Addressing positive multi-cancer early detection tests in head and neck Surgery: Experience with head and neck work up for high-risk referrals.

OBJECTIVES: Blood-based multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are now commercially available. However, there are currently no consensus guidelines available for head and neck cancer (HNC) providers to direct work up or surveillance for patients with a positive MCED test. We seek to describe cases of patients with positive MCED tests suggesting HNC and provide insights for their evaluation. METHODS: Retrospective chart review of patients referred to Otolaryngology with an MCED result suggesting HNC. Patients enrolled in prospective MCED clinical trials were excluded. Cancer diagnoses were confirmed via frozen-section pathology. RESULTS: Five patients were included (mean age: 69.2 years, range 50-87; 4 male) with MCED-identified-high-risk for HNC or lymphoma. Only patient was symptomatic. After physical exam and follow-up head and neck imaging, circulating tumor HPV DNA testing, two patients were diagnosed with p16 + oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas and underwent appropriate therapy. A third patient had no evidence of head and neck cancer but was diagnosed with sarcoma of the thigh. The remaining two patients had no evidence of malignancy after in-depth workup. CONCLUSIONS: In this retrospective study, 2 of 5 patients referred to Otolaryngology with a positive MCED result were diagnosed with HPV + oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. We recommend that positive HNC MCED work up include thorough head and neck examination with flexible laryngoscopy and focused CT or MRI imaging. Given the potential for inaccurate MCED tissue of origin classification, PET/CT may be useful in specific situations. For a patient with no cancer identified, development of clear guidelines is warranted.

Mean Oral Cavity Organ-at-Risk Dose Predicts Opioid Use and Hospitalization during Radiotherapy for Patients with Head and Neck Tumors.

BACKGROUND: Approximately 75% of all head and neck cancer patients are treated with radiotherapy (RT). RT to the oral cavity results in acute and late adverse events which can be severe and detrimental to a patient's quality of life and function. The purpose of this study was to explore associations between RT dose to a defined oral cavity organ-at-risk (OAR) avoidance structure, provider- and patient-reported outcomes (PROs), opioid use, and hospitalization. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively obtained outcomes using multivariable modeling. The study included 196 patients treated with RT involving the oral cavity for a head and neck tumor. A defined oral cavity OAR avoidance structure was used in all patients for RT treatment planning. Validated PROs were collected prospectively. Opioid use and hospitalization were abstracted electronically from medical records. RESULTS: Multivariable modeling revealed the mean dose to the oral cavity OAR was significantly associated with opioid use (p = 0.0082) and hospitalization (p = 0.0356) during and within 30 days of completing RT. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study may be valuable in RT treatment planning for patients with tumors of the head and neck region to reduce the need for opioid use and hospitalization during treatment.

Underrepresented in Medicine Student Perspectives on the Selection of a Summer Research Program.

OBJECTIVES: Many summer research programs (SRPs) for URiM students exist; however, only a few have been established by otolaryngology programs, who have a unique opportunity to provide a diverse experience. We sought to assess URiM undergraduate student perspectives on the most valuable program features that influence decision-making and how this might be useful to otolaryngology programs seeking to establish pathway programs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An externally facing REDCap survey composed of 37 questions in scaled, multiple-choice, and open-ended form. The survey was delivered to applicants via email over two time periods in April 2021 and February 2022. All survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and categorized according to demographic information, program features, and advertising mechanisms. RESULTS: Seventy-one percent of our applicants self-identified as URiM. Over 60% experienced financial hardship, and 31% experienced educational hardship. The single most important feature when selecting a summer research program (SRP) was access to mentorship followed by clinical shadowing and research opportunities. When program features were aggregated into groups, institutional features were the most important, followed closely by funding features. Finally, students prefer to learn about SRPs through their university, followed by social media, despite many students learning about our program through other means. CONCLUSIONS: Paid programs with effective advertising, research, mentoring, and clinical shadowing are highly valued by URiM undergraduate students. Understanding student perspectives is critical for programs aiming to address the "leaky pipeline" while being deliberate in their support of underrepresented students. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5 Laryngoscope, 134:637-644, 2024.

Partial superficial parotidectomy for pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland: Early post-operative outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: There has been historical controversy regarding the extent of resection in the management of pleomorphic adenomas. This study aims to evaluate the extent of surgery and short-term postoperative outcomes of partial superficial parotidectomy (PSP) for the management of pleomorphic adenomas at a tertiary, high-volume center. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent PSP was performed. Variables included demographics, pre-operative facial nerve function, operative techniques, postoperative complications/facial nerve function, and recurrence. RESULTS: 151 adults who underwent PSP for pleomorphic adenoma from January 1st, 2000 to December 31st, 2022 were identified. Median age was 55 (IQR 40-66) years with females representing 74 % of the cohort. Median tumor size at presentation was 1.8 (IQR 1.3-2.3) cm. Baseline facial nerve function was excellent for most patients (House-Brackmann I, 99 %). Most patients underwent a superficial inferior parotidectomy (88 %). Modified Blair incision (70 %) was the most common incision. Intraoperatively, the facial nerve was identified in 149 (99 %) patients. The main trunk was identified in 126 (85 %) patients. No patient had tumor spillage. Only two patients required parotid bed reconstruction. The most common complication was ear numbness (60 %). Postoperatively, 114 patients were House-Brackmann grade I at both preoperative and postoperative assessment, 8 went from grade I to II, and 1 went from grade VI to II (Bell's palsy that resolved to grade II following surgery). Median follow-up was 1(IQR 1-5) month. CONCLUSION: PSP is efficacious in the management of pleomorphic adenomas with preservation of facial nerve function, and minimal post-operative complications. Future study is needed to assess long term recurrence risk.

Ability for fine needle aspiration and frozen section to predict extent of parotidectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Several diagnostic modalities with various sensitivity and specificities can be used to evaluate a parotid mass. The aims of this project were to compare the diagnostic actionability, accuracy, and ability to accurately predict extent of surgery for FNA and frozen section during the evaluation of a parotid mass. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent parotidectomy for a parotid mass from January 1, 2015 to January 30, 2022 was conducted. Actionability was defined as a pathology diagnosis or the histologic grade of a lesion, as this provided clear and useful information for the surgeon to act upon. Diagnostic accuracy was determined by comparing FNA and frozen section results to final pathology. Accuracy of extent of surgery was determined by comparing predicted extent of surgery from the FNA or frozen section result to the extent of surgery predicted by the final pathology. RESULTS: A total of 626 patients were included in this study. FNA was obtained in 396 (63%) patients, while all neoplasms were evaluated by frozen section analysis. FNA diagnosis was actionable in 318 (80%), while frozen section diagnosis was actionable in 616 (98%) patients. Exactly 294 (92.5%) FNA diagnoses were accurate compared with 600 (98%) frozen section diagnoses. The FNA diagnosis predicted appropriate extent of surgery in 294 (74%) while the frozen section diagnosis predicted appropriate extent of surgery in 600 (96%). Among the 396 patients with FNA, frozen section was significantly more likely to accurately predict appropriate extent of surgery compared with FNA (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Frozen section is more likely to yield actionable and accurate results compared with FNA. Additionally, frozen section is better than FNA in predicting the appropriate extent of surgery.

Selective Deep Lobe Parotidectomy vs Total Parotidectomy for Patients With Benign Deep Lobe Parotid Tumors.

Importance: Limited literature exists on surgical outcomes after selective deep lobe parotidectomy (SDLP) with preservation of superficial lobe for patients with benign deep lobe tumors. Objective: To compare the following factors for SDLP vs total parotidectomy for patients with benign tumors in the deep lobe: postoperative complications, including facial nerve paresis or paralysis, Frey syndrome, first bite syndrome, cosmetic defect, sialocele formation, and wound infection; and tumor control and recurrence. Design, Setting, and Participants: This case series included 273 adults who underwent SDLP (n = 177) or total parotidectomy (n = 96) at a single tertiary care institution for benign parotid tumors located in the deep lobe or deep lobe and parapharynx from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2020. Exposure: Selective deep lobe parotidectomy vs total parotidectomy. Main Outcomes and Measures: Incidence of postoperative complications and tumor recurrence. Results: Among 273 patients (SDLP, 177 [65%]; 122 women [69%]; median age at surgery, 58 years [IQR, 46-67 years]; total parotidectomy, 96 [35%]; 57 women [59%]; median age at surgery, 59 years [IQR, 40-68 years]), the most common tumor was pleomorphic adenoma (SDLP, 128 of 177 [72%]; total parotidectomy, 62 of 96 [65%]). An abdominal dermal fat graft was less commonly performed for patients who underwent SDLP than those who underwent total parotidectomy (2 of 177 [1%] vs 20 of 96 [21%]; difference, -20% [95% CI, -28% to -11%]). The rate of great auricular nerve preservation was higher in the SDLP group than in the total parotidectomy group (84 of 102 [82%] vs 20 of 34 [59%]; difference, 24% [95% CI, 5%-42%]). No meaningful difference in length of hospital stay was found. The percentage of patients with House-Brackmann grade I immediately after surgery was 48% (85 of 177) in the SDLP group and 21% (20 of 96) in the total parotidectomy group (difference, 28% [95% CI, 16%-40%]). There were no clinically meaningful differences in rates of hematoma, sialocele, seroma, ear numbness, wound infection, or unplanned return to emergency department or operating room. The SDLP group reported a lower rate of Frey syndrome than the total parotidectomy group (1 of 137 [1%] vs 12 of 78 [15%]; difference, -15% [95% CI, -23% to -7%]), as well as a lower rate of facial contour defect (28 of 162 [17%] vs 25 of 84 [30%]; difference, -13% [95% CI, -24% to -1%]) and a higher rate of first bite syndrome (34 of 148 [23%] vs 7 of 78 [9%]; difference, 14% [95% CI, 5%-23%]). The percentage of patients with House-Brackmann grade I at their first follow-up visit was 67% (118 of 177) in the SDLP group compared with 49% (47 of 96) in the total parotidectomy group (difference, 17% [95% CI, 4%-30%]). There was no clinically meaningful difference in House-Brackmann grade after 1 year. Conclusions and Relevance: Findings of this case series study suggest that SDLP can be considered an effective and even superior technique for management of benign tumors in the deep parotid lobe. Advantages associated with SDLP include reduction in need for reconstruction for facial contour defect and reduction in complications, such as immediate facial nerve weakness and Frey syndrome. The incidence of first bite syndrome was higher in the SDLP group. Tumor control was not compromised by SLDP.

Racial disparities in surgical treatment of oropharyngeal cancer: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results review.

OBJECTIVES: Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has been rising. This manuscript looks to explore racial disparities in the surgical management of OPSCC. METHODS: A cancer database was queried for patients with OPSCC diagnosed from 2004 to 2017. Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions were used to evaluate associations between patient race/ethnicity, surgical treatment, and reasons for lack of surgery. RESULTS: 37 306 (74.3%) patients did not undergo surgery, while 12 901 (25.7%) patients did. Non-Hispanic black (NHB) patients were less likely to undergo surgery than other races (17.9% vs. 26.5%; p < 0.0001). In clinical discussions, the Asian, Native American, Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (ANAHPI), and unknown race group was more likely to directly refuse surgery when recommended (2.5% vs. 1.5%; p = 0.015). CONCLUSION: Racial differences exist in treatment for OPSCC. NHB patients are less likely to actually undergo surgical management for OPSCC, while other patients are more likely to directly "refuse" surgery outright when offered.

Impact of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes on Disease Progression in Human Papillomavirus-Related Oropharyngeal Carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: We aim to explore the prognostic value of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in the primary tumor and metastatic lymph nodes of patients with HPV(+)OPSCC. We hypothesize that TILS density at both sites is associated with disease-free survival in HPV(+)OPSCC. STUDY DESIGN: Matched case-control study among HPV(+)OPSCC patients who underwent intent-to-cure surgery. Cases developed locoregional or distant recurrence. Controls were matched based on age, sex, pathologic T, N, and overall stage, year of surgery, type of adjuvant treatment received, and the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation-27 (ACE-27) score. SETTING: Single tertiary care center, May 2007 to December 2016. METHODS: Tumoral TILs (tTILs) density was defined as % TILs; stromal TILs (sTILs) density was defined as absent/sparse or moderate/dense crowding. Associations between TILs and time to disease progression were assessed using Cox regression models. RESULTS: Forty-four case-control pairs (N = 88) were included: 42 (48%) AJCC pStage I, 39 (44%) pStage II, and 7 (8%) pStage III. tTILs density ≥10% (hazard ratio [HR] 0.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.17-0.99, p = .048) and a moderate/dense sTILs density (HR 0.21, 95% CI 0.06-0.75, p = .016) in the primary tumor were significantly associated with decreased risk of progression. TILs density in the lymph node was associated with decreased risk of progression but did not reach statistical significance. The tTILs and sTILs density correlated strongly between the primary tumor and lymph node. Concordance between the pathologists' was moderate (60%-70%). CONCLUSIONS: In HPV(+)OPSCC, a higher density of tumoral and stromal TILs in the primary tumor and possibly the lymph node may predict a lower risk of disease progression.

Predictive Value of Preresidency Academic Metrics on Resident Publication Potential.

Objective: Otolaryngology residency is highly competitive, and applicant academic metrics are scrutinized. The predictive value of preresidency academic metrics on applicants' future research productivity and career aspirations remains largely undefined. Study Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Academic otolaryngology department, 2014 to 2015. Methods: Applicant demographics, publication history, and United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) scores were downloaded from Electronic Residency Application Service archives. Publications during residency were tallied from all PubMed articles indexed between July 1, 2015 and June 30, 2020. Postresidency career paths were examined by 2 investigators (D.J.C. and L.X.Y.) using Google searches with an emphasis on program websites, Doximity, and LinkedIn profiles. Associations with publication potential and postresidency positions were evaluated with Spearman rank correlation coefficients and Kruskal-Wallis, Wilcoxon rank sum, and χ 2 tests. Results: Of 321 applicants, 226 (70%) matched, and 205 (64%) completed residency by June 2020. Matched residents published a median of 4 (range: 0-41) manuscripts during residency. USMLE scores, Alpha Omega Alpha status, and the number of preresidency publications did not significantly correlate with publication potential during residency. The number of research experiences had a significant positive correlation with publications during residency (p < 0.001). Asian race (p = 0.002) and geographical region of residency (p < 0.001) also had significant associations with publication potential. Of the 205 graduates, 118 (58%) enrolled in fellowship. Age and female sex (74% vs 48%; p = 0.002) were the only factors significantly associated with pursuing a fellowship. Conclusion: In otolaryngology, not all preresidency academic metrics are associated with publication potential during residency or propensity for fellowship training. Programs should not use academic metrics alone to predict an applicant's future research productivity or career trajectory.

Safety outcomes and patient convenience in outpatient parotidectomy.

BACKGROUND: Parotidectomies have historically been performed on an inpatient basis despite being well-tolerated surgeries with minimal postoperative wound care and low rates of complications at high-volume institutions. Past studies have supported the safety of outpatient surgery for parotidectomy but have been limited to superficial parotidectomy and have not addressed the patient experience surrounding the surgical intervention such as pre-operative and post-operative care and communication. PURPOSE: This study assesses the impact of outpatient superficial, deep, and partial parotid surgery on various parameters including surgical safety, distance traveled for care, utilization of telehealth, and patient-initiated communication. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study from January 2020 to October 2021. Patients undergoing superficial lobe, deep lobe, and partial parotidectomies for benign and malignant pathologies were divided into inpatient and outpatient cohorts. A multivariable model examined the relationship between admission status and surgical complications, adjusted for age, sex, and tumor size. RESULTS: 159 patients total, 94 outpatient and 65 inpatients. No statistical difference in rates of surgical complications with the exception of salivary leak. There was an increased rate of salivary leak reported in the inpatient group (OR 5.4, 95 % CI 1.6 to 18.0, p = 0.01). Mean patient travel distance of 354 miles one-way. Post-operatively, 76 % were evaluated via video visit. Following discharge, >55 % of patients initiated communication with the surgical team, which was not statistically different between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Outpatient parotidectomy is safe and can be more convenient, but telehealth communication must be balanced with rigorous attention to patient education.

Diagnostic Delay in Human Papillomavirus Negative Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: Failure to recognize symptoms of non-human papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV(-)OPSCC) at presentation can delay diagnosis and treatment. We aim to identify patient factors and provider practice patterns that delay presentation and care in HPV(-)OPSCC. METHODS: Retrospective review at a tertiary care center. Patients with HPV(-)OPSCC receiving treatment from 2006 to 2016. Patients were excluded if their date of symptom onset or diagnosis was unknown after thorough review of the electronic medical record or their tissue was not tested for HPV or p16. Clinical data, workup, and care timelines were abstracted. Univariate and multivariable linear regressions were performed to determine associations between patient and provider factors and delays in care. RESULTS: Of 70 included patients, 52 (74%) were male and mean age was 60.5 (SD = 9.0). Median time to diagnosis was 69 days (IQR = 32-127 days), with a median latency of 30 days (IQR = 12-61 days) from symptom onset to first presentation and 19.5 days (IQR = 4-46 days) from the first presentation to diagnosis. Most patients visited at least 2 providers (n = 52, 74%) before diagnosis. Evaluation by 3 or more providers prior to diagnosis was associated with significant delays in diagnosis of nearly a year (357.7 days, p < 0.001) and being treated or prescribed analgesia prior to diagnosis was significantly associated with delays in diagnosis (p = 0.004) on univariate regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Delays in care related to evaluations by multiple providers and misdiagnosis prolonged time to diagnosis in HPV(-)OPSCC. Improved patient and provider education is necessary to expedite the diagnosis of HPV(-)OPSCC. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 133:1394-1401, 2023.

Low postoperative lymphocyte count increases risk of progression in human papillomavirus associated oropharyngeal cancer.

BACKGROUND: We aim to explore the prognostic role of absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) before, during, and after treatment on oncologic outcomes in human papillomavirus associated oropharyngeal cancer (HPV(+)OPSCC). METHODS: Retrospective cohort at a tertiary center, 2006-2018. Multivariable Cox regressions were used to determine the effect of ALC on risk of progression. Univariate linear regression was performed to determine clinical factors associated with lower ALC. RESULTS: All 197 patients underwent primary surgery. Mean (SD) ALC nadirs (×109  cells/L) were: baseline (N = 149): 1.69 (0.56); postoperative (N = 126): 1.58 (0.59); post-RT (N = 141): 0.68 (0.35) and long-term (N = 105): 0.88 (0.37). Lower baseline ALC nadir was associated with worse overall survival (HR 3.85, 95%CI: 1.03-14.29, p = 0.04). Lower postoperative ALC nadir was associated with higher risk of progression (HR 2.63, 95%CI: 1.04-6.67, p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Lower baseline ALC is associated with worse survival, whereas lower postoperative ALC is associated with increased risk of progression in surgically treated HPV(+)OPSCC.

The Number of Radiographically Positive Lymph Nodes Further Stratifies Patient Survival Among Clinical N1 Patients With Human Papillomavirus-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer.

Purpose: Human papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV[+]OPSCC) requires further study to optimize the existing clinical staging system and guide treatment selection. We hypothesize that incorporation of the number of radiographically positive lymph nodes will further stratify patients with clinical N1 (cN1) HPV(+)OPSCC. Methods and Materials: A post hoc analysis from 2 prospective clinical trials at a high-volume referral center was conducted. Patients underwent primary tumor resection and lymphadenectomy, followed by either standard-of-care radiation therapy (60 Gy in 30 fractions) with or without cisplatin (40 mg/m2 weekly) or de-escalated radiation therapy (30 Gy in 20 twice-daily fractions) with concomitant 15 mg/m2 docetaxel once weekly. Imaging studies were independently reviewed by a blinded neuroradiologist classifying radiographic extranodal extension (rENE) and the number and maximal size of involved lymph nodes. Patients without pathologic data available for assessment were excluded. Results: A total of 260 patients were included. Of these, 216 (83%) were cN1. Patients had a median of 2 radiographically positive lymph nodes (range, 0-12), and 107 (41%) had rENE. For cN1 patients, stratifying by radiographically positive lymph nodes (1-2 vs 3-4 vs >4) was predictive of progression-free survival (PFS) (P = .017), with 2-year PFS rates of 96%, 88%, and 81%, respectively. More than 2 radiographically positive lymph nodes was identified as a significant threshold for PFS (P = .0055) and overall survival (P = .029). Radiographic ENE and lymph node size were not predictive of PFS among cN1 patients. Conclusions: The number of radiographically positive lymph nodes is predictive of PFS and overall survival and could be used to meaningfully subcategorize cN1 patients with HPV(+)OPSCC. We recommend further validation of our proposal that cN1 patients with 1 to 2 radiologically positive lymph nodes be categorized as cN1a, patients with 3 to 4 radiologically positive lymph nodes categorized as cN1b, and patients with >4 radiographically positive lymph nodes categorized as cN1c.

Telemedicine evaluation of new head and neck patients at a tertiary academic clinic during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019 accelerated the use of virtual visits within health care. We examined the utility of telemedicine for conducting visits in a tertiary head and neck practice. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on patients presenting via video to a tertiary-level head and neck clinic between January 2020 and December 2020. Patient demographics were collected in addition to visit indication, diagnostic imaging/tests at the time of visit, and post-visit plan. Visits were deemed successful if evaluation by video was sufficient in determining a clinical plan and did not require deferment of recommendations for subsequent in-person consult visits and/or work-up (labs, imaging). Logistic regression was performed to identify variables that served as significant predictors of successful video visits. RESULTS: A total of 124 video visits were reviewed. Video visits were successful for the initial evaluation 88.7% of the time (n = 110). Computerized tomographic scans were the most available diagnostic test, available for 54% of patients (n = 67), followed by biopsy report 30.6% (n = 38). Visit indication had a statistically significant effect on whether a treatment plan could be made (p = 0.024). For new patients with parotid masses (n = 42), definitive treatment plans could be made 97.6% of the time (n = 41). Patients presenting with an indication of thyroid mass (odds ratio: 0.19 (confidence interval: 0.00072-0.50), p = 0.018) and other neck mass (odds ratio: 0.035 (confidence interval: 0.0014, 0.90), p = 0.043) were at significantly lesser odds than parotid patients to have a successful video visit. DISCUSSION: In this study, virtual visits were successful for a high percentage of head and neck visits, particularly among patients seeking evaluation for parotid-related concerns.

Underreporting and Underrepresentation of Race and Ethnicity in Head and Neck Cancer Trials, 2010-2020: A Systematic Review.

Importance: There is substantial evidence demonstrating racial disparities in the survival outcomes of patients with head and neck cancer. The reporting and representation of race and ethnicity in cancer trials is crucial for generalizability of trial results to patient care and reduction of racial health disparities in head and neck cancers. Racial disparities in oncologic outcomes across various therapeutic interventions may only manifest when diverse races are appropriately represented in trials. Objective: To characterize the reporting and representation of race and ethnicity in head and neck cancer clinical trials. Evidence Review: A systematic search of published trials and those available on ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted to identify 3973 studies from 2010 to 2020. Title, abstract, and full-text review yielded 155 trials for data extraction of patient demographics. Year of publication, type of intervention, publication source, and funding source were also collected. Race and ethnicity data were compared with Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program cancer registry data. Findings: Of the 155 included studies, only 89 (57%) reported race or ethnicity. Only 81 (52%) of the studies reported detailed classification of race or ethnicity per the US Census Bureau classification scheme. Race and ethnicity reporting varied considerably with year of publication, type of intervention, data source, and funding source. Studies in the latter half of the decade were more likely to report race or ethnicity (odds ratio, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.33-5.80), with the highest number in 2019 (24 of 30 [80%] trials), followed by 2020 (20 of 29 [69%] trials). Among the possible interventions, trials on therapeutic chemoradiation most frequently reported race or ethnicity (11 of 12 [92%]), followed by supportive drug trials (22 of 31 [71%]), and then therapeutic chemotherapy trials (28 of 48 [58%]). When compared with SEER data, race and ethnicity distribution in clinical trials showed fewer Black patients (10% vs 8%) and Asian or Pacific Islander patients (6% vs 2%). Conclusions and Relevance: In this systematic review, nearly half of head and neck cancer trials in the past decade did not report the race or ethnicity of participants. Participation of Black and Asian or Pacific Islander patients does not adequately reflect the US population's head and neck cancer demographics, limiting the generalizability of trial results and adding to racial health disparities in patients with head and neck cancers.

Performing parotidectomy postoperative follow-ups via telemedicine: Experience at a tertiary care, multiple-surgeon otolaryngology center.

INTRODUCTION: We examined the suitability of using a video visit platform to perform postoperative parotidectomy evaluation at a tertiary care, multiple-surgeon otolaryngology center. METHODS: A retrospective case review was conducted of patients who underwent parotidectomy and postoperative video visits between November 2019 and December 2020. Success of video visit, plan if applicable, and post-visit outcomes were reviewed. Video visits were designated as successful if the physician could assess for complications in the postoperative course (e.g. first bite pain, Frey syndrome, ear numbness, unplanned visits to the emergency department, unplanned return to the operating room), perform examination of facial nerve function, and formulate care recommendations per clinical judgement without deferment of recommendations for a subsequent in-person visit. RESULTS: There were 96 postoperative video visits with 91 unique parotidectomy patients. Demographics: 28/63 male/female; average age, 54y. All video visits were suitable for successful postoperative parotidectomy patient evaluation. Eight visits (8.3%) consisted of patients presenting with common postoperative complications (e.g. eye dryness, first bite pain) and warranted care recommendations. In only two cases did the patient require further in-person procedural (hematoma evacuation, seroma aspiration) follow-ups. For the other 91.7% of visits (n = 88), no additional recommendations were required as patients experienced uncomplicated postoperative courses. Of all the patients, 26.1% (n = 23) were instructed to follow-up for routine surveillance. All other patients, 73.9% (n = 65) were instructed to follow-up as needed. CONCLUSION: Postoperative parotidectomy evaluation is highly amenable to being performed by video. A telemedicine option offers convenience for patients in the majority of cases without compromising clinical assessment and judgment for the physician.

Ultrasound Guided Biopsy in Patients With HPV-Associated Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

OBJECTIVES: To identify the differences in sensitivity and accuracy between ultrasound-guided and palpation-guided fine needle aspirations (FNA) of suspicious lymph nodes in patients with human papillomavirus (HPV) (+) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Additional objectives included identifying patient specific factors affecting biopsy accuracy and evaluating potential differences in accuracy between fine and core needle biopsies. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective chart review. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study of diagnostic sensitivity was completed at a single tertiary care center between 1/1/2006-12/31/2016. Participants included patients who underwent pretreatment FNA biopsy with HPV(+)OPSCC confirmed pathologically following neck dissection or excisional lymph node biopsy. A true positive (TP) on FNA biopsy was defined as an FNA biopsy concerning for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) that was confirmed on excisional biopsy or neck dissection. A false negative (FN) was defined as a negative FNA but metastatic disease identified on excisional biopsy or neck dissection. Sensitivity was calculated as TPs/(TPs + FNs). Sensitivity was compared among techniques using chi-square and Fisher exact tests. RESULTS: A total of 209 FNA biopsies among 198 patients were included in the study, including 31 (15%) palpation-guided FNAs, 160 (77%) ultrasound-guided FNAs, and 18 (9%) ultrasound-guided FNA + core biopsies. Sensitivity was significantly different among palpation-guided FNA, ultrasound-guided FNA, and ultrasound-guided FNA + core biopsies (48% vs. 83% vs. 94%, respectively; P < .001) but there was no significant difference in sensitivity between ultrasound-guided FNA versus ultrasound-guided FNA + core biopsies (P = .31). CONCLUSION: The use of ultrasound guidance in FNA biopsies of nodal metastases in HPV(+)OPSCC improves sensitivity compared to palpation guidance alone. Ultrasound guided biopsies are preferred in patients with suspected nodal metastasis from HPV(+)OPSCC. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3 Laryngoscope, 132:2396-2402, 2022.

Transpharyngeal Approaches for Management of Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Mayo Clinic Institution Experience.

OBJECTIVE: Investigate oncologic and functional outcomes associated with transhyoid and lateral pharyngotomy (transpharyngeal) approaches in the treatment of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective review. SETTING: Single institution (tertiary care center). METHODS: This is a retrospective case series of patients with OPSCC undergoing transpharyngeal resection from 1990 to 2017 at Mayo Clinic. Oncologic outcomes, postoperative complications, objective swallowing data, and rates of tracheostomy and percutaneous gastrostomy tube dependence were recorded. RESULTS: Of 83 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 56 (68%) were human papillomavirus positive. Overall survival rates at 5 and 10 years following surgery were 85% and 80%, respectively. Cancer-specific survival rates at these same time points were 90% and 88%. Following treatment, 35 of 49 patients (71%) had a Functional Oral Intake Scale score ≥5, indicating total oral intake of multiple consistencies; 79 of 82 (96%) were without tracheostomy or laryngectomy; and 71 of 81 (88%) were on a full oral diet. CONCLUSION: Transpharyngeal approaches provide adequate functional and oncologic outcomes in the majority of patients with OPSCC. These results may have important implications for patients who are not candidates for, or are unwilling to undergo, nonoperative therapy or for those without access to radiation therapy.