaction questionnaire. Between 2012 and 2014 12 consecutive patients with combined cleft lip and palate deformities underwent secondary nasal and septal correction surgery with the same method by the same surgeon. The indications of surgery were, on one hand, difficult nasal breathing and altered nasal function (tendency for chronic rhinosinusitis) and on the other hand the aesthetic look of the nose. No exclusion criteria were stated. In our follow-up study we evaluated our results by using a modified Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation (ROE) questionnaire: patients answered the same four questions pre- and postoperatively. Data were statistically analyzed by t-test. RESULTS: Based on the questionnaire, all patients experienced improvement of nasal breathing function, improved appearance of the nose and less stigmatization from the society. According to the t-test, all scores of the four questions improved significantly in the postoperative 4-6 months, compared with the preoperative scores. CONCLUSIONS: In our opinion with our standardized surgical steps satisfactory aesthetic and functional results can be achieved. We think the modified ROE questionnaire is an adequate and simple method for the evaluation of our surgical results.

Laser-Doppler microvascular measurements in the peri-implant areas of different osseointegrated bone conductor implant systems.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of hydroxyapatite coating of newly designed osseointegrated fixtures' abutments on the postoperative complication rates. The integrity of peri-implant microcirculation was used as a marker to compare tissue viability after different surgical techniques. Laser-Doppler Flowmetry (LDF) measures alone, and coupled with heat provocation tests were applied to test the different microcircular patterns. Measures for 17 consecutively implanted patients (8 women, 9 men, ages ranged from 18 to 77 years) were recruited; seven with soft tissue reduction (STR); and 10 with soft tissue preservation (STP).Thirteen non-operated retro-auricular areas were examined as naive controls. In isotherm conditions the baseline blood flow remained stable in all groups. The naive control patients demonstrated significant changes of blood flux in the intact skin. The non-implanted yet previously operated contralateral sides of the patients demonstrated marginally lower (p = 0.09) blood flux index. The STR sides however, showed significantly lower (average 217 %) provoked blood flux compared to controls (p < 0.001). At the STP sides a maladaptation could be observed (average 316 %) compared to the contralateral sides (p = 0.53). STP sides demonstrated a significantly better blood flow improvement compared to the STR sides (p = 0.02). These results suggest a favorable postoperative condition of vascular microcirculation after STP, than after STR surgery. The possibly faster wound healing and lower potential complication rate may widen the inclusion criteria and maybe beneficial for the patient compliance with a better quality-of-life.

Comparison of endoscopic techniques designed for posterior glottic stenosis--a cadaver morphometric study.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: Posterior glottic stenosis may cause more or less severe dyspnea. The popular endoscopic procedures have only a limited role in the treatment. Considering our clinical experiences, endoscopic arytenoid abduction lateropexy (EAAL) after proper mobilization of the fixed joints provides an effective option even in high-grade stenoses. STUDY DESIGN: To confirm these clinical observations, a morphometric study was performed in 100 cadaver larynges (50 male, 50 female) to objectively compare the endoscopic glottis-widening procedures. METHODS: The postoperative measurements of the posterior commissure following EAAL, classic vocal cord laterofixation (VCL), transverse cordotomy (TC), and arytenoidectomy (AE) were assessed by a digital image analyzer program. The distance between the vocal process of the lateralized vocal fold and the midline, the angle between the axis of the posterior commissure midpoint, and the vocal process and laryngeal median sagittal line were measured. RESULTS: EAAL was found to be more effective in improving the posterior glottis configuration; however, AE and VCL were beneficial as well. CONCLUSIONS: Our morphometric study proved that organ-preserving EAAL provided more space in the posterior glottic area. Fibrous reconnection and contraction of the scar can be minimized in this way, which may be the clinical efficacy explanation.