Blog Archive

Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης

Monday, January 10, 2022

New drug approval: Pembrolizumab in association with chemotherapy as first line treatment for advanced/metastatic oesophageal carcinomas or HERnegative gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma, expressing PD-L1 with a CPS≥10

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Bull Cancer. 2022 Jan 5:S0007-4551(21)00575-0. doi: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2021.09.021. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:34998526 | DOI:10.1016/j.bulcan.2021.09.021

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Development of an apparatus and procedure for evaluating the efficiency of nasal irrigation

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Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2022 Jan 9. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-07249-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Although different methods of nasal irrigation have been utilized, irrigation efficiency in nasal cavities has not been well assessed. The objective of this study was to develop an apparatus and procedure for evaluating the irrigation efficiency and to explore the optimal head position during irrigation.

METHODS: Casts of the left sinonasal cavity from a healthy volunteer were made from high-resolution-computed tomography data using 3D printing with composite materials. An adjustable apparatus that allowed cast fixation at the different head positions was built. The yogurt was used to simulate mucus. The cast with 5 ml yogurt filled around the superior, middle, and inferior turbinate was fixed in six head positions including head tilt 10°, 45°, and 60° forward with or without leaning 30° to the right. The cast w as irrigated with 120 ml, 175 ml, and 240 ml dyed water and was video recorded. The irrigation efficiency was calculated based on the weight difference of the cast before and after the irrigation.

RESULTS: Most residual yogurt was located around the superior meatus after the irrigation under different volumes and head positions. The irrigation efficiency of the rinse bottle or the pulsatile device was volume dependent, with the highest irrigation efficiency under 240 ml water. When the left sinonasal cavity was irrigated, the head position of tilt 45° forward with leaning 30° to the right was the optimal head position for these two devices when compared to other positions. The pulsatile device with 240 ml water performed better than the rinse bottle with 240 ml water regarding the irrigation efficiency under the optimal head position (0.8700 ± 0.0138 vs 0.7536 ± 0.0099, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS: The developed apparatus provided a potential method for evaluating the ir rigation efficiency. The head position of tilt 45° forward with leaning 30° was suitable for patients to perform the nasal irrigation.

PMID:34999922 | DOI:10.1007/s00405-021-07249-8

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Modifying Ways to Perform ICU Tracheostomies

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Abstract

Background This study outlines the unique modifications to surgical tracheostomy procedure to combat the extraordinary situation the world has found itself in due to COVID 19 pandemic. We explain the modifications employed to the operative setup, anesthetic considerations and surgical procedure to enable us to provide timely and safe tracheostomy to the COVID ICU patients requiring it, while simultaneously maximally protecting our surgical personnel from the deadly exposure. Methods- We conducted 55 surgical tracheostomies in severely sick ICU patients with the modifications deemed fit to achieve safe procedure for both the patient and the operating team. We analyzed the hospital record data of these patients and the surgical teams COVID 19 status to assesss the efficacy of our procedural modifications. Discussion- The COVID 19 pandemic has thrown the entire medical fraternity into a dilemma as to how to provide the best possible care to the patients while protecting ourselves from its grip. Severely sick COVID patients often require tracheostomy for improved prognosis. We performed bedside open surgical tracheostomy and induced transient apnoea periprocedur along with carinal intubation. By making these simple and cost effective modifications to the procedure, we have ensured that patients get tracheostomised as and when required but not at the cost of the health and lives of our health care workers.

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Reconstruction of Subtotal Defect of the Lower Lip: Combined Use of Karapandzic and Nasolabial Flap

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Abstract

Subtotal reconstruction of the lower lip after excision of the tumor is always a challenge for surgeons. It is because of the difficulty in  regaining the function of the lip, including the oral competency and restoring the aesthetic subunit. A 46-year-old patient presented with an ulceroproliferative growth involving 70% of the lower lip, including the right commissure. After the confirmation to be a malignancy, patient underwent excision of the tumour and reconstruction of the lower lip using the left Karapandzic flap and right nasolabial flap. The patient was on regular follow-up in the postoperative period to assess the surgical outcomes. The combined use of Karapandzic flap and the nasolabial flap can be reliably used for subtotal reconstruction of the lower lip in advanced oral cavity malignancy, involving one of the commissures. Later can ensure good postoperative results in terms of aesthetic and functional lip reconstruction without any significant intraoperative or postoperative complications.

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Effect of Frequency Discrimination Training on Tinnitus in Individuals with Flat Sensorineural Hearing loss

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Abstract

Tinnitus is associated with sensorineural hearing loss irrespective of its severity and configuration. Frequency discrimination training is a contemporary method used for the treatment of tinnitus. However, its efficacy in treating tinnitus associated with flat sensorineural hearing loss is not studied yet. The objectives were to assess (a) treatment effect across sessions on tinnitus percept using subjective questionnaires (b) association in the severity and handicap of tinnitus before and after FDT treatment. A total of 16 participants with mean age of 56 years, who had subjective tinnitus and flat sensorineural hearing loss ranging from mild to moderate were included in the study. However, only 11 participants completed the treatment regime. Each participant was provided FDT in a game format for 15 days. The Quantitative (tinnitus pitch and loudness in each session) and qualitative measurements (THI and TFI) were assessed in each participant. Fried man test revealed a significant reduction in handicap from tinnitus as reflected in THI and reduced functionality impairment from tinnitus as reflected in TFI across sessions. Besides, a significant association was observed in the Chi-square test in severity and handicap of tinnitus before and after therapy. A change in pitch and reduced loudness was noted in eight of 11 participants. Three of them had no tinnitus perception at the end of the treatment regime. The current study findings demonstrate the efficacy of FDT using a game module in treating tinnitus associated with flat sensorineural hearing loss. The perceived severity and handicap of tinnitus reduces as a function of treatment.

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Trend of Allergic Rhinitis

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Abstract

To study, compare and analyse the trend of allergic rhinitis incidence post COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary care hospital in Patna Bihar. This is a retrospective observational study done at Patna medical college from January to June 2020. The number of patients with signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis post pandemic (March–July2020) were compared to preceding three months (Jan 2020–March2020). Chi square test was employed to know and infer whether the change in trend of incidence is statistically significant. There is decrease in trend of allergic rhinitis in our study at our centre. P < .01. Decrease in pollution due to lockdown and increased use of mask and increase indoor activities may be the reason for decreasing trend of allergic rhinitis.

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Epidemiology, Clinical Features and Management of Rhino Orbital Mucormycosis in Post COVID 19 Patients

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Abstract

COVID 19 infections may be associated with a wide range of bacterial and fungal co-infections. Mucormycosis is a fungal infection primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals. We have observed sudden rise of mucormycosis cases in post COVID 19 patients. Here we have reported 100 cases of mucormycosis associated with COVID 19. To study epidemiology and clinical features of rhino orbital mucormycosis in post COVID 19 patients. To evaluate efficacy of medical as well as surgical treatment in such patients. This was an observational mixed (retrospective + prospective) study with a duration of 2 months. After noting demographic data, necessary radiological investigation was advised and representative tissue was sent for KOH and histopathological examination. Medical and surgical treatment was planned accordingly. Most patients (55%) presented with complaint of headache and facial pain. Hard palate involvement was observed in 45% patients. Unilateral pr esentation (68%) was more common. Only 25% patients who presented early had normal vision. We reported 22 patients with complete loss of vision. Eye movements were restricted in 58% patients. Diabetes mellitus is most common predisposing factor (65%). 9 patients required orbital exentration. Only 18% patients required Amphotericin for more than 14 days. Immune dysregulation caused by COVID 19 infection in addition to widespread use of steroids and broad-spectrum antibiotics may lead to the development mucormycosis. Diabetes Mellitus type II is another important risk factor and the presence of both have additional effect in causing mucormycosis. Headache and facial pain should be considered highly suspicious of mucormycosis. Early diagnosis with efficient treatment can improve prognosis.

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Treatment of Uveal Melanoma With Radioactive Iodine 125 Implant Compared With Proton Beam Radiotherapy

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Mayo Clin Proc Innov Qual Outcomes. 2021 Dec 22;6(1):27-36. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2021.10.002. eCollection 2022 Feb.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To review the current state of radiation therapy for uveal melanoma and compare particle radiation and brachytherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: The medical records of 156 patients treated for uveal melanoma between May 30, 2012, and March 16, 2020, were retrospectively reviewed. Treatments consisted of either radioactive iodine 125 implant (R AI) or fractionated proton radiation (proton beam therapy [PBT]). Baseline characteristics were compared using a Wilcoxon rank sum test or χ2 test. Outcomes were compared using Cox proportional hazards regression models or logistic regression models.

RESULTS: The median length of follow-up after treatment was 2.7 years (range, 0.5 to 9.0 years). Patients who underwent treatment with RAI were older (median age, 67 vs 59 years; P<.001) and had a lower tumor classification (American Joint Commission on Cancer; P=.001) compared with those who underwent PBT. There was no significant difference between RAI and PBT in the outcomes of liver metastases, death, enucleation, tearing, vision loss, retinal detachment, tumor thickness, conjunctivitis, optic neuropathy, iris neovascularization, or neovascular glaucoma (all P>.05). Patients who underwent RAI treatment had significantly higher risk of diplopia (P<.001), cataract progression (P<.001), and m aculopathy (P=.03) compared with those who received PBT. Patients who underwent RAI were at higher risk of eyelash loss (P=.006) compared with the PBT group.

CONCLUSION: Treatment with PBT and RAI has similar efficacy; however, there are differences in the adverse outcomes associated with these 2 modalities.

PMID:35005435 | PMC:PMC8715138 | DOI:10.1016 /j.mayocpiqo.2021.10.002

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The effect of peritonsillar infiltration of tramadol vs dexmedetomidine on post‑tonsillectomy pain

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Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2022 Jan 10. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-07212-7. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:35001165 | DOI:10.1007/s00405-021-07212-7

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Brain Herniation Secondary to Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Following Elective Lumbar Spine Surgery

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Cureus. 2021 Dec 8;13(12):e20266. doi: 10.7759/cureus.20266. eCollection 2021 Dec.

ABSTRACT

Lumbar spine surgery can be complicated by perioperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. However, development of brain herniation secondary to CSF leak following lumbar spine surgery has not been previously reported in the current literature. This case report describes a 48-year-old woman who, after a revision lumbar decompression and fusion, experienced CSF leak followed by development of brain herniation, which resulted in patient demise. The postoperative period was complicated by patient nonadherence to conservative management of CSF leak.

PMID:35004068 | PMC:PMC8735843 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.20266

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Surgical Treatment of Acquired Velopharyngeal Insufficiency in Adults With Dysphagia and Dysphonia

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Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) is a form of velopharyngeal dysfunction caused by abnormal or insufficient anatomy. This process is known to be associated with dysphagia and dysphonia but surgical interventions for these complex patients have not been well studied. The current study characterized a small cohort of adult patients with acquired VPI, dysphonia, and dysphagia, as well as associated surgical interventions.
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Fibroangiolipoma of palatine tonsil: A case report and literature review

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Ear Nose Throat J. 2022 Jan 10:1455613211072587. doi: 10.1177/01455613211072587. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Lipomas of the palatine tonsil are rare benign neoplasms in clinical practice. We present a case of palatine tonsillar fibroangiolipoma in a 50-year-old Chinese male with a history of multiple lipomas on the back and extremities. It was diagnosed based on histological examination and integrated analysis. Good wound healing and no evidence of recurrence were noted within 6 months follow-up after tonsillectomy. This article also puts a spotlight on the differential diagnosis of benign tonsillar tumors and reviewed recent relevant literature.

PMID:35006014 | DOI:10.1177/01455613211072587

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