Cochlear Implant Activation in the Immediate Postoperative Period in the Operating Room.

Introduction Cochlear implant (CI) activation usually takes place at ∼ 30 days postoperative (PO). In our service, CI surgery is performed with local anesthesia and sedation, so activation is possible with the patient's cooperation, immediately after the CI surgery, still in the operating room (OR). Objective The objective of the present study was to provide the patient with hearing experience with the CI and to assess auditory perception immediately after surgery while still in the OR, as well as to compare impedance telemetry (IT), neural response telemetry (NRT), and comfort (C) level at two moments: in the OR and at the definitive activation, ∼ 30 days PO. Methods Nine adult patients (12 ears) with acquired (postlingual) deafness were included. Auditory perception was evaluated through the Ling Six Sound Check, musical instruments, and clapping, presented in two different programming maps, elaborated using t-NRT, and comparing IT, NRT, and C level between the two moments. Results We observed that while still in the OR, the patient can already present auditory detection and recognition responses. The values of IT, NRT threshold (t-NRT), and C on both dates differed, with statistical significance. Conclusion We concluded that it is possible to provide the patient with an auditory experience with the CI immediately after surgery, and that the auditory experience and the values of electrode IT, NRT, and C vary significantly between the two moments.

Success rates and predictors of outcomes of type I tympanoplasty performed by residents in a teaching tertiary hospital.

Several technical variations of tympanoplasty have been reported, usually involving the type of graft and/or instruments used. Few studies have focused on the outcome of type-1 tympanoplasty specifically in teaching scenarios. We aimed to describe the results of type-1 tympanoplasty performed by residents, and to investigate potential predictive factors of surgical success. To do so, we did a retrospective analysis of medical records of patients who underwent type-1 tympanoplasty in a tertiary university hospital. We evaluated the tympanic membrane closure and audiometric outcomes during the first year of follow-up, and compared the results according to some clinical and surgical factors. 130 operated ears were included in the study. The closure rate reached 84.12% after one month and 72.72% after twelve months of surgery. The mean air-bone gap was 22.98 dB preoperatively, and reached 10.55 dB after surgery. Perforation closure rates were 85% and 57.14% for those operated by endoscopic and microscopic-assisted approaches, respectively (p = 0.004). The use of cartilage grafts and time without otorrhea of more than three months prior to surgery were also predictors of surgical success (p = 0.002 and 0.041, respectively). Gender, age, perforation size, contralateral disease, operated side, reoperation, and degree of hearing loss did not significantly interfere with outcomes. Tympanoplasty showed good overall results when performed by residents, although inferior to those reported by experienced surgeons. The use of the endoscope, cartilage grafting, and longer preoperative time without otorrhea were predictors of surgical success in this scenario. Level of evidence: IIB.

Endoscopic or Microscopic Tympanoplasty Advantages and Disadvantages: A Theory Domain Systematic Review

Abstract Introduction Tympanoplasty is a reparative surgery that has multiple indications. The aid of a microscope or an endoscope is necessary to carry out the procedure. The classic method utilizes the microscope; however, in the recent decades, the endoscope has been popular. Although many articles try to compare these two techniques, there is still no robust evidence that confirms the superiority of either technique. In the present work, we seek to perform a systematic review contribute with this discussion. Objectives The present systematic review attempted to compare endoscopic and microscopic surgery techniques and to discover whether there would be superiority in the results of any of them, based on data currently available in the literature. Data Synthesis The objectives of the present review were organized according to the PICO planning and strategy adapted for systematic reviews. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were established aiming to select only select primary data. The main medical databases were searched usingan optimized search string with appropriate descriptors. The searched databases were MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, and EMBASE. A total of 99 studies were selected and 38 were fully assessed after the inclusion criteria were applied. All included articles were reviewed by all authors and their results were discussed and summarized. Conclusion The endoscopic technique was shown to be a safer technique comparable in effectiveness to the use of microscopy. In addition, it provides possible advantages such as shortening the surgical time and better postoperative pain outcomes.

Endoscopic or Microscopic Tympanoplasty Advantages and Disadvantages: A Theory Domain Systematic Review.

Introduction Tympanoplasty is a reparative surgery that has multiple indications. The aid of a microscope or an endoscope is necessary to carry out the procedure. The classic method utilizes the microscope; however, in the recent decades, the endoscope has been popular. Although many articles try to compare these two techniques, there is still no robust evidence that confirms the superiority of either technique. In the present work, we seek to perform a systematic review contribute with this. Objectives The present systematic review attempted to compare endoscopic and microscopic surgery techniques and to discover whether there would be superiority in the results of any of them, based on data currently available in the literature. Data Synthesis The objectives of the present review were organized according to the PICO planning and strategy adapted for systematic reviews. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were established aiming to select only select primary data. The main medical databases were searched using an optimized search string with appropriate descriptors. The searched databases were MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, and EMBASE. A total of 99 studies were selected and 38 were fully assessed after the inclusion criteria were applied. All included articles were reviewed by all authors and their results were discussed and summarized. Conclusion The endoscopic technique was shown to be a safer technique comparable in effectiveness to the use of microscopy. In addition, it provides possible advantages such as shortening the surgical time and better postoperative pain outcomes.

Tumor risk markers in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis

Abstract Objectives: This study aims to investigate the pattern of immunoexpression of proteins p16, p53 and Ki-67 in RRP, as well as to evaluate its influence on the number of surgeries that patients have undergone to date and to analyze the benefit of immunohistochemistry in this disease. Methods: Clinical-demographic data and tumor samples were obtained from 33 patients with RRP. The expression of proteins p16, p53 and Ki-67 was analyzed by immunohistochemical method. Results: Most patients had already undergone more than one surgery. The p16 marker was negative in 24.2% of the cases, with little positivity in 27.3% of the cases, moderate in 36.4% and intense in 12.1%. The p53 marker was positive in all cases, with little immunoexpression in 39.4% of cases, moderate in 36.4% and intense in 24.2%. The Ki-67 marker showed nuclear positivity in all lesions, although in varying degrees, with a mean proliferative index ±SD (standard deviation) of 51.7±26. Conclusions: The papillomatous lesions had varying degrees of immunoexpression of proteins p16, p53 and Ki-67, but no specific immunohistochemical pattern was observed. It was found, with statistical difference, that the number of surgeries was higher in cases with greater intensity of p53 expression, without correlation with the other markers. The benefit of immunohistochemistry in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis may lie in the prognostic assessment. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the use of this technique for this purpose. Level of evidence:: 4.

Changes in cognitive performance after cochlear implantation in adults and older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To conduct critical assessment of the literature on the effects of cochlear implantation on adults' cognitive abilities. DESIGN: PubMed, Scopus, Lilacs, Web of Science, Livivo, Cochrane, Embase, PsycInfo, and grey literature were searched. Eligibility criteria: age 18 or over with severe-to-profound bilateral hearing loss, cochlear implantation, cognitive test before and after implantation. Risk of bias was assessed using ROB, ROBINS-I and MASTARI tools. Meta-analysis was performed. STUDY SAMPLE: Out of 1830 studies, 16 met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: On AlaCog test, significant improvement was found after implantation [MD = -46.64; CI95% = -69.96 to -23.33; I2 = 71%]. No significant differences were found on the Flanker, Recall, Trail A and n-back tests (p > 0.05). For MMSE, no significance was found [MD 0.63; CI 95% = -2.19 to 3.45; I2 = 88%]. On TMT, an overall significant effect with a 9-second decrease in processing speed post-implantation [MD = -9.43; CI95% = -15.42 to -3.44; I2 = 0%]. CONCLUSION: Cognitive improvements after cochlear implantation may depend on time and the cognitive task evaluated. Well-designed studies with longer follow-up are necessary to examine whether cochlear implantation has a positive influence on cognitive abilities. Development of cognitive assessment tools to hearing-impaired individuals is needed.

Task force Guideline of Brazilian Society of Otology - hearing loss in children - Part II - Treatment.

OBJECTIVES: To provide an overview of the main evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis of hearing loss in children and adolescents aged 0-18 years. METHODS: Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on childhood hearing loss were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. RESULTS: The topics were divided into 2 parts: (1) treatment of sensorineural hearing loss: individual hearing aids, bilateral cochlear implants, cochlear implants in young children, unilateral hearing loss, and auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder; and (2) treatment of conductive/mixed hearing loss: external/middle ear malformations, ventilation tube insertion, and tympanoplasty in children. CONCLUSIONS: In children with hearing loss, in addition to speech therapy, Hearing AIDS (HAs) or implantable systems may be indicated. Even in children with profound hearing loss, both the use of HAs and behavioral assessments while using the device are important.

Tumor risk markers in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the pattern of immunoexpression of proteins p16, p53 and Ki-67 in RRP, as well as to evaluate its influence on the number of surgeries that patients have undergone to date and to analyze the benefit of immunohistochemistry in this disease. METHODS: Clinical-demographic data and tumor samples were obtained from 33 patients with RRP. The expression of proteins p16, p53 and Ki-67 was analyzed by immunohistochemical method. RESULTS: Most patients had already undergone more than one surgery. The p16 marker was negative in 24.2% of the cases, with little positivity in 27.3% of the cases, moderate in 36.4% and intense in 12.1%. The p53 marker was positive in all cases, with little immunoexpression in 39.4% of cases, moderate in 36.4% and intense in 24.2%. The Ki-67 marker showed nuclear positivity in all lesions, although in varying degrees, with a mean proliferative index ±â€¯SD (standard deviation) of 51.7 ±â€¯26. CONCLUSIONS: The papillomatous lesions had varying degrees of immunoexpression of proteins p16, p53 and Ki-67, but no specific immunohistochemical pattern was observed. It was found, with statistical difference, that the number of surgeries was higher in cases with greater intensity of p53 expression, without correlation with the other markers. The benefit of immunohistochemistry in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis may lie in the prognostic assessment. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the use of this technique for this purpose. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

Task force Guideline of Brazilian Society of Otology ‒ hearing loss in children - Part I ‒ Evaluation.

OBJECTIVES: To provide an overview of the main evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis of hearing loss in children and adolescents aged 0 to 18 years. METHODS: Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on childhood hearing loss were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. RESULTS: The evaluation and diagnosis of hearing loss: universal newborn hearing screening, laboratory testing, congenital infections (especially cytomegalovirus), genetic testing and main syndromes, radiologic imaging studies, vestibular assessment of children with hearing loss, auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and noise-induced hearing loss. CONCLUSIONS: Every child with suspected hearing loss has the right to diagnosis and appropriate treatment if necessary. This task force considers 5 essential rights: (1) Otolaryngologist consultation; (2) Speech assessment and therapy; (3) Diagnostic tests; (4) Treatment; (5) Ophthalmologist consultation.

Task force Guideline of Brazilian Society of Otology - hearing loss in children - Part II - Treatment

Abstract Objectives: To provide an overview of the main evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis of hearing loss in children and adolescents aged 0-18 years. Methods: Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on childhood hearing loss were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. Results: The topics were divided into 2 parts: (1) treatment of sensorineural hearing loss: individual hearing aids, bilateral cochlear implants, cochlear implants in young children, unilateral hearing loss, and auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder; and (2) treatment of conductive/mixed hearing loss: external/middle ear malformations, ventilation tube insertion, and tympanoplasty in children. Conclusions: In children with hearing loss, in addition to speech therapy, Hearing AIDS (HAs) or implantable systems may be indicated. Even in children with profound hearing loss, both the use of HAs and behavioral assessments while using the device are important.

Measuring the density of the fissula antefenestram and the section of the basal turn of the cochlea: Are they useful in the radiological diagnosis of otosclerosis?

Introduction: The role of objective parameters in terms of improvement of the accuracy of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the temporal bone in the diagnosis of otosclerosis remains unclear. Objectives: To investigate the relationship between the density of the fissula antefenestram (FAF) and of the width of the transversal section of the basal turn of the cochlea (BTC), and the diagnosis of otosclerosis. Methods: This is a retrospective study in which preoperative HRCT data from ears of patients submitted to stapedotomy due to otosclerosis (case group) were evaluated. For the control group, normal hearing ears having undergone HRCT for other purposes were included. Case and control HRCT images were objectively assessed by an experienced blinded radiologist. During this evaluation, measurements of the relative radiological density of the FAF and of the transversal section of the BTC were obtained. The results were compared between the groups. Also, a receiver operating characteristic curve was created and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for each variable. Significance level was set at .05. Results: 40 ears were included in each group. Case ears presented reduced values for the relative radiological density on the FAF (p-value<0.0001). Moreover, ears with otosclerosis (p-value: 0.022) presented lower transversal section of the BTC. The AUC for these variables reached 0.929 and 0.646, respectively. Conclusions: Otosclerotic ears present reduced radiological density on the FAF and narrower BTC. The relative density of the FAF also shows a great diagnostic power in the context of this disease.

Intensive Olfactory Training in Post-COVID-19 Patients: A Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Olfactory dysfunction (OD)-including anosmia and hyposmia-is a common symptom of COVID-19. Previous studies have identified olfactory training (OT) as an important treatment for postinfectious OD; however, little is known about its benefits and optimizations after SARS-CoV-2 infection. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess whether olfactory training performance can be optimized using more fragrances over a shorter period of time in patients with persistent OD after COVID-19. In addition, we determined the presence of other variables related to OD and treatment response in this population. METHODS: This multicenter randomized clinical trial recruited 80 patients with persistent OD and prior COVID-19 infection for less than 3 months. The patients were divided into 2 groups receiving either 4 or 8 essences over 4 weeks. Subjective assessments and the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) were performed before and after the treatment. RESULTS: Significant olfactory improvement was measured subjectively and using the UPSIT in both groups; however, no significant differences between the groups were observed. Additionally, the presence of olfactory fluctuations was associated with higher UPSIT scores. CONCLUSION: These data suggest that training intensification by increasing the number of essences for 4 weeks does not show superiority over the classical method. Moreover, fluctuant olfaction seems to be related to a higher score on the UPSIT.

Neural recovery function of the auditory nerve in cochlear implant surgery: Comparison between different regions of the cochlea.

INTRODUCTION: Cochlear implants allow measures of neural function, through Neural response telemetry (NRT) and Auditory nerve recovery function (REC). These help in programming the speech processor and understanding the auditory system. However, not many studies have evaluated and compared these in different regions of the cochlea. OBJECTIVE: Comparing NRT and REC in different regions of the cochlea. METHODS: Cross-sectional, descriptive and prospective. NRT and REC (through the function of T0 - absolute refractory period, A - amplitude and TAU - time constant of the relative refractory period parameters) were evaluated, in three groups according to the stimulated electrode of the cochlea: apical, medial and basal. RESULTS: 26 adult patients were evaluated, 2 bilateral, totalling 28 ears. Data analysis showed no statistically significant difference between NRT between medial and basal but showed between apical and medial and apical and basal. For T0, there was a significant difference between medial and basal; for A, there was a significant difference between apical and basal and also medial and basal; and for TAU, there was no significant difference. CONCLUSION: There was a statistically significant difference in NRT and REC when compared between different regions of the cochlea.

Intensive Olfactory Training in Post-COVID Patients: A Randomized Multicenter Clinical Trial

Introduction: Olfactory dysfunction (OD) is one of the most reported symptoms of COVID -19. Previous studies have identified olfactory training (OT) as an important treatment for postinfectious OD, but little is known about its effect after SARS-CoV-2 infection and how it can be optimized. Objective: To assess whether OT can be optimized if performed intensively, with more fragrances over a shorter period in patients with persistent OD after COVID -19. Also, to determine the presence of other variables related to OD and treatment response in this population. Method: This multicenter randomized clinical trial recruited 80 patients with persistent OD with previous COVID-19 for less than three months. The patients were divided into two groups, who received treatment with 4 and 8 essences over four weeks. Subjective assessments and the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) were performed before and after treatment. Results: A significant improvement in olfaction was measured subjectively and on UPSIT in both groups, but without significant differences between groups. In addition, the presence of olfactory fluctuation was associated with higher UPSIT scores. Conclusion: These data suggest that intensifying the training by increasing the number of essences for 4 weeks does not show superiority over the classical method. Moreover, a fluctuating olfactory ability seems to be related to a better score in the UPSIT.

Analysis of Surgical Recurrence after Larynx Microsurgery for Benign Lesions.

Introduction The study of larynx lesions is of great importance. More than 50% of people with vocal complaints have benign vocal fold alterations and some require surgery. Objective To determine which factors are related to surgical recurrence of benign laryngeal lesions and to determine which videolaryngoscopic diagnoses are related to the risk or protection of surgical relapses over time. Methods Observational, analytical, cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection of 1,383 surgeries in 1,301 patients. Results The mean age at the first surgery was 39.2 years old. The predominant gender was female (65.6%). There were 396 cases of polyps (25.34%), 349 cases of cysts (22.33%), 261 cases of Reinke edema (16.7%), 175 cases of nodules (11.2%), 153 cases of minor structural alterations (MSAs) (9.79%), 94 cases of leukoplakia (6.01%), 77 cases of granulomas (4.93%) and 58 cases of pseudocysts (3.71%). The age presented statistical significance with the risk of surgical relapses ( p = 0.016). Male gender was associated with the greatest chance of relapse. Diagnosis of granuloma ( p < 0.001) and of leukoplakia ( p < 0.001) were associated with a higher risk of surgical recurrence. Cyst diagnosis was associated with protection ( p = 0.015) in relation to the chance of further surgeries. Patients with associated lesions, bilaterals or voice professionals did not present a statistically significant association with surgical recurrence. Conclusion Age and gender are statistically related to the increase of surgical relapses. Leukoplakia and granuloma are associated with increased surgical relapses. Patients submitted to cyst microsurgery appear to be protected against surgical recurrence.

Imaging Studies in Otosclerosis: An Up-to-date Comprehensive Review.

Introduction Otosclerosis is a primary osteodystrophy of the otic capsule, frequently responsible for acquired hearing loss in adults. Although the diagnostic value of imaging investigations in otosclerosis is debatable, they might still be employed with different goals within the context of the disease. Objectives The present paper aims to review the most recent literature on the use of imaging studies in otosclerosis for the most varied purposes, from routine application and differential diagnosis to prognostic prediction and investigation of surgical failure. Data Synthesis The diagnosis of otosclerosis is usually clinical, but computed tomography (CT) is paramount in particular cases for the differential diagnosis. The routine use, however, is not supported by strong evidence. Even so, there is growing evidence of the role of this method in surgical planning and prediction of postoperative prognosis. In specific scenarios, for example when superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) syndrome is suspected or in surgical failure, CT is crucial indeed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), however, has limited - although important - indications in the management of individuals with otosclerosis, especially in the evaluation of postoperative complications and in the follow-up of medical treatment in active ostosclerosis. Conclusion Imaging studies have a broad range of well-established indications in otosclerosis. Besides, although the routine use of CT remains controversial, the most recent papers have shed light into new potential benefits of imaging prior to surgery.

Objective evaluation and predictive value of olfactory dysfunction among patients hospitalized with COVID-19.

OBJECTIVES: Olfactory dysfunction is a frequent feature of COVID-19. Despite the growing evidence, current knowledge on the subject remains insufficient, so that data obtained with different tools, from multiple centers and in distinct scenarios are welcome. Yet, the predictive value of olfactory dysfunction in terms of the overall prognosis of COVID-19 is unknown. This study aims to evaluate the olfactory function of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and the impact of the results on their clinical outcomes. METHODS: Patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) admitted to a university tertiary hospital were recruited and divided into those with ARDS due to COVID-19, and those with ARDS of any other cause. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected at baseline and the patients had their objective olfactory function evaluated by the Alcohol Sniff Test on admission and during hospital stay. The participants were then followed up until reaching an endpoint: hospital discharge, endotracheal intubation, transfer to the intensive care unit, or death. Patients with COVID-19 were also subgrouped and compared according to their olfactory thresholds and to their overall clinical outcomes. The obtained data was analyzed using R software. Level of significance was set at 0.05. RESULTS: Eighty-two patients were included (of which 58 had COVID-19). 87.93% of the patients with COVID-19 had diminished olfactory dysfunction on admission. The mean length of hospital stay among patients with olfactory dysfunction was greater (7.84 vs 6.14 days) and nine individuals in this subgroup had poor overall outcomes. None of those with normal olfactory function developed critical COVID-19. The mean olfactory function was significantly worse among patients with COVID-19 and poor outcomes (3.97 vs 7.90 cm, P = .023). CONCLUSION: Objective olfactory dysfunction is frequent in ARDS caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Patients with longitudinal poorer outcomes present worse olfactory thresholds on admission.

Olfactory function and findings on chest computed tomography in COVID-19: is there any correlation?

BACKGROUND: Olfactory dysfunction is frequent in COVID-19 and it might occur along with pulmonary involvement. These manifestations do not seem to share pathophysiological mechanisms, but clinical data on the subject is lacking. Aims/Objectives: This study aims to correlate the olfactory function (OF) and the radiological pulmonary involvement among in-hospital patients with COVID-19. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients hospitalized with severe COVID-19 were consecutively recruited. They had their objective OF evaluated by the Alcohol Sniff Test and underwent a chest computed tomography (cCT). Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the cCT scans were performed by a blinded radiologist. The quantitative assessment included both the grade of involved parenchyma and the CT severity score (CT-SS). Data obtained were then compared. RESULTS: 57 patients were included. There was no correlation between the OF and the grade of lung involvement (p-value: .884) or the CT-SS (Pearson's coefficient: -.111). Yet, patients with radiological findings on the cCT typical for COVID-19 did not present significantly different OF from the remaining (p-value: .193). Conclusions: Olfactory dysfunction does not correlate with the radiological lung involvement in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. SIGNIFICANCE: There is also clinical evidence that the olfactory disorder and the pulmonary disease in COVID-19 have distinct mechanisms.Supplemental data for this article is available online at here.

Infecção congênita e perinatal por citomegalovírus: clínica, laboratório e condutas / Congenital and perinatal infection by cytomegalovirus: clinical, laboratory and treatment

Racional: O impacto da infeção congênita e perinatal pelo CMV na saúde pública é muito relevante, sendo a infecção congênita mais predominante, porém pouco abordada. Objetivos: Avaliar o perfil dos pacientes com diagnóstico positivo para infecção congênita e perinatal por citomegalovírus. Métodos: Estudo observacional, analítico, transversal, com coleta de dados retrospectiva. Os dados foram obtidos segundo critérios demográficos, imunológicos, virológicos, terapêuticos e de análise dos exames de imagem.Resultados: Foram coletados dados de 35 pacientes que inicialmente receberam o diagnóstico, entretanto somente 17 preenchiam os critérios de inclusão. Conclusões: A amostra estudada foi de casos sintomáticos e reflete proporcionalmente pouco de uma doença tão prevalente. Isto se deve a dificuldade diagnóstica maternofetal; portanto, é importante enfocar e investir em pesquisa e novas ferramentas para um diagnóstico precoce.

Background: The impact of congenital and perinatal CMV infection on public health is very relevant, with congenital infection being the most prevalent, but little addressed. Objective: To evaluate, through the analysis of medical records, the profile of patients with diagnosis of congenital or perinatal cytomegalovirus infection during the stipulated study time. Methods: Observational study, analytical, cross-sectional, with retrospective data collection. The data were obtained according to demographic, immunologic, virologic and therapeutic criteria, as well as imaging exams analysis. Results: Data were collected from 35 patients who initially received the congenital or perinatal infection diagnosis during the time stipulated by the study, but only 17 met the inclusion criteria. Conclusions: The studied sample of symptomatic patients proportionally reflects little of such a prevalent disease. This happens because of the difficult mother-fetus diagnosis. Therefore, it is important to focus and invest in research and new tools seeking the early diagnosis.

Neural Recovery Function of the Auditory Nerve in Cochlear Implant Surgery: Comparison between Prelingual and Postlingual Patients

Abstract Introduction Cochlear implants (CIs) enable objective measures of the neural function in implanted patients through the measurements of the neural response telemetry (NRT) and of the Auditory nerve Recovery Function (REC). These measurements help in programming the speech processor and understanding the auditory system. Objective To compare the NRT and the REC in prelingual and postlingual implanted patients. Methods An observational, descriptive and prospective study was carried out. The NRT and the REC (through the T0, A, and tau parameters) were evaluated in individuals submitted to CI surgery, who were divided into two groups: prelingual and postlingual patients. Results In total, 46 patients were evaluated. Data analysis showed no statistically significant difference between the NRT measurements and the T0, A, and Tau of the REC in the comparison between the two groups, except for the NRT in the basal cochlear region. Conclusion There was no statistically significant difference in the REC in pre- and postlingual patients.