Consideration of Hyoid Variability in the Diagnostic Workup of Fishbone Foreign Body Aspiration.

Fishbone foreign body (FFB) can lodge in the upper respiratory or gastrointestinal tracts and frequently cause discomfort. While FFBs are common, variations in the hyoid may present radiographically similarly. The authors present a case in which a 32-year-old woman presented with pain in the right neck with a globus sensation after eating fish. Examination, including flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy, did not reveal a foreign body. Given the patients' persistent symptoms, a noncontrast computed tomography was performed, demonstrating a radiopaque body superior to the right lateral hyoid bone, consistent with FFB. Direct examination under anesthesia was performed, and no FFB was noted. A reassessment of the imaging suggested a likely aberrant hyoid bone. The authors report this case to remind clinicians that while rare, aberrant hyoid variants may mimic FFB. The authors also review the imaging findings of aberrant hyoid variants in this report, as recognition of hyoid variability can mitigate unnecessary intervention.

Headache Diagnosis in Children and Adolescents.

Pediatric headache is a common medical complaint managed across multiple subspecialties with a myriad of unique factors (clinical presentation and disease phenotype) that make accurate diagnosis particularly elusive. A thorough understanding of the stepwise approach to headache disorders in children is essential to ensure appropriate evaluation, timely diagnosis, and efficacious treatment. This work aims to review key components of a comprehensive headache assessment as well as discuss primary and secondary headache disorders observed in children, with a particular focus on clinical pearls and "red flag" symptoms necessitating ancillary diagnostic testing.

Utility of Temporal Bone Computed Tomography in Pediatric Emergency Medicine.

OBJECTIVE: Temporal bone computed tomography (CT) requires a relatively high radiation dose to produce high-resolution images required to define surgical anatomy. In the acute setting, the need for this detailed evaluation of temporal bone pathology may not be required for nonsurgical management and clinical decision-making. We performed a retrospective review of the clinical characteristics and subsequent management of children who underwent CT of the temporal bone with the goal of optimizing clinical decision-making and mitigating the risks of radiation exposure in children. METHODS: We included pediatric patients (<18 years of age) with International Classification of Diseases (9th or 10th revision) diagnoses consistent with otitis externa, otitis media, mastoiditis, head trauma, temporal bone fracture, and otalgia who were treated in the emergency department and underwent temporal bone CT from January 1, 2012-December 31, 2016. We collected data regarding the patients' presenting symptoms, physical exam findings, indications for imaging, radiographic findings, disposition, and operative intervention within 30 days of imaging. Features of the suspected mastoiditis group were compared between operative and non-operative patients. RESULTS: Over the four-year study period there were 96 temporal bone CTs. Most studies (70%) were associated with a subsequent inpatient admission. Common indications for imaging included evaluation of acute mastoiditis (55%) or trauma (41%). Of the 53 patients with concern for mastoiditis, 27 (51%) required otologic surgery. Two patients in the trauma group required surgical intervention, both for facial nerve decompression. In patients with suspected mastoiditis, mental status changes (P = 0.02), auricular proptosis (P = 0.05), and fluctuance (P = 0.02) were significantly more prevalent in the operative group; however, no other findings were significantly associated with operative intervention. CONCLUSION: Temporal bone CT is beneficial in guiding diagnosis and management of acute mastoiditis. We found that a majority of patients with suspected mastoiditis who underwent temporal bone CT ultimately required surgery or hospital admission. However, the potential for reduction in the use of CT still exists in this population. Fractures of the temporal bone typically do not require urgent operative intervention in the absence of complete facial nerve paralysis; thus, the utility of temporal bone CT in trauma evaluation may be limited.

Predictive Patient Factors for Poor Outcomes Following Stapedotomy for Otosclerosis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess patient-related risk factors associated with poor outcomes following stapedotomy for otosclerosis. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTING: Academic tertiary care center. METHODS: Retrospective chart review of 107 patients with otosclerosis who underwent stapedotomy between 2013 and 2020. Demographics, comorbidities, and smoking history were obtained. Preoperative and postoperative audiogram data, including air-bone gap (ABG), and complications were collected. Data were analyzed using t test and Fischer's exact test for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. RESULTS: Among 107 patients, 29.5% were smokers and 70.1% non-smokers. Overall, the average ABG-gain 3-months postoperatively was 20.2 dB, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were 3.74 and 13.1%, respectively. Those with a history of otologic procedures had a lower mean ABG gain at 3 months compared with those without previous otologic surgery (14.4 dB versus 20.4 dB, p = 0.018). The average ABG gain at 3-months was not significantly different between those with current, former, or no smoking history, respectively (13.5 versus 18.1 versus 20.6, p = 0.08). Current smokers had 4.5 times greater odds of complications compared with non-smokers, although not statistically significant (95% CI 0.9-22.8, p = 0.1912). CONCLUSION: Age and history of otologic procedures as independent risk factors did impact hearing outcomes among our patient cohort; however, smoking history did not. Future prospective studies are required to further investigate complication rates by various modifiable risk factors, such as smoking status, body mass index (BMI), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) use, for stapedotomy surgeries.

Thyroid Dysfunction in Ménière's Disease: A Comprehensive Review.

INTRODUCTION: The precise etiology of Ménière's disease (MD) remains unknown; however, given the association of MD with serum antibodies and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex, several studies have proposed a relationship between MD and thyroid disorders. Similarly, multiple hypotheses exist regarding the metabolic disturbances of fluctuating thyroid hormone as a potential contributing agent in the development of MD. METHODS: A total of 171 abstracts were identified and screened by 2 independent reviewers. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 8 studies were selected for final analysis. Due to heterogeneity of clinical data, meta-analysis was not feasible. RESULTS: The prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease and hypothyroidism in MD varied significantly from 1 to 38%. Notable bias was introduced given the lack of standardization of diagnostic criteria across studies. Articles that described autoimmune thyroid-specific antibodies and HLA types also presented inconclusive results. Multiple studies noted a potential etiologic role of hypothyroidism in MD, which was often confounded by thyroxine supplementation. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a potential correlation in the medical literature between thyroid disorders and MD, there is currently no definitive causal relationship. Although most of the present medical literature focuses on autoimmunity, dysregulated thyroid hormone levels may also be implicated in the association of MD with thyroid disorders.

Usage Patterns of CT and MRI in the Evaluation of Otologic Disease.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the current trends and usage patterns of radiographic imaging for otologic disease by specialty, length of practice, practice setting, geographic region, and pediatric volume. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Survey of physicians. SUBJECTS: General Otolaryngologists and Otologists/Neurotologists (O/N) of the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS). METHODS AND OUTCOME MEASURES: An electronic questionnaire was distributed to AAO-HNS members. Respondents were separated into groups by specialty, length of practice, practice setting, region, and pediatric exposure. Chi-square tests were performed for the determination of significance. RESULTS: The survey was sent to 5,168 members of AAO-HNS. The response rate was 10.6% (n = 546) and 18.1% for only O/N (n = 143). Most respondents were generalists (74%), in practice >20 years (51%), with a primarily adult practice (95%). O/N were more often academics (44 versus 17% combined, 40% private; p < 0.001) and saw fewer children (80 fewer than 25%; p < 0.001). Compared with generalists, O/N were more likely to respond with more frequent and earlier magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) utilization in the workup of the majority of otologic diseases. Significant differences in usage patterns for various conditions were demonstrated across all categories, but specialty training was the most common. Generalists (34 versus 12% of O/N; p < 0.001), physicians practicing >20 years (32 versus 18% of < 5 yrs; p = 0.006), and private practice physicians (34 versus 14-20% of others; p < 0.001) relied more heavily on the radiology report to interpret MRI scans. CONCLUSION: Subspecialty training seems to be the main variable correlating with significant differences in the use of MRI and computed tomography imaging in patients with otologic disease.

Hearing Rehabilitation Implementing a Transcutaneous Bone Conduction Device: Single-Center Experience.

Bone conduction implants based on percutaneous abutment acoustic transmission have been implemented in patients with satisfactory outcomes. However, adverse soft tissue outcomes present a limitation. Transcutaneous bone conduction devices (t-BCDs) are an alternative that may mitigate these complications. A retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent implantation of a t-BCD from 2013 to 2017. Surgical outcomes were reviewed including wound complications, frequency of device use, patient concerns regarding the device, and reported patient satisfaction. A total of 37 patients were implanted with the bone-anchored hearing aids, BAHA Attract (Cochlear™ Baha® Implant System). Average follow-up time was 271.8 days. Postoperatively, 7 (18.9%) patients complained of soft tissue changes or issues with wound healing. Twelve (32.4%) patients requested adjustment of their devices. The t-BCD is an excellent option for hearing rehabilitation. Overall, the complication rate is low, patient satisfaction is high, and successful conversion from a percutaneous device is possible with minimal risk.

Middle Ear Viral Load Considerations in the COVID-19 Era: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the available medical literature to investigate the viral load in the middle ear and mastoid cavity and the potential risk of exposure to airborne viruses during otologic surgery. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane databases. STUDY SELECTION: This review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Protocol. DATA EXTRACTION: Using the Boolean method and relevant search term combinations for terms "mastoid," "middle ear," "virus," "exposure" "COVID-19" "SARS-CoV-2." PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane databases were queried. A total of 57 abstracts were identified and screened by two independent reviewers. Following inclusion and exclusion criteria, 18 studies were selected for the final analysis. DATA SYNTHESIS: Due to the heterogeneity of clinical data, a meta-analysis was not feasible. RESULTS: Rhinovirus, followed by respiratory syncytial virus are reported to be the most prevalent viruses in MEF samples but formal statistical analysis is precluded by the heterogeneity of the studies. Drilling was identified to have the highest risk for aerosol generation and therefore viral exposure during otologic Surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The medical literature has consistently demonstrated the presence of nucleic acids of respiratory viruses involving the middle ear, including SARS-CoV2 in a recent postmortem study. Although no in vivo studies have been conducted, due to the likely risk of transmission, middle ear and mastoid procedures, particularly involving the use of a drill should be deferred, if possible, during the pandemic and enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) used if surgery is necessary.

Meningocele of the Internal Auditory Canal Requiring Facial-Nerve Decompression.

In this case report, we present the case of a 14-month-old boy with a history of left facial palsy which developed at a very young age. CT of the temporal bone revealed a cystic lesion of the left petrous apex, and sedated auditory testing revealed a profound hearing loss on the same side. Following his first episode of left facial palsy, his symptoms nearly fully resolved and he was lost to follow-up. However, he was seen 5 months later due to recurrent and sudden left-sided facial paralysis. MRI was performed due to suspicion of an epidermoid cyst. The patient was subsequently taken to the operating room for facial-nerve decompression. Intraoperatively, no obvious cystic lesion was identified. Tissue biopsied from the internal auditory canal demonstrated benign glial tissue and fibrous tissue consistent with a meningocele.

A Case of External Auditory Canal Sebaceous Carcinoma: Literature Review and Treatment Discussion.

Sebaceous neoplasms are a rare type of skin cancer that may occur in any area with sebaceous glands, including the outer third of the external auditory canal. However, documentation of the tumor originating in this location is limited to scarce case reports. In this location, malignancies can invade the temporal bone, typically requiring en bloc resection and radiation therapy. We describe a case managed with limited surgical excision based on criteria for primary squamous cell carcinoma of the external auditory canal with only close observation following surgery. Margins were free of disease following excision and histology demonstrated a favorable prognosis. The patient was disease free after a follow-up period of over 3 years postoperatively. A review of relevant literature is utilized to discuss clinical characteristics, staging, treatment, and prognosis to assist in clinical decision making for these patients.

Best Practice Recommendations for Pediatric Otolaryngology during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: To review the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on pediatric otolaryngology and provide recommendations for the management of children during the COVID-19 pandemic. DATA SOURCES: Clinical data were derived from peer-reviewed primary literature and published guidelines from national or international medical organizations. Preprint manuscripts and popular media articles provided background information and illustrative examples. METHODS: Included manuscripts were identified via searches using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar, while organizational guidelines and popular media articles were identified using Google search queries. Practice guidelines were developed via consensus among all authors based on peer-reviewed manuscripts and national or international health care association guidelines. Strict objective criteria for inclusion were not used due to the rapidly changing environment surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and a paucity of rigorous empirical evidence. CONCLUSIONS: In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, medical care must be judiciously allocated to treat the most severe conditions while minimizing the risk of long-term sequelae and ensuring patient, physician, and health care worker safety. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The COVID-19 pandemic will have a profound short- and long-term impact on health care worldwide. Although the full repercussions of this disease have yet to be realized, the outlined recommendations will guide otolaryngologists in the treatment of pediatric patients in the face of an unprecedented global health crisis.

A Commentary on Safety Precautions for Otologic Surgery during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

There are insufficient data regarding the safety of otologic procedures in the setting of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Given the proclivity for respiratory pathogens to involve the middle ear and the significant aerosolization associated with many otologic procedures, safety precautions should follow current recommendations for procedures involving the upper airway. Until preoperative diagnostic testing becomes standardized and readily available, elective cases should be deferred and emergent/urgent cases should be treated as high risk for COVID-19 exposure. Necessary otologic procedures on positive, suspected, or unknown COVID-19 status patients should be performed using enhanced personal protective equipment, including an N95 respirator and eye protection or powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR, preferred), disposable cap, disposable gown, and gloves. Powered instrumentation should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, and if performed, PAPR or sealed eye protection is recommended.

Improving Microscopic Imaging in Otology and Neurotology.

OBJECTIVE: Due to the microscopic nature of otologic surgery, photographic image quality suffers from an inherent inability to maintain all the planes of surgery in focus under binocular microscopy. Our goal was to perform simple editing techniques to create improved imaging for educational and research purposes in the field of Otology and Neurotology. PATIENTS/DESIGN: The study was a proof of concept performed with series of cases including patients undergoing transmastoid and transcanal otologic surgery over time period of December 1, 2018 to March 1, 2019 at an academic medical center. The Zeiss OPMI Pentero 800 operating microscope was used with a camera capturing 2.1 megapixel, 1098 × 1080 resolution images. INTERVENTION: We created a systematic protocol for capturing images of multiple focal lengths during each surgery. With the image-editing technique of focus-stacking, multiple images of varying focal length, were spliced together to produce high-quality and high-fidelity composite images rendered using the Adobe Photoshop (San Jose, CA). OUTCOMES: Subjective comparisons of pre and post photo-edited photographs. RESULTS: Composite, focus-stacked images with comparison to unedited microscopic pictures are reviewed in the manuscript. CONCLUSION: We describe a simple and objectively practical method for improving the quality of medical imaging in the field of Otology/Neurotology. To achieve this enhanced image quality, a relatively expeditious and reliable photographic protocol can be used for image capturing and editing, requiring little to no additional training for a physician in the field.

The Effect of Patient Volume and Experience on Management of Menière's Disease.

HYPOTHESIS: Treatment modalities administered by Otolaryngologists vary based on patient volume and years of experience. OBJECTIVE: It was our goal to evaluate the current trends in treatment modalities administered by Otolaryngologists based on patient volume and years of experience. METHODS: An electronic questionnaire was distributed to all General Otolaryngologists and fellowship-trained Neurotologist members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS). Respondents were separated into groups by patients per year (<10, 10-29, 30-49, 50-99, or >100 patients) and years in practice (0-5, 6-10, 11-15, 16-20, or >20 yrs). RESULTS: Eight hundred and sixty members replied for a response rate of 14.5% for generalists and 35% for neurotologists. Patient volume was found to have a positive association with perceived benefit of lifestyle and diet modification, and use of intratympanic steroids, intratympanic gentamycin, oral steroids, benzodiazepines, acetazolamide, endolymphatic sac procedures, vestibular nerve section, and surgical labyrinthectomy. Only endolymphatic sac procedures were found to have a significant positive association with a physician's length in practice. The only negative association was between intratympanic steroids and a physician's length in practice. CONCLUSION: Physicians who see more MD patients annually are more likely to use these treatment modalities: diet and lifestyle modification, intratympanic steroids, intratympanic gentamycin, surgical labyrinthectomy, vestibular nerve section, acetazolamide, alprazolam, lorazepam, dexamethasone, and prednisone. Physicians with a longer length of time in practice are more likely to use only endolymphatic sac procedures, and they are less likely to use intratympanic steroids.

Surgical Management of Vestibular Schwannoma: Practice Pattern Analysis via NSQIP.

OBJECTIVE: Characterize current perspectives in the surgical management of vestibular schwannoma (VS) to guide otolaryngologists in understanding United States practice patterns. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of ACS-NSQIP database was performed to abstract all patients from 2008 to 2016 who underwent VS resection using ICD-9/10 codes 225.1 and D33.3, respectively. The specific surgical approach employed was identified via CPT codes 61520, 61526/61596, and 61591, which represent retrosigmoid (RS), translabyrinthine (TL) and middle cranial fossa (MCF) approaches, respectively. Analyzed outcomes include general surgical complications, total length of stay, and reoperation. RESULTS: A total of 1671 VS cases were identified, 1266 (75.7%) were RS, 292 (17.5%) were TL, and 114 (6.8%) were MCF. The annual number of cases increased over the study period from 15 to 375, which is chiefly attributed to increased institutional participation in ACS-NSQIP. Perioperative variables including BMI (P < .001), ASA class (P = .004), ethnicity (P = .008), operative time (P < .001), and reoperation (P < .001) were found to be statistically significant between cohorts. Increased utilization of RS approach was consistent over the entire study period, with significantly more RS performed than either TL or MCF. Finally, a statistically significant difference with respect to general surgical complication rates was not noted between surgical approaches. CONCLUSIONS: There is increased employment of RS approach for the operative management of VS, which likely is the result of increased reliance on both stereotactic radiosurgery and observation as alternative treatment strategies.