Articles tagged with Otolaryngology
Researchers developed a non-invasive method to detect Meniere's disease using mass spectrometry on earwax samples, providing a rapid and cost-effective solution for diagnosis. The technology offers enhanced diagnostic accuracy and opens new avenues for monitoring disease progression and response to treatment.
Research advances in ear, nose, and throat care highlight treatments for conditions like hearing loss, sleep apnea, and dementia prevention. Gene therapy and GLP-1 medications are also being explored for their potential to improve patient care.
Researchers discovered FMN1 gene required for hearing in humans and mice, revealing a previously unknown role for formin-1 in maintaining inner ear structure. The study also found a connection between FMN1 and pigmentation through a molecular complex involved in melanosomes, leading to hearing loss and altered skin and hair color.
PCORI awards funding for new patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research, addressing key healthcare questions and generating evidence for better-informed decisions. The projects will focus on emergency, hospital, and surgical care, as well as mental and behavioral health, to improve health outcomes.
The study aimed to determine the proportion of eligible patients consenting to either thyroid lobectomy or total thyroidectomy. It found that 93.5% of patients who would consent to randomization completed the assigned surgery. The results provide valuable insights for targeting enrollment in future multicenter trials.
A study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found that preoperative chemo-immunotherapy was more effective than immunotherapy alone in reducing tumor size in patients with head and neck cancer. The study analyzed data from 86 adults with head and neck cancer treated between July 2024 and March 2026, and showed that pat...
A new study examines the KEYNOTE-689 trial cohort to determine whether anticipated survival benefits outweigh the costs based on a standard threshold. Patients with higher combined positive scores saw significant quality-adjusted life years gains with perioperative pembrolizumab.
Liquid biopsy targeting viral ctDNA holds promise as a diagnostic and surveillance tool for head and neck cancer. The study aims to monitor treatment response and assess minimal residual disease (MRD) to adapt treatment via precision oncology.
Researchers have developed a consensus-based framework and definitions for vocal biomarkers to improve collaboration and validation of voice-derived indicators in health conditions such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, depression, heart failure, and type 2 diabetes. The framework provides a scientifically grounded vocabulary to support the...
Subjective olfactory impairment consistently associated with depression, while objective impairment linked to aging and anosmia. The study suggests partly distinct underlying mechanisms for subjective and objective impairments.
Charaziak's research aims to better understand how the healthy cochlea processes complex sounds and how that processing changes in hearing loss. The project will investigate two key properties of the cochlea: nonlinearity and dispersion, which shape sound perception.
A recent study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery reveals a higher incidence of smell and taste disturbances among GLP-1 RA users. The findings underscore the importance of regular monitoring and awareness to mitigate these adverse effects.
A recent study found that a new child-safety battery designed to protect the esophagus can reduce the severity of tissue injury. However, medical professionals should not alter their management protocols yet as swallowing batteries remains a serious risk. The study calls for additional research and manufacturers to adopt safer technology.
Stevie Nicks has made a major gift to establish the Stevie Nicks and Joseph Sugerman, MD, Endowed Chair in Otolaryngology, honoring Dr. Sugerman's impact on patients and the field of ENT. The chair will be held by Michael M. Johns, MD, director of the USC Voice Center.
A team of researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology conducted a study on 28 individuals who experience an unexplained buzzing or humming sound. The investigation tested two hypotheses: measuring the sound waves from human-made infrastructure and industry, as well as those produced by nature itself.
Researchers discovered that disrupted PTH1R signaling drives abnormal cementum growth and tooth-bone fusion in adult mice, leading to severe dental complications. The study identified the loss of PTH1R signaling as a critical molecular safeguard against excessive cementum formation.
A seven-year study found that nearly half of patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) experienced recurrence, while over a third reported persistent residual dizziness. The study highlights the need for ongoing care and patient education to mitigate long-term consequences.
A new study finds that specialty-specific clinical practice guidelines can significantly impact postoperative pain management and reduce long-term risk of opioid exposure. The AAO-HNSF opioid prescribing guideline was effective in reducing opioid prescribing after parotidectomy, promoting a multimodal approach to pain management.
Researchers found that eardrum perforations and cholesteatoma are associated with higher odds of dementia. Treatment through surgery or hearing aids was shown to reduce the risk of dementia.
Researchers developed a blood-based test that analyzes circulating tumor HPV DNA to inform personalized treatment strategies for HPV-associated throat cancer. The study found that ctDNA levels change before and after surgery, influenced by tumor biology and kidney function.
Children with tympanostomy tubes who swim in treated pools are not at increased risk of ear drainage. In contrast, exposure to untreated or natural bodies of water significantly increases the risk of developing recurrent otorrhea.
A pilot study found that a standardized virtual reality educational experience improved medical students' knowledge and confidence in head and neck anatomy. The VR platform received high ratings for control, sensory immersion, and realism, with low stress and high perceived success reported by participants.
A study of 470 patients who underwent free flap reconstruction found that holding blood thinners for too long increases complications. The researchers suggest that resuming blood thinners within 48 hours after surgery may be safe, reducing the risk of excessive bleeding and dangerous clotting.
A comparative effectiveness study found that lower music volume levels in group fitness classes did not significantly impact perceived exercise intensity. The research suggests implementing safer sound practices and increased awareness on hearing protection to minimize the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
A new study found that Minnesota's universal newborn cCMV screening program significantly decreased the age at first audiology visit and identified more mild hearing loss cases in infants. The findings support the use of universal cCMV screening as a critical public health tool to ensure timely intervention.
The AAO-HNSF is developing evidence-based tools to address hearing loss, vestibular dysfunction, and fall risk in older adults. The project aims to equip otolaryngologists with specialty-specific tools to improve care quality and empower patients to have more meaningful conversations.
Researchers developed a new imaging technique using shortwave infrared imaging to visualize injectable filler materials during laryngoplasty, improving treatment accuracy and confirming correct placement. The technique has potential applications in identifying vocal fold pathologies and differentiating tissue layers.
A systematic review found that musicians experience substantially higher rates of tinnitus, hearing loss, and hyperacusis compared to non-musicians. The study, which pooled data from 67 studies, revealed that 42.6% of musicians reported tinnitus, while 25.7% experienced hearing loss.
A new study found that better speech outcomes with cochlear implants correlate with increased music engagement and longer listening times. The research suggests optimizing implant programming can have broader benefits for patients' quality of life beyond communication.
Researchers developed an English version of a Japanese oral health screening tool to identify age-related decline in oral and swallowing function among U.S. older adults. The adapted Oral Frailty Index-8 (OFI-8) assesses eight key areas, with a score of four or more indicating high risk of oral frailty and warrants further evaluation.
A pilot study found that long-term exposure to higher pollen levels leads to worse symptoms and quality of life for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Higher ragweed pollen exposure correlated with worse Sino-Nasal Outcome Test scores.
A new study published in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery found that GLP-1R agonists are associated with reduced need for revision sinus surgery and biologic therapies in obese patients. The study analyzed data from over 100 million patient records and showed a 36% reduction in revision surgery rates at one-year follow-up.
A recent analysis of 692 clinical trials found that industry-sponsored trials were nearly three times more likely to fail compared to government-funded studies. Trials with higher participant numbers and broader eligibility criteria were also more likely to complete successfully.
Cliff Megerian, MD, FACS, received the Sam Miller Goodness Award for his compassionate care, world-class research and relentless commitment to kindness. The Values-in-Action Foundation recognized UH's dedication to making Northeast Ohio a better place.
Researchers developed an automated machine learning model to differentiate between pituitary macroadenomas and parasellar meningiomas using preoperative MRI scans. The model achieved over 97% accuracy in distinguishing the two brain tumors, improving surgical planning and potential patient outcomes.
NEJM Clinician curates highly relevant clinical insights from over 150 peer-reviewed journals to give physicians clear guidance without the noise. The weekly publication delivers summaries and commentary in a concise, 30-minute read, helping healthcare providers stay informed and confident in their decisions.
A landmark study published in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery reveals alarming rates of hearing loss among adolescents. The research found that 6.2% experienced sensorineural hearing loss and 12.9% showed signs of probable noise-induced hearing damage by age 18. Early monitoring and prevention are crucial to mitigate the long-term...
A nationwide analysis found that roughly 25% of patients with Bell's palsy received CT or MRI scans within 30 days of diagnosis, not aligned with current guidelines. This study highlights the need for initiatives to align clinical practice with evidence-based guidelines, promoting early treatment and minimizing unnecessary imaging.
A comprehensive study published in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery reveals a strong link between type 2 diabetes and hearing loss. The research found that individuals with diabetes face a significantly elevated risk of hearing loss, with the prevalence ranging from 40.6% to 71.9%.
A comprehensive eight-year study found that one-third of cCMV-related hearing loss develops after birth, highlighting the importance of universal screening programs. The research underscores the need for comprehensive support systems alongside screening programs to address patient follow-up challenges.
A new treatment using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections has shown promising results in helping people recover their sense of smell after head injuries. Two-thirds of patients reported improvements in their ability to smell, with significant objective improvements measured at three months.
The Framingham offspring study found that approximately 10% of participants experienced significant hearing loss over a 25-year period, with the prevalence increasing with age. The study suggests that early detection and intervention may help prevent or slow the progression of hearing loss.
Dr. Gene Brown becomes President of the AAO-HNS/F, emphasizing evidence-based care and physician collaboration to ensure high-quality patient care. He aims to support members in their practices through education, research, and lifelong learning.
The AAO-HNSF debuted an Innovation Park and ENT Innovation Connection event, fostering collaboration between the otolaryngology community and solution providers. These initiatives demonstrate the Academy's commitment to advancing patient care through meaningful partnerships and driving innovation in healthcare.
Surgeons at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have successfully performed the country's first procedure using a device that combines PET and CT scans to aid in accurate staging and therapy response assessment. The use of this technology may allow surgeons to immediately assess the success of resection in achieving a negative margin.
New studies establish connections between conductive hearing loss and dementia risk, explore environmental factors in auditory health, and optimize surgical safety. Researchers also refined pediatric care and prevention strategies for nasal foreign bodies.
The meeting showcased promising new tools for early intervention, refined surgical techniques, and expanded understanding of systemic health connections. Advanced algorithms predict hearing outcomes with remarkable accuracy using cardiovascular health indicators.
The AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO celebrates global collaboration and knowledge exchange, featuring 800 international attendees from over 75 countries. The event highlights pioneering techniques in complex airway reconstruction, including Dr. Gilbert's innovative approaches to cricotracheal resection.
Gene therapy offers new hope for hereditary deafness, while precision surgical techniques improve cancer outcomes. The AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting also highlighted access to specialized ENT care, with key strategies for workforce planning and efficient care delivery models.
The AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO recognized outstanding contributors across multiple categories, including Academic Bowl Champions LSU Shreveport, Scientific Poster Awards, and SIM Tank Competition winners. The event celebrated innovation, research excellence, and educational achievement in otolaryngology.
Recent research advances in otolaryngology focus on improving patient care and outcomes for ear, nose, throat, and head and neck conditions. Studies present novel therapeutic approaches to prevent complications, improve surgical techniques, and enhance diagnostic accuracy.
A feasibility study explores how clinical practice guidelines can be adapted for the digital age through computable formats, reducing evidence-to-practice time gaps. The study showcases innovative approaches to accelerating guideline adoption among healthcare providers.
Research showcases pioneering surgical innovations, breakthrough findings in disease prevention, and treatment optimization. Machine learning analysis identifies sensorineural hearing loss as a strong predictor of dementia diagnosis, supporting expanded access to hearing healthcare.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation presented multiple sessions on clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) at its AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO. The guidelines aim to provide relief and restore quality of life for patients with chronic and acute sinus conditions.
The meeting features an extensive scientific program covering the full spectrum of otolaryngology research—from basic science to clinical outcomes and technological innovations. Researchers presented advances in surgical techniques, diagnostic tools, and breakthrough therapies for conditions like hearing loss and head and neck cancers.
An AI model successfully automates lymph node segmentation and extranodal extension classification from pretreatment CT scans in HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma. Predicted extranodal extension is independently associated with worse oncologic outcomes, highlighting the potential for improved treatment planning.
A new study found that over 40% of specialty clinics in the US turn away patients weighing 465 pounds or more due to lack of accessibility features. The study highlights a need for staff training on inclusive care and accommodations for patients with severe obesity.
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology suggests that using hearing aids can lower the risk of developing dementia, particularly in individuals under age 70. This finding highlights the importance of early intervention for hearing loss and its potential role in preventing age-related cognitive decline.
Researchers have developed an AI system that can recognize the early warning stages of laryngeal cancer from voice recordings. By analyzing variations in tone, pitch, and volume, the AI can distinguish between voices with benign vocal fold lesions and those with cancer. The study's findings offer a promising breakthrough for non-invasi...
A Houston Methodist research study reveals that 85% of astronauts on the International Space Station experienced at least one nasal or sinus issue, with 75% reporting nasal congestion. The study highlights the need for preventative measures and treatments tailored to space travel.