Task force of the Brazilian Society of Otology — evaluation and management of peripheral facial palsy

Abstract Objective To review key evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of peripheral facial palsy in children and adults. Methods Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on peripheral facial palsy were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. Results The topics were divided into 2 main parts: (1) Evaluation and diagnosis of facial palsy: electrophysiologic tests, idiopathic facial palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, traumatic peripheral facial palsy, recurrent peripheral facial palsy, facial nerve tumors, and peripheral facial palsy in children; and (2) Rehabilitation procedures: surgical decompression of the facial nerve, facial nerve grafting, surgical treatment of long-term peripheral facial palsy, and non-surgical rehabilitation of the facial nerve. Conclusions Peripheral facial palsy is a condition of diverse etiology. Treatment should be individualized according to the cause of facial nerve dysfunction, but the literature presents better evidence-based recommendations for systemic corticosteroid therapy.

Asymmetry of the anterior ethmoidal artery in relation to the anterior skull base: a population-based study of 500 arteries

Abstract Objective To analyze variability in the distance between the Anterior Ethmoidal Artery (AEA) and the anterior Skull Base (SB), as well as the frequency of lateral asymmetry in a Latin American population using computed tomography. Methods A total of 250 computed tomography scans of paranasal sinuses in coronal reconstruction (500 AEAs) were analyzed. After determining the image with the best anatomical view of the artery, the distance between its midpoint and the ethmoidal roof was measured, and the images were independently interpreted by 2 physicians. Results Of the 500 AEAs, 279 (55.8%) adhered to or passed through the SB at a distance of 0 mm. A total of 221 AEAs (44.2%) were at some distance from the SB, of which 107 (48.4%) were on the right side, ranging from 1.18 to 6.75 mm, and 114 (51.5%) were on the left side, ranging from 1.15 to 6.04 mm. The overall mean distance between the AEA and SB was 1.22 (SD = 1.57) mm, increasing to 2.77 (SD = 1.14) when the arteries adhered to the SB were excluded. Seventy-six individuals (30.4%) had a lateral distance variation > 1 mm. Conclusion Our study includes the largest sample of AEA analyzed with computed tomography scans of paranasal sinuses. There was some distance between the AEA and SB in almost half the patients, and we found a high rate of lateral variability >1 mm. Level of evidence: Level 3.

What a Neurosurgeon Should Know about the Endolymphatic Sac: Part 1­Anatomy and Physiology / O que um neurocirurgião deve saber sobre o saco endolinfático: Parte 1­Anatomia e Fisiologia

Objective To describe the microsurgical anatomy and the physiology of the endolymphatic sac (ES) that a neurosurgeon should know. Methods Review of previous studies from 1927 to 2021, from basic and translational research using human and animal ES tissue or cells, as well as previous reviews about the subject. The present article is divided into three parts. In this first part, we review the microsurgical anatomy and physiology of the ES. Results The ES is a structure situated in the inner ear, together with the cochlea, the vestibular system, and other structures. Differently from its adjacent structures, the ES does not have a specialized epithelium; instead, it has mitochondria-rich cells and ribosomal-rich cells, which are responsible for ionic transportation and secretory activity. Apart from these functions, the ES is also responsible for homeostasis regulation of the inner ear, endolymphatic fluid volume control, immune response, elimination of inner ear cellular debris and floating otoconia, regulation of membranous labyrinth pressure, acid/basic transport, and secretion of substances. Its anatomy is not very variable, since in most studies no more than 20mm separates the location of the ES in the samples, in any direction. Conclusion The human ES has vital functions in the inner ear, and its anatomy is rarely variable. Knowing that, and the importance of this area for neurosurgery, the present study elucidates the exact location of the ES and the lost functions that a lesion in this structure must cause.

Objetivo Descrever a anatomia microcirúrgica e a fisiologia do saco endolinfático (SE) que um neurocirurgião deve saber. Métodos Revisão de estudos prévios de 1927 até 2021, de pesquisa básica até translacional usando tecidos ou células do SE humanas e animais, além de revisões sobre o assunto. O presente artigo é dividido em três partes. Nesta primeira, nós revisamos a anatomia microcirúrgica e a fisiologia do SE. Resultados O SE é uma estrutura situada no ouvido interno, junto da cóclea, do sistema vestibular e outras estruturas. Diferentemente das estruturas adjacentes, o SE não tem um epitélio especializado; ao invés disso, possui células ricas em mitocôndrias e outras ricas em ribossomos, que são responsáveis por transporte iônico e atividade secretória. Além dessas funções, o SE é responsável por regulação homeostática do ouvido interno, controle do fluido endolinfático, resposta imune, eliminação de detritos e otólitos livres, regulação da pressão da membrana labiríntica, transporte ácido/básico e secreção de substâncias. Sua anatomia não é muito variável, já que na maior parte dos estudos a máxima diferença de localização entre as amostras do SE foi dada em 20 mm, em todas as direções. Conclusão O SE humano tem uma função vital no ouvido interno e sua anatomia não é muito variável. Sabendo disso, e da importância dessa região para a neurocirurgia, o presente estudo elucida a localização exata do SE e as funções perdidas em uma eventual lesão dessa estrutura.

Brazilian Society of Otology task force - Otosclerosis: evaluation and treatment

Abstract Objectives: To review and provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of otosclerosis. Methods: Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on otosclerosis were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. Results: The topics were divided into 2 parts: 1) Diagnosis - audiologic and radiologic; 2) Treatment - hearing AIDS, pharmacological therapy, stapes surgery, and implantable devices - bone-anchored devices, active middle ear implants, and Cochlear Implants (CI). Conclusions: The pathophysiology of otosclerosis has not yet been fully elucidated, but environmental factors and unidentified genes are likely to play a significant role in it. Women with otosclerosis are not at increased risk of worsening clinical condition due to the use of contraceptives or during pregnancy. Drug treatment has shown little benefit. If the patient does not want to undergo stapedotomy, the use of hearing aids is well indicated. Implantable systems should be indicated only in rare cases, and the CI should be indicated in cases of profound deafness.

What a Neurosurgeon Should Know About the Endolymphatic Sac: Part 2 ­ Diagnosis and Management of the Endolymphatic Sac Tumors / O Que um Neurocirurgião Deve Saber Sobre o Saco Endolinfático: Parte 2 ­ Diagnóstico e Manejo dos Tumores do Saco Endolinfático

Objective This article is divided into three parts. In the second part of this review, the authors focus on describing the endolymphatic sac tumor and presenting illustrative cases. Methods A review of previous studies, from 1957 to 2021, from basic and translational research using human and animal endolymphatic sac (ES) tissue or cells, as well as other reviews on this theme. Results The ES is an inner ear structure, which is responsible for the homeostatic regulation, as well as endolymphatic fluid volume control, immune response etc. One of the possible alterations of the ES is the ELST, a low-grade malign neoplasm that originates from the epithelium of the endolymphatic duct and sac. The clinical presentation of the ELST includes hearing loss, tinnitus, headache, and vertigo. The diagnosis in the early stages is rare, given that this group of symptoms is very similar to other, more common, diseases such as the Meniere syndrome. Its diagnosis is made by computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), immunohistochemistry, and confirmed by histopathology. However, none of these examinations are part of the pathological guidelines for ELST. The treatment for ELST in the early stages has a high rate of success. Conclusion The ELST is a very difficult diagnosis due to its presentation. Furthermore, the interactions between ELST and the Von Hippel-Lindau disease usually result in a more aggressive condition. Despite the difficulty of the diagnosis, doing it early increases the chances of successful treatment.

Objetivo Este artigo é dividido em três partes. Na segunda parte desta revisão, os autores focam em descrever os tumores do saco endolinfático (TSE) e apresentar casos ilustrativos. Métodos Revisão de estudos prévios, de 1957 até 2021, de pesquisa básica até translacional usando tecidos ou células do saco endolinfático (SE) humanas e animais, além de revisões sobre o assunto. Resultados O SE é uma estrutura situada na orelha interna, e é responsável pela regulação homeostática, controle do fluido endolinfático, resposta imune, etc. Uma das possíveis alterações do SE são os TSE, uma neoplasia de crescimento lento, com agressão local e de baixo grau, que se origina do epitélio do saco e do ducto endolinfático. A apresentação clínica do TSE se dá com perda auditiva, zumbido, cefaleia e vertigem. O diagnostico em estágios iniciais é raro devido a apresentação clínica similar a diversas outras patologias mais comuns como a Síndrome de Ménière. O diagnóstico é feito com por tomografia computadorizada (TC), ressonância magnética (RM), imuno-histoquímica e confirmada com histopatologia. Entretanto nenhum desses exames está nas diretrizes das patologias que mimetizam o TSE. O tratamento para o TSE em estágios iniciais tem uma alta taxa de sucesso. Conclusão O TSE é uma patologia de difícil diagnostico devido a sua apresentação. Além disso, a interação entre o TSE e a doença de Von Hippel-Lindau resulta em uma condição mais agressiva da doença de maneira geral. Apesar dessa dificuldade de diagnostico, fazê-lo em estágios iniciais aumenta muito as chances de sucesso no tratamento.

What a Neurosurgeon Should Know About the Endolymphatic Sac: Part 3 ­ Ménière Disease / O que um Neurocirurgião Deve Saber Sobre o Saco Endolinfático: Parte 3 ­ Doença de Ménière

Objective To elucidate all the aspects that neurosurgeons should know about the Ménière disease (MD). Methods Review of guidelines, books, and studies from 1933 to 2021, from basic to translational research, using human and animal endolymphatic sac (ES) tissue or cells, as well as reviews, case reports, and papers about surgical experience. This article is divided into three parts. In this last part, we review the MD. Results The MD is one of the most common pathologies in the ES. It was first described by Prosper Ménière in 1861 with its clinical triad: dizziness, tinnitus, and hearing loss. A lot of theories relating ES to the MD have been proposed. Some of them postulate that it is caused by a narrowing and shortening in the endolymphatic duct, and others relate it to severe inflammation on the ES. Mostly due to the lack of understanding of this pathology, the diagnosis is mainly clinical, despite histopathology being helpful to confirm the diagnosis. The treatment of the MD can be done in 3 different ways: pharmacological, nonpharmacological, and surgical. Conclusion The MD is one of the most common pathologies in the inner ear and has been largely studied over the years. The latest diagnosis guidelines must help in the classification and give better basis for diagnosis and treatment, which, despite not being curative yet, has improved over the years. Pharmacological treatment based on the possible etiologies, allied with proper diet and routine exercise, is showing promising results.

Objetivo Elucidar todos os aspectos que neurocirurgiões devem saber sobre a doença de Ménière (DM). Métodos Revisão das diretrizes, livros e estudos de 1933 até 2021, de pesquisa básica até translacional, usando tecidos ou células do saco endolinfático (SE) humanas e animais, além de revisões, relatos de caso e artigos sobre experiencia cirúrgica. Este artigo é dividido em três partes. Nesta última nós revisamos a DM. Resultados A DM é uma das patologias mais comuns do SE. Ela foi inicialmente descrita por Prosper Ménière em 1861 com a tríade clínica: tontura, zumbido e diminuição da audição. Muitas teorias têm relacionado o SE com a DM. Algumas delas postulam que esta é causada por uma diminuição e estreitamento do ducto endolinfático e outras a relacionam com uma inflamação grave do SE. Principalmente devido à falta de entendimento sobre a patologia, o diagnóstico é primariamente clínico, apesar da Histopatologia ajudar na confirmação diagnóstica. O tratamento da DM pode ser feito de três diferentes formas: farmacológico, não farmacológico e cirúrgico. Conclusão A DM é um dos distúrbios mais comuns da orelha interna e tem sido muito estudada nos últimos anos. As diretrizes mais recentes devem ajudar na classificação e fornecer mais bases para o diagnóstico e tratamento, que, apesar de ainda não ser curativo, teve grandes avanços ao longo dos anos. O tratamento farmacológico baseado nas teorias etiológicas, aliado com dieta apropriada e exercícios físicos rotineiros, tem mostrado excelentes resultados.

Task force Guideline of Brazilian Society of Otology - hearing loss in children - Part II - Treatment

Abstract Objectives: To provide an overview of the main evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis of hearing loss in children and adolescents aged 0-18 years. Methods: Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on childhood hearing loss were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. Results: The topics were divided into 2 parts: (1) treatment of sensorineural hearing loss: individual hearing aids, bilateral cochlear implants, cochlear implants in young children, unilateral hearing loss, and auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder; and (2) treatment of conductive/mixed hearing loss: external/middle ear malformations, ventilation tube insertion, and tympanoplasty in children. Conclusions: In children with hearing loss, in addition to speech therapy, Hearing AIDS (HAs) or implantable systems may be indicated. Even in children with profound hearing loss, both the use of HAs and behavioral assessments while using the device are important.

Brazilian Society of Otology task force - Vestibular Schwannoma - evaluation and treatment

Abstract Objective: To review the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular schwannoma. Methods: Task force members were educated on knowledge synthesis methods, including electronic database search, review and selection of relevant citations, and critical appraisal of selected studies. Articles written in English or Portuguese on vestibular schwannoma were eligible for inclusion. The American College of Physicians' guideline grading system and the American Thyroid Association's guideline criteria were used for critical appraisal of evidence and recommendations for therapeutic interventions. Results: The topics were divided into 2 parts: (1) Diagnosis - audiologic, electrophysiologic tests, and imaging; (2) Treatment - wait and scan protocols, surgery, radiosurgery/radiotherapy, and systemic therapy. Conclusions: Decision making in VS treatment has become more challenging. MRI can diagnose increasingly smaller tumors, which has disastrous consequences for the patients and their families. It is important to develop an individualized approach for each case, which highly depends on the experience of each surgical team.

Is it necessary to perform occupational audiometric testing at 6-months of employment? / É necessário fazer teste audiométrico ocupacional 6 meses após a admissão?

Abstract Introduction: Current Brazilian legislation requires that all workers exposed to noise are to be given an audiogram upon hiring, after 6 months of employment (first periodic test), and annually after the first periodic test. In other countries, the regulations of hearing conservation programs do not include the requirement for audiometric testing at 6 months of employment, but only annually. There is no evidence that the periodicity adopted by Brazilian legislation is the most appropriate. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the first 3 occupational audiometric tests of workers exposed to noise. Methods: Historical cohort study with cross-sectional analysis. Participants were all male metallurgy workers aged up to 40 years. The first 3 audiograms of each worker were analyzed: pre-employment audiometric test, periodic audiometric test 1, and periodic audiometric test 2. For each worker, mean frequency thresholds were calculated at 3, 4, and 6 kHz in the left and right ears for each test. Statistical analysis was performed using the nonparametric Wilcoxon test. Results: A total of 988 workers were included. There was a significant difference in auditory thresholds between the pre-employment test and the 2 subsequent periodic tests for the right and left ears. There was no significant difference between Test1 and Test2 in either ear. Conclusion: Given the lack of difference between the first 2 periodic tests, we believe that they could be merged into a single test, i.e., first periodic audiometric testing could be performed at 12 months of employment without compromising workers' health.

Resumo Introdução: A legislação brasileira atual exige que todos os trabalhadores expostos a ruído recebam um audiograma na admissão, 6 meses após a admissão (primeiro teste periódico), e anualmente após o primeiro teste periódico, mas em outros países as regulamentações dos programas de conservação auditiva não incluem a exigência de teste audiométrico após 6 meses de admissão, mas apenas anualmente. Não há evidências de que a periodicidade adotada pela legislação brasileira seja a mais adequada. Objetivo: Avaliar os três primeiros exames audiométricos ocupacionais de trabalhadores expostos ao ruído. Método: Estudo de coorte histórica com análise transversal. Os participantes eram todos trabalhadores metalúrgicos do sexo masculino com até 40 anos. Os três primeiros audiogramas de cada trabalhador foram analisados: teste audiométrico pré-admissão, teste audiométrico periódico 1 e teste audiométrico periódico 2. Para cada trabalhador, os limiares de frequência médios foram calculados em 3, 4 e 6 kHz nas orelhas esquerda e direita para cada teste. A análise estatística foi feita através do teste não paramétrico de Wilcoxon. Resultados: Foram incluídos 988 trabalhadores. Houve uma diferença significante nos limiares auditivos entre o teste pré-admissão e os 2 testes periódicos subsequentes para as orelhas direita e esquerda. Não houve diferença significante entre o teste 1 e o teste 2 em nenhuma das orelhas. Conclusão: Dada a falta de diferença entre os 2 primeiros testes periódicos, acreditamos que eles poderiam ser combinados em um único teste, ou seja, o primeiro teste audiométrico periódico poderia ser feito após 12 meses de admissão sem comprometer a saúde dos trabalhadores.

The Learning Curve in Skull Base Surgery Part 1­ From Historical-Philosophical Concepts to Microsurgical Lab Training

The learning curve reflects surgeons' experience in managing several patients with the same disease. In skull base surgery, the professional's place on the curve could be related to the number of times the same procedure was performed. Where does curve begin? What amount of training is necessary prior to its application in surgical settings? What were the results of the first few skull base tumor surgeries performed by a surgeon who goes on to produce excellent results, and how is reflected in the start of their learning curve? The only way for neurosurgeons to improve their results from the start is with prior training in the microsurgery laboratory. This learning technique is essential to maximize the chance of success of a neurosurgical procedures, minimizing the morbidity rate to which patients are subjected by less experienced neurosurgeons. This article is divided in two parts, and its purpose is to show how training in the microsurgical laboratory fits into the construction of knowledge about skull base surgery, based on authors' experience and reflections. This first part discusses the technical, psychological, and philosophical aspects of medical knowledge, primarily addressing those training in skull base surgery, the principles of some selected philosophical currents, and their influence on the development of current medical knowledge.

The Learning Curve in Skullbase Surgery Part 2­From the Microsurgical Lab Training to the Operative Room / A Curva de Aprendizado em Cirurgia de Base do Crânio - Do laboratório de microcirurgia à sala cirúrgica

In this second part, the authors review and suggest a methodology for studies in skull base surgery and training inmicrosurgical laboratory, based on their experiences and reflections. Not only are the foundations for the acquisition of microsurgical skills presented, but also what is needed to be an effective skullbase surgeon with good results. The present article reflects in particular the philosophy of professor Evandro de Oliveira and also serves to present to the neurosurgical community a new state-of-the-art laboratory for hands-on courses in Brazil, at the Faculdade Evangélica Mackenzie do Paraná.

Nesta segunda parte, os autores revisam e sugerem uma metodologia para o estudo em cirurgia de base de crânio e treinamento em laboratório de microcirurgia baseado em suas experiencias e reflexões. Não apenas os fundamentos para a aquisição de habilidades microcirúrgicas estão presentes, como também, o que é necessário para ser um eficiente cirurgião de base de crânio com bons resultados. Este artigo reflete, em particular, a filosofia do Professor Evandro de Oliveira, além de servir para apresentar a comunidade neurocirúrgica o novo "estado da arte" em laboratórios de cursos "hands-on" no Brasil, na Faculdade Evangélica Mackenzie do Paraná.

Tympanic Membrane Retractions in patients with Williams Syndrome: A Controlled Study

Abstract Introduction The role of elastin in tympanic retractions and chronic otitis media is not well established. Williams Syndrome (WS), a pathology related to a mutation in the elastin gene, could generate tympanic retractions. Objective To compare the prevalence of tympanic retractions among patients with WS and controls. Methods WS patients (n= 43 ears) and controls (n= 130 ears) were evaluated by digital otoscopic examination and the degree of tympanic membrane retraction was classified by 2 blinded experienced otolaryngologists. Results The agreement rate between the evaluators was 71.1% for pars tensa and 65% for pars flaccida retraction (p< 0.001). The pars tensa and pars flaccida retractions are present in patients with WS after an adjusted residue of respectively - 2.8 and - 2.6 (p= 0.011 and p= 0.022) compared with controls. Conclusions Tympanic membrane retractions are not more common in the WS group when compared with controls.

Incomplete and late recovery of sudden olfactory dysfunction in COVID-19 / Recuperação incompleta e tardia da perda súbita do olfato na COVID-19

Abstract Introduction Sudden olfactory dysfunction is a new symptom related to COVID-19, with little data on its duration or recovery rate. Objective To characterize patients with sudden olfactory dysfunction during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially their recovery data. Methods An online survey was conducted by the Brazilian Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervico-Facial Surgery, and Brazilian Academy of Rhinology, including doctors who assessed sudden olfactory dysfunction patients starting after February 1st, 2020. Participants were posteriorly asked by e-mail to verify data on the recovery of sudden olfactory loss and test for COVID-19 at the end of the data collection period. Results 253 sudden olfactory dysfunction patients were included, of which 59.1% were females with median age of 36 years, with a median follow-up period of 31 days. 183 patients (72.3%) had been tested for COVID-19, and of those 145 (79.2%) tested positive. Patients that tested positive for COVID-19 more frequently showed non-specific inflammatory symptoms (89.7% vs. 73.7%; p = 0.02), a lower rate of total recovery of sudden olfactory dysfunction (52.6% vs. 70.3%; p = 0.05) and a longer duration to achieve total recovery (15 days vs. 10 days; p = 0.0006) than the ones who tested negative for COVID-19. Considering only positive-COVID-19 patients, individuals with sudden hyposmia completely recovered more often than the ones with sudden anosmia (68.4% vs. 50.0%; p = 0.04). Conclusion Positive-COVID-19 patients with sudden olfactory dysfunction showed lower total recovery rate and longer duration than negative-COVID-19 patients. Additionally, total recovery was seen more frequently in positive-COVID-19 patients with sudden hyposmia than the ones with sudden anosmia.

Resumo Introdução A perda súbita do olfato é um novo sintoma relacionado à COVID-19, porém com poucos dados sobre sua duração ou resolução. Objetivo Caracterizar pacientes que apresentaram perda súbita do olfato durante a pandemia da COVID-19 e em especial a sua recuperação. Método Pesquisa online desenvolvida pela Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial e Academia Brasileira de Rinologia direcionado aos médicos que atenderam pacientes com perda súbita do olfato com início após 1° de fevereiro de 2020. Os participantes foram questionados posteriormente por e-mail, para verificar os dados sobre a recuperação da perda súbita do olfato e teste para COVID-19, no final do período de coleta de dados. Resultados Foram incluídos 253 pacientes com perda súbita de olfato, 59,1% mulheres e idade mediana de 36 anos, acompanhados por 31 dias (mediana). Testagem para COVID-19 foi feita em 183 (72,3%) pacientes, 145 (79,2%) positivos e 38 (20,8%) negativos. COVID-19 positivos apresentaram sintomas inflamatórios inespecíficos mais frequentemente (89,7% vs. 73,7%; p = 0,02); menor taxa de recuperação total da perda súbita do olfato (52,6% vs. 70,3%; p = 0,05) e maior tempo para atingir a recuperação total (15 dias vs. 10 dias; p = 0,0006) comparados aos COVID-19 negativos. Considerando somente COVID-19 positivos, hiposmia súbita apresentou melhoria total mais frequentemente do que anosmia súbita (68,4% vs. 50,0%; p = 0,04). Conclusão A perda súbita do olfato em pacientes COVID-19 positivos apresentou menor taxa de recuperação total e duração mais prolongada do que em Covid-19 negativos. E a hiposmia súbita apresentou recuperação total mais frequentemente do que a anosmia súbita em COVID-19 positivos.

An update on COVID-19 for the otorhinolaryngologist - a Brazilian Association of Otolaryngology and Cervicofacial Surgery (ABORL-CCF) Position Statement / Atualização sobre o COVID-19 para o otorrinolaringologista - um documento sobre a posição da Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial (ABORL-CCF)

Abstract Introduction: We are facing a pandemic with a great impact worldwide, as a result of the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The medical community is still getting to know behavior of this virus and the consequences from a population point of view. All this knowledge is extremely dynamic, so some behaviors are still not well established. Otorhinolaryngologists have a central role in the management of this situation, in which they must assess the patient, avoid contamination to and by health professionals and other patients. Thus, the recommendations of the Brazilian Association of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervical-Facial Surgery (ABORL-CCF) have the main objective of reducing the spread of the new coronavirus during otorhinolaryngological care and assisting in the management of these patients. Methods: Review of the main recommendations of national and international scientific societies, decisions by government agencies and class councils. The topics will be related to the general aspects of COVID-19, personal protective equipment, care in patient assistance, endoscopic exam routines and the management of sinonasal, otological and pediatric evaluations related to COVID-19. Results: The use of personal protective equipment is considered crucial in routine ENT care. We recommend postponing appointments, exams and elective surgeries to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Similarly, we recommend changing routines in several areas of otolaryngology. Additionally, guidance is provided on the use of telemedicine resources during the pandemic period. Conclusions: We are still at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and scientific evidence is still scarce and incomplete, so these ABORL-CCF recommendations for otorhinolaryngologists may be updated based on new knowledge and the pattern of the new coronavirus spread.

Resumo: Introdução: Estamos diante de uma pandemia de grande impacto mundial como resultado da rápida propagação do novo coronavírus, COVID-19. A comunidade médica está ainda conhecendo o comportamento desse vírus e as repercussões do ponto de vista populacional. Todo esse conhecimento é extremamente dinâmico, por isso algumas condutas ainda não estão bem estabelecidas. O otorrinolaringologista tem um papel central no manejo dessa situação em que deve avaliar o paciente e evitar a contaminação dos profissionais da saúde e dos demais pacientes. Dessa forma, as recomendações da Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial (ABORL-CCF) têm por objetivo principal reduzir a propagação do novo coronavírus durante o atendimento otorrinolaringológico e auxiliar no manejo desses pacientes. Método: Revisão das principais recomendações das sociedades científicas nacionais, internacionais, decisões de órgãos governamentais e de conselhos de classe. Os tópicos serão relativos aos aspectos gerais do COVID-19, equipamentos de proteção individual, cuidados no atendimento ao paciente, as rotinas dos exames endoscópicos e o manejo de aspectos nasossinusais, otológicos e pediátricos relacionados ao COVID-19. Resultados: É considerado crucial o uso de equipamento de proteção individual no atendimento otorrinolaringológico de rotina. Recomendamos postergar atendimentos, exames e cirurgias eletivas para diminuir a propagação do COVID-19. Da mesma forma, recomendamos mudança de rotinas em diversas áreas da otorrinolaringologia. Além disso, orientações sobre o uso do recurso da telemedicina durante o período de vigência da pandemia. Conclusões: Estamos ainda no início da pandemia do COVID-19 e as evidências científicas são ainda escassas, por isso essas recomendações da ABORL-CCF para os otorrinolaringologistas podem sofrer atualizações baseadas nos novos conhecimentos e no padrão de disseminação do novo coronavírus.

Neurotology: definitions and evidence-based therapies - Results of the I Brazilian Forum of Neurotology / Otoneurologia: definições e terapias baseadas em evidências - Resultados do I Fórum Brasileiro de Otoneurologia

Abstract Introduction: Neurotology is a rapidly expanding field of knowledge. The study of the vestibular system has advanced so much that even basic definitions, such as the meaning of vestibular symptoms, have only recently been standardized. Objective: To present a review of the main subjects of neurotology, including concepts, diagnosis and treatment of Neurotology, defining current scientific evidence to facilitate decision-making and to point out the most evidence-lacking areas to stimulate further new research. Methods: This text is the result of the I Brazilian Forum of Neurotology, which brought together the foremost Brazilian researchers in this area for a literature review. In all, there will be three review papers to be published. This first review will address definitions and therapies, the second one will address diagnostic tools, and the third will define the main diseases diagnoses. Each author performed a bibliographic search in the LILACS, SciELO, PubMed and MEDLINE databases on a given subject. The text was then submitted to the other Forum participants for a period of 30 days for analysis. A special chapter, on the definition of vestibular symptoms, was translated by an official translation service, and equally submitted to the other stages of the process. There was then a in-person meeting in which all the texts were orally presented, and there was a discussion among the participants to define a consensual text for each chapter. The consensual texts were then submitted to a final review by four professors of neurotology disciplines from three Brazilian universities and finally concluded. Based on the full text, available on the website of the Brazilian Association of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervical-Facial Surgery, this summary version was written as a review article. Result: The text presents the official translation into Portuguese of the definition of vestibular symptoms proposed by the Bárány Society and brings together the main scientific evidence for each of the main existing therapies for neurotological diseases. Conclusion: This text rationally grouped the main topics of knowledge regarding the definitions and therapies of Neurotology, allowing the reader a broad view of the approach of neurotological patients based on scientific evidence and national experience, which should assist them in clinical decision-making, and show the most evidence-lacking topics to stimulate further study.

Resumo Introdução: A otoneurologia é uma área de conhecimento que tem se expandido muito rapidamente. O estudo do sistema vestibular tem avançado tanto que mesmo definições básicas, como o significado dos sintomas vestibulares, foram apenas recentemente padronizadas. Objetivo: Apresentar uma revisão dos principais assuntos da otoneurologia, inclusive conceitos, diagnóstico e tratamento da otoneurologia, definir a evidência científica atual para facilitar a tomada de decisões e demonstrar as áreas mais carentes de evidência para estimular novas pesquisas. Método: Este texto é fruto do I Fórum Brasileiro de Otoneurologia, que reuniu os principais pesquisadores brasileiros dessa área para uma revisão da literatura. Serão feitos três trabalhos de revisão a serem publicados. Este primeiro abordou as definições e as terapias, o segundo abordará as ferramentas diagnósticas e o terceiro definirá os principais diagnósticos. Cada autor fez um levantamento bibliográfico na base de dados da Lilacs, SciELO, Pubmed e Medline de um determinado assunto. O seu texto foi então submetido aos demais participantes do Fórum por 30 dias para análise. Um capítulo especial, da definição dos sintomas vestibulares, foi traduzido por serviço de tradução oficial e igualmente submetido às demais etapas do processo. Houve então uma reunião presencial em que todos os textos foram apresentados oralmente e houve uma discussão entre os participantes para a definição de um texto consensual para cada capítulo. Os textos consensuais foram então submetidos a uma revisão final por quatro professores de otoneurologia de três universidades brasileiras e, por fim, finalizado. A partir do texto completo, publicado no site da Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial, foi escrita esta versão-resumo como artigo de revisão. Resultado: O texto apresenta a tradução oficial para o português da definição dos sintomas vestibulares propostos pela Barany Society e agrupa as principais evidências científicas para cada um das principais terapias existentes para as doenças otoneurológicas. Conclusão: Este texto agrupou de forma racional os principais tópicos de conhecimento a respeito das definições e terapias da otoneurologia, permite ao leitor uma visão ampla da abordagem dos pacientes otoneurológicos baseada em evidências científicas e experiência nacional, que deverá auxiliá-lo na tomada de decisões clínicas, e mostra os assuntos mais carentes de evidência para estimular novos estudos.

The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Temporomandibular Joint to Investigate Tinnitus in Adults with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder: A Comparative Study

Abstract Introduction The prevalence of tinnitus is higher in individuals with temporoman- dibular joint disorder (TMD) than in the general population. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the method of choice for investigation, and it has been hypothesized that specific MRI findings might be observed in TMD with comorbid tinnitus. Objective To comparatively describe MRI findings in patients with TMD with and without tinnitus, identifying the most common TMJ alterations and determining whether a correlation exists between severity of TMD and tinnitus. Methods A cross-sectional study of 53 adult patients with bilateral or unilateral TMD (30 with and 23 without tinnitus). The association between tinnitus and morphological aspects of TMD (changes in condylar morphology, articular eminence morphology, and disc morphology), disc displacement (with/without reduction), condylar translation, and intra-articular effusion was analyzed on MRI images. Results The mean patient age was 46.12 ± 16.1 years. Disc displacement was the most common finding in both groups (24 patients with tinnitus versus 15 without; p = 0.043). Only the frequency of disc displacement with reduction was significantly different between groups. Conclusion Additional imaging techniques should be explored to detect specific aspects of the relationship between tinnitus and TMD.

Cocleostomia transcanal: resultados em longo prazo de um estudo de coorte / Transcanal cochleostomy in cochlear implant surgery: long-term results of a cohort study

A técnica de acesso combinado (TAC) ao implante coclear (IC) é uma variação da técnica clássica de mastoidectomia e timpanotomia posterior (MPTA). A TAC combina um acesso transcanal à cocleostomia com uma timpanotomia posterior reduzida para a inserção dos eletrodos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar e comparar a segurança e efetividade em longo prazo alcançados com a TAC e MPTA em pacientes submetidos a IC em um centro brasileiro. Desenho científico: Estudo de série. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Pacientes submetidos a IC usando TAC e MPTA foram acompanhados em um estudo de coorte. Os desfechos avaliados foram complicações, avaliação audiométrica e radiológica pós-operatórias. RESULTADOS: Quarenta e quatro pacientes foram implantados usando a TAC e 31 usando MPTA. Não houve casos de paralisia facial, mastoidite, colesteatoma ou fístula após 3,4±1,0 anos. A avaliação radiológica da posição dos eletrodos a mediana de eletrodos fora da cóclea foi de 0 no grupo TAC e de 3 no MPTA (p < 0,001). Não houve diferença entre os grupos em termos de desempenho audiológico no pós-operatório. CONCLUSÃO: A cocleostomia via transcanal combinada com uma timpanotomia posterior reduzida é um acesso alternativo ao IC que demonstrou segurança e menor migração de eletrodos em longo prazo. Esses achados encorajam o uso da via transcanal para a cocleostomia como uma opção alternativa de acesso ao IC.

The combined approach technique (CAT) is a variation of the classical the mastoidectomy-posterior tympanotomy technique (MPTA) that combines a transcanal approach to cochleostomy with a reduced posterior tympanotomy for insertion of electrodes. AIM: To compare and evaluate long-term safety and effectiveness outcomes obtained with the CAT and with MPTA approach in patients submitted to cochlear implant (CI) surgery. Design: series study. METHODS: Patients who underwent CI using CAT or MPTA at a Brazilian center were followed in a cohort study. Main outcomes were complications,audiometric performance and radiological evaluation of electrode position. RESULTS: Fourty-four patients were implanted using CAT and 31 MPTA. There were no cases of facial nerve paralysis, mastoiditis, cholesteatoma or cerebrospinal fluid leaks after 3.4±1.0 years. Radiological evaluation of electrode position revealed that the median number of electrodes outside the cochlea was 0 in CAT and 3 in MPTA groups (p < 0.001). There were no differences between both surgical approaches in terms of mean pure-tone thresholds with CI at all frequencies. CONCLUSION: Long-term follow-up data showed that the transcanal route to cochleostomy, combined with a reduced posterior tympanotomy, is a safe alternative approach in cochlear implant surgery, with no related major complications and fewer cases of electrode migration when compared with the MPTA. These findings encourage the use of the transcanal route to cochleostomy as an alternative approach option.

Aspirina em baixa dosagem em pacientes com diabete melito: riscos e benefícios em relação às complicações macro e microvasculares / Low-dose aspirin in patients with diabete melitus: risks and benefits regarding macro and microvascular complications

O uso de aspirina é recomendado como estratégia de prevenção cardiovascular em pacientes com diabete melito. Em decorrência do risco de eventos hemorrágicos e da hipótese de que poderia haver um agravamento das complicações microvasculares associado ao uso da aspirina, tem havido importante sub-utilização dessa terapia. Entretanto, está definido que o uso de aspirina não piora a retinopatia diabética e existem evidências de que também não afeta a função renal em doses usuais (150 mg/dia). Por outro lado, pacientes com diabete melito parecem necessitar de doses maiores do agente antiplaquetário, o que sugere que esses indivíduos apresentem a chamada "resistência à aspirina". Os mecanismos dessa resistência ainda não estão completamente esclarecidos, estando provavelmente relacionados à atividade plaquetária intrínseca anormal. Portanto, o emprego de terapêuticas antiplaquetárias alternativas ou a administração de doses maiores de aspirina (150-300 mg/dia) devem ser melhor avaliados em relação a um aumento da eficácia na prevenção da doença cardiovascular e também a possíveis efeitos nas complicações microvasculares no diabete melito.

Aspirin is recommended as cardiovascular disease prevention in patients with diabetes mellitus. Due to the increased risk of bleeding and because of the hypothesis that there could be a worsening of microvascular complications related to aspirin, there has been observed an important underutilization of the drug. However, it is now known that aspirin is not associated with a deleterious effect on diabetic retinopathy and there is evidence indicating that it also does not affect renal function with usual doses (150 mg/d). On the other hand, higher doses may prove necessary, since recent data suggest that diabetic patients present the so called "aspirin resistance". The mechanisms of this resistance are not yet fully understood, being probably related to an abnormal intrinsic platelet activity. The employment of alternative antiplatelet strategies or the administration of higher aspirin doses (150-300 mg/d) should be better evaluated regarding effective cardiovascular disease prevention in diabetes as well as the possible effects on microvascular complications.