Scalp thickness in the temporal region: its relevance to the development of cochlear implants.

The thickness of the scalp in the temporal region was measured at two representative points: point 1, over the most laterally prominent part of the mastoid process: and point 2, at the horizontal level of the upper border of the orbit, vertically in line with point 1. Measurements were made directly at autopsy in four patients, then in 50 live patients by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The relevance of the methodology and of these measurements to cochlear implant development is discussed. As the term 'scalp' usually includes the periosteum of the skull, the authors have used the term 'scalp' to include the range from the surface of the scalp to the bone shadow as seen on MRI, and the term 'skin' where, at autopsy, the skin is lifted leaving the periosteum intact.

Cancer of the larynx: the northern Alberta experience.

Three hundred and seventy-nine cases of laryngeal cancer diagnosed between the years 1970 to 1984 were compiled and analyzed with respect to pathology, staging, treatment and outcome. The most common cancer reported was squamous cell carcinoma. Also reported were verrucous carcinoma, spindle cell carcinoma and one case of chondrosarcoma. Males comprised 88% of the patients, females 12%. The average age of the patients was 59 years. The most common lesion reported was stage I squamous carcinoma of the laryngeal glottis. The study will present data on the treatment and outcome of these cases of laryngeal cancer.

The N.I.F. classification of ossicular disorders.

The authors present their classification of ossicular disorders. It is felt to be easy to use, and self-explanatory, and it lends itself conveniently to analysis of data by computer. Examples are shown of its use in analyzing data in relationship to the ossicular status, in quantifying the effects of different ossicular situations, and in comparing our results with those of other authors. Using the N.I.F. classification, these factors are surprisingly easy to manipulate. It is hoped that this classification will be of use to others engaged in the same type of studies.

Kartagener syndrome with abnormalities of cilia.

Kartagener syndrome of sinusitis, bronchiectasis and situs inversus has been so called since his classical description in 1933. This report presents two further cases, a brother and sister. They were extensively studied and the findings are reported. A unique finding was that in both patients, both in the maxillary sinuses and in the bronchi, abnormal cilia were discovered on electron microscopy. After a search of the literature the authors conclude that this finding is probably congenital rather than acquired and may explain the development of the sinusitis and bronchiectasis.

External auditory canal stenosis.

Stenosis of the external auditory canal may occur from a variety of causes. The numerous surgical techniques illustrate that repair may be difficult. The problems were resolved in two cases with the use of a silicone-rubber insert that is made at the time of the surgical procedure and is used throughout the postoperative period.

Ear disease in Western Canadian natives with a note on treatment by tympanoplasty.

A review is given of otitis media in northern native populations, including incidence, natural history, the effects on the individuals affected, and what is known of causative factors. A brief account of tympanoplasty is presented, followed by a description of the method used at the Charles Camsell Hospital, and the results obtained. Suggestions are made for improved follow-up and a plea is made for improved home conditions for the native population.