Awareness about Orthodontists' Role in Treating Osa and Mouth Breathing among Otolaryngologists.

Background: Orthodontic correction of dentofacial abnormalities is a crucial component of oral health because it enhances overall oral health-related quality of life, optimal function, periodontal health, and aesthetics. This study sought to determine whether otolaryngologists recommend patients to orthodontists, whether they are adequately knowledgeable about the fundamentals of orthodontics, and whether they check for orthodontic problems in their patients. Materials and Method: We conducted a survey study of otolaryngologists in Gujarat, India. Questionnaires were completed by 47 out of 60 otolaryngologists (response rate 78%). Results: In the assessment of the mouth breathers, a very low frequency of "always" examining the extra-oral features (18%) was found. Reasons otolaryngologists referred patients to orthodontists varied from mouth breathing 48% (23/47) to face or teeth asymmetry 87% (41/47). In the multivariable analyses for the effect of gender, work sector, or years of experience in the decision for orthodontic referral, we could not identify any significant predictors. A low frequency of awareness of orthodontists' role in obstructive sleep apnoea, 48% (23/47) was found. Conclusion: In conclusion, the survey of otolaryngologists in Gujarat, India, revealed areas for improvement in awareness and practices related to orthodontic issues, particularly in cases of mouth breathing. The study highlighted a low frequency of examination of extraoral features and variability in referral patterns, emphasizing potential gaps in knowledge. Additionally, a low awareness of orthodontists' role in treating obstructive sleep apnea was identified. Targeted educational interventions are recommended to enhance interdisciplinary communication and collaboration between otolaryngologists and orthodontists, ultimately fostering a more comprehensive approach to patient care for individuals with dentofacial deformities in Gujarat and potentially influencing practices on a broader scale.

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Endoscopic Sinus and Skull Base Surgery: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery has led to significant improvements in patient outcomes, yet may have come at a cost to surgeons' musculoskeletal (MSK) health. We aimed to determine the prevalence and characteristics of work-related MSK disorders (WRMDs) in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgeons; to investigate contributing factors for WRMD in this population; and to evaluate the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions on the severity or prevalence of WRMD in this population. DATA SOURCES: Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to April 2, 2024. A bibliographic examination was performed for further papers. REVIEW METHODS: Inclusion criteria included original peer-reviewed papers with work-related MSK outcomes (prevalence, contributing factors, and interventions) relating to endoscopic sinus and/or skull base surgeons in any language. RESULTS: Of 25,772 unique citations, 37 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled lifetime, point, and 12-month prevalences of WRMD were 75.9% (95% confidence interval; I2, 67.2%-83.6%, I2 95.6%), 80.8% (77.0%-84.3%, I2 98.0%), and 82.0% (71.8%-90.3%, I2 60.96%) respectively. The neck, lumbar spine, and thoracic spine were the most commonly involved areas. One of 9 studies on contributing factors investigated discomfort as an outcome. The remainder focussed on surrogate outcomes (eg, posture, hand dysfunction). Two of the 13 intervention studies investigated pain or fatigue as an outcome. The remainder targeted posture, muscle activity, or workload. CONCLUSION: WRMDs are highly prevalent in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgeons. Further studies focusing on the direct outcomes of WRMD such as pain are needed.

Understanding, experience and attitudes towards artificial intelligence technologies for clinical decision support in hearing health: a mixed-methods survey of healthcare professionals in the UK.

OBJECTIVES: Clinician acceptance influences technology adoption, but UK health professionals' attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI) in hearing healthcare are unclear. This study aimed to address this knowledge gap. METHODS: An online survey, based on the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys, was distributed to audiologists, ENT specialists and general practitioners. The survey collected quantitative and qualitative data on demographics and attitudes to AI in hearing healthcare. RESULTS: Ninety-three participants (mean age 39 years, 56 per cent female) from three professional groups (21 audiologists, 24 ENT specialists and 48 general practitioners) responded. They acknowledged AI's benefits, emphasised the importance of the clinician-patient relationship, and stressed the need for proper training and ethical considerations to ensure successful AI integration in hearing healthcare. CONCLUSION: This study provides valuable insights into UK healthcare professionals' attitudes towards AI in hearing health and highlights the need for further research to address specific concerns and uncertainties surrounding AI integration in hearing healthcare.

Imposter Phenomenon and Its Predictors in Saudi ENT Specialists: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Impostor syndrome (IS) is characterized by an ongoing disbelief in the authenticity of one's accomplishments, attributing success to luck rather than to one's own ability or hard work. The syndrome has detrimental consequences in both personal and career aspects and is closely linked to emotional exhaustion, stress, and depressive symptoms. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of IS among otolaryngologists practicing in Saudi Arabia. Methods We performed a cross-sectional survey from August to October 2022 that targeted both practicing otolaryngologists and those still in their training phase in Saudi Arabia. The survey, delivered via email, tapped into the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) database to reach all registered otolaryngologists. The survey tool comprised questions on demographic details and employed the Clance Impostor Phenomenon (IP) Scale to evaluate the presence of IS. Results Out of 80 respondents, males (n = 46) were 57.5%, and 18.8% were consultants (n =15). The study found a 27.5% prevalence rate of IS among the surveyed otolaryngologists (n =80), with a mean score of 56.79 ± 12.98. In terms of severity, 62.5% (n = 50) had a moderate level of IS, 25.0% (n = 20) had high IS, and 5.0% (n = 4) had intense IS. It was significantly more common with resident otolaryngologists as compared to consultants (X2 = 7.476, df = 3; p = 0.048), but there was no significant association in terms of gender (X2=3.418, df =1; p = 0.064), type of hospital (X2= 6.351, df = 3; p = 0.096), or fellowship subspecialty (X2= 2.291, df = 4; p = 0.681). Conclusions The study detected that 36.9% of otolaryngologists (n = 17) experienced IS, with trainees being more susceptible than consultants and fellows. Further investigations to explore the scope and underlying reasons are recommended.

Gender, age and location-related factors in academic otolaryngology - the Greek paradigm.

OBJECTIVE: To map Greek academic otolaryngologists, and assess gender, age and location-related differences in their rank and academic productivity. METHODS: A pre-established database of local and diaspora scientists was used, after adjustment and updating for otolaryngology. The following data were recorded: age, gender, academic rank, country of work, total citations and h-index of December 2022. RESULTS: A total of 276 Greek academic otolaryngologists were identified in the Scopus database. Of Greek otolaryngologists, 15.9 per cent are women. Of all academic otolaryngologists, 27.1 per cent have a university post, but only 4 per cent of them are women. There is an almost linear correlation between university post ranking and citations. Otolaryngologists based in Greece accounted for 3 out of the 10 most cited Greek otolaryngologists. CONCLUSION: There are significant age, gender and location-related differences in academic output. The representation of women and the full use of their potential in medicine require proactive measures, to lift the burdens limiting their participation.

Knowledge and attitudes surrounding breastfeeding in pediatric otolaryngology: A survey study.

OBJECTIVE: This survey study seeks to understand the knowledge and attitudes of pediatric otolaryngologists around breastfeeding to potentially inform future educational efforts. METHODS: This cross-sectional survey recruited 59 pediatric otolaryngologists from an international WhatsApp group comprising 213 members over a four-week period. Demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and experiences with breastfeeding were investigated using Likert scales. Descriptive statistics and correlational analyses were conducted. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: The majority of participants were women (59%) and had children (86%). Most participants and/or their partners breastfed for 4-12 months (67%). Previous breastfeeding education was limited in both medical school (20%) and residency (15%). Most agreed that otolaryngologists should be knowledgeable about breastfeeding (83%), however men respondents felt significantly less comfortable counselling (p < 0.003), addressing difficulties (p < 0.044), and suggesting means to change milk supply (p < 0.007). Knowledge gaps were identified with assessing aspiration risk and airway anomalies. Breastfeeding experience did not significantly influence attitudes and comfort around breastfeeding, or the knowledge of participants. CONCLUSION: While attitudes towards breastfeeding amongst pediatric otolaryngologists are very positive, degrees of comfort and knowledge are more limited, especially amongst men otolaryngologists. Future research should consider exploring the efficacy of educational efforts in Otolaryngology for improving the support offered to breastfeeding dyads.

Change in Maxillary Sinus Mucosal Thickness in Patients with Preoperative Maxillary Sinus Mucosal Thickening as Assessed by Otolaryngologists: A Retrospective Study.

Background and Objectives: Maxillary sinus pathologic conditions may increase the risk of complications during posterior maxillary sinus augmentation surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the changes in participants with preoperative maxillary sinus mucosal thickening and to assess this factor as a preoperative risk indicator for sinusitis after maxillary dental implantation. Materials and Methods: We compared the preoperative and postoperative maxillary sinus mucosal thickness (MSMT), the distance between the maxillary sinus ostium and sinus floor (MOD), and the MSMT/MOD ratio. The participants were divided into three groups (sinus augmentation, bone grafting, and no grafting). Results: The mean preoperative MSMT was 4.3 ± 2.0 mm, and the mean MSMT/MOD ratio was 0.13 ± 0.05. No postoperative sinusitis was observed in these patients, including cases caused by anatomical variations. The mean postoperative MSMT was 4.5 ± 2.3 mm, and the mean postoperative MSMT/MOD ratio was 0.15 ± 0.06. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups at each time point (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The study found no significant change in MSMT at post-treatment evaluation, even when considering different subgroups. It underscores the importance of preoperative maxillary sinus radiographic assessments and collaboration between dentists and otolaryngologists for better outcomes in patients with preoperative maxillary sinus mucosal thickening.

Dynamic Prediction of Survival for Sinonasal Extranodal Natural Killer/T-cell Lymphoma.

BACKGROUND: Extranodal natural killer/ T-cell lymphoma (ENKTL) is a rare malignant tumor. This study aimed to develop a predictive nomogram and a web-based survival rate calculator for dynamically predicting the survival of patients with sinonasal ENKTL (SN-ENKTL). METHODS: This study investigated patients (n = 134) with SN-ENKTL who had been initially treated in our hospital between Jan 2008 and Dec 2016. The patients were randomly divided into training and validation cohorts, in a 7:3 ratio. Independent prognostic factors were identified and integrated to build a predictive nomogram and a web-based calculator using the Cox-regression model. The nomogram was evaluated by consistency index and calibration curve. RESULTS: Age, lactate dehydrogenase, hemoglobin, Epstein-Barr virus DNA, and Ann Arbor stage were identified as independent risk factors. We constructed a predictive nomogram for survival and a web-based calculator (https://taiqinwang.shinyapps.io/DynNomapp/). CONCLUSION: This study developed a prognostic model and a web-based calculator specifically focused on SN-ENKTL for otolaryngologists to use to facilitate timely treatment decisions for the disease. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 133:1645-1651, 2023.

Canadian women in otolaryngology: head and neck surgery part 2-challenges in family planning, fertility, and lactation.

BACKGROUND: Previous literature demonstrates that female surgeons face difficulties in family planning, meeting breastfeeding goals, leadership and advancement opportunities. These issues have received limited attention in Canadian surgeons despite different maternity leave patterns compared to the general Canadian population. We sought to describe the experience of otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeons in family planning, fertility, and lactation and to identify the role of gender and career stage in these experiences. METHODS: A RedCAP® survey was disseminated to Canadian otolaryngology-head and neck surgeons and residents from March to May of 2021 through social media and the national listserv. This survey examined fertility, pregnancy losses, and infant feeding. Major independent variables include gender and career stage (faculty and resident). Dependent variables include respondent experiences with fertility, number of children, and length of parental leave. Responses were tabulated and presented descriptively to communicate the experience of Canadian otolaryngologists. Further, statistical comparisons such as chi-square and t-tests were employed to identify relationships between these variables. Thematic analysis was conducted for narrative comments. RESULTS: We received 183 completed surveys (22% response rate). 54% of females versus 13% of males agreed that career influenced their ability to have children (p = 0.002). 74% of female respondents without children have concerns about future fertility compared to 4% of men (p < 0.001). Furthermore, 80% of women versus 20% of men have concerns about future family planning (p < 0.001). The average maternity leave was 11.5 weeks for residents, and 22.2 weeks for staff. Additionally, significantly more women than men stated that maternity leave impacted advancement opportunities (32% vs. 7%) and salary/remuneration (71% vs. 24%) (p < 0.001). Over 60% of those choosing to pump breastmilk at work reported having inadequate time, space, and breastmilk storage. In total, 62% of breastfed infants were receiving breastmilk at 1 year. CONCLUSION: Canadian female otolaryngologists-head and neck surgeons face challenges in family planning, ability to conceive, and breastfeeding. Focused effort is required to provide an inclusive environment that helps all otolaryngologists-head and neck surgeons achieve both their career and family goals, regardless of gender or career stage.

Diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment for sudden sensorineural hearing loss: Current otolaryngology practices in China.

Introduction: Although sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) has been attempted to be understood for 70 years, diagnosis and treatment strategies still have strong heterogeneity worldwide, which are reflected in the guidelines issued by countries and the clinical practice of otolaryngologists. Methods: Questionnaires were sent to registered otolaryngologists nationwide via an online questionnaire system. We investigated the current views and clinical practices of otolaryngologists in mainland China about the diagnosis, examination, and treatment strategies of SSNHL. Results: Most otolaryngologists supported diagnostic classification via audiograms. Regional economic situation and hospital grade affected application strategies for differential diagnosis. Regarding corticosteroid therapy, 54.9% of respondents opted to discontinue the drug 5 days after systemic administration. Both intratympanic therapy and post-auricular injections were selected by more than half of the respondents as initial and salvage treatments. Discussion: Chinese otolaryngologists exhibit heterogeneity in clinical practices for SSNHL, including distinct approaches to combination therapy and local application of steroids. This study pointed out Chinese doctors' similarities, differences, and unique strategies in diagnosing and treating SSNHL and analyzed the possible reasons to help the world understand the current otolaryngology practices in China.

Adjustment of Health-Care Service Delivery Among Phoniatricians and ENT Specialists During the COVID-19 Pandemic, A UEP Survey.

BACKGROUND: Applying measures that prioritize staff safety, while protecting patient safety and care, represents a challenge during the current pandemic. Many documents of recommendations toward safe practice have been developed for this purpose. OBJECTIVE: To assess adjustments that have been undertaken by phoniatricians and otolaryngologists in the delivery of health-care services during the pandemic in order to reduce staff exposure to COVID-19 and improve safety. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional. METHODS: An online self-administered survey was used during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in June 2020 to collect data related to demographics of participants, their sources of information, administrative alterations, and changes they adopted when meeting patients for a consultation/procedure/surgery. RESULTS: The eligible 154 responses were grouped into 4 groups based on country of residence. Alterations to service delivery amongst the different groups were compared. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of participants were following the suggested recommendations to service delivery adjustments, with some inconsistencies in practice across countries.

Geographic Variation in Otolaryngologist Intranasal Steroid Prescribing Patterns Among Medicare Beneficiaries.

BACKGROUND: Intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) are a commonly prescribed medication to treat various rhinological conditions. However, no prior studies have looked at factors and patterns that influence the rates of INCS prescriptions among Medicare beneficiaries in the United States. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe the patterns of INCS prescriptions by otolaryngologists for Medicare beneficiaries in the United States between 2013 and 2017. METHODS: Data on the most common INCS prescriptions by otolaryngologists for Medicare beneficiaries were obtained from the 2013 to 2017 Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Data: Physician and Other Supplier Public Use File (PUF) and the Part D Public Use Files from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). INCS prescriptions were analyzed by cost, state, provider, and regional temperature. State temperature data was collected through the National Centers for Environmental Information. RESULTS: From 2013 to 2017, the total claims per beneficiary for fluticasone, mometasone, and triamcinolone combined increased from 2.31 to 2.39. Combined cost/beneficiary was similar for mometasone and triamcinolone at 102.47 and 103.60 respectively, while it was much lower for fluticasone at 39.12. There was a strong correlation between otolaryngology providers per beneficiary in each state and total claims per state with a correlation coefficient of .79. Additionally, comparing the average state temperature to the claims/beneficiary yielded a moderately strong correlation coefficient of .44, suggesting that temperature was a possible factor for INCS prescription patterns. CONCLUSIONS: INCS prescriptions by otolaryngologists and the number of INCS beneficiaries have increased between 2013 and 2017. Over the same time period, the costs of fluticasone and triamcinolone have decreased while the cost of mometasone increased. Total providers by state correlated with claims per state. Additionally, average annual temperature was positively correlated with INCS claims per beneficiary in each state.

COVID-19 in otolaryngologists: a cross-sectional multicenter study

Abstract Introduction: The nose and throat are areas of high viral load, which could place otolaryngologists at an even higher risk for COVID-19 than other health-care workers. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in otorhinolaryngologists in southern Brazil, its relationship to demographic data, professional practice and reported symptoms of COVID-19, and compare it with official data on other health-care workers of the state and the general population in the same period. Methods: In this cross-sectional multicenter study, otolaryngologists actively practicing officially registered in Rio Grande do Sul were screened for IgM and IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 from August 1 to September 15, 2020. A questionnaire was also applied. Results: We screened 358 (80.1%) of 447 actively practicing otolaryngologists (195 [54.5%] male; mean [SD] age, 47.77 [13.57] years; range, 26-84 years). Twenty-three were positive for IgM and/or IgG (6.4%). This result was significantly associated with reports of infected household contacts (19/315 negatives and 8/23 positives; p<0.001). From 23 seropositive participants, 14 were asymptomatic (60.9%; p< 0.001). There were no significant associations between seroconversion and age, sex, number of patient appointments and surgical procedures, workplace (hospital or private practice), patients with or without respiratory symptoms, or level of personal protective equipment used. The rate of COVID-19 in all health-care workers in the state was 7.69% at the end of the same period. Data from state government seroprevalence was 5.26 (risk ratio [RR]; 95% CI 3.27-8.45) and 4.66 (RR; 95% CI 2.93-7.43) times higher in otolaryngologists than in the general population in August and September, respectively. Conclusion: Otolaryngologists had a higher seroconversion rate than the general population. Using personal protective equipment, the level of occupational exposure did not result in higher rates of infection than other health-care workers, but the presence of infected household contacts was associated with higher rates of seroconversion.

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health, daily and occupational activities of pediatric otolaryngologists in Latin America.

Background: Otolaryngologists have a higher risk of physical/psychological problems due to their frequent exposure to SARS-CoV-2. There is no information about the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of these specialists in low/middle-income countries from Latin America. This study aimed to assess the frequency of anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as the changes in occupational and daily activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic in a group of pediatric otolaryngologists in Latin America. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional study conducted between October and December 2020. Mental health tools such as the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and the Perceived Stress Scale-10 were applied. Fear to COVID-19 scale and questionnaires about occupational and daily activities were also applied. Results: Among 55 pediatric otolaryngologists, the frequency of anxiety, depression, and stress were 67.3%, 45.5, and 40%, respectively. Up to 27.3% of the specialists reported moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety, while 7.3 and 40% presented moderate depression and stress symptoms. The specialists reported a reduction of 58.3% of their consultations, as well as a 51.7% reduction in their monthly income compared to the same period before the pandemic. Up to 14.6% of the specialists expect to incorporate long-term (>1 year) drastic changes in their daily activities due to the pandemic. Conclusions: The frequency of anxiety, depression, and stress was high among pediatric otolaryngologists in Latin America compared to previous studies performed in high-income countries. Further research on these psychological outcomes is needed to achieve early mental health strategies.

An Assessment of LGBTQ+ Cultural Competency and Attitudes of US Otolaryngologists.

Otolaryngologists can play a significant role in the care of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual and gender minority (LGBTQ+) patients through gender-affirming care and routine care in everyday practice. To avoid stigmatizing LGBTQ+ patients, otolaryngologists should maintain high levels of LGBTQ+ cultural competency; however, US otolaryngology programs offer limited amounts of LGBTQ+ topics in didactic curricula, and the LGBTQ+ cultural competency of otolaryngologists remains unknown. A cross-sectional survey of demographics, attitude questions, and the 7-point Likert LGBT-Development of Clinical Skills Scale was distributed to otolaryngologists across the United States. Otolaryngologists (n = 176) had moderately high Overall LGBTQ+ cultural competency (mean, 5.82; range, 3.83-7.00), moderately high Basic Knowledge (mean, 5.43; range, 1.53-7.00), moderately high Clinical Preparedness (mean, 5.34; range, 2.00-7.00), and high Attitudinal Awareness (mean, 6.51; range, 2.42-7.00). Attending otolaryngologists had significantly lower LGBTQ+ Basic Knowledge than residents and fellows (P = .002). Further education at all levels of practice, including attendings, is necessary to improve LGBTQ+ cultural competency among otolaryngologists.

Surgeon Preference on Sending Routine Tonsillectomy Specimens for Pathological Evaluation.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the presence of a growing body of literature suggesting cost-ineffectiveness of routine pathologic analysis of tonsillectomy specimens, little is known about common institutional policies and practice patterns of pediatric otolaryngologists. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of routine pathological evaluation of tonsillectomy specimens for uncomplicated pediatric adenotonsillectomy procedures and to evaluate opinions regarding this controversy among board-certified pediatric otolaryngologists. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey study sent to board-certified pediatric otolaryngologists currently practicing and registered with the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) assessing their institutions' or practices' current policies on sending routine tonsillectomy specimens for pathology, their experience with this practice, and their opinions on whether routine pathologic analysis should be employed. Basic statistical analysis was then conducted. RESULTS: Respondents mostly practiced in an academic setting (68.4%), with the next most common being academically affiliated private practice (21.8%), and private practice was the least common (9.8%). Most respondents (85.1%) did not agree with routine pathologic analysis of otherwise uncomplicated pediatric tonsillectomy specimens. CONCLUSION: Most pediatric otolaryngologists who responded to this survey do not support routine pathological analysis of otherwise uncomplicated pediatric tonsillectomy specimens. However, the results are likely biased and should be interpreted carefully, since only a small percentage of pediatric otolaryngologists responded to the survey. Potential cost savings could be seen by patients, payers, and hospital systems with judicious use of surgical pathology, specifically in cases with concurrent signs or symptoms suspicious for malignancy.

Surgical Management of Choanal Atresia: Two Classic Cases and Review of the Literature.

Choanal atresia is a rare congenital airway malformation that presents a unique surgical challenge for pediatric otolaryngologists. Here we report two classic cases of choanal atresia and examine the surgical approaches to this entity. The first case was a four-day-old female with a history of CHARGE syndrome and bilateral mixed membranous and bony choanal atresia confirmed by a CT scan. After undergoing transnasal endoscopic repair, choanal stents were placed for four weeks, and the patient was seen three months postoperatively and found to be doing well with no respiratory concerns. The second case involved a healthy three-year-old female presenting with unilateral combined membranous and bony atresia. Following successful endoscopic repair, she was seen at a three-month follow-up with no signs of restenosis. Additionally, a literature review was performed to evaluate updates since the 2012 Cochrane Review on surgical treatment of congenital choanal atresia.

Qualitative analysis of sinus surgery posts on popular social media platforms.

INTRODUCTION: Social media platforms are constantly evolving and expanding to new populations, exposing their users to various topics and serving as an informal educational resource. Medical ideas and topics are freely discussed online, making understanding of what is present on these platforms of particular importance to the practicing medical professional. In the field of otolaryngology, the public social media portrayal of sinus surgery has not been previously reported. METHODS: Social media posts using keywords related to sinus surgery on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok were qualitatively analyzed and categorized based on media type, author, subject, timing, depiction, and popularity. RESULTS: The total number of posts included in final analysis was 1798, with a majority stemming from Instagram (68.5%), then Facebook (20.2%) and finally TikTok (11.3%). The most common type of media analyzed was images (69.0%) and patients were more often authors of posts (45.1%) as compared to physicians (34.8%). The subjects of the posts were nearly equally reassurance regarding surgery (41.3%) and educational or informational posts (38.8%) and were most commonly timed in the postoperative period (41.3%). Sinus surgery was depicted in a positive fashion most frequently (56.6%), notably compared against the negative portrayal at 3.2%. Negative posts most commonly cited postoperative pain or bleeding. CONCLUSIONS: Most social media posts analyzed in this multi-platform study depicted sinus surgery in a positive fashion. Patients tended to post in the postoperative or perioperative period, whereas physicians tender to post intraoperative educational posts. Negative posts were most commonly centered around postoperative pain. Cautious interpretation of these results could be used for improving patient care and outreach in the digital age.

A national survey of workplace-related musculoskeletal disorder and ergonomic practices amongst Irish otolaryngologists.

BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMD) is a rising concern for surgeons, particularly those involved in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Severe WRMD can adversely affect surgeon's health and foreshorten their careers if not appropriately managed. AIMS: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of WRMD among Irish otolaryngologists and determine their knowledge of the best ergonomic principles. METHODS: A national survey was distributed electronically to all otolaryngology consultants and non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs) in Ireland. The survey assessed respondents' age, grade, history of WRMD, and treatments sought for WRMD and knowledge of best ergonomic practice. RESULTS: Forty-nine of one hundred and two respondents completed the survey. The lifetime prevalence of WRMD among this cohort was 75.5%. Pain was the most commonly experienced symptom at 71.4%. The neck was the most frequently affected location (59.2%). Treatment for WRMD was sought by 36.7% of participants. The majority of respondents (73.5%) were unaware of recommendations made in the field of surgical ergonomics, while 85.7% were interested in learning ergonomic principles. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of WRMD amongst otolaryngologists working in Ireland and demonstrates a need for ergonomic training for surgeons.

The UK national registry of ENT surgeons with coronavirus disease 2019: one year on.

OBJECTIVES: To report the one-year findings of the UK national registry of ENT surgeons with suspected or confirmed coronavirus disease 2019, and the results of a survey on the coronavirus disease 2019 experience of UK ENT trainees. METHOD: An online registry was created in April 2020. A separate survey was circulated electronically to all members of the Association of Otolaryngologists in Training. RESULTS: The registry recorded 98 clinicians with confirmed or suspected coronavirus disease 2019. The majority of infections were reported in the first wave of spring 2020. Two ENT surgeons were hospitalised and one died. The majority suspected workplace exposure, with a significant proportion attributing this to a lack of personal protective equipment at a time before formal guidance had been introduced. Of the ENT trainees surveyed, almost one-third believed that they had contracted coronavirus disease 2019. CONCLUSION: This highlights the importance of ongoing risk-reduction measures, including optimal personal protective equipment and vaccination.