Electrical safety assessment of a prototype device for electromagnetic stimulation of the ear in patients with tinnitus.

<b><br>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of electrical safety results of a prototype electromagnetic ear stimulation device in patients with tinnitus.</br> <b><br>Material and methods:</b> The electrical safety tests of the prototype device for electro- and magnetostimulation of the hearing organ were carried out at the Center for Attestation and Certification Tests in Gliwice. The tests concerned selected parameters including the PN-EN standard.</br> <b><br>Results:</b> Safety studies of the prototype electrical stimulation device for the ear in patients with tinnitus were necessary to perform the planned further preclinical studies. Obtained results regarding: identification and labeling of the device; protection against electric shock; checking protective earthing, functional earthing and potential equalization; checking the leakage current and auxiliary currents of the patient; checking the distances through the solid insulation and the use of thin insulating spacers; checking the electrical strength of the device insulation; checking protection against mechanical hazards of the device; checking the risk associated with surfaces, corners and edges, and checking the protection against excessive temperatures and other threats comply with the standard PN-EN.</br> <b><br>Conclusions:</b> No risk to the patient and medical staff. Tests of protection against mechanical hazards of the device have shown that the only movable part whose contact with the patient could cause an unacceptable risk is the fan installed inside the housing.</br>.

The analysis of etiology and treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis in our own material.

<b>Introduction and aim:</b> The aim of the study was the analysis of etiology and treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis in our own material.</br></br> <b>Material and methods:</b> The study was performed on 520 women aged 18-87 and 789 men aged 19-85, diagnosed and treated for chronic rhinosinusitis between 2016 and 2020. The analysis was based on the medical records, taking into account: gender; age; type of symptoms; allergy tests; probable cause of inflammation; type of anatomical anomalies; assessment of the stage based on the Lund-Mackay score for CT scans; number of operations; pathology report; postoperative complications.</br></br> <b>Results:</b> The study showed that the hospitalized patients were most often aged 41-50, 51-60, and 31-40 for women and 51-60, 41-50, and 31-40 for men, respectively. The results of allergy tests in chronic rhinosinusitis patients showed that women were most often allergic to Pyralgin + Ketonal + paracetamol + ibuprofen in 4.50%, to penicillins in 1.07%, and to house dust mites in 0.92%, while in men positive reactions were found in 3.36% for Pyralgin + Ketonal + paracetamol + ibuprofen, 0.99% for house dust mites and 0.92% for cat and dog hair, respectively. Absence of anatomical anomalies was found in 20.75% of women and 26.36% of men, but most often they occurred in the form of deviated nasal septum and enlarged middle nasal concha. The pathology reports revealed the following: chronic rhinosinusitis, chronic polypoid rhinosinusitis, chronic cystic rhinosinusitis, and chronic allergic rhinosinusitis.</br></br> <b>Conclusions:</b> The main symptoms in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis included: nasal congestion + rhinorrhea, nasal congestion + nasal discharge + olfactory impairment, and nasal congestion + nasal discharge + headache. The most common probable causes of chronic rhinosinusitis in the studied patients included: anatomical anomalies, allergies, and irritants including tobacco smoke. Depending on the assessment of the stage based on the Lund-Mackay score for CT scans, it appears that moderate to severe inflammation prevailed in the studied patients.

The analysis of reason for the presence and treatment of chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses in own material.

SummaryIntroduction. . The aim of the study was the analysis of reasons for the occurrence and treatment results of chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses in own materail. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was performed on 520 women aged 18 - 87 and 789 men aged 19-85, diagnosed and treated for the chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses in 2016 - 2020. The analysis was based on disease medical history, taking into account: gender; age of patients; type of symptoms; allergy diagnosis; probable cause of inflammation; type of anatomical anomalies; assessment of the advancement of lesions based on CT images in the Lund- Mackay scale; number of operations; histopathological result of the removed lesions; complications that occured after surgical treatment.ResultsThe study showed that the hospitalized patients were most often aged 41-50, 51-60 and 31-40 among women and men aged 51-60, 41-50 and 31- 40 . The results of allergological diagnostics among patients with chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses showed that women were most often allergic to pyralgin + ketonal + paracetamol + ibuprofen in 4.50 % , to penicillins in 1.07 % and to house dust saprophytes in 0.92%, while among men, positive reactions were found in 3.36 % for pyralgin + ketonal + paracetamol + ibuprofen, 0.99% for house dust saprophytes and 0.92% for cats and dogs fur. Absence of anatomical anomalies was found among 20.75 % of woman and 26.36 % of men, but most often they occurred in the form of nasal septal curvature and excessively dilated middle nasal turbinate. In the histopathological examination of the lesions from the paranasal sinuses, the following were found: chronicinflammation of mucous membrane, chronic polypoid inflammation, chronic cystic inflammation and chronic allergic inflammation. CONCLUSIONS: The main symptoms among patients with chronic inflammation of paranasal sinuses were: nasal congestion + rhinorrhea, nasal congestion + rhinorrhea + smell impairment and nasal congestion + rhinorrhea+ headache. The most common probable causes for chronic inflammation of nasal sinuses among the examined patients were: anatomical anomalies, allergies, irritant factors, including tobacco smoke. Depending on the assessment of the severity of changes in the paranasal sinuses according to the Lund- Mackay scale, it appears that medium and large inflammatory lesions prevailed in the examined patients. KEY WORDS: reason/cause, occurrence, treatment results, chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses.

Evaluation the results of electromagnetic compatibility of a prototype device for ear stimulation in patients with tinnitus.

<b><br>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of electromagnetic compatibility of a prototype device for ear stimulation in patients with tinnitus.</br> <b><br>Material and methods:</b> The electromagnetic compatibility tests of the prototype device for electro- and magnetostimulation of the hearing organ were carried out at the Center for Attestation and Certification Tests OBAC Sp. z o. o. in Gliwice in 2020. The following product standards were used: PN-EN 60601-1-2:2015-11 - medical electrical equipment (general requirements for basic safety and essential functioning; PN-EN 55011:2012 - industrial, scientific and medical equipment [characteristics of radio frequency disturbances] ) PN-EN 61000-3-2:2014-10 - electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), permissible levels of harmonic current emissions (phase load current ≤ 16 A).</br> <b><br>Results:</b> The level of expanded uncertainty in the measurement of conducted disturbances in the range of 0.150-30MHz does not exceed the level specified in the PN-EN-55016-4-2:2011 standard. In the study of the emission of radiated disturbances up to 1GHz in the frequency range of 30-1000MHz (PN-EN 55011:2012 standard), it was found that the setting of the EUT during the tests was in accordance with the requirements of the standard. The level of expanded uncertainty in the measurement of radiated disturbances in the 30-1000MHz range does not exceed the level specified in the PN-EN 55016-4-2:2011 standard. The measured current harmonic levels (phase power supply current ≤16A) with a frequency range of 50Hz-2kHz do not exceed the permissible levels specified in the PN-EN 61000-3-2:2014-10 standard. The test of resistance to the magnetic field at the frequency of the power grid (PN-EN 61000-4-8: 2010 standard also showed that the setting of the EUT during the tests was in accordance with the requirements of the standard and the result was positive.</br> <b><br>Conclusions:</b> Testing of immunity to radiated radio frequency electromagnetic field (PN-EN 61000-4-3:2007 +A1:2008+A2:2011 standard) and testing of resistance to magnetic field at power frequency (PN-EN 61000-4-8 standard :2010) did not exceed the level specified in the standard and showed a positive result. The measured harmonic levels of the network current (phase supply current ≤16A) with the frequency range 50Hz-2kHz do not exceed the permissible levels specified in the PN-EN 61000- 3-2:2014-10 standard for a class A device.</br>.

Effectiveness of bimodal auditory and electrical stimulation in patients with tinnitus: A feasibility study.

Background: Tinnitus is a common symptom, affecting about 10-15% of the adult population. When input from the somatosensory system can influence and/or elicit tinnitus, this type of subjective tinnitus is called somatosensory tinnitus. Recently, a new type of bimodal neurostimulation treatment has shown promising results for a specific subgroup within the somatosensory tinnitus population. It is, however, not clear if this bimodal stimulation is also effective in patients with other types of subjective tinnitus. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of non-invasive bimodal auditory-somatosensory stimulation in reducing tinnitus severity among a general population of people with subjective tinnitus. Methods: Chronic subjective tinnitus patients were recruited from the ENT department of the Antwerp University Hospital. Somatosensory stimulation was delivered by Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), and it was combined with auditory stimulation via headphones. The therapy comprised six sessions of thirty minutes twice a week for a period of 3 consecutive weeks. Follow up measurements were scheduled 9-12 weeks after the last treatment session. The change of the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) score, a questionnaire evaluating tinnitus burden and effects on the quality of life, was the primary outcome measure. Results: Twenty-nine patients were enrolled in the study. A linear mixed-effects model was used to analyze the efficacy of bimodal treatment. The results of this analysis showed a statistically significant decrease (by 6, 9 points) in average TFI score at the follow up visit when compared to baseline. The ability to modulate tinnitus did not have an influence on the treatment results. Conclusion: Our study showed that bimodal stimulation is a feasible and safe method of tinnitus treatment. The method might be an effective treatment for some participants with tinnitus, especially those who have accompanying neck/temporomandibular problems, although, the evidence from this trial is quite weak. Additional research is needed toward establishing the optimal treatment protocol, as well as selecting the most appropriate inclusion criteria.

Assessment of Subjective Tinnitus Treatment Results Using a Prototype Device for Electrical and Magnetic Stimulation of the Ear-Preliminary Study.

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of subjective tinnitus treatment in patients with cochlear sensorineural hearing loss with magnetic ear stimulation using a prototype device. Since the 1970s, studies have been conducted on the use of electrical stimulation of the ear in the treatment of tinnitus. The available literature contains various hypotheses about the influence of electrical stimulation of the ear on tinnitus. Material and Methods: Preclinical studies were performed for 100 patients, 40 women and 60 men (124 ears in total), aged 38-72 years, treated for tinnitus. A subjective assessment of the loudness of tinnitus was performed, and the frequency and intensity as well as hearing threshold were determined using a prototype device for electro-magnetic stimulation of the ear. The treatment cycle consisted of 10 five-minute stimulations performed daily 5 times a week. Results: Before treatment, persistent tinnitus was found in 100 ears (80.6%) and periodic tinnitus in 24 ears (19.4%). Immediately after treatment, persistent tinnitus was present only in 50 ears (40.3%) and periodic tinnitus in 40 ears (32.3%). Complete resolution of tinnitus was noted in 34 ears (27.4%). On the other hand, the examination performed 3 months after the treatment showed persistent tinnitus in 40 ears (32.3%) and periodic tinnitus in 50 ears (40.3%), and complete resolution of tinnitus was recorded in 34 ears (27.4%). Based on the VAS analog scale, there was an improvement in tinnitus in 98 ears (79.0%) immediately after treatment and no improvement in 26 ears (20.0%). The mean VAS scale before treatment was 4.9 points, after treatment it was 2.1 points and 3 months after treatment it was 1.9 points. Conclusions: The preliminary research results show the high effectiveness of magnetic stimulation in the treatment of tinnitus with the use of a prototype device for electromagnetic stimulation of the ear. There was no negative effect of the stimulation on hearing or tinnitus.

Analysis of the causes of the occurrence and treatment results of sudden hearing loss/deafness in the own material.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to analyze the causes of the occurrence and treatment results of sudden hearing loss / deafness in own material. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The tests were performed in 64 women aged 10-89 years and 70 men aged 18-85 years, who were treated in the Department of Otolaryngology due to sudden hearing loss / deafness in 2011-2020. A retrospective analysis was carried out on the basis of the data contained in the medical documentation, taking into account: gender, age of patients, type of symptoms, establishing the circumstances and possible causes of the appearance of symptoms, audiological and imaging tests, the cause of the sudden hearing loss / deafness and applied treatment. RESULTS: In the conducted research it was found that sudden hearing loss / deafness was the most common in women and men in the age range of 51-60 years and 61-70 years. Sudden hearing loss/ deafness was accompanied by the following symptoms in both women and men: tinnitus in 48,4% and 74,3%, tinnitus and vertigo in 28,1% and 14,3%, and vertigo in 6,3% and in 1,4%. In own research, the most common cause of sudden hearing loss/deafness in women and men was respectively: idiopathic cause in 43,8% and 40,0%, infectious in 18,8%, vascular in 12,4% and 12,9%, and neurovascular conflict (included separately) in 12,4% and 12,9%, while in men the acoustic trauma should also be mentioned in 18,5%. The best results in the treatment of sudden hearing loss / deafness on a three-point scale, which depends on the treatment method used, both in women and men, i.e. complete relief of symptoms obtained after the use of vascular drugs with steroid therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy - in 25,0% and 22,9%, partial relief of symptoms occurred after vascular treatment with steroid therapy - in 28,1% and 37,2%. CONCLUSIONS: Sudden hearing loss / deafness in both women and men was accompanied by tinnitus, tinnitus and vertigo and vertigo at the same time. In own research the most common cause of sudden hearing loss / deafness in both women and men was: idiopathic, infectious, vascular and neurovascular conflict. The best emergency treatment outcomes of sudden hearing loss / deafness according to a three-level scale, depending on the applied method of treatment, both in women and men, i.e. complete relief of symptoms was obtained after the use of vascular drugs with steroid therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapyKey words: causes, occurrence, treatment results, sudden hearing loss / deafnes.

Expression of Programmed Death Receptor 1 (PD-1) Gene and Its Ligand (PD-L1) in Patients with Laryngeal Cancer.

(1) Background: The interaction of the programmed death receptor (PD-1) with its ligand 1 (PD-L1) allows cancer cells to escape from the control of the immune system. Research evaluating the expression of immune checkpoint genes in the tissues of laryngeal tumors may contribute to the introduction of new effective immunotherapeutic methods in this group of neoplasms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of the gene for the programmed death receptor (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) in laryngeal tumors (T1, T2, T3) in patients without lymph node involvement and distant metastases. (2) Methods: The study included 73 patients: 39 of them were diagnosed with carcinoma planoepiteliale keratodes (study group) and 34 with nasal septal deviation undergoing septoplasty (control group). Biological material for molecular tests (Real time PCR) was collected during surgical procedures. Furthermore, all study participants completed a questionnaire regarding, among others, smoking and body weight. (3) Results: Gene expression for programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) and its ligand 1 (PD-L1) was, statistically, significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in tumor tissue than in unchanged mucosa. Moreover, it was found that the greater the tumor size, the higher the expression level of the tested molecules. (4) Conclusions: Although further research on the role of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in laryngeal tumors is necessary, the presented reports are promising and may constitute a contribution to considerations on the introduction of targeted immunotherapy with anti-PD1 and anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of these tumors.

Evaluation of VHIT values compared to other diagnostic tests that can be performed in a patient with dizziness and balance disorders.

<b>Introduction:</b> Dizziness and imbalance occur in 20-30% of adults, which is a significant health problem.</br></br> <b>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to assess the value of the VHIT test against the background of other diagnostic tests, including videonystagmographic (VNG) examination, Dix-Hallpike maneuver, VHIT test, posturographic examination, which are possible to perform in a patient with dizziness. </br></br> <b>Material and methods:</b> The study was performed in 200 patients aged 18-78 years, who were divided into two groups: I study - 100 patients with mixed dizziness, aged 18-78 years, II (reference group) - 100 healthy patients (students of the Faculty of Mili-tary and Medical University of Lodz and patients of the Clinic, without anamnesis of body imbalances (preventive examination), aged 20-60 years. After performing an otorynolaryngological subjective and physical examination, each patient was subjected to a caloric test according to Fitzgerald-Hallpike in the VNG test using a water calorimeter. Then the Dix-Hallpike maneuver was performed, while the activity of semicircular canals in the VHIT test was determined on the basis of the GAIN value. In randomly selected patients, posturographic examinations were additionally carried out.</br></br> <b>Results:</b> Based on the positive Dix-Hallpike maneuver, damage in the posterior semicircular canal in group I was found in 9 women (9.0%) and 4 men (4.0%), while a negative maneuver was noted in all people in group II. In group I in the VHIT study, damage to the semicircular canals most often concerned the following parts: anterior in 29 women (44.60%) and in 15 men (42.85%); posterior, in 19 (29.23%) and 8 (22.85%), respectively; lateral, in 3 (4.61%) and 3 (8.57%), respectively. </br></br> <b>Conclusions:</b> The VHIT study in detail assesses the labyrinth canal deficit in all cases of peripheral and mixed dizziness, inc-luding otolithic origin, but does not allow for evident differentiation of BPPV with mixed dizziness of other origin. The VHIT test is a recommended diagnostic tool in BPPV in combination with other positional tests that allow to determine otolithiasis, such as: Hallpike test for the posterior semicircular canal. The VHIT test should be analyzed against the background of other diagnostic tests that can be performed in a patient with dizziness and balance disorders.

Synergistic effect of fennel essential oil and hydrogen peroxide on bacterial biofilm.

INTRODUCTION: Staphylococcal biofilm formation significantly challenges wound management. The causes of difficult-to-treat wounds are not only methicillin-resistant staphylococci, but also methicillin-sensitive strains with different patterns of resistance. Bacterial biofilm significantly limits the access and activity of antimicrobials used in dermatological infections. AIM: To evaluate the synergistic effect of fennel essential oil (FEO) and H2O2 on biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA and MRSA) reference strains. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined for FEO and H2O2 against S. aureus reference strains by the broth microdilution method. The combined effects of the FEO and H2O2 were calculated and expressed in terms of a fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) using the checkerboard method. The FEO composition was analyzed by the GC-MS method. The data were analysed by one-way ANOVA. RESULTS: Decreased MIC values for FEO combined with H2O2 were observed in comparison to FEO itself. The combinations of FEO and H2O2 determined synergistic effects on all S. aureus reference strains. Subinhibitory concentration of FEO alone and in combination with 0.5 MIC of H2O2 significantly decreased the production of biofilm biomass in S. aureus strains and reduced the metabolic activity of attached cells. CONCLUSIONS: Combination of fennel essential oil containing nearly 80% trans-anethole and H2O2 represents a potential for further basic and applied research on wound management.

Evaluation of selected parameters of the coagulation system during the perioperative period in patients undergoing endoscopic surgery of the paranasal sinuses.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to evaluate selected parameters of the coagulation system during the perioperative period in patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved 121 patients: group I - 42 patients who did not receive anticoagulatory or antiplatelet medications, qualified for endoscopic sinus surgery under total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA); group II - 40 patients who received in the perioperative period low-molecular-weight heparins, qualified for endoscopic sinus surgery under TIVA; group III - 39 patients diagnosed according to a schedule, due to vertigo or loss of hearing. All the patients received a full laryngological examination and detailed audiological and otoneurological diagnostics, and examination of selected haemostatic parameters before the surgery/diagnostics. RESULTS: The analysis of concentrations of coagulation parameters in groups I and II revealed a statistically significantly higher international normalized ratio value before surgery (I - 1.11; II - 1.08) and 48 h following surgery (I - 1.15; II - 1.10) in group I. The concentration of coagulation factor VII in the study patients was considerably higher in group I for all three measurements (481.93; 443.13; 486.02). The concentration of fibrinogen (coagulation factor I) was significantly lower in group I before surgery (3.2) and at 6 h after surgery (2.84). A significantly lower level of von Willebrand factor was found in group I before surgery (2.94). Comparing test results of groups I and III, who did not receive antiaggregants, statistically significant differences were observed in both tests for factors VII and VIII. CONCLUSIONS: Concentrations of von Willebrand factor and prothrombin revealed statistically significant differences in between groups.

Influence of nasal mucosa irritants on the occurrence of chronic rhinosinusitis without /and with polyps.

<b>Introduction: </b>The aim of the study was to assess the effect of nasal mucosa irritants on the occurrence of chronic rhinosinusitis without/and with nasal polyps. <br><b>Material and methods:</b> The study involved 100 adult participants, including 39 women and 61 men, aged 21-68, diagnosed and treated at the Department of Otolaryngology, ENT Oncology, Audiology and Phoniatrics at the University Clinical Hospital WAM in Lódz. Based on the otorhinolaryngological and imaging (CT) tests they were divided into two groups: I - 50 patients, including 23 women and 27 men, aged 21-64 - with chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps, II - 50 patients, including 16 women and 34 men, aged 22-68 - with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. The control group consisted of 50 people (group III), including 25 women and 25 men, aged 18-30, students of the Faculty of Military Medicine at the Medical University of Lodz. All respondents completed a prepared questionnaire consisting of 17 questions addressed in the form of an anonymous interview among patients treated in the Department of Otolaryngology, ENT Oncology, Audiology and Phoniatrics. <br><b>Results:</b> The conducted surveys indicate the impact of the following factors in pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis without/ with nasal polyps: exogenous factors (viruses, bacteria, fungi, drugs, injuries, toxic substances, environmental pollution), general endogenous factors (allergy, hypersensitivity to acetylsalicylic acid and its derivatives, hormonal disorders, supraesophageal reflux disease, granulation disease, immunity disorders, local endogenous factors. <br><b>Conclusions:</b> In the examined material, patients with chronic rhinosinusitis without/and nasal polyps in most cases are in the age range 51-60 years and over 60 years, they most often live in large cities over 250 thousand inhabitants, suffer from allergic rhinorhinitis in 38.0% in group I and 36.0% in group II, rapid temperature changes and dry air have a negative impact on comfort of breathing. The conducted surveys confirm that the cause of chronic rhinosinusitis with polyps is multifactorial, but a significant factor affecting typical tissue remodeling in this disease is long-term breathing of polluted atmospheric air.

Own experience in the treatment of major salivary gland tumors.

INTRODUCTION: The paper aims to demonstrate the Clinic's and own research in the treatment of major salivary gland tumors. MATERIAL AND METHOD: In the years 2013-2019, there were 95 salivary gland surgeries, including 45 performed in women (47.36%) aged between 24 and 82 and in 50 men (52.64%) aged 29 to 86. Diagnostics of major salivary glands included: patient history, otolaryngological examination, ultrasound and fine needle aspiration (BACC) (of tumor), laboratory tests (morphology, CRP) and computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to accurately assess salivary glands, location of lesion and lymph nodes prior to elective surgery. Research results: In the analyzed material patients with major salivary gland tumors were most frequently operated on at the age of 61-70 (34.7%) and 51-60 years (23.2%). Most patients with tumors were hospitalized in the last 4 years between 2016-2019, which accounted for 77.8% of all operated cases. Among the operated lesions, benign neoplasms and tumors occurred in 93.7%, of which the most frequent findings in histopathological examination were Warthin tumor in 50.5%, and multiform adenoma in 26.3%. The remaining tumors and benign neoplasms constituted only 16.9% and were observed in isolated cases, including eosinophilic adenoma, lymphoepithelial cyst, myoepithelial adenoma, lipofibrosarcoma, congestive cyst, air cyst, tubular adenoma, basal cell carcinoma, cyst with squamous metaplasia features, vascular malformation. Malignant salivary gland tumors were found in 6.3%, including the following malignant tumors were revealed histopathologically: adenocarcinoma, mucoepidermal carcinoma, acinocellular carcinoma, epithelialmyoepithelial carcinoma, ductal carcinoma. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of operated salivary gland tumors were benign (93.7%), of which the most common histopathologically were: Warthin tumor (50.5%) and multiform adenoma (26.3%), while malignant tumors occurred in 6.3%. Tumors were localized mainly in the parotid gland in as many as 93.7% cases, of which the most common localization concerned the superficial lobe in 56.8%. The most frequent surgical technique used in the Clinic was extracapsular dissection of the tumor in 88.4%, and other methods were used rarely.

Comparison of two VHIT software programs in diagnostics of semicircular canals.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this work was to assess SCC function in VHIT test, using both versions of VHIT ULMER. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was performed in 57 subjects aged 22-33 years (48 women and 9 men) without vertigo in anamnesis. Patients did not complain of any "vertigo" ailments or any balance disorder incidents in the past. All tests using either VHIT I or VHIT II were performed by the same person. The function of lateral SCC in VHIT ULMER II was examined similarly like in VHIT ULMER I. In both methods was used the same sensitivity threshold parameters for horizontal and vertical accelerations (horizontal - 2500, vertical - 1600). Each of these sequences enables a parameter, called represented GAIN, to be calculated in form of a point on the canalogram. RESULTS: GAIN represents the deviation of the gaze in comparison to the deviation of the head between the first (t - 0 ms) and the fourth image (t = 120 ms). The calculation formula is: GAIN (in %) =100 x DG/RH. DG is deviation of the gaze ("gaze velocity in space") and RH is rotation of the head ("head velocity or impulse canal paresis"). Normal GAIN value ranges 1-40%. CONCLUSIONS: The examination using VHIT ULMER II appears to be a more sensitive diagnostic method than VHIT ULMER I. Improved software with automated functions such as camera adjustments, examination surface arrangement, of VHIT ULMER II, enables technician to shorten the time of examination, simultaneously providing a range of new information about the condition of oculo-vestibular system.

Own experience in the diagnosis and treatment of elongated styloid process syndrome.

<b>Introduction:</b> The aim of the study was to present selected cases with Eagle's syndrome diagnosed and treated at the Department of Otolaryngology, Laryngological Oncology, Audiology and Phoniatrics, Medical University of Lodz, in the years 2016-2020. <br><b>Material and method:</b> Five selected clinical cases with Eagle's syndrome are presented, including three male patients and two female patients, aged 28 to 42 years. <br><b>Results:</b> The prevalence of Eagle's syndrome was similar for both female and male patients. The carotid artery syndrome, which is characterized by: visual disturbances, unilateral pain located along cervical vessels, headache and migraine, was more common. Lack of proper diagnosis of Eagle's syndrome often significantly delays the implementation of proper treatment and thus exposes patients to long-term struggle with pain. Our observations have shown that the time between the onset of symptoms and correct diagnosis in patients averaged about five years. 3D-CT scan is the gold standard for detecting Eagle's syndrome. An intraoral approach was used in surgical treatment. Although this approach offers shorter treatment time and better cosmetic effect, there is also a greater risk of complications associated with limited visibility of the surgical field and infection. <br><b>Conclusions:</b> Although styloid syndrome usually occurs bilaterally, these patients reported unilateral symptoms. No correlations were found between the prevalence of Eagle's syndrome and sex, the length of the styloid process or age, nor side of the body. The best healing effect is obtained by surgical correction/reduction of the elongated styloid process.

Retrospective evaluation of risk factors for oral cavity and oropharynx cancers in patients under the program of head and neck cancers prevention.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to analyze the risk factors for oral cavity and pharyngeal cancer in people examined under the Head and Neck Cancer Prophylaxis Program. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted in a total of 300 patients, including 186 women and 114 men, as part of the Head and Neck Cancer Prevention Program in 2014-2018. Before the laryngological examination, the patients completed a demographic and medical questionnaire regarding the risk factors of head and neck cancer, including education, reported disease symptoms, smoking addiction, number of cigarettes smoked daily, alcohol consumption, frequency of visits in a dental office, oral hygiene measures, number of sexual partners, oral sex, family medical history of head and neck cancer. RESULTS: The subjects reported the following symptoms: hoarseness 43.33%, difficulty swallowing 21.33%, pain or mouth burning 20.33% and other symptoms were observed in 46.33%. The main dental symptoms were: bleeding from the gums during teeth brushing in 48.89%, dry mouth 45.56%. Currently 20.33% of respondents smoke, whereas 54% of patients smoked in the past. In the analyzed material, the majority (80%) consumed alcoholic beverages. 27.67% of respondents admitted having oral sex, including 24.73% of women and 32.46% of men. After performing the extended diagnostics, the tumor was found in 10% of the subjects. C onclusions: Statistical significance of differences was found: between hoarseness and alcohol consumption, both in women and in men, between hoarseness and smoking in women, between difficulty in swallowing and smoking in women, between burning/pain in the mouth and smoking in men, between hoarseness and the cultivation of oral sex in men, between the difficulty of swallowing and the practice of oral sex in the studied men and between burning/pain in the oral cavity and the occurrence of malignancy.

Comparative evaluation of the diagnostic value of biopsy and NBI endoscopy in patients with cancer of the hypopharynx and larynx.

INTRODUCTION: Novel endoscopic technique - Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) seems to be a promising method for an early detection of neoplastic lesions of the upper aerodigestive tract. Compared to white light endoscopy, NBI improves the visualisation of the mucosal and submucosal microvascular patterns of observed pathologies. The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of biopsy and NBI in patients with cancer of the larynx and hypopharynx. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted in 100 adult subjects hospitalized in the Clinic of Otolaryngology, Laryngological Oncology, Audiology and Phoniatrics of Military Medical Academy University Teaching Hospital in Lodz, who were planned for surgical procedures for excision or surgical biopsy of pathological lesions of the hypopharynx or larynx. The following examinations were performed: subjective and objective, otorhinolaryngological, NBI endoscopy and histopathological assessment of suspicious lesions. The microvascular pattern of observed lesions was assessed according to the Ni scale criteria. The next stage of the study was to compare the endoscopic examination results (type of vascular pattern according to the Ni scale) with the histopathological result. The obtained results were subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: The sensitivity of NBI endoscopy in detection of malignant neoplasms in patients with hypopharynx and larynx lesions is 90.48%, specificity - 91.14%, positive predictive value - 73.08%, negative predictive value - 97.30%. C onclusions: NBI endoscopy is a modern imaging method, increasing the diagnostic potential of endoscopy in the early detection of malignant lesions within the hypopharynx and larynx.

Acoustic and capacity analysis of the vocal organ in patients with functional and organic larynx disorders using the DiagnoScope Specialist software.

AIM: The aim of the study was to assess the acoustic and capacity analysis of singing voice using DiagnoScope Specialist software. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted in 131 adult subjects, including 74 women and 46 men aged 21-51, divided into 3 groups: I - 40 subjects (treatment group) - professional vocalists, II - 40 subjects (treatment group) - semiprofessional vocalists, III - 40 subjects (control group) - students of The Military Medical Faculty at the Medical University of Lodz - nonsingers. The research methodology included: primary medical history, physical examination (otolaryngological), videolaryngoscopic examination, the GRBAS scale for subjective voice evaluation, diagnostic voice acoustic and capacity analysis using DiagnoScope Specialist software, survey on lifestyle patterns which may affect voice quality. R esults: Average value of the fundamental frequency F0 was the highest in professional vocalists group; it was 316.46 Hz in women and 165.09 Hz in men. In semiprofessional vocalists group it was accordingly 260.50 Hz and 149.26 Hz, in nonsingers group it was accordingly 261.23 Hz and 159.27 Hz. The mean value of Jitter parameter in professional vocalists group was 0.30% in women and 0.54% in men, in semiprofessional vocalists group it was accordingly 0.31% and 0.57%, in nonsingers group it was 0.31% and 0.56%. The mean value of Shimmer parameter in professional vocalists group was 3.27% in women and 3.75% in men, in semiprofessional vocalists group it was accordingly 3.46% and 3.77%, in nonsingers group it was 4.33% and 4.39%. The mean value of the NHR index in professional vocalists group was 3.28% in women and 6.00% in men, in semiprofessional vocalists group it was accordingly 3.23% and 6.72%, in nonsingers group it was 3.89% and 6.13%. CONCLUSIONS: Values of the parameters which measure the character of the voice, relative period-to-period fundamental frequency perturbations, relative period-to-period amplitude perturbation and level of buzzing together with other methods have diagnostic and predictive value in early detection of voice disorders. Capacity analysis in singing voice showed very low values of the following parameters: phonation time, true phonation time, no phonation coefficient, voice efficiency coefficient and voice capacity.

The effect of fennel essential oil and trans-anethole on antibacterial activity of mupirocin against Staphylococcus aureus isolated from asymptomatic carriers.

INTRODUCTION: Staphylococcus aureus constitutes the most pathogenic species within the staphylococcal genus. Humans remain the major reservoirs of this pathogen which colonizes mostly anterior nares of healthy individuals. AIM: To investigate the effect of fennel essential oil (FEO) and trans-anethole (tA) on antibacterial activity of mupirocin (MUP) against S. aureus strains isolated from asymptomatic carriers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The content of the FEO was analysed with use of the GC-MS method. The research done on 43 S. aureus isolates with different resistance patterns, obtained from nasal vestibule. Antibacterial activity of MUP in combination with FEO or tA was examined using the agar dilution method and E-test method. The data analysis was done with the Pearson's χ2 test. RESULTS: The chemical composition of FEO was consistent with the European Pharmacopoeia (EP) for the main constituent - tA (77.9%) according to the EP recommendations. Macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B resistance phenotype was prevalent among 39.5% of S. aureus isolates. FEO concentrations of 2.0% and 2.5% revealed antibacterial activity against 76.7% of isolates, whereas tA inhibited S. aureus growth at concentrations > 4.0%. The MIC values for MUP combined with FEO as well as for MUP combined with tA were < 0.064 µg/ml for 79.1% and 86.0% of S. aureus isolates, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our experiment revealed FEO and tA influence on MUP effectiveness. The combination of MUP with FEO as well as MUP with tA are worth considering to implement in S. aureus eradication procedures. These findings will be useful in designing efficient antistaphylococcal agents which can limit the emergence of antibiotic resistance.

The usefulness of the acoustic and the capacity analysis of singing voice.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to assess the acoustic and capacity analysis of singing voice using DiagnoScope Specialist software. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted in 120 adults subjects, including 74 women and 46 men aged 21-5, were divided into 3 groups: I -40 subjects (treatment group) - professional vocalists, II- 40 subjects (treatment group) - semiprofessional vocalists, III- 40 subjects (control group) - students of The Military Medical Faculty at Medical University of Lodz - nonsingers. The research methodology included: primary medical history, physical examination (otolaryngological), vdeolaryngoscopic examination, the GRBAS scale for subjective voice evaluation, diagnostic voice acoustic and capacity analysis using DiagnoScope Specialist software, survey on lifestyle patterns which may affect voice quality. RESULTS: Average value of the fundamental frequency F0 was the highest in professional vocalists' group was 316,46 Hz in women and 165,09 Hz in men, in semiprofessional vocalists' group was accordingly 260,50 Hz and 149,26 Hz, in nonsingers' group was accordingly 261,23 Hz and 159, 27 Hz. Average value of Jitter parameter in professional vocalists' group was 0,30% in women and 0,54% in men, in semiprofessional vocalists' group was accordingly 0,31% and 0,57%, in nonsingers' group was 0,31% and 0,56%. Average value of Shimmer parameter in professional vocalists' group was 3,27% in women and 3,75% in men, in semiprofessional vocalists' group was accordingly 3,46% and 3,77%, in nonsingers' group was 4,33% and 4,39%. Average value of NHR index in professional vocalists' group was 3,28% in women and 6,00% in men, in semiprofessional vocalists' group was accordingly 3,23% and 6,72%, in nonsingers' group was 3,89% and 6,13%. CONCLUSIONS: Values of the parameters which are measuring the character of the voice, relative period-to-period fundamental frequency perturbations, relative period-to-period amplitude perturbation and level of buzzing together with other methods have diagnostic and predictive value in early detection of voice disorders. Capacity analysis in singing voice showed very low values of the following parameters: phonation time, true phonation time, no phonation coefficient, voice efficiency coefficient and voice capacity. Key words: The acoustic and capacity analysis, singing voice.