Articles tagged with Otolaryngology
A new study from UT Southwestern Medical Center found that deaf children with cochlear implants report a similar quality of life to that of normal-hearing peers. The earlier a child is implanted and wears the device, the better their overall quality of life and school performance.
A new study by Oregon Health & Science University found that up to 76% of participants experienced significant improvement in quality of life following endoscopic sinus surgery. The study included 302 adults with chronic rhinosinusitis and was funded by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.
A multi-year study of 428 thyroidectomy patients found only slight differences in rates of complications and hospital readmissions between older and younger patients. Elderly patients had a slightly higher hospital readmission rate due to transient calcium levels issues, not age-related complications.
Research at AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO finds depression prevalence in CRS patients to be 20.5%, significantly impacting QOL measures. Physicians should screen for both CRS and depression to optimize patient health.
A new study found that pneumococcal vaccines for otitis media in children have not curbed the rate of complications, with lateral sinus thrombosis and epidural abscesses being common issues. The research, presented at the AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting, suggests a shift in focus from treating complications to understanding what may arise.
A study of 120,000 children from 1997-2006 found that improved air quality was associated with a decrease in frequent otitis media cases. The findings suggest that cleaner air may have direct health benefits, particularly for vulnerable populations like children.
A new study found that obese children are more likely to experience major and minor respiratory complications after surgery to correct sleep disordered breathing. The likelihood of these complications increases with body mass index and in boys.
Research at the AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO found that convertible drivers are exposed to high sound levels, with noise above 85Db causing permanent hearing loss. Raising car windows can significantly reduce exposure levels.
Researchers found a strong correlation between a genetic mutation of anti-oxidant enzymes and age-related hearing loss, with patients exhibiting the mutation being three times more likely to develop ARHL. The study also revealed no association between the NAT2 gene and ARHL.
Research at the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Annual Meeting found that electrosurgical units, lasers, and light cords are common igniters of operating room fires. The study, which surveyed 349 otolaryngologists, revealed that nearly 80% of fires occurred when supplemental oxygen was being used.
Nearly all oropharyngeal cancer patients develop obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) after primary surgery and radiation/chemotherapy. The study found that 93% of patients with free flap reconstruction had OSA, while only one-third of those treated with radiation/chemotherapy had moderate or severe OSA.
Researchers evaluated 100 rhinoplasty patients and found that between 17-62% of men and 39-81% of women could have benefitted from chin augmentation. The study suggests that addressing the chin can prevent post-operative disappointment with rhinoplasty and provide a more balanced facial profile.
Primary care physicians face limitations when evaluating patients with voice problems, including hoarseness. New research reveals that only a third of physicians routinely assess voice issues, highlighting the need for improved methods to identify and treat these patients.
A new study found that higher folate intake can decrease the risk of hearing loss in men, while antioxidant vitamins have no beneficial effect. Men over 60 with high folate intake had a 20% lower risk of developing hearing loss.
A comprehensive study of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) finds that men are 2.5 times more likely to develop the condition than women, with married white non-Hispanic men representing the highest risk group. The study analyzed data from over 5,000 individuals and found NIHL to affect approximately 24 million Americans.
Research reveals that non-allergic rhinitis patients experience more severe symptoms, affecting activities and sleep quality. Studies found that non-allergic rhinitis can have a greater impact on daily life compared to allergic rhinitis.
A new study found that African-Americans living in southern states account for the highest proportion of chronic rhinosinusitis outpatient treatment. Female outpatients also have a significantly higher prevalence compared to men in all regions, with primary care specialties being the most frequently visited.
Researchers found that 66% of inner city pediatric voice clinic patients presented with hoarseness, while 77% had vocal nodules. This suggests a significant prevalence of vocal health issues in this population, highlighting the importance of laryngeal examination in all pediatric patients with vocal nodules.
A new research method using radiofrequency energy shows promise in treating symptoms of tonsillar hypertrophy in children, offering a safer alternative to traditional tonsillectomy surgery. The technique resulted in significant improvements in over 91% of the children who underwent treatment.
A new study reveals that 65% of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis have used alternative medicine, with women and university-educated individuals more likely to do so. However, only 43% of CAM users inform their doctor about the therapy, highlighting a need for improved communication between clinicians and patients.
Research reveals that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients often have additional gastrointestinal (GI) tract conditions. A study of 42 adult OSA patients found pathological GI findings in 83.3% of cases, with hiatus hernia being the most common condition.
Researchers found that patients with both conditions have significantly higher fatigue scores and stress levels, as well as decreased ability to cope. The study highlights the need for comprehensive care and evaluation of patients with either condition.
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.
A study of health professionals and citizens in Brazil found that the low position of the nasal root is considered most beautiful, followed by regular positioning. The research highlights the importance of understanding regional beauty standards for facial plastic surgery.
Researchers found that Tai Chi improved patients' vestibular symptoms through relaxation-based coordination. A study of 21 patients reported subjective improvements in their balance confidence scale and dynamic gait index survey scores.
Researchers found that timely treatment of otitis media reduces transplantation failure in organ transplant recipients. The study reviewed 3,278 patients and showed that surgery was more effective than antibiotics or observation alone in managing chronic ear infections after transplantation.
A retrospective questionnaire survey of 26 adult patients undergoing blepharoplasty found a positive impact on quality of life. The procedure improved patients' self-esteem and appearance, with most undergoing surgery to feel better about their look.
Researchers found radiofrequency ablation to be effective in reducing primary snoring symptoms, with a significant improvement after two treatment sessions. The procedure showed low postoperative complication rates and high patient satisfaction rates, offering a minimally invasive option for treating snoring.
A study presented at the AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting found that photodynamic therapy is effective in treating certain types of head and neck cancers. The treatment, which combines medications with a specific light therapy, can achieve organ preservation and cancer cure for superficially spread but not deeply infiltrated cancers.
A study found that patients who had surgery before radiation treatment are more likely to complete therapy, while those with other illnesses or chemotherapy are less likely. This highlights the importance of addressing comorbidities and toxic effects of treatment in radiation therapy.
A study published in Archives of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found that post-treatment pain in head and neck cancer patients is associated with a lower five-year survival rate and increased risk of recurrence. Pain was also linked to age, general health conditions, and treatment modality.
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine found that endoscopic surgery is a valid option for treating esthesioneuroblastoma, with better survival rates than open surgery. The study also showed that endoscopic surgery produced more disease-free outcomes than nonsurgical treatment modalities.
Researchers found that sinus infections are a primary cause of toxic shock syndrome in about one-fifth of cases in children. Children with both conditions had more severe symptoms and required intensive care, but prompt imaging studies can help diagnose the underlying infection.
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.
A nationwide increase in pediatric methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) head and neck infections has been reported, with a significant rise in prevalence from 12% to 28% over five years.
Research links smoking to impaired sense of smell and increased cases of laryngitis. Second-hand smoke also triggers symptoms of 'environmental laryngitis'. Quitting is advised as primary therapeutic measure for upper airway ailments.
A recent study has found that the number of cases of surgical innovation published in otolaryngic medical journals has decreased significantly since the late 1980s. The researchers attribute this decline to increased barriers in obtaining research approval and possible shifts towards basic research.
A new study has found that cochlear implantation in children is a safe procedure, with complications occurring at a rate below 3%. The researchers also reported very low device failure rates, making the procedure an attractive option for families. Continuous follow-up is critical to ensure optimal outcomes.
A study conducted by researchers at Emory University and Johns Hopkins University found that chronic infection is the primary cause of tonsillectomy in adults. Over 50% of adult patients who underwent the procedure had chronic infection as a contributing factor, while no trends in complications emerged.
A new study reveals that ENT medical journals severely underreport side effects and harms, with nearly a third of clinical research articles containing no mention of adverse events. The study found that over 53% of articles failed to explicitly describe these events.
Anna Pou, M.D. will lead a discussion on emergency preparedness and disaster medicine, emphasizing the need for ethical guidelines and legislative protections for healthcare professionals. The presentation aims to provide a national consensus on ethical guidelines for physicians caring for casualties of disasters.
Bisphosphonate osteonecrosis, a debilitating jaw condition, affects millions of seniors taking osteoporosis treatments. The American Academy of Otolaryngology warns of this risk, which can cause pain, swelling, and loose teeth.
Research aims to identify patient populations that can benefit from corrective surgery for obstructive sleep apnea. Patients with severe symptoms, complex anatomies, and failed non-surgical treatments may be good candidates for surgery.
A new study finds that among seniors with voice and swallowing issues, only 20% actually seek treatment. Researchers call for increased awareness and outreach programs to address these impairments among the elderly, who may experience depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal due to untreated voice and swallowing problems.
Researchers are exploring the health struggles of US presidents with otolaryngologic disorders, such as premature death from tonsillitis and sleep apnea. The study highlights the importance of addressing these conditions to prevent similar issues in future leaders.
A new study found that a small, portable device used for home diagnosis is reliable and easy to use. The researchers tested 120 patients over four months, with a 97% data recovery rate, and an average comfort score of 2 out of 10.
Researchers found honey to be significantly more effective in killing bacteria than antibiotics, including drug-resistant biofilms. This discovery holds promise for the treatment of refractory chronic rhinosinusitis through topical application.
Researchers found that geriatric cochlear implant recipients experience significant benefit from the surgery, with improved QOL scores comparable to those of younger patients. Co-morbid conditions like heart disease do not lower QOL in geriatric recipients.
Researchers used a computer simulator to teach surgeons-in-training how to perform craniectomy procedures on cadaveric temporal bone specimens. After two weeks of practice, the researchers found that the trainees could correctly identify pre- and post-simulation bones with high accuracy.
Researchers found environmental pollutants can cause 'environmental laryngitis' through animal models, citing exposure to dust mites and air pollution as triggers for the condition. This finding is significant given recent reports on diminishing air quality and increased unhealthy levels of ozone and particle pollution.
A new study at the AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO found that patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) receive inconsistent care due to lack of established clinical practice guidelines. SSHL is a rare but serious otological event affecting between 5 and 20 people per 100,000 per year.
A recent study found that patients with sinusitis suffer from significant bodily pain, comparable to those with osteoarthritis or depression. Surgery has been shown to improve symptoms and reduce pain levels for these individuals.
New research suggests that surgical interventions for obese children with obstructive sleep apnea may alleviate symptoms but not eliminate the condition. The study found that removing tonsils and adenoids can reduce sleep apnea, but persistent cases require careful evaluation and treatment to prevent further complications.
A new study presented at the American Academy of Otolaryngology meeting found that 30% of ENT patients suffer from a depressive illness and take antidepressants. Sleep apnea patients exhibit the highest levels of depression, with 21% diagnosed and 46% taking medication.
Researchers found that subjects under simulated pleasant smells had mostly positive-colored dreams, while those under unpleasant smells had predominantly negative dream colors. This study provides valuable insights into the impact of olfactory function on dreams and may open up new therapeutic possibilities.
New research suggests that Botox can positively impact first impression judgments in relation to attractiveness and dating success. Facial appearance plays a significant role in shaping these perceptions, and cosmetic surgery has been shown to improve them.
Researchers found that children with allergic rhinitis are more likely to experience headaches, facial pain, and ear aches. The study suggests that these symptoms may be under-appreciated sources of discomfort for many children, leading to reduced diagnoses and effective treatment.
A new study presented at the American Academy of Otolaryngology meeting found that 33% of children with recurrent croup had narrowing in their upper airways, which could indicate laryngopharyngeal reflux. Researchers believe that treating reflux may help prevent future episodes of croup.
A study of 27 children with periodic fever, aphthous ulcers, pharyngitis and adenitis (PFAFA) found that tonsillectomy was nearly always effective in resolving symptoms. Despite no clear explanation for why the surgery works, doctors are optimistic about its potential to improve treatment outcomes.
Patients with head and neck cancer experience declines in physical quality of life due to treatments such as feeding tube placement, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, their mental health quality of life improves after one year, suggesting the importance of addressing depression and smoking cessation in treatment.