Biochemical Variability of Nasal Cartilages: Implications in Functional Rhinoplasty.

INTRODUCTION: Nasal valve compromise is a common issue for patients presenting to an otolaryngologist. Anatomically, the dorsal septal cartilage (DSA) articulates with the upper lateral nasal cartilage (ULC). When the ULC weakens, it is prone to collapse and may result in nasal obstruction. Our objectives were to analyze histological differences between quadrangular and DSA nasal cartilages and compare histological composition of these tissues among patients with diagnosis of nasal valve compromise (NVC) versus those without NVC (no NVC). METHODS: Prospective cross-sectional study of nasal cartilages from seventy-three (73) live donors. Quadrangular cartilage (QC), and DSA from patients undergoing septorhinoplasty were collected. Safranin O histochemical staining was used to observe glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) content and cell count. Masson's Trichrome staining was used to assess collagen content in these nasal cartilages. RESULTS: Mean GAG content was lower in DSA compared with QUAD cartilage (68.18% vs. 87.22%, p < 0.0001), and was lowest in DSA of patients with NVC (59.07%). Mean collagen content was higher in DSA compared with QUAD cartilage, (65.43% vs. 46.65%, p = 0.0002), and was highest in DSA of patients with NVC (74.86%). CONCLUSION: The DSA showed decreased GAG and increased collagen content compared with quadrangular cartilage. Within the DSA subsite, patients with presurgical NVC had the lowest GAG and highest collagen levels. This observation suggests that the biochemical composition of the DSA may contribute to its weakening, potentially resulting in its inability to withstand minor trauma and/or the effects of aging, ultimately leading to NVC. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: N/A Laryngoscope, 2024.

The effect of cannabinoids on wound healing: A review.

Background and Aims: Cannabis and its various derivatives are commonly used for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Cannabinoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is an important component of wound healing and the effect of cannabinoids on wound healing has become a recent topic of investigation. The objective of this article is to perform a comprehensive review of the literature to summarize the effects of cannabinoids on wound healing of the skin and to guide future avenues of research. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed to evaluate the effects of cannabinoids on cutaneous wound healing. Results: Cannabinoids appear to improve skin wound healing through a variety of mechanisms. This is supported through a variety of in vitro and animal studies. Animal studies suggest application of cannabinoids may improve the healing of postsurgical and chronic wounds. There are few human studies which evaluate the effects of cannabinoids on wound healing and many of these are case series and observational studies. They do suggest cannabinoids may have some benefit. However, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn from them. Conclusion: While further human studies are needed, topical application of cannabinoids may be a potential therapeutic option for postsurgical and chronic wounds.

Age-Related Histologic and Biochemical Changes in Auricular and Nasal Cartilages.

OBJECTIVE: Analyze age-related changes in histologic features and biochemical properties of human auricular cartilage and two subsites of nasal cartilages (quadrangular cartilage and dorsal septal articulation with upper lateral cartilages). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cross-sectional study of nasal and auricular cartilages from seventy-three (73) live donors. METHODS: Auricular cartilage (AC), quadrangular cartilage (QC), and dorsal septal cartilage articulation (DSA) with the upper lateral cartilage (ULCs) were collected intraoperatively. Histochemical staining was used: Safranin O for glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), Verhoeff's for elastin, and Masson's trichrome for collagen. ImageJ2 software was used to calculate cell count and percent stained for each cartilage type. R studio "ggplot" package was used to visualize age versus cell count or percent stained. RESULTS: Participant ages ranged from 20 to 77 years, average 46.5 years. There was a significant decline in GAGs with age for the DSA subsite, (n = 64, p < 0.001). Significant increase in collagen content with age was observed for DSA subsite (n = 66, p < 0.001) and the QC subsite (n = 64, p < 0.05). There was a statistically insignificant decline in elastin with age (n = 41, p = 0.309) for AC. Cell count declined with age at all cartilage subsites. CONCLUSION: Our findings confirm that there were age-related decreases in cartilage glycosaminoglycan content, and chondrocyte cell count in both auricular and nasal cartilages. We have also confirmed that collagen content increases with age for both auricular and nasal cartilage. The histologic findings while not statistically significant in all comparisons, provides additional evidence that there is some loss of structural integrity and flexibility in nasal and auricular cartilage with aging. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA Laryngoscope, 134:1220-1226, 2024.

Cadaveric Assessment of the Butterfly Graft in Rhinoplasty.

INTRODUCTION: The rhinoplasty butterfly graft is used to improve the internal nasal valve (INV), but post-operative visibility remains a concern. Intraoperative techniques have developed to thin the graft with unknown effect on functionality. OBJECTIVES: Improve understanding of how to modify the aesthetics of the butterfly graft without impacting patient outcomes. Determine how graft contouring affects its biomechanical properties. METHODS: Cadaveric cartilage grafts were used to examine the biomechanics in its native state and with progressive thinning. The force needed to stabilize the INV in an unaltered state and the resistance force provided by native (original), partially thinned, and fully thinned cartilage grafts were recorded. RESULTS: The mean thickness of grafts in their natural state was 1.64 mm, median 1.50 mm (SD 0.64 mm). The fully-thinned mean was 0.84 mm, median 0.8 mm (SD 0.18 mm). The mean force (N) of the native graft was 0.74 N and 0.60 N for fully thin (p = 0.016, 95%). The mean force (N) needed to stabilize the INV was 0.15 N (right) and 0.19 N (left). CONCLUSION: Butterfly grafts can be thinned by approximately 50% of their original thickness and retain the strength to stabilize the INV. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA Laryngoscope, 134:1638-1641, 2024.

Casual Observers' Perception on the Aesthetics of the Butterfly Graft.

OBJECTIVE: The butterfly graft is an effective technique for improving the internal nasal valve, however, there is hesitancy among surgeons due to possible aesthetic changes. This study aims to determine if average observers rated the post-operative appearance of the butterfly graft negatively. METHODS: An online survey was distributed by social media to non-medical observers in which they rated either the pre-operative or post-operative appearance of 22 patients' noses (11 butterfly graft, 11 spreader graft). A heat map was used to determine if the supratip region was rated as the least aesthetically appealing. Post-operative ratings and heat maps of the butterfly graft patients were compared to pre-operative ratings as well as ratings of the spreader graft group. RESULTS: 226 observers responded. There was no difference in the pre-operative and post-operative rating of the butterfly graft group (58.27 vs. 58.00, p = 0.88) or the number of supratip regions selected as least attractive (165 vs. 169, p = 0.60). Similarly, there was no difference in post-operative ratings between the butterfly graft group and spreader graft group (58.00 vs. 58.21, p = 0.63) or in selection of the supratip as the least attractive region (169 vs. 172, p = 0.74). CONCLUSION: The butterfly graft did not negatively affect observers' opinion of patients' noses. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3 Laryngoscope, 133:2578-2583, 2023.

"Hole-Punch" Technique for Recurrent Auricular Hematomas.

Effective treatment of auricular hematomas can be a challenging problem for both the otolaryngologist and the patient. Recurrence rates are high even with proper drainage and bolstering. The hole-punch technique is a powerful tool to address the difficult problem of recurrent auricular hematomas and avoid disfiguring deformities of the ear. Laryngoscope, 133:814-817, 2023.

Will nasal airway surgery improve my sense of smell? A prospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: The effect of nasal airway surgery on olfaction has not been well established. The goal of this study is to assess changes in olfaction after septoplasty with inferior turbinate reduction through both objective and patient-reported measures. METHODS: Prospective, observational study was conducted of patients with nasal airway obstruction presenting between July 2017 and October 2019 who underwent septoplasty with inferior turbinate reduction. Nasal airflow was characterized with the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale and an 11-point ease-of-breathing (EOB) Likert scale, and olfaction with an 11-point olfactory Likert scale and the 40-item University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), pre- and postoperatively. Pearson correlations were used to assess the relationship between measures of nasal obstruction and olfaction. RESULTS: Among 80 patients, mean NOSE scores improved from 67.4 preoperatively to 19.6 postoperatively (p < 0.001). EOB Likert scores improved from a mean of 3.9/10 to 8.1/10 after surgery (p < 0.001). Olfactory Likert scores improved from a baseline of 6.1/10 preoperatively to 7.9/10 after surgery (p < 0.001). No statistically significant difference was noted in UPSIT testing pre- versus postoperatively. A moderate correlation was noted between the degree of change in NOSE scores and improved olfactory Likert scores (r = 0.51, p < 0.001), and similarly between the degree of change in EOB Likert scores and improved olfactory Likert scores (r = 0.55, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Based on our data, subjective tests of olfaction may improve with nasal airway surgery in some patients. Changes in olfaction best correlate with the extent to which surgery can improve subjective nasal obstructive symptoms.

Calcinosis Cutis of the Nasal Dorsum.

Calcinosis cutis is a common dermatological problem in patients with systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, and systemic lupus erythematous; however, it is rare to occur outside of these diseases. It represents a multidisciplinary problem that involves primary care physicians, dermatologists, and surgeons. The pathophysiology is defined by deposition of calcium salts in the subcutaneous tissue as hydroxyapatite, but the underlying mechanism has yet to be determined. The most common locations of lesions are the scalp, scrotum, extremities, and joints. Rarely does calcinosis cutis occur on the face. We present a unique case of idiopathic calcinosis cutis that occurred in a healthy patient with normal serum calcium and phosphate levels on the nasal dorsum, which was managed surgically. The histology of the calcinosis showed normal morphology, dominated by large deposits of calcium and normal surrounding tissues. This case represents a rare but clinically relevant presentation of idiopathic calcinosis cutis in an otherwise healthy individual.

A Complication of Mycobacterium chelonae Infection Following Orbital Floor Fracture Repair.

ABSTRACT: Mycobacterium chelonae is a rare, atypical nontuberculous bacterium that has been reported to be an underlying cause of persistent wound infections. Although there are several studies highlighting the role of M chelonae as the putative cause of other postoperative wound infections, to our knowledge there are no reports of infection following implant placement for repair of an orbital floor fracture. The authors present a unique case describing the management of a persistent postoperative infection in a young, immunocompetent patient with an orbital floor fracture repaired with a Stryker Medpor Titan implant. The patient was initially treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics with minimal clinical improvement. Following culture-proven M chelonae, a second surgical intervention was undertaken to remove the implant and later, a third intervention for scar revision. The patient has remained free of infection utilizing a long-term tailored 2-drug antibiotic regimen. This case emphasizes the need for recognition of M chelonae as a potential pathogen in certain clinical situations and the difficulty in eradicating M chelonae in the context of infected implantable devices. The comprehensive treatment protocol required to ensure adequate therapy is reviewed.

Cricoid Chondronecrosis: Case Report and Review of Literature.

OBJECTIVE: Cricoid chondronecrosis is a rare entity that has significant consequences for patients. Reports of its occurrence are scattered in the literature and currently there is no comprehensive review to help guide providers. METHODS: A case report from our institution is presented. A review of available literature is then provided with assessment of risk factors, signs and symptoms at presentation, laryngeal exam findings, radiologic findings, and surgical techniques. RESULTS: Twenty-four cases of cricoid chondronecrosis were reviewed from the literature. Patient age ranged from 8 months to 76 years. A history of endotracheal intubation for various reasons was present in all but two cases, and duration of intubation ranged from 6 hours to 28 days. Patients presented with airway compromise in all but two cases-one asymptomatic patient with prior tracheostomy and another with dysphagia after radiation. Dysphonia (n = 6) and dysphagia (n = 3) were less commonly present. Subglottic stenosis (n = 19) was the most common exam finding followed by vocal fold impairment (n = 11). When CT scan findings were reported, fragmentation of the cartilage and/or hypodensity of the central lamina were described in all but one case. Interventions ranged from observation on antibiotics and steroids to surgical therapies including tracheostomy, dilation, and posterior cricoid split, with or without stent placement. CONCLUSIONS: Cricoid chondronecrosis is a serious, rare entity that can occur even after a short period of endotracheal intubation. Providers must have a high level of suspicion in patients that present with upper airway dyspnea with a history of prior intubation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4.

Cost Analysis of Implants in the Surgical Repair of Orbital Floor Fractures.

OBJECTIVE: Options for the management of orbital floor fractures continue to evolve offering both potential advantages as well as higher costs. To date, the effect of implant choice on the cost associated with the repair of orbital floor fractures has not been studied. METHODS: A retrospective review at a tertiary care, level I trauma center examining all adult, uncomplicated orbital floor fractures that underwent open reduction and internal fixation from 2013 to 2016. Patients with concurrent operative facial fractures were excluded. The main outcomes were overall cost of care from injury to last follow-up and operating room-related costs. Costs were determined using computerized records of charges as well as the hospital Charge Description Master. Kruksal-Wallis rank sum tests were used to analyze for differences between groups. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Eight different stock, non-patient specific, implants were used for repair. The cost of individual types of implants ranged from $70.25 to $7 718.00. Total cost of care per patient across all implant types averaged $35 585.57 (range $25 586.26 to $49 985.74, P = .34). Operation-related charges accounted for the vast majority (94.4%) of the total cost of care. One complication occurred requiring operative re-positioning of the implant with an additional $13 042.41 in charges. CONCLUSIONS: In the setting of uncomplicated orbital floor fractures, surgeons should select an implant that allows them to carry out the repair in a safe, timely fashion. Additional large-scale studies would help to further delineate cost differences.

Hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma of the head and neck: Case series and update.

BACKGROUND: Hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma (HCCC) is a rare neoplasm of salivary gland origin which is low-grade in nature. In this series, we report on 9 cases of HCCC and update the literature. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was performed. Our institutional database was queried for cases of HCCC. Pathology reports and slides were reviewed. Data was extracted, including demographics, staging, primary treatment, histopathologic findings, recurrence, and disease status. Statistical analysis was performed using a Pearson's chi-square test. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-six total cases were included for analysis. The overall recurrence rate was 19.8%. Necrosis was associated with risk of recurrence (p = .003). Positive margins and lymph node status were associated with risk of recurrence. Prognosis was good with only 3 of 82 patients reported dying with disease. CONCLUSION: HCCC has an overall good prognosis with potential for aggressive behavior. The presence of necrosis, locoregional disease, or positive margins is associated with risk for recurrence.

The impact of tranexamic acid on mortality in injured patients with hyperfibrinolysis.

BACKGROUND: In 2011, supported by data from two separate trauma centers, we implemented a protocol to administer tranexamic acid (TXA) in trauma patients with evidence of hyperfibrinolysis (HF) on admission. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the use of TXA in patients with HF determined by admission rapid thrombelastography was associated with improved survival. METHODS: Following institutional review board approval, we evaluated all trauma patients 16 years or older admitted between September 2009 and September 2013. HF was defined as LY-30 of 3% or greater. Patients with LY-30 less than 3.0% were excluded. Patients were divided into those who received TXA (TXA group) and those who did not (no-TXA group). After univariate analyses, a purposeful, logistic regression model was developed a priori to evaluate the impact of TXA on mortality (controlling for age, sex, Injury Severity Score (ISS), arrival physiology, and base deficit). RESULTS: A total of 1,032 patients met study criteria. Ninety-eight (10%) received TXA, and 934 (90%) did not. TXA patients were older (median age, 37 years vs. 32 years), were more severely injured (median ISS, 29 vs. 14), had a lower blood pressure (median systolic blood pressure 103 mm Hg vs. 125 mm Hg), and were more likely to be in shock (median, base excess, -5 mmol/dL vs. -2 mmol/dL), all p < 0.05. Twenty-three percent of the patients had a repeat thrombelastography within 6 hours; 8.8% of the TXA patients had LY-30 of 3% or greater on repeat rapid thrombelastography (vs. 10.1% in the no-TXA group, p = 0.679). Unadjusted in-hospital mortality was higher in the TXA group (40% vs. 17%, p < 0.001). There were no differences in venous thromboembolism (3.3% vs. 3.8%). Logistic regression failed to find a difference in in-hospital mortality among those receiving TXA (odds ratio, 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.38-1.40; p 0.80). CONCLUSION: In the current study, the use of TXA was not associated with a reduction in mortality. Further studies are needed to better define who will benefit from an administration of TXA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic study, level IV.

Chasing 100%: the use of hypertonic saline to improve early, primary fascial closure after damage control laparotomy.

BACKGROUND: Failure to achieve fascial closure after damage control laparotomy (DCL) is associated with increased morbidity and long-term disability. In addition, early closure is associated with reduces infectious, wound, and pulmonary complications. We hypothesized that hypertonic saline (HTS), which attenuates resuscitation-induced intestinal edema in animals, would improve early primary fascial closure (EPFC) rates. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of trauma patients undergoing DCL, from January 2010 to July 2011. Patients in the HTS group had 30 mL/h of 3% sodium chloride as maintenance fluids while the fascia was open. Patients in the cohort group had isotonic fluids (125 mL/h). The primary outcome, EPFC, was defined as primary fascial closure by postinjury day 7. RESULTS: Seventy-seven patients underwent DCL (23 received HTS and 54 received isotonic fluids). There were no differences in demographics, injury severity, or pre-intensive care unit vitals, laboratories, fluids, or transfusions. Median fluids in the first 24 hours were lower in the HTS group (3.9 vs. 7.8 L, p < 0.001). Times to fascial closure were shorter in those receiving HTS (34 vs. 49 hours, p < 0.001), as were the rates of closure at first take back (78% vs. 53%, p = 0.036). The primary outcome of EPFC was higher in the HTS group compared with standard fluids (100% vs. 76%, p = 0.010). At discharge, the HTS group had a 96% primary fascial closure rate compared with 80% with standard fluids. CONCLUSION: The use of 3% HTS as maintenance fluids after DCL was associated with 100% EPFC. HTS may be used as an adjunct to facilitate fascial closure in patients undergoing DCL. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic study, level III.