An endoscopic hydro-mastoidectomy technique for cholesteatoma surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Endoscopic hydro-mastoidectomy, in which mastoidectomy is performed underwater, can be employed during transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for cholesteatoma removal. It was hypothesised that endoscopic hydro-mastoidectomy might take less time than endoscopic non-underwater mastoidectomy because the endoscope does not need to be removed for cleaning. METHODS: This study compared the mastoidectomy and total operative durations between the endoscopic hydro-mastoidectomy (n = 25) and endoscopic non-underwater drilling (control, n = 8) groups. Moreover, it compared the size of resected areas of the external auditory canal between the two groups. RESULTS: The mastoidectomy time of the endoscopic hydro-mastoidectomy group was significantly shorter than that of the control group (p < 0.01). The total operative time did not differ significantly between the endoscopic hydro-mastoidectomy and control groups (p = 0.17). The resected area was significantly larger in the endoscopic hydro-mastoidectomy group than in the control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Endoscopic hydro-mastoidectomy enables more extensive bone resection within a shorter period.

Perforación timpánica y colesteatoma, una patología de niños y adultos / Tympanic perforation and cholesteatoma, a pathology of children and adults

INTRODUCCIÓN. La patología de oído es una enfermedad frecuente en nuestro medio, asociada a infecciones a repetición del oído, con la presencia de perforación timpánica y colesteatoma, que determinará la presencia de lesiones mucho más acentuadas en cuanto a la evolución auditiva o complicaciones locales o sistémicas. OBJETIVO. Determinar la asociación existente entre la presencia de colesteatoma y perforación timpánica en pacientes con otitis media crónica. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Estudio epidemiológico analítico retrospectivo. Población de 4 733 y muestra de 75 pacientes para casos y 75 para controles basados en historias clínicas tomadas del sistema informático AS 400, que acudieron a la consulta externa de torrinolaringología del Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín en el periodo de enero de 2018 a diciembre de 2019; Criterios de inclusión para grupo de casos: Hombres y mujeres de 20 a 65 años de edad, diagnóstico de otitis media crónica, diagnóstico de colesteatoma ótico. Criterios de inclusión para grupo controles: Hombres y mujeres de 20 a 65 años de edad, no presentar diagnóstico de colesteatoma. RESULTADOS. Se observó una relación fuerte entre el poseer perforación timpánica y el desarrollo de colesteatoma con un valor de OR 33,14 con un IC al 95% de 31,94 ­ 34,34, con lo que se comprobó la hipótesis del estudio. Se determinó que la perforación timpánica es un factor de riesgo asociado con el desarrollo de colesteatoma en pacientes con otitis media crónica, la prevalencia de colesteatoma en relación a la edad estuvo en un 72% en pacientes de 41 a 65 años, con mayor predominancia en mujeres en un 57,3%. DISCUSIÓN. La presencia de perforación timpánica de acuerdo a lo observado es un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de colesteatoma, ligado en su mayoría a cuadros de Otitis Media Crónica. CONCLUSIONES. Se confirmó que la perforación timpánica, es un factor de riesgo en el desarrollo del colesteatoma en los pacientes que tienen otitis media crónica, lo que demuestra la necesidad de manejo actualizado y continuo en pacientes con esta patología de oído. Se requieren estudios con muestras más amplias para determinar otros factores de riesgo como sexo, nivel de educación y edad que podrían influir en el desarrollo de colesteatoma.

INTRODUCTION. Ear pathology is a frequent disease in our environment, associated with repeated ear infections, with the presence of tympanic perforation and cholesteatoma, which will determine the presence of much more accentuated lesions in terms of auditory evolution or local or systemic complications. OBJECTIVE. To determine the association between the presence of cholesteatoma and tympanic perforation in patients with chronic otitis media. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Retrospective analytical epidemiological study. Population of 4 733 and sample of 75 patients for cases and 75 for controls based on clinical histories taken from the AS 400 computer system, who attended the Otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic of the Carlos Andrade Marín Specialties Hospital in the period from January 2018 to December 2019; Inclusion criteria for case group: Men and women aged 20 to 65 years, diagnosis of chronic otitis media, diagnosis of otic cholesteatoma. Inclusion criteria for controls group: men and women aged 20 to 65 years, no diagnosis of cholesteatoma. RESULTS. A strong relationship was observed between having tympanic perforation and the development of cholesteatoma with an OR value of 33,14 with a 95% CI of 31,94 - 34,34, thus proving the study hypothesis. It was determined that tympanic perforation is a risk factor associated with the development of cholesteatoma in patients with chronic otitis media, the prevalence of cholesteatoma in relation to age was 72% in patients aged 41 to 65 years, with greater predominance in women in 57,3%. DISCUSSION. The presence of tympanic perforation according to what was observed is a risk factor for the development of cholesteatoma, mostly linked to Chronic Otitis Media. CONCLUSIONS. It was confirmed that tympanic perforation is a risk factor in the development of cholesteatoma in patients with chronic otitis media, which demonstrates the need for updated and continuous management in patients with this ear pathology. Studies with larger samples are required to determine other risk factors such as sex, education level and age that could influence the development of cholesteatoma.

Vías de ventilación y retracción epitimpánica en otitis media crónica no colesteatomatosa

Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos endoscópicos de las vías de ventilación encontrados durante la timpanoplastías tipo I en pacientes con OMC (Otitis media crónica) no colesteatomatosa. Materiales y métodos: Investigación transversal descriptiva, evaluamos 32 pacientes con OMC no colesteatomatosa con y sin retracción epitimpánica (RE) (Grado I-III, según clasificación de Mirko Tos), con antecedente de timpanoplastía tipo I (junio, 2018 - enero, 2020) en el servicio de otorrinolaringología del Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza. Se excluyeron pacientes con cirugías previas de oído medio, con OMC colesteatomatosa, con RE grado IV y actos quirúrgicos no almacenados digitalmente. Resultados: El 71,8% de pacientes presentaron RE (Grado I 3,0%, grado II 30,0% y grado III 56,5%), todos presentaron istmo timpánico (IT) bloqueado. El 68,8% de participantes con RE, presentaron tensor fold (TF) completo. Se observó una relación significativa entre TF completo e IT bloqueado con RE (p=0,026 y 0,003 respectivamente). Conclusiones: Los hallazgos más frecuentes fueron el TF completo e IT bloqueado, estos tuvieron asociación significativa con la presencia de RE en pacientes con OMC no colesteatomatosa.

Objective: To describe the endoscopic findings of the ventilation pathways found during type I tympanoplasty in patients with non-cholesteatomatous COM (chronic otitis media). Materials and methods : Cross-sectional descriptive study, we evaluated 32 patients with non-cholesteatomatous COM with and without epitympanic retraction (ER) (Grade I-III, according to Mirko Tos classification), with a history of type I tympanoplasty (June, 2018 - January, 2020) in the otorhinolaryngology service of the Arzobispo Loayza National Hospital. Patients with previous middle ear surgeries, with cholesteatomatous COM, with ER grade IV and surgical acts not digitally stored were excluded. Results: 71.8% of patients presented ER (Grade I 3.0%, grade II 30.0% and grade III 56.5%), all presented blocked tympanic isthmus (TI). 68.8% of participants with ER presented complete tensor fold (TF). A significant relationship was observed between complete TF and blocked IT with ER (p=0.026 and 0.003, respectively). Conclusions: The most frequent findings were complete TF and blocked IT, these had a significant association with the presence of ER in patients with non-cholesteatomatous COM.

Effects of mastoid and middle-ear volume on graft success and hearing outcomes in paediatric tympanoplasty.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of mastoid and middle-ear volume on the anatomical and functional success of type 1 tympanoplasty in paediatric patients. METHODS: This study included 45 paediatric patients who underwent type 1 cartilage tympanoplasty. Patients' demographic data, pre- and post-operative audiological evaluation results, and post-operative graft status were evaluated. Middle-ear and mastoid cavity volumes were calculated (in cubic centimetres) using temporal bone high-resolution computed tomography. Middle-ear and mastoid cavity volume values were compared between patients with and without post-operative anatomical and functional success. RESULTS: Anatomical success was achieved in 82.2 per cent of patients (n = 37), and functional success in 68.9 per cent (n = 31). When anatomical success and failure groups were compared, a statistically significant difference was found in mean mastoid volume (p = 0.037), while there was no significant difference in relation to mean middle-ear volume (p = 0.827). The comparison of functional success and failure groups revealed no significant difference in mean mastoid volume (p = 0.492) or middle-ear volume (p = 0.941). CONCLUSION: The study showed that mastoid pneumatisation volume affects surgical success in paediatric tympanoplasty.

Middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors: suggestion for surgical strategy / Tumores neuroendócrinos adenomatosos da orelha média: sugestão de estratégia cirúrgica

Abstract Introduction Middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors are extremely rare neoplasms with epithelial and neuroendocrine differentiation, accounting for fewer than 2% of all middle and inner ear tumors. Universal standard surgical procedures for different stages of these tumors remain elusive due to the limitation of the small number of case reports or investigations. Objective(s) This study intends to investigate proper surgical strategies for patients with middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors. Methods Six patients with middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors who were treated at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University (Nanchang, China) and the Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Hospital of Fudan University (Shanghai, China) respectively. Clinical characteristics and management strategies of patients were reviewed. The mean follow-up time was 63.7 months (range, 13-153 months). All the information was collected from medical records and prognosis postoperatively. Results Three patients underwent canal wall-up tympanomastoidectomy, including one patient with recurrence who underwent a previous tympanotomy; the other three patients underwent lateral temporal bone resection All of these patients were followed up with no evidence of recurrence or metastasis. Patients underwent canal wall-up surgery treatment accompanied with hearing function preservation measurements during follow-up periods. Conclusions Complete surgical resection provided good results for patients with middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors. The ossicular chain should be removed. Because of the propensity for local recurrence and invasiveness, as well as regional or distant metastasis of these tumors, it is necessary to schedule long-term follow-up and an observation plan postoperatively.

Resumo Introdução Os tumores neuroendócrinos adenomatosos da orelha média são neoplasias extremamente raras, com diferenciação epitelial e neuroendócrina, responsáveis por menos de 2% de todos os tumores de orelha média e interna. Os procedimentos cirúrgicos padrão universais para diferentes estágios desses tumores permanecem indefinidos, devido à limitação do pequeno número de relatos de casos ou investigações. Objetivo Este estudo foi feito com o objetivo de investigar estratégias cirúrgicas adequadas para pacientes com tumores neuroendócrinos adenomatosos da orelha média. Método Seis pacientes com tumores neuroendócrinos adenomatosos da orelha média foram tratados no Second Affiliated Hospital da Nanchang University (Nanchang, China) e no Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Hospital da Fudan University (Xanghai, China), respectivamente. As características clínicas e estratégias de tratamento dos pacientes foram revisadas. O tempo médio de seguimento foi de 63,7 meses (variação de 13 a 153 meses). Todas as informações foram coletadas dos prontuários e prognóstico no pós-operatório. Resultados Três pacientes foram submetidos à timpanomastoidectomia do tipo canal wall-up, inclusive um paciente com recorrência submetido a uma timpanotomia anterior; os outros três pacientes foram submetidos à ressecção lateral do osso temporal. Todos os pacientes foram acompanhados, sem evidência de recorrência ou metástase. Os pacientes foram submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico com a técnica de canal wall-up acompanhado de medidas de preservação da função auditiva durante os períodos de seguimento. Conclusões A ressecção cirúrgica completa proporcionou bons resultados para pacientes com tumores neuroendócrinos adenomatosos da orelha média. A cadeia ossicular deve ser removida. Devido a propensão à recorrência e invasão local, bem como metástases regionais ou distantes desses tumores, é necessário um seguimento de longo prazo e um plano de seguimento no pós-operatório.

Preoperative prediction for mastoid extension of middle ear cholesteatoma using temporal subtraction serial HRCT studies.

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the utility of temporal subtraction computed tomography (TSCT) obtained with temporal bone high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) for the preoperative prediction of mastoid extension of middle ear cholesteatomas. METHODS: Twenty-eight consecutive patients with surgically proven middle ear cholesteatomas were retrospectively evaluated. The presence of black color in the mastoid region on TSCT suggested progressive changes caused by bone erosion. Enlarged width of the anterior part of mastoid on HRCT was interpreted as suggestive of mastoid extension. Fisher's exact test was used to compare the widths and black color on TSCT for cases with and without mastoid extension. The diagnostic accuracy of TSCT and HRCT for detecting mastoid extension and interobserver agreement during the evaluation of black color on TSCT were calculated. RESULTS: There were 15 cases of surgically proven mastoid extension and 13 cases without mastoid extension. Patients with black color on TSCT were significantly more likely to have a mastoid extension (p < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of TSCT were 0.93 and 1.00, respectively. Patients in whom the width of the anterior part of the mastoid was enlarged were significantly more likely to have a mastoid extension (p = 0.007). The sensitivity and specificity of HRCT to detect the width of the anterior part of the mastoid were 0.80 and 0.77, respectively. Interobserver agreement during the evaluation of TSCT findings was good (k = 0.71). CONCLUSIONS: This novel TSCT technique and preoperative evaluations are useful for assessing mastoid extension of middle ear cholesteatomas and making treatment decisions. KEY POINTS: •TSCT shows a clear black color in the mastoid region when the middle ear cholesteatoma is accompanied by mastoid extension. •TSCT obtained with preoperative serial HRCT of the temporal bone is useful for assessing mastoid extension of middle ear cholesteatomas.

Submersion with grommets: contamination is possible at minimal depth, as demonstrated with a novel middle-ear model.

OBJECTIVE: Advice to patients following grommet insertion and waterproofing can vary from clinician to clinician. A laboratory based experiment was performed to determine at what depth water contamination would occur through various grommet tubes. METHODS: A novel experimental ear model was developed using an artificial tympanic membrane and ventilation tubes. Water contamination was identified using an effervescent solid that reacts when in contact with water. Measures of dispersion were used to describe the results. RESULTS: The average depth of water contamination was: 19.64 mm (range = 11-33 mm, standard deviation = 5.55 mm) using a Shepard grommet; 20.84 mm (range = 18-26 mm, standard deviation = 1.97 mm) with a titanium grommet; and 21.36 mm (range = 18-33 mm, standard deviation = 3.03 mm) using a T-tube. Water contamination was possible at depths of 11-33 mm. The average pressure at water effervescent activation was 0.20 kPa. CONCLUSION: Submersion underwater at any depth with grommets is likely to lead to middle-ear contamination. These findings are concordant with clinical studies.

Three-dimensional versus two-dimensional endoscopes in anatomical orientation of the middle ear and in simulated surgical tasks.

BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional endoscopes provide a stereoscopic view of the operating field, facilitating depth perception compared to two-dimensional systems, but are not yet widely accepted. Existing research addresses performance and preference, but there are no studies that quantify anatomical orientation in endoscopic ear surgery. METHODS: Participants (n = 70) were randomised in starting with either the two-dimensional or three-dimensional endoscope system to perform one of two tasks: anatomical orientation using a labelled three-dimensional printed silicone model of the middle ear, or simulated endoscopic skills. Scores and time to task completion were recorded, as well as self-reported difficulty, confidence and preference. RESULTS: Novice surgeons scored significantly higher in a test of anatomical orientation using three-dimensional compared to two-dimensional endoscopy (p < 0.001), with no significant difference in the speed of simulated endoscopic skills task completion. For both tasks, there was lower self-reported difficulty and increased confidence when using the three-dimensional endoscope. Participants preferred three-dimensional over two-dimensional endoscopy for both tasks. CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate the superiority of three-dimensional endoscopy in anatomical orientation, specific to endoscopic ear surgery, with statistically indistinguishable performance in a skills task using a simulated trainer.

Relación entre el tipo de fisura labiopalatina y la disfunción de la trompa de Eustaquio en niños, Perú 2020 / Relationship between type of cleft palate and Eustachian tube function in children, Peru 2020

RESUMEN Introducción y objetivos : Determinar si el tipo de fisura labio palatina está asociada a mayor riesgo de alteración de la trompa de Eustaquio. Materiales y métodos : Se realizó un estudio descriptivo serie de casos con análisis inferencial de niños operados de fisura labiopalatina en el Hospital San Bartolomé durante el 2018 y 2019. Resultados : Se evaluó a un total de 48 pacientes a quienes se les realizó timpanometría, encontrándose 62,5 % varones (n=30) y 37,5 % mujeres (n=18) y la media de edad fue de 1,3 años, para determinar el tipo de fisura labiopalatina se usó la clasificación de Veau, el tipo más frecuente hallado fue Veau tipo III, con 62,5 % (n=30), siendo la menos frecuente Veau tipo I con 4,2 % (n=2). La evaluación de la función de la trompa de Eustaquio se realizó mediante timpanometría definiéndose como patológica la curva tipo B, en el grupo de estudio se encontró una prevalencia global de curvas tipo B de 66,7 % (n= 32), mientras que las curvas A y C, tuvieron 33,3 % (n=16). La probabilidad que el diagnóstico Veau IV tenga curvas tipo B de forma más frecuentes que los otros tipos, mediante la prueba Binomial fue significativo. (p=0,000038<0,05). Conclusiones : El tipo de fisura palatina mayormente asociado con alteración de la función del oído medio, expresado mediante curvas de timpanometría tipo B, es la fisura tipo IV según clasificación de Veau, esta relación es estadísticamente significativa.

ABSTRACT Introduction and objectives : The objective of this study is to determine if the type of cleft lip and palate is associated with a higher risk of alteration of the Eustachian tube. Materials and methods : A descriptive case series study was carried out with an inferential analysis of children operated on for cleft lip and palate at the San Bartolomé hospital during the years 2018 and 2019. Results : 48 patients with tympanometry were evaluated, 62.5% male (n = 30) and 37.5% female (n = 18), the mean age was 1.3 years. The type of cleft lip and palate was determined using the Veau classification, the most frequent type found was Veau type III: 62.5% (n = 30), the least frequent type was Veau I with 4.2% (n = 2). The evaluation of the function of the Eustachian tube was performed with tympanometry, defining the type B curve as pathological. In the study group, there was an overall prevalence of type B curves of 66.7% (n = 32), while type A and C curves were 33.3% (n = 16). The probability that the Veau IV crack type has an association with type B curves more frequently than the other types, using the Binomial test, was significant. (p = 0.000038 <0.05). Conclusions : The type of cleft palate that is most associated with impaired middle ear function, expressed by type B tympanometry curves, is type IV cleft according to Veau's classification, this relationship is statistically significant.

Middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors: suggestion for surgical strategy.

INTRODUCTION: Middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors are extremely rare neoplasms with epithelial and neuroendocrine differentiation, accounting for fewer than 2% of all middle and inner ear tumors. Universal standard surgical procedures for different stages of these tumors remain elusive due to the limitation of the small number of case reports or investigations. OBJECTIVE(S): This study intends to investigate proper surgical strategies for patients with middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors. METHODS: Six patients with middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors who were treated at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University (Nanchang, China) and the Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Hospital of Fudan University (Shanghai, China) respectively. Clinical characteristics and management strategies of patients were reviewed. The mean follow-up time was 63.7 months (range, 13-153 months). All the information was collected from medical records and prognosis postoperatively. RESULTS: Three patients underwent canal wall-up tympanomastoidectomy, including one patient with recurrence who underwent a previous tympanotomy; the other three patients underwent lateral temporal bone resection All of these patients were followed up with no evidence of recurrence or metastasis. Patients underwent canal wall-up surgery treatment accompanied with hearing function preservation measurements during follow-up periods. CONCLUSIONS: Complete surgical resection provided good results for patients with middle ear adenomatous neuroendocrine tumors. The ossicular chain should be removed. Because of the propensity for local recurrence and invasiveness, as well as regional or distant metastasis of these tumors, it is necessary to schedule long-term follow-up and an observation plan postoperatively.

Capillary Hemangioma of the External Auditory Canal Extending to Middle Ear and Mastoid Cavity: A Rare Case Report with Review of Literature.

Capillary hemangioma  involving external auditory canal, middle ear and mastoid cavity is a very rare entity. Due to infrequent incidence but multiple overlapping clinical and radiological features amongst some common middle ear pathologies this benign vascular tumour often can be misdiagnosed. Histopathological report helps us to get definitive diagnosis. 40 years old female presented with diminished hearing and mass in right ear cavity for last 3 years. The otoscopic examination of right ear showed a pinkish polypoidal mass at the external auditory canal and tympanic membrane could not be visualized. Patient had a history of cortical mastoidectomy 2 years back for the similar problem. HRCT temporal bone revealed a single cavity with soft tissue density content in right mastoid cavity which was extending into right middle ear and external ear. Contrast Enhanced MRI showed a long polypoidal heterogeneously but strong enhancing T2 and STIR hyperintense lesion within mastoid antrum extending into middle ear cavity and external auditory canal forming an aural polyp. Excision of the mass was done by canal wall down mastoidectomy and also type IIIc tympanoplasty performed in same sitting. There is no recurrence noted after 6 months of follow up and hearing improvement noticed. Capillary haemangioma of mastoid antrum extending to middle ear and external auditory canal requires surgical excision as preferred treatment modality, pre-operative imaging guide us to choose the preferred surgical approaches.

Seasonal variation of patulous Eustachian tube diagnoses using climatic and national health insurance data.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to analyse if there were any associations between patulous Eustachian tube occurrence and climatic factors and seasonality. METHODS: The correlation between the monthly average number of patients diagnosed with patulous Eustachian tube and climatic factors in Seoul, Korea, from January 2010 to December 2016, was statistically analysed using national data sets. RESULTS: The relative risk for patulous Eustachian tube occurrence according to season was significantly higher in summer and autumn, and lower in winter than in spring (relative risk (95 per cent confidence interval): 1.334 (1.267-1.404), 1.219 (1.157-1.285) and 0.889 (0.840-0.941) for summer, autumn and winter, respectively). Temperature, atmospheric pressure and relative humidity had a moderate positive (r = 0.648), negative (r = -0.601) and positive (r = 0.492) correlation with the number of patulous Eustachian tube cases, respectively. CONCLUSION: The number of patulous Eustachian tube cases was highest in summer and increased in proportion to changes in temperature and humidity, which could be due to physiological changes caused by climatic factors or diet trends.

Middle Ear and Temporal Bone Papilloma: A Clinicopathologic Study and Comprehensive Literature Review of 57 Cases.

Sinonasal papilloma (SP), formerly Schneiderian papilloma, represents a rare group of benign epithelial neoplasms, most commonly identified in the sinonasal tract, while less frequently identified in the pharynx, lacrimal sac, and middle ear. Within temporal bone sinonasal-type papilloma (TBSP), there seems to be a much higher recurrence and malignant transformation risk than those identified in the sinonasal tract. Based on this clinical report and a review of the cases reported in the English literature, 49% of the 57 cases developed in the setting of concurrent or antecedent sinonasal or nasopharyngeal SP. There is an equal sex distribution (26 females and 31 males), with a broad age range (19-81 years) at presentation (median 56 years; average 54 years). Three patients had bilateral disease. Symptoms include a mass lesion with hearing loss, otitis media, otorrhea, otalgia, and tinnitus, among others. Inverted SP was identified in 42 patients, oncocytic SP in six, and exophytic SP in four (undefined in the remainder). Recurrence was identified in 38 of 49 patients with follow-up (78%), often with multiple recurrences over time, with carcinoma developing in the temporal bone in 19 patients (33%), with males developing carcinoma by a 1.7:1 ratio over females. Surgery was the treatment of choice (radical mastoidectomy) with 6 patients (10%) dead of disease (median 30 months, mean 38 months), while 47 patients were alive at last follow-up: 31 without disease (mean 33 months); 7 with locally recurrent disease (mean 20 months); 9 patients alive but with unknown disease status; and 4 patients without follow-up. In conclusion, TBSP is frequently identified in the setting of concurrent sinonasal tract disease, showing similar histologic features to sinonasal tract counterparts. There is no sex predilection, with patients most commonly presenting in the sixth decade of life. Recurrences are common, with carcinoma developing much more frequently than in sinonasal tract papilloma (33%), but recognizing that carcinoma may be documented in either or both anatomic sites. Overall outcome is excellent, with long term clinical follow-up warranted to manage recurrence or malignant transformation.

A volumetric three-dimensional evaluation of invasiveness of an endoscopic and microscopic approach for transmeatal visualisation of the middle ear.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the necessary scutum defect for transmeatal visualisation of middle-ear landmarks between an endoscopic and microscopic approach. METHOD: Human cadaveric heads were used. In group 1, middle-ear landmarks were visualised by endoscope (group 1 endoscopic approach) and subsequently by microscope (group 1 microscopic approach following endoscopy). In group 2, landmarks were visualised solely microscopically (group 2 microscopic approach). The amount of resected bone was evaluated via computed tomography scans. RESULTS: In the group 1 endoscopic approach, a median of 6.84 mm3 bone was resected. No statistically significant difference (Mann-Whitney U test, p = 0.163, U = 49.000) was found between the group 1 microscopic approach following endoscopy (median 17.84 mm3) and the group 2 microscopic approach (median 20.08 mm3), so these were combined. The difference between the group 1 endoscopic approach and the group 1 microscopic approach following endoscopy plus group 2 microscopic approach (median 18.16 mm3) was statistically significant (Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.001, U = 18.000). CONCLUSION: This study showed that endoscopic transmeatal visualisation of middle-ear landmarks preserves more of the bony scutum than a microscopic transmeatal approach.

Middle-ear or mastoid granulation pathology associated with retraction of the pars flaccida and low-pitched tinnitus.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical features and outcomes of patients with middle-ear granulation pathologies associated with attic retractions. METHOD: The clinical records of adult patients with middle-ear granulation pathologies and attic retractions confirmed via computed tomography and surgical exploration between January 2012 and January 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: A total of 59 patients were included. Endoscopic examination showed a normal pars tensa but retraction of the pars flaccida in all patients. No granulation tissue or debris were observed. Low-pitched tinnitus was the principal complaint of 55 patients (100 per cent), followed by ear fullness (14 patients, 23.7 per cent). Of the 59 patients, 52 patients (88.1 per cent) underwent canal wall up mastoidectomy and 7 patients (11.9 per cent) underwent endoscopic endaural atticoantrotomy. No ossicular chain destruction was evident. All patients were followed up for 12 months. Tinnitus disappeared completely in 48 patients (81.4 per cent), improved significantly in 9 patients (15.3 per cent) and improved mildly in 2 patients (3.3 per cent). CONCLUSION: A granulation tissue pathology should be considered when a patient complains of low-pitched tinnitus and exhibits retraction of the pars flaccida. Computed tomography and surgical exploration should be scheduled.

Efficacy of balloon Eustachian tuboplasty as a first line treatment for otitis media with effusion in children.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the outcomes of ventilation tube insertion and balloon Eustachian tuboplasty as a first line treatment for otitis media with effusion in children. METHOD: This was a retrospective evaluation of 62 children, 30 cases that underwent balloon Eustachian tuboplasty (group 1) and 32 cases that underwent ventilation tube insertion (group 2), from July 2016 to April 2018. RESULTS: The pre-operative air-bone gap of patients who underwent balloon Eustachian tuboplasty was 15-35 dB (mean: 27.6 ± 8.2 dB). The mean pre-operative air-bone gap decreased to 9.6 dB after a mean of 14.4 months (p < 0.05). The air-bone gap decreased from 25.6 dB to 17.6 dB in the ventilation tube group. There was a significant improvement in the air-bone gap values in both groups; however, this decrease was significantly higher in the balloon Eustachian tuboplasty group (p = 0.043). CONCLUSION: Balloon Eustachian tuboplasty may be an effective and safe method for use as a first-line treatment of otitis media with effusion in children.

A randomized controlled trial evaluating the hemodynamic impact of ultrasound-guided great auricular nerve block in middle ear microsurgery.

BACKGROUND: The peri-operative effectiveness of ultrasound-guided great auricular nerve block (GANB) in patients, especially in adult patients undergoing middle ear microsurgery remains unclear. We hypothesized that ultrasound-guided GANB would decrease the hemodynamic responsiveness to incision and opioid consumption in middle ear microsurgery as well as the post-operative analgesia requirement. METHODS: Sixty patients undergoing middle ear microsurgery were randomized into two equal groups to receive either a GANB with 2 ml of 0.25% ropivacaine under ultrasound guidance (GANB group) or to receive a blank control intervention (without any performed injection) before general anesthesia inductions. The primary outcomes were hemodynamic changes of MAP (mean artery pressure) and HR (heart rate) to skin incision. The secondary endpoints were to determine the consumptions of propofol and remifentanil during the operation and the incidence of remedial analgesia 48 h post-operation to maintain VAS ≤ 3. RESULTS: The MAP post incision in GANB group was significantly lower than that in control group (GANB group 93.83 ± 11.72 mmHg vs. control group 100.87 ± 12.65 mmHg, P = 0.029). The increases for MAP and HR post incision were also lower in GANB group (∆MAP GANB group 11.90 ± 8.32 mmHg vs. control group 19.83 ± 10.37 mmHg, P = 0.002; ∆HR GANB group 3.67 ± 5.30 beat min- 1 vs. control group 8.23 ± 8.56 beat min- 1, P = 0.016). Remifentanil consumption was significantly decreased in GANB group (GANB group 401.55 ± 100.51 µg h- 1 vs. control group 697.34 ± 215.45 µg h- 1, P = 0.000). The incidence of remedial analgesia post-operation in GANB group (5/30) was significantly lower than that in control group (20/30, P = 0.000). CONCLUSION: Ultrasound-guided GANB decreases the hemodynamic responsiveness to incision and remifentanil consumption in middle ear microsurgery as well as the post-operative analgesia requirement. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was retrospectively registered at http://www.chictr.org.cn with the registration number of ChiCTR1800014333 on 6 January, 2018.

Investigating the learning curve in endoscopic compared to microscopic myringotomy and ventilation tube insertion.

OBJECTIVE: Rate of learning is often cited as a deterrent in the use of endoscopic ear surgery. This study investigated the learning curves of novice surgeons performing simulated ear surgery using either an endoscope or a microscope. METHODS: A prospective multi-site clinical research study was conducted. Seventy-two medical students were randomly allocated to the endoscope or microscope group, and performed 10 myringotomy and ventilation tube insertions. Trial times were used to produce learning curves. From these, slope (learning rate) and asymptote (optimal proficiency) were ascertained. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the learning curves (p = 0.41). The learning rate value was 68.62 for the microscope group and 78.71 for the endoscope group. The optimal proficiency (seconds) was 32.83 for the microscope group and 27.87 for the endoscope group. CONCLUSION: The absence of a significant difference shows that the learning rates of each technique are statistically indistinguishable. This suggests that surgeons are not justified when citing 'steep learning curve' in arguments against the use of endoscopes in middle-ear surgery.

Comparison of patulous Eustachian tube patients with and without a concave defect in the anterolateral wall of the tubal valve.

OBJECTIVE: Patulous Eustachian tube appears to be caused by a concave defect in the anterolateral wall of the tubal valve of the Eustachian tube. This study aimed to compare the clinical features of patulous Eustachian tube patients with or without a defect in the anterolateral wall of the tubal valve. METHODS: Sixty-six patients with a patulous Eustachian tube completed a questionnaire, which was evaluated alongside endoscopic findings of the tympanic membrane, nasal cavity and Eustachian tube orifice. RESULTS: Females were more frequently diagnosed with a patulous Eustachian tube, but the valve defect was more common in males (p = 0.007). The ratio of patulous Eustachian tube patients with or without defects in the anterolateral wall of the tubal valve was 1.6:1. Weight loss in the previous six months and being refractory to conservative management were significantly associated with the defect (p = 0.035 and 0.037, respectively). Symptom severity was significantly higher in patients with the defect. CONCLUSION: Patulous Eustachian tube patients without a defect in the anterolateral wall of the tubal valve can be non-surgically treated more often than those with the defect. Identification of the defect could assist in making treatment decisions for patulous Eustachian tube patients.

Patterns of middle-ear cholesteatoma and implications for surgical approach.

OBJECTIVES: Understanding the pattern of middle-ear cholesteatoma becomes pertinent with the rise of endoscopic surgery as surgeons decide on the optimal approach to visualise and extirpate disease. With modifications to the Telmesani attic-tympanum-mastoid staging system, this study aimed to evaluate the commonest patterns of middle-ear cholesteatoma and their implications for surgical approach. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted in a single tertiary institution in Singapore. All patients undergoing cholesteatoma surgery between January 2012 and June 2015 were included. Staging of cholesteatoma was based on clinical assessment corroborated by radiological findings. RESULTS: Out of the 55 ears included, 98.2 per cent had cholesteatoma involving the attic. The disease extended into the mastoid antrum and beyond in 43 cases (78.2 per cent). The facial recess and/or sinus tympanum was affected in 26 cases (47.3 per cent). CONCLUSION: The majority of cholesteatoma cases present with extensive attic disease and significant mastoid involvement. In these cases, endoscopes may be best suited to adjunctive rather than exclusive use in surgery.