Techniques of Endoscopic Ossiculoplasty.

The utilization of endoscopes in modern otology has evolved from diagnostic purposes to the development of exclusive endoscopic ear surgery. This technique offers a panoramic view of the middle ear and provides an optimal magnification of the oval window region, the stapes' suprastructure, and the footplate, allowing great precision in prosthesis positioning during ossiculoplasty (OPL). Various techniques for ossicular chain reconstruction have been described in the literature. Either autologous or synthetic materials can be used for reconstruction. The use of a patient's own tissue minimizes the risk of implant rejection or extrusion of the prosthesis through the tympanic membrane. On the other hand, synthetic materials like titanium are light and rigid and do not require time-consuming prosthesis remodeling. The main objective of this article is to present a comprehensive step-by-step guide that serves as a surgical manual for exclusive endoscopic OPL. This guide will explain various forms of OPL using synthetic and autologous materials. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various surgical techniques and support the integration into clinical practice.

The human middle ear in motion: 3D visualization and quantification using dynamic synchrotron-based X-ray imaging.

The characterization of the vibrations of the middle ear ossicles during sound transmission is a focal point in clinical research. However, the small size of the structures, their micrometer-scale movement, and the deep-seated position of the middle ear within the temporal bone make these types of measurements extremely challenging. In this work, dynamic synchrotron-based X-ray phase-contrast microtomography is used on acoustically stimulated intact human ears, allowing for the three-dimensional visualization of entire human eardrums and ossicular chains in motion. A post-gating algorithm is used to temporally resolve the fast micromotions at 128 Hz, coupled with a high-throughput pipeline to process the large tomographic datasets. Seven ex-vivo fresh-frozen human temporal bones in healthy conditions are studied, and the rigid body motions of the ossicles are quantitatively delineated. Clinically relevant regions of the ossicular chain are tracked in 3D, and the amplitudes of their displacement are computed for two acoustic stimuli.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic: increase in complicated upper respiratory tract infections requiring ENT surgery?

PURPOSE: This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on complicated upper respiratory tract infections requiring surgical intervention in a tertiary referral center. The aim is to understand the consequences of pandemic-related measures and their subsequent relaxation on the incidence and characteristics of upper respiratory tract infection-related complications. METHODS: Patients who underwent surgery as a complication of upper respiratory tract infections between December 2014 to February 2023 were included. Demographic information, surgical procedures, microbiological findings, and clinical outcomes were assessed and analyzed comparing pre-pandemic, pandemic and post-pandemic groups. RESULTS: 321 patients were enrolled, including 105 patients (32.7%) in the pediatric population. Comparison of pre-pandemic (n = 210), pandemic (n = 46) and post-pandemic periods (n = 65) revealed a statistically significant increase in complicated otologic infections requiring surgical intervention in the post-pandemic period compared to the pandemic period (p value = 0.03). No statistically significant differences in other surgical procedures or demographic parameters were observed. A statistically significant increase in urgent ear surgery in the pediatric population between the pandemic and the post-pandemic period (p value = 0.02) was observed. Beta-hemolytic group A streptococcal infections showed a statistically significant increase in the post-pandemic period compared with the pandemic period (p value = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Relaxation of COVID-19-related restrictions was associated with an increase of upper respiratory tract infection-related otologic infections requiring surgical intervention with an increasing rate of beta-hemolytic group A streptococcal infections. These findings highlight the importance of considering the impact of the pandemic on upper respiratory tract infection complications and adapting management strategies accordingly.

Evaluating temporal bone column density for optimized bone conduction implant placement.

Introduction: An optimal placement of bone conduction implants can provide more efficient mechanical transmission to the cochlea if placed in regions with greater bone column density. The aim of this study was to test this hypothesis and to determine the clinical potential of preoperative bone column density assessment for optimal implant placement. Methods: Five complete cadaver heads were scanned with quantitative computed tomography imaging to create topographic maps of bone density based on the column density index (CODI). Laser Doppler vibrometry was used to measure cochlear promontory acceleration under bone conduction stimulation in different locations on the temporal bone, using a bone-anchored hearing aid transducer at frequencies ranging from 355 Hz to 10 kHz. Results: We found a statistically significant association between CODI levels and the accelerance of the cochlear promontory throughout the frequency spectrum, with an average increase of 0.6 dB per unit of CODI. The distance between the transducer and the cochlear promontory had no statistically significant effect on the overall spectrum. Discussion: We highlight the importance of bone column density in relation to the mechanical transmission efficiency of bone conduction implants. It may be worthwhile to consider column density in preoperative planning in clinical practice.

To detach or not to detach the umbo in type I tympanoplasty: functional results.

PURPOSE: To compare the audiological outcomes, tympanic membrane (TM) healing rates and complication rates in patients undergoing endoscopic underlay and over-under tympanoplasty type I (TTI). METHODS: The study includes 95 patients who underwent endoscopic TTI in the period between 2018 and 2023: 56% of the patients had the underlay technique and 41% had the over-under technique. Data regarding pre- and postoperative hearing, perforation characteristics, surgical procedures, graft types and complications were retrospectively analyzed. Audiometrical assessment included air conduction (AC) and bone conduction (BC) pure tone averages (PTA) and air-bone gap (ABG), pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS: Both underlay and over-under techniques significant improved AC PTA, with a mean ABG improvements of 5.9 dB and 7.2 dB, respectively. There was no significant difference in BC PTA between pre- and post-operative, indicating no inner ear damage in both techniques. The over-under technique showed a significantly higher TM closure rate (94.4%) compared to the underlay technique (80.6%). Complications were rare, with only one case of TM lateralization requiring revision surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic TTI is an effective treatment in improving auditory function in chronic middle ear diseases. In our cohort, the detachment of the umbo does not negatively influence the postoperative hearing results and does not increase rate of complications. Moreover, the over-under technique demonstrates superior TM closure rates, making it a valuable option for specific cases. However, future prospective studies with larger sample sizes and longer term follow-up are needed to validate these findings and provide more comprehensive insights.

Comparison of auditory brainstem response and electrocochleography to assess the coupling efficiency of active middle ear implants.

Aim: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of auditory brainstem response (ABR) and extracochlear electrocochleography (ECochG) in objectively evaluating the coupling efficiency of floating mass transducer (FMT) placement during active middle ear implant (AMEI) surgery. Methods: We enrolled 15 patients (mean age 58.5 ± 19.4 years) with mixed hearing loss who underwent AMEI implantation (seven ossicular chain and eight round window couplings). Before the surgical procedure, an audiogram was performed. We utilized a clinical measurement system to stimulate and record intraoperative ABR and ECochG recordings. The coupling efficiency of the VSB was evaluated through ECochG and ABR threshold measurements. Postoperatively, we conducted an audiogram and a vibrogram. Results: In all 15 patients, ABR threshold testing successfully determined intraoperative coupling efficiency, while ECochG was successful in only eight patients. In our cohort, ABR measurements were more practical, consistent, and robust than ECochG measurements. Coupling efficiency, calculated as the difference between vibrogram thresholds and postoperative bone conduction thresholds, was found to be more accurately predicted by ABR measurements (p = 0.016, R2 = 0.37) than ECochG measurements (p = 0.761, R2 = 0.02). We also found a non-significant trend toward better results with ossicular chain coupling compared to round window coupling. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that ABR measurements are more practical, robust, and consistent than ECochG measurements for determining coupling efficiency during FMT placement surgery. The use of ABR measurements can help to identify the optimal FMT placement, especially with round window coupling. Finally, we offer normative data for both techniques, which can aid other clinical centers in using intraoperative monitoring for AMEI placement.

First evaluation of an ovine training model for sialendoscopy.

Objective: Sialendoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic technique used in the treatment of various salivary gland diseases. To date, there are very few suitable training models other than the pig's head, which has been used at the European Sialendoscopy Training Center for 22 years. The goal of this study was to describe an ovine model for sialendoscopy training and compare the ovine model's to the human anatomy. We propose a step-by-step approach for sialendoscopy training using this ex-vivo model. Methods: The anatomy of the ovine salivary ducts and glands was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging using one fresh ovine head. Thereafter, the model was designed during dissection by an experienced sialendoscopist. The various steps were then validated during consecutive dissections using a Likert-scale questionnaire. Results: The full model was described in the form of a dissection guide and allowed reliable diagnostic sialendoscopy in 10/10 Stenson's and in 5/10 Wharton's ducts. Moreover, interventional sialendoscopy was simulated to provide a training model for the removal of sialoliths in the Stenson's duct. The human and ovine anatomy are quite similar allowing a training experience close to reality. Conclusion: We developed and evaluated an ovine model with the goal of improving training in diagnostic and interventional sialendoscopy. In particular, the Stenson's duct can be successfully prepared, probed and subjected to sialendoscopy. The realistic anatomical environment and excellent tissue quality created a life-like training experience for an experienced sialendoscopist. Further studies with beginners are necessary to validate this model as a training model. Level of Evidence: 4.

Superior loco-regional control after primary surgery compared to chemo-radiotherapy for advanced stage laryngeal cancer.

Objective: The optimal strategy to treat loco-regionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx (LSCC) remains to be defined. The goal of this single institution retrospective study was to report on oncologic outcome of advanced LSCC treated with curative intent. Methods: Patients diagnosed and treated for stage T3-T4a LSCC between 2001 and 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. Time-to-event endpoints were calculated beginning from the date of histologic diagnosis, which were analyzed with log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard models. Results: The cohort was divided into two subgroups: primary radiotherapy with concomitant cisplatin (CRT) (n=30, 38%) and primary surgery (n=48, 62%). Median follow-up was 56 months. Locoregional control (LRC) for the primary surgery and CRT were 95% and 50% in 5 years, respectively (p<0.01). Progression free survival (PFS) for the primary surgery and CRT were 61% and 38% in 5 years, respectively (p=0.23). The overall survival (OS) after primary surgery and CRT in 5 years were 63% vs. 65%, respectively (p=0.93). The 5-years LRC was significantly superior after surgery compared to RT for cT3 primaries (100% vs 50%, p= 0.0022). No significant differences were observed in the remaining subgroups regarding cT stage and PFS or OS. Conclusion: Our series demonstrated superior LRC after primary surgery followed by risk-adapted adjuvant (C)RT compared to primary CRT in cT3 LSCC, but no significant difference in PFS or OS in locally-advanced LSCC. The optimal patient selection criteria for the ideal treatment for loco-regionally advanced LSCC still needs to be defined.

Accuracy of High-Resolution Computed Tomography Compared to High-Definition Ear Endoscopy to Assess Cholesteatoma Extension.

OBJECTIVE: To correlate radiographic evidence of cholesteatoma in the retrotympanum with intraoperative endoscopic findings in cholesteatoma patients and to evaluate the clinical relevance of radiographic evidence of cholesteatoma in the retrotympanum. STUDY DESIGN: Case series with chart review. SETTING: Tertiary referral center. METHODS: Seventy-six consecutive cases undergoing surgical cholesteatoma removal with preoperative high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were enrolled in this study. A retrospective analysis of the medical records was conducted. The extension of cholesteatoma regarding different middle ear subspaces, into the antrum and mastoid were reviewed radiologically in preoperative HRCT and endoscopically from surgical videos. Additionally, facial nerve canal dehiscence, infiltration of the middle cranial fossa, and inner ear involvement were documented. RESULTS: Comparison of radiological and endoscopic cholesteatoma extension revealed statistically highly significant overestimation of radiological cholesteatoma extension for all retrotympanic regions (sinus tympani 61.8% vs 19.7%, facial recess 69.7% vs 43.4%, subtympanic sinus 59.2% vs 7.9%, and posterior sinus 72.4% vs 4.0%) and statistically significant overestimation for mesotympanum (82.9% vs 56.6%), hypotympanum (39.5% vs 9.2%), and protympanum (23.7% vs 6.6%). No statistically significant differences were found for epitympanum (98.7% vs 90.8%), antrum (64.5% vs 52.6%), and mastoid (26.3% vs 32.9%). Statistically significant radiological overestimation of facial nerve canal dehiscence (54.0% vs 25.0%) and invasion of tegmen tympani (39.5% vs 19.7%) is reported. CONCLUSION: Radiologic cholesteatoma extension in different middle ear subspaces is overestimated compared to the intraoperative extension. The preoperative relevance of radiological retrotympanic extension might be limited in the choice of approach and transcanal endoscopic approach is always recommended first.

In-office Eustachian tube balloon dilation under local anesthesia as a response to operating room restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility of local anesthesia for Eustachian tube balloon dilation as an in-office procedure for the treatment of Eustachian tube dilatory dysfunction as a response to the restriction measures of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Method: Patients with Eustachian tube dilatory dysfunction refractory to nasal steroids undergoing Eustachian tube balloon dilation in local anesthesia were enrolled in a prospective observational cohort between May 2020 and April 2022. The patients were assessed by using the Eustachian tube dysfunction questionnaire (ETDQ-7) score and Eustachian tube mucosal inflammation scale. They underwent clinical examination, tympanometry, and pure tone audiometry. Eustachian tube balloon dilation was performed in-office under local anesthesia. The perioperative experience of the patients was recorded using a 1-10 visual analog scale (VAS). Results: Thirty patients (47 Eustachian tubes) underwent the operation successfully. One attempted dilation was aborded because the patient displayed anxiety. Local anesthesia was performed by using topical lidocaine and nasal packing for all patients. Three patients required an infiltration of the nasal septum and/or tubal nasopharyngeal orifice. The mean time of the operation was 5.7 min per Eustachian tube dilation. The mean level of discomfort during the intervention was 4.7 (on a 1-10 VAS scale). All patients returned home immediately after the intervention. The only reported complication was a self-limiting subcutaneous emphysema. Conclusion: Eustachian tube balloon dilation can be performed under local anesthesia and is well tolerated by most patients. In the patients reported in this study, no major complications occurred. In order to free operation room capacities, the intervention can be performed in an in-office setting with satisfactory patient feedback.

Sinonasal malignancies: histopathological entities, regional involvement and long-term outcome.

BACKGROUND: To assess a large patient cohort with sinonasal malignancies focusing on regional involvement, recurrence and oncological outcome. METHODS: Patients (n = 144) with malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses were treated at our tertiary referral center between 2008 and 2019. A chart review on patient and tumor characteristics, treatment and long-term outcome was performed. RESULTS: Most frequent histological types were squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (n = 74), adenocarcinoma (n = 24) and mucosal melanoma (n = 18). Primary therapy was surgery in 66% of patients (n = 95) of which 65.8% (n = 66) received adjuvant radiotherapy. Twenty patients (13.8%) were initially staged as cN + and in seven cases, pN + status was histopathologically confirmed. Fifty-six of 130 patients (43.1%) had a relapse after curative intended therapy, including nine loco-regional (6.9%) and seven isolated regional recurrences (5.4%). Twelve of these 16 patients with (loco-)regional recurrence had SCC. Adenoid cystic carcinoma (87.5%) and SCC (65.3%) showed the best long-term overall survival. CONCLUSIONS: Regional involvement and regional recurrence are scarce. Because of rarity and heterogeneity, evidence on therapeutic management is sparse resulting in the lack of clinical guidelines.

Digital image enhancement may improve sensitivity of cholesteatoma detection during endoscopic ear surgery.

OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the possible benefits and limitations of the digital image enhancement systems provided by Storz Professional Image Enhancement System (SPIES) during endoscopic ear surgery (EES) for cholesteatoma. An increased detection of cholesteatoma residuals during the final steps of endoscopic surgery using DIE technology was hypothesized. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Tertiary referral hospital. METHODS: A total of 10 questionnaires of 18 intraoperative pictures with equal numbers of cholesteatoma and non-cholesteatoma images, each presented in three different image-enhancing modalities (Clara, Spectra A, Spectra B), were generated. Fifty-one experienced ear surgeons participated to the survey and were randomly assigned to a questionnaire and completed it at two time points. The experts were asked to rate for each picture whether cholesteatoma was present or not. The answers were compared with the histopathological reports. RESULTS: Clara showed the highest accuracy in cholesteatoma detection, followed by Spectra A and lastly Spectra B. In contrast, Spectra B showed the highest sensitivity and Clara the highest specificity, while Spectra A was placed in the middle for both values. Using the Spectra B modality, most responses agreed across the two time points. Ear surgeons assessed the usefulness, as well as preference among image modalities for cholesteatoma surgery, in the following order: Clara, Spectra B, Spectra A. CONCLUSION: Digital enhancement technologies are applicable to EES. After complete cholesteatoma removal, Spectra B showed the highest sensitivity in the detection of cholesteatoma residuals as compared with Clara and Spectra A. Thus, Spectra B may be recommended to avoid missing any cholesteatoma residuals during EES.

Assessment of jugular bulb variability based on 3D surface models: quantitative measurements and surgical implications.

PURPOSE: High-riding jugular bulbs (JBs) among other anatomical variations can limit surgical access during lateral skull base surgery or middle ear surgery and must be carefully assessed preoperatively. We reconstruct 3D surface models to evaluate recent JB classification systems and assess the variability in the JB and surrounding structures. METHODS: 3D surface models were reconstructed from 46 temporal bones from computed tomography scans. Two independent raters visually assessed the height of the JB in the 3D models. Distances between the round window and the JB dome were measured to evaluate the spacing of this area. Additional distances between landmarks on surrounding structures were measured and statistically analyzed to describe the anatomical variability between and within subjects. RESULTS: The visual classification revealed that 30% of the specimens had no JB, 63% a low JB, and 7% a high-riding JB. The measured mean distance from the round window to the jugular bulb ranges between 3.22 ± 0.97 mm and 10.34 ± 1.41 mm. The distance measurement (error rate 5%) was more accurate than the visual classification (error rate 15%). The variability of the JB was higher than for the surrounding structures. No systematic laterality was found for any structure. CONCLUSION: Qualitative analysis in 3D models can contribute to a better spatial orientation in the lateral skull base and, thereby, have important implications during planning of middle ear and lateral skull base surgery.

Training and proficiency level in endoscopic sinus surgery change residents' eye movements.

Nose surgery is challenging and needs a lot of training for safe and efficient treatments. Eye tracking can provide an objective assessment to measure residents' learning curve. The aim of the current study was to assess residents' fixation duration and other dependent variables over the course of a dedicated training in functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Sixteen residents performed a FESS training over 18 sessions, split into three surgical steps. Eye movements in terms of percent fixation on the screen and average fixation duration were measured, in addition to residents' completion time, cognitive load, and surgical performance. Results indicated performance improvements in terms of completion time and surgical performance. Cognitive load and average fixation duration showed a significant change within the last step of training. Percent fixation on screen increased within the first step, and then stagnated. Results showed that eye movements and cognitive load differed between residents of different proficiency levels. In conclusion, eye tracking is a helpful objective measuring tool in FESS. It provides additional insights of the training level and changes with increasing performance. Expert-like gaze was obtained after half of the training sessions and increased proficiency in FESS was associated with increased fixation duration.

Variability of the retrotympanum and its association with mastoid pneumatization in cholesteatoma patients.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the variability of the retrotympanum in patients undergoing surgical treatment for cholesteatoma. METHODS: We included 59 ears of patients undergoing middle ear surgery for cholesteatoma who had preoperative computed tomography scans. A retrospective analysis of the medical records was conducted. The sinus tympani (ST), subtympanic sinus (STS) and facial recess (FR) were classified into types A-C based on the relationship of their extension to the facial nerve. The mastoid and petrous apex were assessed and categorized as normal pneumatized or sclerotic. RESULTS: Type A extension was the most frequently found in all sinuses (ST 64%, FR 77%, STS 69%), Type B extension was found more often in ST (34%) and STS (24%) than in FR (15%). A very deep extension was found only rarely (ST 2%, FR 8%, STS 7%). A sclerotic mastoid was found in 67% of cases. Those cases showed a statistically significant difference regarding retrotympanum pneumatization when compared with normal mastoid. CONCLUSION: The most frequent variant of retrotympanic pneumatization in relation to the facial nerve was type A in all subsites in cholesteatoma patients. The variability among patients with cholesteatoma is different to previously published results in healthy subjects. Moreover, the pneumatization of the retrotympanum is associated with mastoid pneumatization.

Vestibular Schwannoma: Long-term Outcome of the Vestibular Function After Stereotactic Radiosurgery.

Objective: Evaluation at long term of the impact of the stereotactic surgery (SRS) on the vestibular function in vestibular schwannoma (VS) patients. Study design and setting: Retrospective study in a tertiary referral center. Patients: Fifty-one VS patients were included (34 females;17 males), aged from 41 to 78 years treated exclusively with SRS. Intervention: Vestibular function was assessed before SRS and with median time interval of 14 (FU1) and 25 (FU2) months after treatment. Vestibular evaluation included: history, clinical vestibular examination, videonystagmography, head impulse test (v-HIT) and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (c-VEMPS). Results: Before SRS, caloric testing (Caloric) was impaired in 77%; after treatment, in 92% (FU1) and 77% (FU2). Lateral HIT was decreased in 22% before SRS, in 39% at FU1 and FU2. C-VEMPS were absent in 50% before SRS, in 76% at FU1 and, FU2. Before SRS, no statistically significant association was found between asymptomatic and symptomatic patients with respect to the results of Caloric, v-HIT and c-VEMPS. This lack of association was also seen after SRS, at FU1 and FU2. Conclusion: Our study showed that the impairment of the vestibular function might be attributed to the VS itself as well as to the radiation of the inner ear during SRS. The lateral SSC at low frequencies and the saccular function seem to be more involved with the time.

Endoscopic resection of Intralabyrinthine Schwannoma followed by Cochlear implantation.

We present the case of a 65 years old patient who developed a complete, sensorineural hearing loss on the right side due to an intravestibular schwannoma. Our video shows a transcanal, endoscopic approach with complete schwannoma removal on the right side, subsequent e-BERA recordings, and cochlear implantation.

Novel Multiportal Approach to the Internal Auditory Canal for Hearing-Preserving Surgery: Feasibility Assessment in Dissections.

OBJECTIVE: State-of-the-art, minimally invasive endoscopic transcanal surgery of the internal auditory canal (IAC) sacrifices the cochlea with complete hearing loss. With a combination of the transcanal infracochlear and transmastoid retrolabyrinthine approaches, we aim to preserve hearing and enable minimally invasive surgical treatment of vestibular schwannoma. In this study, we investigate the anatomical indications and the feasibility of both approaches in dissections, in human whole head specimens. METHODS: We operated whole head anatomical specimens with a four-handed technique, using the retrolabyrinthine approach as the main surgical corridor and the infracochlear approach for endoscopic visualization. We tested 4 different powered surgical systems. We collected intraoperative data on the size of the access windows, the surgical freedom, and the exposed area of the IAC. Finally, we evaluated the outcome in postoperative computed tomography scans. RESULTS: Six out of 14 sides were anatomically suitable and qualified for the surgery based on preoperative computed tomography. In all attempted sides, the IAC could be reached and opened, leaving the ossicular chain and the labyrinth intact. 51%-75% of the length and 22%-40% of the circumference of the IAC could be exposed. All tested instruments were beneficial at different stages of the surgery. The four-handed technique enabled good maneuverability of the instruments. CONCLUSIONS: The combined multiportal approach to the IAC is feasible with a good surgical exposure and full anatomical preservation of hearing. State-of-the-art surgical instruments in specimens with suitable anatomy are sufficient to perform this approach.

Morbidity and Oncological Outcome After Curative Treatment in Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

OBJECTIVES: Sinonasal squamous cell carcinomas are rare and aggressive tumors. Curative therapy includes surgery and radiotherapy, with high risk for local morbidity and impaired quality of life. The objective of this study was to analyze a large cohort of patients with sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma on treatment morbidity and oncological outcome. METHODS: Patients with sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (n = 75) treated at a tertiary referral center between 2008 and 2019 were identified. In patients with curative treatment intent (n = 70), a chart review and analysis on patient and tumor characteristics, morbidity, and oncological outcome was performed. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 59 months. Primary curative therapy was surgery alone (n = 18), surgery with radiation (n = 25), and primary (chemo)radiation (n = 27). Forty-two (60%) patients suffered from treatment-related morbidity; most frequent symptoms were dry nasal mucosa (20%), nasal obstruction (14.3%), and vision impairment or loss (11.5%). Patients with early disease had less morbidity (51.4 vs 71.1%; P = 0.09), a lower recurrence rate (27% vs. 48.5%; P = 0.08), and better overall survival (92.5% vs. 71.1%; P = 0.01). CONCLUSION: Treatment-related morbidity is common after curative treatment of sinonasal squamous cell carcinomas. Early disease is beneficial in terms of occurrence and severity as multimodal treatment and recurrence can more likely be avoided.