Factors Associated With Complications and Failure in Transoral, Mandible Fracture Repair.

OBJECTIVE: Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of the mandible has been a well-studied topic. However, there has not been a study investigating the relationship between suture type and complications. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of patients who sustained mandibular fractures was conducted at an urban level I trauma center (2010-2018). Descriptive statistics were used to categorize the sociodemographic data. χ 2 and Mann-Whitney U testing were used to compare variables between the polyglactin 910 (vicryl) and chromic sutured groups. RESULTS: The study cohort consisted of 102 patients who underwent ORIF of the mandible through the transoral approach. Fifty-nine (57.8%) patients were closed with vicryl suture, whereas 43 (42.2%) with chromic gut suture. There were no differences in sociodemographics, immune status, substance abuse status, fracture type, time to repair, and managing care team between the two groups. Both groups had similar rates of wound dehiscence, infection, and revision surgery. Patients who were operated on earlier were more likely to experience a postoperative infection and dehiscence compared with patients operated on later ( P = 0.029 and P = 0.008, respectively). Smokers were more likely to experience dehiscence compared with nonsmokers ( P = 0.001). Females and immunocompromised patients were more likely to require revision surgery ( P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Suture type for transoral, ORIF of the mandible does not impact the rate of infection, wound dehiscence, and revision surgery. However, risk factors for complications can include early operative repair, smoking, female sex, and immunosuppression.

Destructive Frontonasal Mucocele Following Facial Trauma and Surgery.

ABSTRACT: Mucoceles are fluid filled cysts with numerous etiologies that can erode bone and if left untreated, can lead to infraorbital and intracranial complications. With limited cases published in the medical literature, our patient with a frontonasal mucocele expanding from the frontal sinus to the nasal dorsum with erosion of the nasal bones and upper lateral cartilages, provides an opportunity for evidence-based diagnosis and treatment. We present a 24-year-old female with a nasal mass destroying numerous nasal structures. Three surgical approaches were considered: open rhinoplasty, bicoronal approach, and Lynch excision; the latter executed with subsequent total nasal reconstruction. Bone, septal cartilage, and temporalis fascia were utilized to provide structural support and a posterior nasal septal flap was incorporated to maintain a blood supply. integrity of nasal structure and cosmesis as well as recurrence of disease were monitored during postoperative visits.

Surgical Management of Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Head and Neck.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to highlight risk factors and surgeries for necrotizing fasciitis (NF) of the head and neck in the literature. NF is rare but can rapidly progress. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A literature search was done using PubMed and SCOPUS. Articles that discussed NF of the head and neck and a specific surgical technique were included. A bivariate Pearson correlation was conducted using an α level of 0.05. RESULTS: The study included 31 articles encompassing 77 patients who presented with head and neck NF. Diabetes mellitus (23.4%) was the most common comorbidity observed. Surgical techniques, such as debridement (96.10%) and incision/exploration (97.40%), were common. CONCLUSION: Immediate surgical intervention should be performed when treating patients presenting with NF of the head and neck.

Special Considerations in Face Transplantation: A Systematic Review.

ABSTRACT: Vascularized composite allotransplantation of the face is an exceedingly complex procedure, requiring extensive planning and surgical precision in order to successfully manage patients with facial disfigurements. This review aims to present an overview of the salient anatomic considerations in facial transplantation, as well as give attention to unique patient populations and special considerations.A literature review was performed in search of articles pertaining to considerations in facial transplantation using the databases PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane. Articles selected for further review included full-text articles with an emphasis on specific anatomic defects and how they were addressed in the transplant process, as well as management of special patient populations undergoing facial transplantation. In total, 19 articles were deemed appropriate for inclusion.The use of computer-assisted technologies for the planning portion of the procedure, as well as intraoperative efficiency, has yielded favorable results and can be considered as part of the operative plan. The ultimate outcome is dependent upon the synchronization of subunits of the allograft and the desired functional outcomes, including osseous, ocular, oral, and otologic considerations. Management of specific pathology and subgroups of patients are critical aspects. Although pediatric face transplantation has not yet been performed, it is a likely a future step in the evolution of this procedure.When performing a face transplantation, many components must be considered pre-, intra-, and post-operatively. This systematic review presents specific anatomic considerations, as well as information about special patient populations within this crosssection of multidisciplinary microsurgery, psychiatry, and transplant immunology.

Otitis Media and Hearing Loss in Patients With Nonsyndromic Craniosynostosis: A Multicenter Study.

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to: (1) determine the prevalence of otitis media with effusion in patients with nonsyndromic craniosynostosis; (2) determine the prevalence of hearing loss in patients with nonsyndromic craniosynostosis; and (3) identify potential patterns and outcomes in patients with nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted at 2 academic institutions, St Christopher's Hospital for Children and SUNY Upstate Medical University, from January 2015 through August 2018, to identify patients having nonsyndromic craniosynostosis with a concurrent diagnosis of otitis media and/or hearing loss. The demographic data and categorical variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square testing, respectively. RESULTS: In the entire cohort of patients (N = 113, age range 0-123 months), 36% had otitis media with effusion on either history, physical examination, tympanometry, and/or imaging. Half (50%) of patients with coronal synostosis had otitis media with effusion compared to sagittal (40.7%), metopic (26.3%), multiple (25%), and lambdoid (0%). However, these differences were not statistically significant (P = .190). Most patients had normal hearing (91%), while a minority had either conductive (7%) or sensorineural (2%) hearing loss. CONCLUSION: The presence of otitis media in our cohort of patients with nonsyndromic craniosynostosis appears to be at the upper limit of normal when compared to historical rates in normocephalic children. Synostosis subtype did not appear to predict the presence of otitis media. Only 9% of patients with nonsyndromic craniosynostosis were found to have a hearing loss.

Evaluation of stapes mobilization in the 21st century for conductive hearing loss in the otosclerotic ear.

PURPOSE: Compare outcomes of stapes mobilization and stapedectomy performed by a single surgeon for the otosclerosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review of adult patients who underwent stapes mobilization or stapedectomy for otosclerosis was performed. Operative notes reviewed; patients included if diagnosed with otosclerosis without another otologic disease that could contribute to their hearing loss and all required data were available. Pre-and post-operative audiograms at 1, 6, and 12-months were evaluated to compare the air-bone gaps between the mobilization and stapedectomy procedures. The rates of sensorineural hearing loss also were compared. Student t-tests and multiple regression models were used to ascertain the association between improvement in post-operative air-bone gaps, sensorineural hearing loss, and the procedure undertaken. RESULTS: Sixty-seven (n = 67) patients with 108 procedures were included for analysis. No substantial difference between the surgical subgroups was found when comparing stapes mobilization to stapedectomy, and there was no evidence to suggest that either surgical procedure was superior to the other based on the data obtained and analyzed. Improvements in air-bone gap averaged 15.79 dB for stapes mobilization and 19.23 dB for stapedectomy. The results of the study showed no evidence of post-operative sensorineural hearing loss or change in air-bone gaps when comparing virgin to "revision" stapedectomy largely in patients who had failed previous mobilization. CONCLUSION: Stapes mobilization provides a conservative approach to otosclerosis patients suffering from conductive hearing loss. Stapedectomy can be used to correct failed mobilization.

Golf-Related Craniofacial Injuries in Adults: A NEISS Database Study.

INTRODUCTION: Despite its popularity, there have been no reports outlining adult craniofacial trauma in the setting of golf injuries. Our main objective was to identify and describe trends in head and neck injuries incurred while participating in golf including injury type, anatomic location, and patient disposition. METHODS: A retrospective cohort analysis of the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) was conducted from 2009-2018. Population characteristics of golf-related injuries were recorded, including, age, sex, and race distributions. Distribution of injury anatomic location, injury type, distribution of fracture location, patient disposition was further analyzed. A one way ANOVA was utilized to obtain the mean ages for all injuries and compare them for any statistical difference. To identify statistical significance, a Fisher exact test with a Monte Carlo simulation was performed. RESULTS: A total of 509 golf-related injuries (national estimate 24,425 cases) were recorded over the study period. Lacerations were the most common injury overall (54.2%), while contusions and abrasions were the next most common injuries (27.3%). The most common fracture subtype observed was midface (40.43%), followed by nasal bone (27.66%), mandible (12.77%), skull (12.77%), and cervical spine (6.38%). The highest proportion of patients admitted for further treatment were individuals >70 years of age. Fractures had the highest rate of admission (29.8%). CONCLUSIONS: A better understanding of golf injuries can allow for rapid detection and appropriate treatment when encountered. This knowledge can also help to develop safety precautions by potentially reforming rules and regulations as well as protective equipment.

Volleyball-related Adult Maxillofacial Trauma Injuries: A NEISS Database Study.

INTRODUCTION: Craniofacial trauma among athletes of various sports has been well detailed and described. Despite this research, there is a dearth of literature describing the nature of facial trauma secondary to volleyball, despite its global popularity. METHODS: A cross-sectional analysis of volleyball-related facial trauma was conducted using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database from 2009 to 2018. Patient demographics (age, sex, and race), medical injury information (injury type and location), and disposition (observed and discharged, admitted, deceased) were collected and analyzed. χ2 testing was performed to compare categorical variables. RESULTS: A total of 235 volleyball-related facial traumas were recorded with an estimated 10,424 visits occurring nationally. The majority of injuries were among young adults aged 20 to 29 years (52.3%) and was evenly distributed for men and women. Lacerations were the most frequent injury type (37.9%), whereas the face was the most common site of injury (41.7%). The majority of fractures involved the nose (71.4%) and among individuals aged 20 through 49 (90.5%). Males had significantly more lacerations than females (75.3% vs 24.7%), whereas females had significantly more contusions/abrasions (64.5% vs 35.5%) and concussions (72.9% vs 27.1%). CONCLUSIONS: Volleyball-related craniofacial injuries can vary depending on patient demographics. This information can help with the development of safety and preventative measures for individuals participating in the sport.

Adult Maxillofacial Trauma Patterns in American Football.

INTRODUCTION: The authors aimed to identify and categorize adult maxillofacial trauma patterns in the setting of American football. METHODS: The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was accessed to identify adult patients presenting with football-related head and facial injuries from 2009 to 2018. Data surrounding each event were collected including age, injury type, injury location, and disposition of the patient. Chi-squared testing was performed to compare categorical variables, with a Bonferroni correction applied. RESULTS: During the study period, 1784 total patients (national estimate = 65,052) were identified. The average age for this cohort was 27.26 (SD ±â€Š8.49), with young adults (86.1%) and males (87.9%) sustaining the majority of injuries. Lacerations were the most common injury type (43.1%). Maxillofacial fractures comprised 15.8% of the sample, with nasal bone (52.8%) being the most common subtype. Female patients were significantly more likely to present with head injuries than men (46.8% versus 29.0%, P < 0.001). Young and middle-aged adults combined were more likely to be discharged from the emergency department, whereas the elderly were significantly less likely (P = 0.002). Patients with fractures were significantly more likely to be admitted to the hospital compared to all other types of injuries (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: An understanding of maxillofacial injuries while participating in American football is important in developing safety initiatives. To address these, it is crucial that providers understand the patterns of craniofacial injuries as they relate to American football trauma.

Leech Therapy for Complex Facial Lacerations.

ABSTRACT: Facial trauma can pose challenging reconstructive obstacles in both maintaining tissue viability and restoring aesthetic appearance. Medicinal leech therapy can help to promote vascular decompression in the setting of venous congestion. A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify patients who underwent medicinal leech therapy following venous stasis secondary to repair of a complex facial laceration. Three patients were identified; 2 suffered auricular avulsion, while 1 suffered a lip avulsion. All patients suffered from venous congestion and underwent medicinal leech therapy for 48 to 72 hours with reduction of edema and stasis. Decompression was successfully achieved with no further sequelae on last follow-up. Medicinal leech therapy is an adequate treatment for venous congestion following traumatic soft-tissue repair of the face. The authors advocate for the utilization of medicinal leeches to combat venous congestion after repair, particularly when arterial inflow remains intact.

The Impact of Dermal Fillers on Perceived Personality Traits and Attractiveness.

BACKGROUND: Dermal fillers are increasingly popular for facial rejuvenation and enhancement, including effacement of nasolabial folds (NLFs) and marionette lines and lip augmentation. This study aimed to evaluate casual observer perception of physical and interpersonal traits of subjects who receive filler treatment. METHODS: An anonymous survey of 8 before/after treatment photographical sets was administered in Likert scale format (1-7) using online crowdsourcing. Three sets of photographs were before/after NLF/ marionette line treatment, three of lip augmentation, and two internal controls. Respondents were surveyed on personal demographics, as well as perceptions of subject photographs across nine domains (facial symmetry, confidence, likeability, youthfulness, trustworthiness, attractiveness, intelligence, approachability, happiness). RESULTS: In total, 260 respondents completed the survey. The majority were male (63.1%), Caucasian (58.1%), 18-34 years old (58.1%), and college graduates (66.2%). Respondents rated photographs with line filler treatment and lip filler treatment as significantly improved compared to the pre-treatment photographs across all nine trait domains [p < 0.001, for all]. No differences were found between the control photosets [p > 0.05, for all]. Middle-aged respondents (35-55 years) were more likely to perceive treated filler photographs as more youthful than younger respondents (18-34 years) [p < 0.006] Additionally, respondents with lower educational attainment (high-school graduate or less) were more likely to perceive treated patients as less intelligent compared to higher-educated respondents (college/postgraduates) [p < 0.05, for both]. CONCLUSION: The use of dermal fillers for treatment of NLF/marionette lines and lip augmentation have significant associations with the perception of improved attractiveness and several personality traits. Additionally, casual observer demographic subgroups may influence perceptions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The Influence of Photo Editing Applications on Patients Seeking Facial Plastic Surgery Services.

BACKGROUND: The utilization of the smartphone and social media have introduced paradigm shifts to cosmetic surgery. Much has been studied regarding social media and its influences in plastic surgery; however, little is known about facial editing applications and how these relate to plastic surgery practices. OBJECTIVES: The authors sought to discover if face-editing applications influence patients' pursuit of plastic surgery, who utilizes these applications, and why. METHODS: An anonymous survey was administered between September and December 2019, including questions about demographics, familiarity, and utilization of face-editing applications, motivations in utilization and influences towards pursuing cosmetic procedures, and attitudes towards applications. RESULTS: Seventy patients completed the survey and 32.9% admitted to utilizing face-editing applications. Patients utilizing applications were significantly younger (36.9 years) than those who did not (54 years [P < 0.001]). Among those familiar with applications, women were significantly more likely than men to utilize them (100% vs 78.6%, respectively [P = 0.047]). Social media was the most common influence for utilizing apps (87%). The majority confirmed that these applications played a role in pursuing cosmetic procedures (56.5%). Most patients did not regret their utilization of these applications (87%). CONCLUSIONS: Face-editing applications serve a role regarding patient decision-making to pursue cosmetic surgery. Several motivators exist for application utilization, the largest of which is social media. Younger females are the most likely demographic to utilize applications and generally do not express regret in doing so. Plastic surgeons would benefit by understanding patient motivations and expectations created by utilizing these applications.

Substance Use and Maxillofacial Trauma: A Comprehensive Patient Profile.

PURPOSE: Maxillofacial trauma confers an increased risk of long-term clinical sequelae with a substantial economic burden on the health care system. Substance use has long been correlated with an increased risk of trauma, yet to date, a comprehensive profile of substance users incurring facial fractures has not been established. We aimed to establish patterns and trends of substance use and specific substances in the setting of maxillofacial trauma. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted at our institution examining patients with maxillofacial fractures from 2016 to 2017. Information on age, gender, race, urine drug screen status, setting of presentation, mechanism of injury, trauma history, and injury severity was collected and examined for associations with particular substances. RESULTS: We included 388 patients for analysis. Patients with positive urine drug screen results were significantly more likely to be men, present in an urban setting, incur poly-facial trauma, and have a history of facial trauma. In addition, alcohol use correlated significantly with injury severity in the context of polytrauma. Living in an urban setting and using phencyclidine were both significantly associated with a history of maxillofacial trauma. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with comorbid maxillofacial trauma and substance use exhibit particular patterns in presentation and history. Establishing a profile for these patients allows for the development of prevention and rehabilitation programs.

Single-Point Fixation for Noncomminuted Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fractures-A 20-Year Experience.

PURPOSE: Zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures occur often. However, no clinical consensus has been reached regarding the number of fixation points required when performing open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). The objective of the present study was to explore the utility of single-point fixation in the management of noncomminuted ZMC fractures. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We analyzed the data from a retrospective case series of 211 patients treated during a 20-year period. RESULTS: The mean length of follow-up was 3.4 months. Of the 211 patients, 162 with noncomminuted ZMC fractures had been treated with single-point fixation of the zygomaticomaxillary buttress. During the follow-up period, 1 patient experienced tooth loss because of a root present in the fracture line, 7 experienced intraoral plate exposure, with 2 subsequently undergoing plate exchange, and 8 developed a wound infection. No patients required orthognathic surgery or cheek implants for malar asymmetry. No patient developed hypoglobus or enophthalmos, and none required revision ORIF of their ZMC fracture. CONCLUSIONS: To the best of our knowledge, the present study represents the largest series in the literature reporting the surgical results and outcomes of patients with noncomminuted ZMC fractures treated with single-point fixation. In experienced hands, we believe this is a viable surgical option if appropriate surgical considerations are made.

An Update on Maxillary Fractures: A Heterogenous Group.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to review the different types of maxillary fractures and highlight their diagnostic and therapeutic differences. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of patients who sustained maxillary fractures was conducted through the Einstein Healthcare Network during the years 2016-2017. Descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis were used to categorize continuous and categorical variables, respectively. RESULTS: The cohort of patients (n = 141) were predominately African American (62%) and male (75%) with a mean age 45.3 years. The most common maxillary fracture was maxillary sinus (29%), followed by zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) (26%), frontal process (20%), dentoalveolar (16%), and LeFort (9%). Dentoalveolar fractures were mostly evaluated by the oral maxillofacial surgery service (74%), while ZMC and LeFort fractures were more commonly referred to an otolaryngologist (56% and 67%, respectively). Patients with dentoalveolar fractures were more likely to undergo wire splinting (61%). All patients with frontal process and maxillary sinus fractures were managed non-operatively. Most patients with ZMC fractures were managed non-operatively (78%) while the remainder underwent open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) (22%). Patients with LeFort fractures more commonly underwent maxillomandibular fixation (MMF)/ORIF (83%). Dentoalveolar fractures were the most likely to be operated on the same day (93%) while ZMC and LeFort fractures were repaired within 1 week (88% and 100%, respectively). CONCLUSION: Maxillary trauma is very heterogenous in comparison to other maxillofacial trauma patterns. Each fracture type is treated uniquely and can involve one or more provider teams depending on the extent and severity of the injury, as well as hospital resources.

Temporal Augmentation: A Systematic Review.

Clinicians employ various modalities in order to achieve temporal augmentation; however, no literature comprehensively describes these methods or provides perspective on available options. Understanding the available methodologies for cosmetic temporal augmentation allows for improved patient satisfaction with limited risk of complications. To synthesize the available literature on cosmetic temporal augmentation, including all available methodologies, patient satisfaction data, and complication rates, as well as to identify gaps in the available literature to encourage further research. A literature search was performed using the databases PubMed, Ovid Medline, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Using the key terms "temporal" or "temple" and "augmentation" or "rejuvenation," all article formats presenting primary literature data involving cosmetic temporal augmentation were included. Articles not presenting patient data or not discussing cosmetic indications were eliminated. A total of 12 articles were deemed appropriate for analysis. Of the 12 articles included, 6 (50%) evaluated filler techniques, 3 discussed fat grafting (25%), and 3 reviewed solid implant (25%) techniques. Eight (67%) of these were retrospective reviews, with the remaining being prospective trials (33%). All studies found high patient satisfaction rates and a small number of complications with their respective methodology. Several methods are employed for cosmetic temporal augmentation, including various types of injectable fillers, solid implants, and fat grafting, with all reporting successful satisfaction and complication outcomes. Further research is necessary to properly compare these modalities. Clinician discretion should guide procedural choice until future well-controlled studies are able to provide standardized outcomes.

"Not Above, Not Below: Right in the Middle!"-Novel Filler Technique for Temporal Augmentation and Rejuvenation.

The temporal region is challenging to treat due to its thin skin, which has the propensity toward showing irregularities. The literature on temporal hollowing augmentation suggests placing the filler either into the subcutaneous space or within the temporalis muscle. However, these techniques have been based upon opinion rather than supporting anatomical and clinical data. We introduce a novel injection technique to avoid complications and achieve lasting results. This novel technique was confirmed with a cadaver model, in vivo model, and application to a human subject. The anatomical layers of the temporal region were highlighted: the skin, subcutaneous tissue, temporoparietal fascia (superficial temporal fascia), deep temporal fascia, superficial temporal fat pad, and temporalis muscle. Particular emphasis was placed on identifying the frontal branch of the superficial temporal artery to avoid vascular complications. We believe the potential space between the temporoparietal fascia and the deep temporalis fascia is the safest, most efficacious plane to inject the temporal region with a 27-gauge cannula. Our future goal is to recruit and present a larger series of patients receiving this injection.

Surgical Techniques to Improve the Soft Tissue Triangle in Rhinoplasty: A Systematic Review.

In this systematic review we aim to (1) describe the anatomy and function of the soft tissue triangle, (2) identify the existing rhinoplasty literature that discusses the role of the soft tissue triangle, (3) provide a summary of the outcome measures for soft tissue triangle techniques in rhinoplasty, and (4) demonstrate the need for further research reviewing soft tissue triangle techniques in rhinoplasty. A systematic literature review was conducted from 2002 to 2019 utilizing MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Ovid, and Cochrane databases with the keywords, "rhinoplasty" and "soft tissue triangle" or "facet" to identify articles that describe the anatomical significance, clinical applicability, and rhinoplasty outcomes involving the soft tissue triangle. A total of 26 studies were identified as appropriate for inclusion. The vast majority describe the relationship of structure and function of the soft tissue triangle with particular focus on notching and retraction. The soft tissue triangle is an important area of the nose often neglected in rhinoplasty. This area is a common source of patient dissatisfaction and the need for revision rhinoplasty. Due to this fact, a formal evaluation of the role of the soft tissue triangle in nasal airway patency is needed. Specific validated outcome measures such as the NOSE (Nasal Obstruction and Septoplasty Effectiveness) score or the SCHNOS (Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey) should be employed in the evaluation of surgical intervention to the soft tissue triangle.

Advanced Techniques for the Use of Neurotoxins in Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation.

BACKGROUND: Neurotoxins initially were used to treat hyperfunctional rhytids of the face, but now have been expanded to improve facial shaping, correct facial asymmetry and even improve skin texture and tone. METHODS: The clinical approach to non-surgical facial rejuvenation is approached into four anatomical regions: the upper face, midface, lower face and neck. RESULTS: The key muscles of the upper face include frontalis, orbicularis oculi, corrugator supercilii, procerus, depressor supercilii and temporalis. The muscles in the midface to be discussed include the levator labii superioris, levator labii superioris alaeque nasi, depressor anguli oris, depressor septi nasi and nasalis. Treatment of the lower face focuses on the orbicularis oris, mentalis, depressor anguli oris and masseter muscles. Finally, treatment of the neck region will be reviewed with emphasis on platysmal bands and necklace lines as well as the Nefertiti lift. CONCLUSIONS: Non-surgical facial rejuvenation using neurotoxins should be performed safely and effectively in order to avoid and treat complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Identifying eustachian tube dysfunction prior to hyperbaric oxygen therapy: Who is at risk for intolerance?

PURPOSE: Determine whether specific risk factors, symptoms and clinical examination findings are associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) intolerance and subsequent tympanotomy tube placement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective case series with chart review was conducted from 2007 to 2016 of patients undergoing HBOT clearance at a tertiary care university hospital in an urban city. Eighty-one (n=81) patient charts were reviewed for risk factors, symptoms and clinical examination findings related to HBOT eustachian tube dysfunction and middle ear barotrauma. Relative risk was calculated for each variable to determine risk for HBOT intolerance and need for tympanotomy tube placement. Risk factor, symptom, physical examination and HBOT complication-susceptibility scores were calculated for each patient. RESULTS: Mean risk factor, clinical and HBOT complication-susceptibility scores were significantly higher in patients who did not tolerate HBOT compared to patients who tolerated HBOT. Patients reporting a history of otitis media, tinnitus, and prior ear surgery were at a higher risk for HBOT intolerance. Patients reporting a history of pressure intolerance and prior ear surgery were more likely to undergo tympanotomy tube placement. Patients noted to have otologic findings prior to HBOT were at a higher risk for both HBOT intolerance and tympanotomy tube placement. CONCLUSIONS: A thorough otolaryngological evaluation can potentially predict and identify patients at risk for HBOT intolerance and tympanotomy tube placement.