Transoral endoscopic vestibular approach Sistrunk procedure (TEVAS)-case report and scoping review.

Background: Thyroglossal duct cyst (TGDC) is the most common congenital neck mass among the pediatric population. Less than 10% of the cases occur in adults. The standard of care for TGDC is surgical treatment with the Sistrunk procedure via a traditional transverse cervicotomy. This technique involves the resection of the cyst with its tract and the central portion of the hyoid bone body to avoid recurrence. The transoral vestibular approach has gained popularity as an alternative approach to open neck surgery in order to eliminate the transcervical scar associated with these procedures. Methods: We describe a case of an endoscopic Sistrunk procedure performed by the transoral vestibular approach. A scoping review of the transoral endoscopic vestibular approach Sistrunk procedure (TEVAS) was performed. The PubMed, Medline, Cochrane, Lilacs, Scielo, Mary Ann Libert and Scopus databases were systematically searched by using a Medical Subject Heading (MeSH)-optimized search strategy. The selection of papers followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines after setting inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The case was successful and without complications. Five studies were included in the final analysis for this review. Conclusions: This novel approach to the Sistrunk procedure is an effective alternative way to treat TGDC in selected patients who are motivated to avoid a visible neck scar.

Transoral thyroid and parathyroid surgery in Brazil: where are we?

INTRODUCTION: thyroid surgery through the transoral vestibular approach is a reality in many countries. While several competing remote access techniques have been developed in the last 20 years, many were not reproducible. Transoral Endoscopic Neck Surgery (TNS) has been shown to be reproducible in different centers around the world, and approximately five years after its description it has been adopted relatively quickly for various reasons. To date, there are at least 7 Brazilian studies published, including a series of more than 400 cases. The aim of this work is to study the progression of Transoral Neck Surgery in Brazil and describe the profile of surgeons involved in this new approach. METHODS: this is a retrospective study with descriptive statistics. A REDCap based survey about transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA/TOEPVA) was done with 66 Brazilian surgeons regarding surgeon profile, numbers of cases performed by geographic region, what kind of training was necessary prior to the first case and behavior of the surgeon proposing these new approaches. RESULTS: response rate of this survey was 53%. To date, 1275 TOETVA/TOEPVA cases had been performed in Brazil, 1229 thyroidectomies (96.4%), 42 parathyroidectomies (3.3%) and 4 combined procedures (0.3%). Most of the cases were done in the southeast region (821, 64.4%), 538 (42.2%) cases in the State of São Paulo and 283 (22.2%) cases in the State of Rio de Janeiro. CONCLUSIONS: TOETVA is becoming popular in Brazil. Younger surgeons, especially those between 30 and 50 years old were more likely to adopt this approach.

Transoral thyroid and parathyroid surgery in Brazil: where are we? / Cirurgia transoral de tireóide e paratireóide no Brasil: onde estamos?

ABSTRACT Introduction: thyroid surgery through the transoral vestibular approach is a reality in many countries. While several competing remote access techniques have been developed in the last 20 years, many were not reproducible. Transoral Endoscopic Neck Surgery (TNS) has been shown to be reproducible in different centers around the world, and approximately five years after its description it has been adopted relatively quickly for various reasons. To date, there are at least 7 Brazilian studies published, including a series of more than 400 cases. The aim of this work is to study the progression of Transoral Neck Surgery in Brazil and describe the profile of surgeons involved in this new approach. Methods: this is a retrospective study with descriptive statistics. A REDCap based survey about transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA/TOEPVA) was done with 66 Brazilian surgeons regarding surgeon profile, numbers of cases performed by geographic region, what kind of training was necessary prior to the first case and behavior of the surgeon proposing these new approaches. Results: response rate of this survey was 53%. To date, 1275 TOETVA/TOEPVA cases had been performed in Brazil, 1229 thyroidectomies (96.4%), 42 parathyroidectomies (3.3%) and 4 combined procedures (0.3%). Most of the cases were done in the southeast region (821, 64.4%), 538 (42.2%) cases in the State of São Paulo and 283 (22.2%) cases in the State of Rio de Janeiro. Conclusions: TOETVA is becoming popular in Brazil. Younger surgeons, especially those between 30 and 50 years old were more likely to adopt this approach.

RESUMO Introdução: a cirurgia de tireoide por via transoral vestibular é uma realidade em muitos países. Embora várias outras técnicas de acesso remoto tenham sido desenvolvidas nos últimos 20 anos, muitas não eram reprodutíveis. A cirurgia endoscópica cervical transoral (TNS - Transoral Neck Surgery) tem se mostrado reprodutível em diferentes centros ao redor do mundo sendo que, aproximadamente cinco anos após sua descrição, foi adotada de forma relativamente rápida por vários motivos. Até o momento, existem pelo menos 7 estudos brasileiros publicados, incluindo uma série de mais de 400 casos. O objetivo deste trabalho é estudar a evolução da Cirurgia Transoral do Pescoço (TNS) no Brasil e descrever o perfil dos cirurgiões envolvidos nesta nova abordagem. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo descritivo. Uma pesquisa online hospedada no REDCap sobre tireoidectomia e paratireoidectomia endoscópica transoral por abordagem vestibular (TOETVA/TOEPVA) foi realizada com 66 cirurgiões brasileiros. Foram levantados dados sobre o perfil do cirurgião, número de casos realizados por região geográfica, que tipo de treinamento foi necessário antes do primeiro caso e comportamento do cirurgião durante o relacionamento com o paciente ao abordar essas novas técnicas. Resultados: a taxa de resposta desta pesquisa foi de 53%. Até o momento, 1.275 casos de TOETVA/TOEPVA foram realizados no Brasil, sendo 1.229 tireoidectomias (96,4%), 42 paratireoidectomias (3,3%) e 4 procedimentos combinados (0,3%). A maioria dos casos foi realizada na região sudeste (821, 64,4%), 538 (42,2%) casos no estado de São Paulo e 283 (22,2%) casos no estado do Rio de Janeiro. Conclusões: a TOETVA está se popularizando no Brasil. Cirurgiões mais jovens, especialmente aqueles entre 30 e 50 anos, são mais propensos a adotar essa abordagem.

Safely performing percutaneous dilatational tracheostomies on COVID-19 patients in the intensive care unit: A standardized approach.

BACKGROUND: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and the resulting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have afflicted hundreds of millions of people in a worldwide pandemic. During this pandemic, otolaryngologists have sought to better understand risk factors associated with COVID-19 contamination during surgical procedures involving the airways such as tracheostomies. OBJECTIVE: This study provides a standardized technique of performing an ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) on COVID-19 patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). It also outlines safety strategies for health care providers that includes proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and regular testing of otolaryngologists for COVID-19 contamination. METHODS: This study analyzed data from 44 PDT procedures performed on COVID-19 patients in the ICU of hospitals in Sao Paulo and Santos, Brazil. The PDT procedures were conducted between April 2020 and August 2020, which coincided with a peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in São Paulo, Brazil. Surgeons were tested for COVID-19 using a two-stage serological enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay specific for SARS-CoV-2 antigens. CONCLUSION: This study describes a safe standardized technique of US-guided PDT for COVID-19 patients in the ICU using a method that also decreases the risk of surgeon contamination.

Quality of life after Supracricoid Partial Laryngectomy.

BACKGROUND: Supracricoid partial laryngectomy has good oncologic results in the treatment of advanced laryngeal cancer with the advantage of preserving larynx phonatory function when compared with total laryngectomy. However the rehabilitation could be a challenge, especially regarding swallowing function. Is supracricoid partial laryngectomy associated with better quality of life than total laryngectomy? METHODS: Survey study that included 33 patients (16 total laryngectomy and 17 supracricoid partial laryngectomy) with advanced larynx cancer surgically treated and fully rehabilitated. The quality of life were evaluated with EORTC QLQ C30 and H&N 35 instrument. RESULTS: Patients who underwent supracricoid partial laryngectomy obtained better scores in global health status-quality of life and general activities and had lower levels of sensory and speech-related symptoms. CONCLUSION: SPL was associated with better quality of life when compared with TL.

Predictive factors of lethality and complications of deep fascial space infections of the neck.

OBJECTIVE: to identify predictive factors for lethality and complications of deep fascial space infections of the neck (DFSIN), establishing an early and aggressive treatment in the neck before the progression to descending mediastinitis. METHODS: we retrospectively analyzed 133 cases of DFSIN treated at Discipline of Head and Neck Surgery of the Medicine School of Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo. We accessed demographic characteristics, associated diseases, clinical presentation, laboratorial tests, length of hospital stay, number of involved anatomic neck spaces, intra-operative and microbiology findings. We analyzed these data using logistic regression to predict DFSIN lethality and life threatening complications (mediastinitis, septic shock, pneumonia, pleural empyema, skin necrosis). RESULTS: lethality and complication ratios were 9% and 50.3%, respectively. The logistic regression model showed that patients with septic shock were more likely to have progression to death (p < 0.001) and, the presence of more than two involved neck spaces (p < 0.001) and older individuals (p = 0.017) were more likely to have complicated deep neck infections. Descending necrotizing mediatinitis increased the lethality ratio by 50%, and was associated to necrotizing fasciitis (p=0.012) and pleural empyema (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: septic shock is a lethal predictive factor and age as well as more than two involved neck spaces are the predictive factors for complications. Necrotizing fasciitis is an important factor for complications and death. Therefore, its surgical treatment must be more aggressive. Descending mediastinitis has a high lethal rate and the successful treatment is based on early diagnosis and aggressive surgical approach.

Predictors of difficulty in bedside percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy: pilot study.

INTRODUCTION: percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy is currently one of the main procedures performed in an intensive care unit (ICU). However, there are no well-defined indicators of technical difficulty in performing the procedure. OBJECTIVES: to define predictors of difficulty in performing bedside percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy. METHODOLOGY: prospective cohort study encompassing 21 patients who underwent bedside percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy in the ICU at a single center. RESULTS: Sternohyoid (SH) distance shorter than 7 cm is associated with a 50% increase in the risk of technical difficulty (OR 0.44 and p <0.03). CONCLUSION: the reduction in (SH) distance is related to an increased risk of difficulty in performing percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy in the ICU bed.

Predictors of difficulty in bedside percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy: pilot study / Preditores de dificuldade em traqueostomia percutânea à beira do leito: estudo piloto

ABSTRACT Introduction: percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy is currently one of the main procedures performed in an intensive care unit (ICU). However, there are no well-defined indicators of technical difficulty in performing the procedure. Objectives: to define predictors of difficulty in performing bedside percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy. Methodology: prospective cohort study encompassing 21 patients who underwent bedside percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy in the ICU at a single center. Results: Sternohyoid (SH) distance shorter than 7 cm is associated with a 50% increase in the risk of technical difficulty (OR 0.44 and p <0.03). Conclusion: the reduction in (SH) distance is related to an increased risk of difficulty in performing percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy in the ICU bed.

RESUMO Introdução: a traqueostomia percutânea é hoje um dos principais procedimentos realizados em unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI). Não há, contudo, indicadores bem definidos de dificuldade técnica na realização do procedimento. Objetivos: definir preditores de dificuldade para realização de traqueostomia percutânea. Metodologia: estudo de coorte prospectivo no qual foram incluídos 21 pacientes submetidos a traqueostomia percutânea à beira leito, na UTI, em um único centro. Resultados: distância EH menor que 7 cm está associada a aumento de 50% na chance de dificuldade técnica (OR 0,44 e p<0,03). Conclusão: a redução da distância EH está relacionada com aumento do risco de dificuldade em realizar a traqueostomia percutânea à beira do leito, em UTI.

Predictive factors of lethality and complications of deep fascial space infections of the neck / Fatores preditivos de letalidade e complicações das infecções dos espaços fasciais profundos do pescoço

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify predictive factors for lethality and complications of deep fascial space infections of the neck (DFSIN), establishing an early and aggressive treatment in the neck before the progression to descending mediastinitis. Methods: we retrospectively analyzed 133 cases of DFSIN treated at Discipline of Head and Neck Surgery of the Medicine School of Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo. We accessed demographic characteristics, associated diseases, clinical presentation, laboratorial tests, length of hospital stay, number of involved anatomic neck spaces, intra-operative and microbiology findings. We analyzed these data using logistic regression to predict DFSIN lethality and life threatening complications (mediastinitis, septic shock, pneumonia, pleural empyema, skin necrosis). Results: lethality and complication ratios were 9% and 50.3%, respectively. The logistic regression model showed that patients with septic shock were more likely to have progression to death (p < 0.001) and, the presence of more than two involved neck spaces (p < 0.001) and older individuals (p = 0.017) were more likely to have complicated deep neck infections. Descending necrotizing mediatinitis increased the lethality ratio by 50%, and was associated to necrotizing fasciitis (p=0.012) and pleural empyema (p<0.001). Conclusion: septic shock is a lethal predictive factor and age as well as more than two involved neck spaces are the predictive factors for complications. Necrotizing fasciitis is an important factor for complications and death. Therefore, its surgical treatment must be more aggressive. Descending mediastinitis has a high lethal rate and the successful treatment is based on early diagnosis and aggressive surgical approach.

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar os fatores preditivos de letalidade e complicações associados às infecções dos espaços fasciais profundos do pescoço, com intuito de estabelecer tratamento mais precoce antes de evolução para a mediastinite. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo de 133 casos, tratados na Disciplina de Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo. Por meio da análise de regressão logística, estes dados foram estudados para a predição de letalidade e complicações graves (mediastinite, choque séptico, empiema pleural, pneumonia e necrose de pele). Resultados: a taxa de letalidade identificada foi de 9% e, de complicações de 50,3%. Identificou-se como fator preditivo de letalidade, a presença de choque séptico (p<0,001) e, para o ocorrência de complicações, a idade (p=0,017) e o acometimento de mais de dois espaços anatômicos (p<0,001). A ocorrência de mediastinite descendente necrosante esteve associada à presença de fasciíte necrosante (p=0,012) e empiema pleural (p<0,001). Conclusão: o fator preditivo de letalidade foi a presença de choque séptico e, para ocorrência de complicações graves, a idade e/ou a presença de mais de dois espaços anatômicos acometidos pela infecção. A fasciíte necrosante é fator importante para ocorrência de complicações e morte. Nestes casos, a conduta cirúrgica deve ser mais agressiva. A mediastinite descendente apresenta taxa de letalidade alta e o sucesso no tratamento está no diagnóstico precoce e na intervenção cirúrgica agressiva.

Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap in Head And Neck Surgery reconstructions: critical analysis.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the results of the use of the pectoralis major flap in the reconstruction of head and neck surgeries. METHODS: we conducted a retrospective study with data bank analysis and review of medical records of patients with head and neck cancer operated at the Discipline of Head and Neck Surgery, Surgery Department, São Paulo Holy Home of Mercy, using the pectoralis major flap for reconstruction, in a period of 16 years. We analyzed age, gender, primary site of neoplasia, clinical staging, preoperative radiotherapy (RT) and complications, classified as major and minor. RESULTS: the series comprised 92 patients, of whom 86 (93.5%) were men; the mean age was 61.39 (±11.35) years; the most common primary sites were the mouth, in 35 cases (38%), oropharynx, in 21 (22.8%), and larynx, in 18 cases (19.6%). The majority of patients were in stage IV (88/92, 95.6%) and only four (4.3%) had preoperative RT. The overall complication rate was 48.9%, but only 6.5%, characterized as major complications. In the univariate statistical analysis, we found no factors related to the occurrence of complications. Only the primary neoplasm site presented marginal significance (p = 0.06). CONCLUSION: the pectoralis major flap is safe, with few complete and effective losses in reconstructions in head and neck surgeries, with low rates of major complications, being an option to be considered.

Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap in Head And Neck Surgery reconstructions: critical analysis / O retalho do músculo peitoral maior nas reconstruções em Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço: análise crítica

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the results of the use of the pectoralis major flap in the reconstruction of head and neck surgeries. Methods: we conducted a retrospective study with data bank analysis and review of medical records of patients with head and neck cancer operated at the Discipline of Head and Neck Surgery, Surgery Department, São Paulo Holy Home of Mercy, using the pectoralis major flap for reconstruction, in a period of 16 years. We analyzed age, gender, primary site of neoplasia, clinical staging, preoperative radiotherapy (RT) and complications, classified as major and minor. Results: the series comprised 92 patients, of whom 86 (93.5%) were men; the mean age was 61.39 (±11.35) years; the most common primary sites were the mouth, in 35 cases (38%), oropharynx, in 21 (22.8%), and larynx, in 18 cases (19.6%). The majority of patients were in stage IV (88/92, 95.6%) and only four (4.3%) had preoperative RT. The overall complication rate was 48.9%, but only 6.5%, characterized as major complications. In the univariate statistical analysis, we found no factors related to the occurrence of complications. Only the primary neoplasm site presented marginal significance (p = 0.06). Conclusion: the pectoralis major flap is safe, with few complete and effective losses in reconstructions in head and neck surgeries, with low rates of major complications, being an option to be considered.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar os resultados do uso do retalho de músculo peitoral maior nas reconstruções de cirurgias de cabeça e pescoço. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo com análise de banco dados e revisão de prontuários de pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço operados na Disciplina de Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço do Departamento de Cirurgia da Santa Casa de São Paulo em um período de 16 anos, utilizando-se o retalho de músculo peitoral maior para reconstrução. Foram analisados idade, sexo, sítio primário da neoplasia, estadiamento clínico, radioterapia (RT) pré-operatória e as complicações encontradas, classificadas em maiores e menores. Resultados: a casuística foi de 92 pacientes, dos quais 86 (93,5%) eram homens; a média de idade foi de 61,39 (dp±11,35) anos; os sítios primários mais acometidos foram boca em 35 casos (38%); orofaringe em 21 casos (22,8%) e laringe em 18 casos (19,6%). A maioria dos pacientes encontrava-se no estádio IV (88/92; 95,6%) e apenas quatro (4,3%) tinham realizado a RT pré-operatória. A taxa global de complicações foi de 48,9%, mas apenas 6,5% caracterizadas como complicações maiores. Na análise estatística univariada, não foram encontrados fatores relacionados à ocorrência das complicações. Apenas o sítio primário da neoplasia apresentou significância marginal (p=0,06). Conclusão: o retalho de músculo peitoral maior é seguro, com poucas perdas completas e eficaz nas reconstruções em cirurgias de cabeça e pescoço, com baixas taxas de complicações maiores, sendo uma opção a ser considerada.

Metástase gigante de carcinoma papilífero / Giant metastasis of thyroid papillar carcinoma

O carcinoma papilífero da tireoide, o mais comum deste órgão, geralmente se apresenta como lesões parenquimatosas pequenas e, eventualmente, com metástases cervicais numerosas, raramente volumosas. É descrito um caso raro de uma paciente do gênero feminino, 44 anos, com um tumor cervical anterior, nodular e volumoso há nove anos. Após o tratamento cirúrgico, o anatomopatológico mostrou tratar-se de metástases linfonodais de carcinoma papilífero. O objetivo deste estudo é relatar um caso clínico de apresentação incomum de carcinoma papilífero da tireoide, de diagnóstico inicial difícil e apresentando-se com metástases linfonodais volumosas. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2014;58(9):967-9 Papillary thyroid carcinoma, the most common type of thyroid cancer is usually presented as small parenchymatous lesions and, eventually, with cervical lymph node metastasis, rarely voluminous. Here we describe a rare case of a 44-year-old woman presenting a visible anterior cervical tumor, nodullary and voluminous, for nine years. After surgical treatment, the anatomical pathology sample revealed that the mass was composed of several cervical lymph node metastatic lesions of a papillary thyroid carcinoma. We report the discovery of an uncommon papillary thyroid carcinoma manifestation, with a difficult initial diagnosis and presenting voluminous lymph node metastases.

Tratamento seletivo do hipoparatireoidismo após tireoidectomia total baseado nos valores de PTH / Selective treatment for hypoparathyroidism after total thyroidectomy based on PTH levels

Introdução: A hipocalcemia é a complicação mais comum após a tireoidectomia total e responsável por um maior tempo de internação. A fim de evitar manifestações da hipocalcemia, alguns autores rotineiramente fazem suplementação oral de cálcio, outros, por sua vez, prolongam a estadia do doente aguardando dosagens séricas de cálcio para indicar a reposição. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da suplementação de cálcio/calcitriol baseado em valores pós operatórios de paratormônio(PTH) , afim de evitar manifestações clínicas de hipocalcemia em pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia total. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo prospectivo com 31 pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia total ou totalização, com ou sem esvaziamento recorrencial. O PTH foi colhido após 1 hora de pós operatório. A suplementação seletiva foi determinada pelo valor do PTH com cálcio (PTH >5 e <15pg/ml), cálcio e calcitriol (PTH <5pg/ml) e foram correlacionadas com sintomas de hipocalcemia durante 10 dias de pós operatório. Resultados: Nenhum paciente com PTH>15pg/ml desenvolveu sintomas (p=0,007). Dentre os pacientes com PTH <15pg/ml, 9 (52,84%) permaneceram assintomáticos com uso da medicação. Cinco pacientes (29,41%) não fizeram uso da suplementação prescrita e todos apresentaram sintomas. Três pacientes apresentaram sintomas, apesar do uso correto da suplementação.(p=0,009). Conclusão: A suplementação seletiva de cálcio ou cálcio associada ao calcitriol, baseada no PTH, é eficaz para evitar os sintomas de hipocalcemia.

Background: Hypocalcemia is the most common complication after total thyroidectomy and the major determinant in delay of discharge. Because of this, some authors routinely use oral supplementation of oral calcium, while others postpone hospital discharge waiting of multiple calcium dosages. Objectives: To test a selective oral calcium/calcitriol supplementation to avoid clinical manifestations of hypocalcemia based on parathyroid hormone levels after total thyroidectomy. Methods: Prospective study with 31 patients undergoing total thyroidectomy or completion, with or without central neck dissection. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) was measured 1 hour postoperative period. Selective supplementation was determined by serum PTH levels with oral calcium (PTH>5pg/ ml and <15pg/ml) or oral calcium plus calcitriol (PTH<5pg/ml) and correlated with symptoms of hypocalcemia during 10 days postthyroidectomy. Results: None of the patients (14/31) with PTH levels > 15pg/ml developed symptoms (p=0,007). Among seventeen patients with PTH<15pg/ml, 9 (52,84%) patients had adequate supplementation and remained asymptomatic. Five patients (29,41%) had clinical manifestations without correct supplementation. Three patients developed symptoms taking correct supplementation. (p=0,009). Conclusions: The selective supplementation based on postthyroidectomy PTH levels can be used safely to avoid clinical manifestations of hypocalcemia.

Avaliação da efetividade e dos custos da sutura mecânica nas laringectomias totais comparados ao fechamento tradicional / Mechanical versus manual suture in total laryngectomy: Costs and effectiveness

Introdução: A ocorrência de fístulas faringocutâneas apóslaringectomias totais é um fator de grande impacto no tempode internação do doente enquanto a demora no fechamentoda faringe é significativa no tempo de permanência em salacirúrgica. Ambos afetam o custo final do procedimento cirúrgico.O uso da sutura mecânica pode reduzir estes tempos e,consequentemente, dos custos do procedimento. Objetivos:Comparar os custos resultantes do fechamento manual emecânico da faringe. Método: estudo retrospectivo, avaliandoo tempo de permanência em sala cirúrgica e permanênciahospitalar de pacientes submetidos a laringectomia total, quantoaos dois tipos de fechamento da faringe: Manual ou mecânico.Resultados: A fístulas faringocutâneas ocorreram apenas noscasos de fechamento manual (17,3%), resultando em uma maiorpermanência hospitalar neste grupo (12,23 x 6,5 dias da suturamecânica). O tempo operatório também foi maior naquele grupo(2h20min maior). A média dos custos do fechamento manual foramR$5.799,24. Isto supera o custo do grampeador, de R$ 1033,00.Conclusão: O fechamento da faringe com grampeador deve serpreferido, sempre que possível, pois apresenta menores índicesde complicações e custos menores, apesar do preço do mesmo.

Tireoidectomia no idoso: 15 anos de experiência / Thyroidectomy in the elderly: 15 years institutional experience

Introdução: As doenças mais prevalentes nos idosos têm-se tornado cada vez mais comum com o envelhecimento da população mundial. No paciente idoso, além do aumento da incidência de nódulos tireoidianos, há maior incidência de câncer, com comportamento mais agressivo. A idade elevada não contra-indica a cirurgia, porém, a conduta cirúrgica pode ser influenciada pelo número elevado de comorbidades. Objetivos: Estudar a freqüência da doença tireoidiana de indicação cirúrgica no idoso, caracterizando-a. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo com 69 pacientes entre 65 e 84 anos de idade (mediana, 71) submetidos a qualquer procedimento cirúrgico sobre a glândula tireóide em nosso serviço, entre 1991 e 2006. Avaliamos dados da identificação, história, comorbidades, dados pré-operatórios, exames complementares, dados cirúrgicos, anátomo-patológicos e da evolução, pormenorizando a ocorrência de complicações. Resultados: A queixa principal foi aumento do volume cervical, com duração média de 67 meses. O diagnóstico clínico mais freqüente foi de bócio multinodular atóxico. Em 62% foi realizada a tireoidectomia total, seguidas pela hemitireoidectomia e pela totalização. Comorbidades clínicas estavam presentes em 77% dos pacientes, prevalecendo a hipertensão arterial sistêmica, seguida pelo diabetes mellitus e arritmia cardíaca. A análise histológica revelou malignidade em 21,7% dos casos, sendo o principal tumor o carcinoma papilífero, seguido pelo carcinoma folicular e carcinoma anaplásico. Complicações foram descritas em 29%, sendo mais freqüente o hipoparatireoidismo transitório. Conclusão: No paciente idoso, as doenças associadas e a maior freqüência de tumores malignos agressivos demandam cuidados peri-operatórios adequados, com maior preocupação com o rigor da conduta cirúrgica.

Introduction: The diseases prevalent in the elderly have been increasing with the aging of the world's population. In the elderly patient, besides the increasing incidence of thyroid nodules, there is a higher incidence of cancer, which behaves more aggressively. Old age does not rule out surgery. However, the surgical treatment can be influenced by a higher number of comorbidities. Objective: To study the frequency of the thyroid disease with surgical indication in the elderly, characterizing it. Methods: We did a retrospective study with 69 patients between 65 and 84 years of age (median, 71) who received any surgical proceeding at the thyroid gland in our hospital, between 1991 and 2006. Data collected were identification, history, comorbidities, preoperative data, complementary exams, surgery, pathological data and the patient's evolution, with attention to possible complications. Results: The most frequent chief complaint was an increase of cervical volume, with average duration of 67 months. The most frequent clinical diagnosis was of nontoxic multinodular goiter. In 62% total thyroidectomy was carried out, followed by hemithyroidectomy and completion of previous surgery. Clinical comorbidities were present in 77% of the patients, mainly hypertension, followed by diabetes and arrhythmia. Histopatological exams revealed malignity in 21.7% of cases, being papillary carcinoma the most frequent, followed by follicular carcinoma and anaplastic carcinoma. Complications were described in 29% and transient hypoparathyrodism was most frequent. Conclusion: Due to increased comorbidities and more aggressive malignant tumors, the elderly demands close peri-operatory care and increased concern with the impact of the surgical treatment.

Deep neck infection: analysis of 80 cases.

UNLABELLED: Deep neck infections are serious diseases that involve several spaces in the neck. The most dreadful complication is descending necrotizing fasciitis, which needs early diagnosis and aggressive treatment. AIM: To analyze 80 treated cases of deep neck infection and propose a schematic guideline for managing this disease. METHOD: The authors present a retrospective analysis of 80 treated cases of deep neck infection, from June 1997 to June 2003. RESULTS: Odontogenic and tonsilar causes were the more frequent ones. Submandibular and parapharyngeal spaces were the most frequent location of deep neck infection. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus sp were the microorganisms more commonly isolated. CONCLUSIONS: Airway control should be priority in managing deep neck infections and if the patient has to be submitted to surgery special care should be taken at the moment of intubation - when curare must never be used. CT scan is the gold-standard imaging evaluation for the diagnosis of deep neck infection. Morbi-mortality is high when associated with septic shock and mediastinitis. Our mortality rate was 11.2% and only one, in five patients with mediastinitis, survived.

Selective neck dissection for treating node-positive necks in cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the upper aerodigestive tract.

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Modified radical neck dissection (MRND) is the classical treatment for neck metastases of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the upper aerodigestive tract. However, it may still be accompanied by significant sequelae. One alternative for this treatment would be selective neck dissection (SND), which has a lower incidence of sequelae. The aim of this study was to define which neck metastasis cases would really be suitable candidates for SND. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective clinical-surgical trial at the Division of Head and Neck Surgery, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo (FCMSCSP). METHODS: We retrospectively studied 67 patients with SCC of the upper aerodigestive tract, divided into two groups: 1) 47 patients treated by means of SND (node-negative or node-positive), 2) 20 patients treated by means of MRND (all node-positive). RESULTS: Our results demonstrated that there was no difference between the patients treated with SND or MRND in relation to disease evolution, and that the main prognostic factor was lymph node involvement. We observed that patients with pharyngeal SCC and older patients presented worse evolution and would probably not be suitable candidates for SND. CONCLUSIONS: SND may be a good option for treating node-positive necks in selected cases.

Infecções cervicais profundas: análise de 80 casos / Deep neck infection: analysis of 80 cases

As infecções cervicais profundas são afecções graves que acometem os diversos espaços do pescoço. A mais temível complicação é a mediastinite necrosante descendente, que necessita de diagnóstico precoce e tratamento, por vezes, agressivo. OBJETIVOS: Analisar os 80 casos tratados de infecção cervical profunda e propor uma diretriz de conduta. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Os autores realizaram um estudo retrospectivo de 80 casos de infecções cervicais profundas tratados no período de junho de 1997 a junho de 2003. RESULTADOS: As causas odontogênicas e amigdalianas foram as mais comumente encontradas. Os espaços mais acometidos foram o submandibular e parafaríngeo. Os principais microorganismos envolvidos foram o Staphylococcus aureus e o Streptococcus sp. CONCLUSÃO: O manejo da via aérea difícil nas infecções cervicais profundas deve ter cuidado especial, quando da indicação cirúrgica, de preferência com intubação sob visão endoscópica e sem uso de miorrelaxantes. Drenagem cirúrgica ampla permanece o tratamento padrão das infecções cervicais profundas. A tomografia computadorizada é o exame de escolha para o diagnóstico das infecções cervicais profundas. Essas infecções apresentam alta morbimortalidade, quando associada ao choque séptico e à mediastinite. Nossa mortalidade foi de 11,2 por cento e dos cinco doentes com mediastinite apenas um sobreviveu.

Deep neck infections are serious diseases that involve several spaces in the neck. The most dreadful complication is descending necrotizing fasciitis, which needs early diagnosis and aggressive treatment. AIM: To analyze 80 treated cases of deep neck infection and propose a schematic guideline for managing this disease. METHOD: The authors present a retrospective analysis of 80 treated cases of deep neck infection, from June 1997 to June 2003. RESULTS: Odontogenic and tonsilar causes were the more frequent ones. Submandibular and parapharyngeal spaces were the most frequent location of deep neck infection. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus sp were the microorganisms more commonly isolated. CONCLUSIONS: Airway control should be priority in managing deep neck infections and if the patient has to be submitted to surgery special care should be taken at the moment of intubation - when curare must never be used. CT scan is the gold-standard imaging evaluation for the diagnosis of deep neck infection. Morbi-mortality is high when associated with septic shock and mediastinitis. Our mortality rate was 11.2 percent and only one, in five patients with mediastinitis, survived.

Selective neck dissection for treating node-positive necks in cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the upper aerodigestive tract / Esvaziamento cervical seletivo para o tratamento do pescoço positivo em carcinomas epidermóides do trato aerodigestório alto

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Modified radical neck dissection (MRND) is the classical treatment for neck metastases of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the upper aerodigestive tract. However, it may still be accompanied by significant sequelae. One alternative for this treatment would be selective neck dissection (SND), which has a lower incidence of sequelae. The aim of this study was to define which neck metastasis cases would really be suitable candidates for SND. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective clinical-surgical trial at the Division of Head and Neck Surgery, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo (FCMSCSP). METHODS: We retrospectively studied 67 patients with SCC of the upper aerodigestive tract, divided into two groups: 1) 47 patients treated by means of SND (node-negative or node-positive), 2) 20 patients treated by means of MRND (all node-positive). RESULTS: Our results demonstrated that there was no difference between the patients treated with SND or MRND in relation to disease evolution, and that the main prognostic factor was lymph node involvement. We observed that patients with pharyngeal SCC and older patients presented worse evolution and would probably not be suitable candidates for SND. CONCLUSIONS: SND may be a good option for treating node-positive necks in selected cases.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: O esvaziamento cervical radical modificado (ECRM) é o tratamento clássico para as metástases cervicais do carcinoma espinocelular (CEC) do trato aerodigestório alto (TADA). Este procedimento é considerado oncologicamente satisfatório, porém pode ser acompanhado de seqüelas significativas devido à extensão do procedimento e a grande manipulação de estruturas nobres, especialmente as nervosas. Assim, tem sido proposto o esvaziamento cervical seletivo (ECS) para o tratamento de casos selecionados, pN1, pN2 sem ruptura capsular, minimizando, ou mesmo evitando, deste modo, as seqüelas do ECRM. O grande questionamento atual é a definição de quais casos seriam eleitos para este procedimento, sem alterar o resultado oncológico de médio e longo prazo. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo clínico retrospectivo realizado na Disciplina de Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço do Departamento de Cirurgia da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo. MÉTODOS: Estudamos 67 doentes portadores de CEC do TADA de 1990 a 2001 dividindo-os em dois grupos: 1) 47 doentes tratados com ECS e 2) 20 doentes tratados com ECRM (todos N+). Os casos do grupo 1 eram clinicamente N0 e, 11 tornaram-se pN+, após o exame histopatológico. Assim, no grupo 1 obtivemos doentes pN+ tratados com ECS e seguimos estes grupos por, no mínimo, 2 anos. O grupo 2 serviu como controle da evolução dos doentes pN+. RESULTADOS: Nossos resultados mostraram que na comparação do ECS com o ECRM, não houve diferença significativa quanto à evolução (sobrevivência ou recidiva), no entanto, foi possível evidenciar uma pior evolução nos doentes N+ quando comparados aos N0, demonstrando que o principal fator prognóstico é o comprometimento linfonodal. Além disso, apesar do pequeno número de doentes, observamos que os doentes mais idosos e com CEC de faringe tiveram pior evolução e, por isto, talvez não sejam candidatos ao ECS. CONCLUSÕES: Concluímos, portanto, que o ECS pode...