ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Testing for SARS-CoV-2 is important for decision making prior to surgery in otolaryngology. An understanding of current and developing testing methods is important for interpreting test results. METHODS: We performed a literature review of current evidence surrounding SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing highlighting its utility, limitations, and implications for otolaryngologists. RESULTS: The currently accepted RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 has varying sensitivity according to which subsite of the aerodigestive tract is sampled. Nasal swab sensitivities appear to be about 70%. Chest CT imaging for screening purposes is not currently recommended. CONCLUSION: Due to the current sensitivity of RT-PCR based testing for SARS-CoV-2, a negative test cannot rule out COVID-19. Full PPE should be worn during high-risk procedures such as aerosol generating procedures even if testing is negative. Patients who test positive during screening should have their surgeries postponed if possible until asymptomatic and have tested negative for SARS-CoV-2.
Subject(s)
Betacoronavirus , Clinical Laboratory Techniques , Coronavirus Infections/diagnosis , Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures , Pneumonia, Viral/diagnosis , Antibodies/blood , Betacoronavirus/genetics , COVID-19 , COVID-19 Testing , Cough/virology , Diarrhea/virology , Dyspnea/virology , Fatigue/virology , Fever/virology , Headache/virology , Hemoptysis/virology , Humans , Immunoglobulin G/immunology , Immunoglobulin M/immunology , Lung/diagnostic imaging , Myalgia/virology , Nasopharynx/virology , Pandemics , Preoperative Care , Quarantine , RNA, Viral/isolation & purification , Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction , SARS-CoV-2 , Sputum/virology , Tomography, X-Ray ComputedABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The use of microvascular free tissue transfer (MVFTT) for defects of the scalp and lateral temporal bone in patients with cochlear implants (CI) is uncommon. Herein, we report our experience with the utility, indications, and outcomes for MVFTT in patients with cochlear implants. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients at our institution from September 2016 to December 2017 identified subjects with coexistent cochlear implant and ipsilateral MVFTT of the lateral temporal bone or scalp. Information including demographics, indication for MVFTT, timing of CI and MVFTT, donor site, and previous radiation to the head and neck was collected. To assess the current literature on MVFTT in CI patients, a MEDLINE search was performed using key search terms. RESULTS: Two patients with cochlear implants and MVFTT of the ipsilateral temporal bone or scalp were identified. One patient underwent MVFTT for advanced device extrusion with stable audiometric parameters rather than locoregional reconstruction or device explantation. The second patient had primary cochlear implantation at oncologic lateral temporal bone resection (LTBR) and MVFTT for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma and concurrent profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). A literature review identifies MVFTT as an option for advanced device extrusion, treatment of osteoradionecrosis, and reconstruction after primary oncologic surgery. CONCLUSION: MVFTT is an important reconstructive tool for patients with functional, exposed cochlear implants. Cochlear implantation for severe to profound SNHL should be considered at the time of primary oncologic surgery and MVFTT of the lateral temporal bone or scalp. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV Laryngoscope, 130:1552-1557, 2020.
