Cricohyoidoepiglottopexy in an emergency scenario: Evaluation and management of a severe laryngeal trauma.

We describe the clinical evaluation and the management of a severe laryngeal trauma in a suicidal patient. We aim to demonstrate how the cricohyoidoepiglottopexy, which is a surgical technique mainly performed for oncological purposes, can be successfully used in this emergency setting.

Pharyngocutaneous fistulas after total laryngectomy or pharyngolaryngectomy: Place of video-fluoroscopic swallowing study.

BACKGROUND: Specify place of video-fluoroscopic swallowing study (VFS) in the decision of oral refeeding after total pharyngolaryngectomy. METHODS: At postoperative day 7, a blue dye testing was performed. If negative, a VFS was performed looking for a blind fistula. If this exam was negative, oral refeeding was started, but if a blind fistula was observed, cervical compression bandage was performed. RESULTS: In 186 patients, a VFS was performed for 142 patients with negative blue dye testing. It was negative for 98 patients (69%) and positive for 44 patients (31%) (blind fistula). Patients had a probability of 7.1% to have a secondary pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) if the VFS was negative, and 15.9% if it was positive. No risk factor for the development of a secondary PCF or a blind fistula emerged from our analysis. CONCLUSION: VFS should be performed before any oral refeeding in all patients operated with a total pharyngolaryngectomy.

Prevalence and Recovery From Olfactory and Gustatory Dysfunctions in Covid-19 Infection: A Prospective Multicenter Study.

BACKGROUND: Covid-19 is defined by an association of multiple symptoms, including frequently reported olfactory and gustatory disorders. OBJECTIVE: The main purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of these neurosensory impairments in patients with Covid-19, and to assess short-term recovery. METHODS: We performed a multicenter case series study during the Covid-19 epidemic. All patients presenting a RT-PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection were included, whether hospitalized or treated at home. To analyze the prevalence and features of olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions, a phone interview was conducted 5 days after the positive PCR result. The questionnaire was submitted again 10 days later to patients having reported olfactory and gustatory disorders, in order to assess their recovery. RESULTS: 115 patients were included in our study. 81 patients (70%) reported olfactory and gustatory disorders without nasal obstruction or rhinorrhea. These impairments were more frequently reported in the female population, young people, and house-bound patients with mild symptomatic forms. Short-term recovery assessed at Day 15 was complete for 64% of the patients, and incomplete in 33%. Median recovery time was 15 days (4-27 days) after olfactory or gustatory symptom onset. CONCLUSION: Olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions related to Covid-19 are frequently reported and prevalent in mild symptomatic forms of the disease. Recovery in most cases seems rapid and complete.