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Most patients can speak and swallow after combination treatment for head and neck cancer

A recent study found that most patients with advanced head and neck cancer experience minimal residual speech and swallowing deficits following combined chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Factors associated with worse outcomes included being female, having a history of smoking, or a tumor in the hypopharynx or larynx.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateDec 20, 2010

Scarless brain surgery is new option for patients

Transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (TONES) is a safe and effective treatment for advanced brain diseases and traumatic injuries. By performing surgery through the eye socket, surgeons can gain equivalent access to the front of the brain while eliminating large ear-to-ear scars associated with major brain surgery.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNeurosurgery·DateSep 30, 2010

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis have increased incidence of other chronic illnesses

Research found a higher incidence of chronic rhinosinusitis among patients with other chronic diseases, particularly asthma. The study suggests that some chronic diseases may share common mechanisms of how they arise or progress, highlighting the need for further investigation into the relationship between CRS and other conditions.

Robot-assisted surgery appears useful for removal of some head and neck tumors

Researchers assessed robot-assisted surgery in treating selected head and neck cancers, finding that the procedure offers limited surgical morbidity, reduced hospital stays, and improved lesion visualization. The study involved 36 patients with oral cavity, throat, or larynx tumors, yielding successful robotic resections in 81% of cases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateApr 20, 2009