Sialendoscopy for treatment of major salivary glands diseases: a comprehensive analysis of published systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Abstract Objectives: Sialendoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat obstructive salivary gland diseases. Previous studies in the topic have shown mixed results. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sialendoscopy through previous systematic reviews for different outcomes of several diseases. We also aimed to assess studies' methodological quality and heterogeneity. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive systematic literature search of Pubmed, Embase, Lilacs and Cochrane Library. We included systematic reviews and meta-analyses that used sialendoscopy to treat both lithiasic and alithiasic salivary glands diseases. Data extraction included studies' characteristics and results. We assessed studies' methodological quality using the AMSTAR-2 (A Measurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2) tool. Results: 13 studies were included in the review, being 9 in adult populations and 4 in pediatric populations. Sialendoscopy proved to be effective at the treatment of different lithiasic and other obstructive diseases, but with important heterogeneity. The technique was also considered highly safe in most studies. However, studies had a critically low quality of evidence. Conclusions: Most studies demonstrated high efficacy and safety of sialendoscopy, but with critically low quality of evidence. We still lack randomized studies in this field, and future systematic reviews on the topic should follow current guidelines to improve conduction and reporting.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Brazilian Head and Neck Surgery Centers

Abstract Objective The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic had a considerable impact on the healthcare access, treatment, and follow-up of oncologic patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected consultation and follow-up demand as well as treatment volume at Brazilian Head and Neck Surgery centers. Methods An anonymous online questionnaire was used for collection of data across all Brazilian Head and Neck Surgery Centers across a 3-month period (April‒June 2021). This information included the characteristics of each center, and the perceived self-reported impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on academic activities, residency training, and the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with Head and Neck diseases between 2019 and 2020. Results The response rate across the 40 registered Brazilian Head and Neck Surgery Centers was 47.5% (n = 19). The data showed a significant reduction in the total number of consultations (24.8%) and number of attending patients (20.2%) between 2019 and 2020. The total number of diagnostic exams (31.6%) and surgical procedures (13.0%) conducted over this period also decreased significantly. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant national impact on Brazilian Head and Neck Surgery Centers. Future studies should examine the long-term effects of the pandemic on cancer treatment. Level of evidence Evidence from a single descriptive study.

Risk Factors for Malignancy in Patients with Multinodular Goiter

Abstract Introduction The identification of thyroid cancer may be conducted through clinical detection, imaging method, and histopathological examination. Both solitary nodules and multinodular goiter are associated with malignancy. Objective To assess the risk factors for malignancy among patients with multinodular goiter submitted to total thyroidectomy. Methods A series of 712 consecutive patients, submitted to total thyroidectomy between 2005 and 2016 with multinodular goiter regarding clinical, ultrasound, and pathological variables, was retrospectively evaluated. Results There were 408 cases of papillary carcinoma (57.3%), with the remaining being benign. Gender had no statistical significance (p = 0.169) for malignancy, unlike the Bethesda index, higher age group (p = 0.005), shorter clinical history time (p = 0.036), smaller number of nodules (p < 0.0001), and smaller nodule size (p < 0.0001), which were related to malignancy. Conclusion The Bethesda index, older age group, shorter clinical history, smaller number of nodules, and smaller size of nodule were related to the diagnosis of papillary carcinoma.

Nutritional and immunological parameters as prognostic factors in patients with advanced oral cancer

Abstract Objective: The aim of the present study was to analyze the prognostic relationship of weight loss and preoperative hematological indexes in patients surgically treated for pT4a squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity. Methods: A retrospective cohort study. Results: Percent weight loss greater than 10% was identified in 49 patients (28.2%), and any weight loss in relation to the usual weight occurred in 140 patients (78.7%). Percent weight loss greater than 10% (HR = 1.679), Red cell distribution width (RDW) values greater than 14.3% (HR = 2.210) and extracapsular spread (HR = 1.677) were independent variables associated with risk of death. Conclusion: Patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity present significant weight loss and as significantly immunocompromised. Increased values of RDW and higher percentages of weight loss in relation to the individual's usual weight, together with extracapsular spread of metastatic lymph nodes, were risk factors for lower survival, regardless of other clinical and anatomopathological characteristics. Level of evidence: 3.

Knowledge about head and neck cancer among adolescents

Introduction: The expansion of knowledge about head and neck cancer can provide greater care and the ability to identify risk factors and symptoms of the disease, as well as the incorporation of healthy habits. The younger these concepts are sedimented, the better results will be, making society healthier and more aware. Objective: To assess knowledge about head and neck cancer among adolescents from private schools, aged between 13 and 22 years. Methods: 200 questionnaires were applied among students, about the profile of adolescents and their knowledge about head and neck neoplasms, treatment, and teaching in schools on this topic. The results were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Results: Only 55 students (29.9%) identified HPV as a risk factor for the disease. 137 students (74.5%) identified the brain as an organ treated by head and neck surgery. As for the therapeutic strategies used for the treatment of neoplasms in the region, only 67 students (36.4%) are aware. On the topic of teaching in schools, 153 students (83.1%) relate to some deficiency in the approach and learning. Conclusion: Knowledge about head and neck cancer is insufficient. It is necessary to introduce in the curriculum basic cancer education in biology classes. The expansion of acquirements about cancer can provide better care and the ability to identify risk factors, initial signs, and symptoms of the disease, as well as the incorporation of healthy habits in families because these students can propagate valid information in their environment.

The impact of sentinel lymph node biopsy on the quality of life in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma / Impacto da biópsia do linfonodo sentinela na qualidade de vida em pacientes com carcinoma espinocelular da cavidade oral

Abstract Introduction Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a proven method for staging the neck in patients with early oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma because it results in less comorbidity than the traditional method of selective neck dissection, with the same oncological results. However, the real effect of that method on the quality of life of such patients remains unknown. Objective The present study aimed to evaluate the quality of life of patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma T1/T2N0 submitted to sentinel lymph node biopsy compared to those that received selective neck dissection. Methods Cross-sectional study including 24 patients, after a 36 month follow-up, 15 of them submitted to the sentinel lymph node biopsy and 9 to selective neck dissection. All patients answered the University of Washington quality of life questionnaire. Results The evaluation of the questionnaires showed a late worsening of the domains appearance (p = 0.035) and chewing (p = 0.041), as well as a decrease of about 10% of general quality of life (p = 0.025) in patients undergoing selective neck dissection ​​in comparison to those undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy. Conclusion Patients with early-stage oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy presented better late results of general quality of life, mainly regarding appearance and chewing, when compared to patients submitted to selective neck dissection.

Resumo Introdução A biópsia de linfonodo sentinela é um método comprovado para estadiamento cervical em pacientes com carcinoma espinocelular inicial da cavidade oral, porque apresenta menor taxa de morbidade do que o método tradicional de esvaziamento cervical seletivo, com os mesmos resultados oncológicos. Porém, o verdadeiro efeito desse método na qualidade de vida desses pacientes permanece desconhecido. Objetivo Avaliar a qualidade de vida de pacientes com carcinoma espinocelular de cavidade oral T1/T2N0 submetidos a biópsia do linfonodo sentinela em comparação aos pacientes nos quais o esvaziamento cervical seletivo foi feito. Método Estudo transversal que incluiu 24 pacientes, após 36 meses de seguimento, dos quais 15 foram submetidos a biópsia do linfonodo sentinela e nove a esvaziamento cervical seletivo. Todos os pacientes responderam ao questionário de qualidade de vida da University of Washington. Resultados A avaliação dos questionários evidenciou pioria tardia dos domínios aparência (p = 0,035) e mastigação (p = 0,041), bem como diminuição de cerca de 10% da qualidade de vida geral (p = 0,025) nos pacientes submetidos a esvaziamento cervical seletivo em comparação com aqueles submetidos a biópsia do linfonodo sentinela. Conclusão Pacientes com carcinoma espinocelular de cavidade oral em estágio inicial submetidos a biópsia do linfonodo sentinela apresentaram melhores resultados tardios de qualidade de vida geral, principalmente quanto à aparência e à mastigação, quando comparados aos pacientes submetidos a esvaziamento cervical seletivo.

Hydroxychloroquine for treatment of COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ABSTRACT Objective We performed a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 patients. Methods We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and LILACS (January 2019 to March 2021) for patients aged 18 years or older, who had COVID-19 and were treated with hydroxychloroquine versus placebo or standard of care. We also searched the WHO Clinical Trials Registry for ongoing and recently completed studies, and the reference lists of selected articles and reviews for possible relevant studies, with no restrictions regarding language or publication status. Random-effects models were used to obtain pooled mean differences of treatment effect on mortality, and serious adverse effects between hydroxychloroquine and the Control Group (standard of care or placebo); heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 and the Cochran´s Q statistic. Results Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. There was no significant difference in mortality rate between patients treated with hydroxychloroquine compared to standard of care or placebo (16.7% versus 18.5%; pooled risk ratio 1.09; 95% confidence interval: 0.99-1.19). Also, the rate of serious adverse effects was similar between both Groups, Hydroxychloroquine and Control (3.7% versus 2.9%; pooled risk ratio 1.22; 95% confidence interval: 0.76-1.96). Conclusion Hydroxychloroquine is not efficacious in reducing mortality of COVID-19 patients. Prospero database registration (www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero) under number CRD42020197070.

Evaluation of laparoscopic skills in medical students

Abstract Objective To evaluate the laparoscopic skills of medical students and identify personal characteristics in terms of greater easiness in performing laparoscopic surgical procedures. Methods This study included medical students in the 6th semester of a Medical School in Brazil who answered 10 questions concerning their habits and characteristics. A laparoscopic platform and an abdominal synthetic model were used to assess surgical skills comprising the three following surgical steps: to pass the needle through the trocar and to place it in the laparoscopic needle holder, to perform a laparoscopic simple stitch in synthetic liver parenchyma and, to perform a laparoscopic surgical knot. The duration of the activity was limited to four minutes and the procedure was monitored by a laparoscopic surgeon. Results The study included 50 students. Of these, 18% completed the three surgical stages. Steps 1 and 2 were completed by 94% and 88% of students, respectively. No statistically significant variables were found when characteristics of the groups with and without success in the three stages were compared. The group that finished the activity had a faster time completing step 2 than the group that failed (mean time of 115.3 seconds against 157.8 seconds, p=0.03). Conclusion The minority of students could complete effectively all three surgical steps. No personal traits related to greater surgical skill were identified.

Doença renal crônica: a voz dos familiares quanto ao atendimento recebido / Chronic renal disease: the family's voice about received care

Objetivo: Avaliar a percepção dos familiares quanto a atenção à saúde prestada no Sistema Único de Saúde para pacientes que foram a óbito e eram portadores de insuficiência renal crônica. Métodos: Foram realizadas entrevistas com familiares de pacientes falecidos por doença renal crônica por meio da aplicação de um questionário e perguntas abertas. Os pacientes tinham sido atendidos na rede pública da Região Metropolitana de São Paulo. Resultados: Referente à dificuldade com o acesso, o tempo de espera para realização de consultas ou procedimentos foi a maior dificuldade relatada, seguida de dificuldade com transporte (tempo de espera do serviço móvel de urgência e transporte sanitário). O item melhor avaliado foi o acesso a medicações da farmácia básica e de alto custo. Nas questões de humanização, a maior dificuldade relatada foi referente ao profissional médico ( falta de explicação do médico quanto ao tratamento, falta de comunicação com o paciente ou familiares e frieza no atendimento), seguida do profissional enfermeiro (descaso, bronca e falta de cuidado). Porém, como aspectos positivos, também o mais relevante foi o atendimento médico e de enfermagem prestado. Conclusão: Questões relacionais são importantes aspectos entre profissional de saúde e pacientes/ familiares e têm impacto direto na percepção da assistência à saúde do paciente, por parte de seus familiares.

Objective: To assess the perception of family members regarding health care provided in the Brazilian Public Health System to patients who died and had chronic renal failure. Methods: Interviews with the relatives of deceased patients who died from chronical renal disease were carried out, with a questionnaire and open questions. The patients had been attended in the public health care network of the metropolitan region of São Paulo. Results: Regarding access, the greatest difficulty reported was waiting time to consultation or procedures, followed by access to transportation (waiting time for emergency medical service and sanitary transportation). The best reviewed item was the access to medicine at the program Farmácia Básica and to highcost medicine. In terms of humanization, the greatest difficulty reported regarded the physician (lack of explanation of treatment, of communication with the patient and family members, and cold care), followed by the nursing team (neglect, reprimands, and lack of care). However, the most relevant positive aspects were the care provided by the physician and nurses. Conclusion: The relationship between patient/family and healthcare professionals is important and directly impacts the perception by patient/ family about healthcare.

Short-term survival in extensive craniofacial resections

OBJECTIVES: Craniofacial resection (CFR) procedures for craniofacial tumors with cranial extension are often extensive. Although CFRs may yield good oncological results, there are concerns about high perioperative morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine risk factors for perioperative mortality after open CFR in terms of deaths occurring during index hospitalizations. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of CFRs conducted at a tertiary oncology hospital from May 2009 through December 2018. RESULTS: Our analysis included data from the medical records of 102 patients, the majority of whom were male (n=74, 72.5%). The mean age was 61 years (±18.3 years). Skin malignancies (n=64, 63.4%) accounted for nearly two-thirds of the treated tumors, and most of these were squamous cell carcinoma. Postoperative medical complications occurred in 33 patients (33%), and surgical complications occurred in 48 (47%). Multivariate analysis revealed the only independent risk factors for perioperative deaths to be the presence of intracranial tumor extension on preoperative imaging (hazard ratio [HR]=4.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.74-11.97; p=0.002) and the unexpected emergence of postoperative neurological dysfunction (HR=10.9; 95% CI: 2.21-54.3; p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS: In our study, factors related to tumor extension were associated with a higher risk of perioperative death.

Invasión ósea del carcinoma de células escamosas de la cavidad oral, análisis clínico - patológico de 62 casos / Bone invasion of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, clinical-pathological analysis of 62 cases

RESUMEN Introducción: El pronóstico de pacientes con carcinoma de células escamosas (CEC) de la cavidad oral con presencia de invasión ósea continua sombrío. El patrón de invasión ósea puede ser usado como indicador de agresividad y correlacionado con el comportamiento clínico del tumor. Objetivo: Evaluar los patrones histopatológicos de invasión ósea en pacientes con CEC de la cavidad oral y correlacionarlos con la tasa de sobrevida. Materiales y métodos: La muestra fue constituida por 62 pacientes con presencia de CEC en la cavidad oral e invasión ósea. Las características epidemiológicas e histopatológicas fueron tabuladas y analizadas. Los Test Chi- cuadrado y exacto de Fischer fueron empleados para verificar las asociaciones estadísticas entre los datos. Resultados: Fueron afectados más hombres en la quinta década de vida y observada una fuerte asociación con tabaquismo y etilismo crónico. Fueron relatadas muertes en 58% de los pacientes, en un periodo de 5 años. El patrón histológico más prevalente fue el infiltrativo, asociado a menores tasas de sobrevida. Conclusión: El análisis del patrón histopatológico de los CEC de la cavidad oral, puede ser usado como factor pronóstico auxiliando en la decisión del abordaje del tratamiento oncológico.

SUMMARY Introduction: Prognosis for patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in oral cavity with bone invasion presence is concerning. Bone invasion patterns can be used to indicate aggressiveness and can be correlated with tumor clinical behavior. Objective: To evaluate bone invasion histopathological patterns in patients with oral cavity SCC and correlate them with the survival rate. Materials and methods: 62 patients with presence of SCC in the oral cavity as well as bone invasion were recruited for this study. Epidemiological and histopathological characteristics were tabulated and analyzed. Fischer's Square and Exact Tests were used to verify any statistical associations between the data. Results: More men were affected, especially in the fifth decade of life, and a strong association with smoking and chronic alcoholism was observed. Deaths were reported in 58% of patients, over a period of 5 years. The most prevalent histological pattern was the infiltrative, associated with lower survival rates. Conclusion: An analysis of the histopathological patterns of oral cavity SCC can be used as a prognostic factor thereby assisting with the decision of which oncological treatment approach to use.

Neck recurrence in papillary thyroid carcinoma / Recidiva cervical no carcinoma papilífero da tireoide

ABSTRACT Introduction: papillary thyroid carcinoma is a tumor with good prognosis. However, some patients treated present neck recurrence. Objective: to evaluate the risk factors for neck recurrence. Methods: a retrospective study enrolled 89 patients (68 women and 21 men) diagnosed with papillary carcinoma who underwent total thyroidectomy. In 21 patients, neck dissection was performed and 62 patients underwent radioiodinetherapy. Twelve patients relapsed with metastasis in this period with an average of 3.6 years. Results: out of 89 patients, 76.4% were female. Relapse occurred in nine (13.23%) women and three (14.28%) men. The average age of the patients was 44 years in the control group and in patients with relapsed. Eighteen patients (23.37%) in the control group and eight (64.28%) who relapsed had positive lymph nodes at initial diagnosis. The tumor size was significantly larger in the group of patients with cervical recurrence (3.3cm vs. 1.6cm - p=0.008, Student t test), whereas the presence of metastatic lymph nodes at the moment of the first operation was also significant (p=0.004 -Fisher exact test). The tumor size was an independent risk factor for recurrence at the multivariate anaylsis (OR=2.4, IC95%:1.3-4.6 - p=0,007, logistic regression). Conclusion: there is an increase in the risk of lymph node recurrence during the follow up of 2.4 folds for each increase of 1cm in the longer nodule diameter.

RESUMO Introdução: o carcinoma papilífero da tireoide é um tumor com bom prognóstico. Entretanto, alguns pacientes tratados evoluem com recidiva cervical. Objetivo: avaliar os fatores de risco para recidiva cervical. Métodos: um estudo retrospectivo arrolou 89 pacientes (68 mulheres e 21 homens) diagnosticados com carcinoma papilífero, submetidos à tireoidectomia total. Em 21 pacientes, realizou esvaziamento cervical e, em 62, radioiodoterapia. Doze pacientes apresentaram recorrência linfonodal no período, com media de 3,6 anos. Resultados: dos 89 pacientes, 76,4% eram mulheres. A falha ocorreu em nove mulheres (13,23%) e três homens (14,28%). A média etária tanto dos pacientes recidivados como do grupo-controle foi de 44 anos. Dezoito pacientes (23,37%) no grupo-controle e oito (64,28%) dentre os que recidivaram tinham linfonodos positivos ao diagnóstico inicial. O tamanho tumoral foi significativamente maior no grupo de pacientes que apresentaram recidiva cervical (3,3 cm vs. 1,6cm - p=0,008, teste t de Student), o mesmo foi observado para a presença de linfonodos metastáticos quando da primeira cirurgia (p=0,004 - teste exato de Fisher). À análise multivariada, o tamanho tumoral foi fator de risco independente de recidiva (OR=2,4, IC95%:1,3-4,6 - p=0,007, regressão logística. Conclusão: para cada aumento de 1cm no maior diâmetro da lesão, há um aumento de 2,4 vezes no risco de recidiva linfonodal ao longo do acompanhamento.

Influence of time between surgery and postoperative radiation therapy and total treatment time in locoregional control of patients with head and neck cancer: a single center experience

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the delay to initiate postoperative radiation therapy (RT) on locoregional control to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study that included patients submitted to surgery followed by adjuvant RT (with/without chemotherapy). The time interval between surgery and RT was dichotomized by the receiver operating characteristics curve method at 92 days. Other possible sources of heterogeneity with potential impact on locoregional control were explored by regressive analysis. RESULTS: A total of 168 patients were evaluated. The median time for locoregional recurrence (LRR) was 29.7 months. The relapse-free survival rates were 66.4% and 75.4% for patients who initiated RT more than and within 92 postoperative days (p=0.377), respectively. Doses lower than 60Gy were associated with worse rates of locoregional control (HR=6.523; 95%CI:2.266-18.777, p=0.001). Patients whose total treatment time (TTT) was longer than 150 days had LRR rate of 41.8%; no patient with TTT inferior to 150 days had relapses (p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The interval between surgery and RT did not show influence on locoregional control rates. However, doses <60Gy and the total treatment time >150 days were associated with lower locoregional control rates.

Recurrence of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma in patients undergoing organ preservation therapy: are there symptoms associated with recurrence?

Introduction: The larynx is a organ of the upper aerodigestive tract that plays an essential role in protecting the airways during swallowing. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common malignant neoplasm affecting this region and early diagnosis has an important role in treatment outcome. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate whether patients with hypopharyngeal and/or laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) who underwent organ preservation therapy (OPT) present at the time of relapse some factor that determines the local recurrence of the disease. Methods: Patients submitted to OPT were selected at the Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo (ICESP), at the end of treatment, from January 2012 to December 2017. We collected retrospective data on demographics, clinical staging, location of the primary tumor, presence or absence of recurrence, weight and percentage of weight loss at different moments, alimentary pathway and symptomatology at the time of relapse. Results: The absence of symptoms was associated with the absence of relapse (p <0.001). Fully oral diet at the last visit was a significant factor for the absence of relapse (p = 0.005). The weight comparison of all the patients before the beginning of OPT and after the end of the treatment, showed an average drop of 3.4 kg. In the group-separated analysis, patients who did not recur showed an average loss of 0.7%. Patients with relapse, showed a loss of 2.0% of the weight at the time of relapse. Conclusion: Weight loss and the presence of symptoms were important predictors of recurrence with statistical significance. These factors may help to better manage these patients, with earlier investigations and, therefore, the possibility of rescue treatments with a shorter duration.

Superficial cervical plexus blockade improves pain control after thyroidectomy: A randomized controlled trial

OJECTIVES: The aim was to evaluate the ability of bilateral superficial cervical plexus blockade to control pain and to reduce the side effects of general anesthesia in patients submitted to thyroidectomy. METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, we prospectively studied 100 consecutive patients who underwent total thyroidectomy. The simple random patient sample was divided into two groups: 50 patients received general anesthesia alone (group 1 [G1]), and 50 patients received general anesthesia with bilateral superficial cervical plexus blockade (group 2 [G2]). Statistical analyses were performed, and a 5% significance level was adopted. RESULTS: The mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate were 12% lower in G2 patients than in G1 patients 60 minutes after surgery (101 mmHg for G1 vs. 92.3 mmHg for G2; p<0.001). G2 patients reported less pain than G1 patients, and opioid consumption was lower in G2 patients than in G1 patients, not upon postanesthesia care unit arrival, but at 30 minutes (2% vs. 34%; p<0.001, respectively), 45 minutes (0% vs. 16%; p=0.006, respectively), and 4 hours postoperatively (6% vs. 20%; p=0.037, respectively). The incidence of nausea and vomiting was lower in G2 patients than in G1 patients from 45 minutes (0% vs. 16%; p=0.006, respectively) to 8 hours postoperatively (0% vs. 14%; p=0.012, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrated that the combination of bilateral superficial cervical plexus blockade with general anesthesia for thyroidectomy is feasible, safe, and effective for achieving pain control and improving patient outcomes.

Assessment of quality of life in patients with advanced oral cancer who underwent mandibulectomy with or without bone reconstruction

INTRODUCTION Malignant neoplasms of the head and neck, due to its anatomical location, can cause significant alterations in vital functions related to feeding, communication and social interaction of the affected patients. Objective To analyze the quality of life of patients with advanced malignant neoplasms of the oral cavity and submitted to radical operations with curative intent. Material and methods 47 patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), in stages III and IV, underwent surgical treatment with segmental mandibulectomy and complementary radiotherapy. The patients were submitted to the quality of life questionnaires after a minimum time of six months after the surgical treatment. Results Of the 183 patients, only 47 (25.7%) were able to answer the questionnaire and were included as the sample of the study. The majority of patients selected were male (39; 82.9%). The mean age was 64.4 years. The majority of the patients presented clinical stage IV (83%) and were submitted to adjuvant radiotherapy (95.4%). The mean score obtained after the questionnaires were applied was 64.6. The worst scores were found in swallowing and chewing. Conclusion There were no statistically significant differences in the domains of quality of life between the two groups studied (with bone reconstruction versus no bone reconstruction). Patients interviewed 2 years or more after treatment presented higher scores (p = 0.02).

RESUMO INTRODUÇÃO As neoplasias malignas de cabeça e pescoço, pela própria localização anatômica, podem acarretar alterações significativas em funções vitais relacionadas à alimentação, comunicação e interação social dos indivíduos afetados. OBJETIVO Analisar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes com neoplasias malignas avançadas de cavidade oral, submetidos a operações radicais com intenção curativa. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS 47 pacientes portadores de carcinoma espinocelular de cavidade oral, em estádios III e IV, foram submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico com mandibulectomia segmentar e radioterapia complementar. Os pacientes foram submetidos ao teste de qualidade de vida após o tempo mínimo de seis meses do tratamento cirúrgico. RESULTADOS Dos 183 pacientes, com apenas 47 (25,7%) foi possível a realização da entrevista, compondo estes a amostra para o estudo. A maioria dos pacientes do grupo selecionado era do sexo masculino, total de 39 homens (82,9%). A idade média foi de 64,4 anos. A maioria dos pacientes apresentava estadiamento clínico IV (83%), sendo submetidos à radioterapia adjuvante (95,4%). A média do escore obtido após a avaliação dos questionários foi de 64,6. Os piores escores foram encontrados nos quesitos deglutição e mastigação. CONCLUSÃO Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas nos domínios de qualidade de vida entre os dois grupos estudados (com reconstrução óssea versus sem reconstrução óssea). Pacientes entrevistados dois anos ou mais após o tratamento apresentaram escores superiores (p=0,02).

Effectiveness of harmonic scalpel in patients submitted to total thyroidectomy: systematic review with meta-analysis

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the harmonic scalpel compared to the conventional technique in patients submitted to total thyroidectomy. METHOD: This is a systematic review with inclusion of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared both techniques. An electronic search was carried out in the Medline and Lilacs databases until June 2017. The outcomes analysed were operation time, intraoperative bleeding, surgical morbidity, and costs. RESULTS: Data from 31 primary studies were included. The use of the harmonic scalpel correlates to a shorter operation time (p <0.001) and a lower volume of intraoperative bleeding (p <0.001). There were no differences in the risk of transient (p = 0.53) and permanent (p = 0.70) hypocalcaemia, transient (p = 0.61) and permanent (p = 0.50) dysfunctions of the inferior laryngeal nerve and hematoma (p = 0.14). CONCLUSION: Total thyroidectomy using a harmonic scalpel is effective and safe compared to the conventional technique.

Programa terapêutico fonoaudiológico para abertura de boca em pacientes com câncer de boca e orofaringe em radioterapia adjuvante: estudo piloto / Speech-language therapy program for mouth opening in patients with oral and oropharyngeal cancer undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy: a pilot study

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar, por meio da comparação entre a abertura máxima mandibular, a efetividade de programa terapêutico miofuncional oral em pacientes com câncer de boca ou orofaringe submetidos à radioterapia adjuvante. Método Estudo prospectivo envolvendo cinco pacientes adultos e cinco idosos em pós-operatório de cirurgia de boca/orofaringe que aguardavam início da radioterapia ou até a quinta sessão. No início e no final do programa, os participantes tiveram suas medidas de abertura máxima mandibular mensuradas por meio de paquímetro e foram selecionados cinco exercícios - dois de mobilidade e três de tração mandibular - com controle presencial durante oito semanas, perfazendo um total de dez semanas. Dados descritivos e a comparação das medidas pré e pós-fonoterapia por meio do teste de Wilcoxon foram considerados na análise dos dados. Resultados Dez pacientes finalizaram o programa terapêutico (duas mulheres e oito homens), com média de idade de 58,4 anos, mediana de 57,0 anos. Apresentaram média de abertura máxima mandibular de 31,6 ± 11,7 mm antes do tratamento e 36,4 ± 8,0 mm no pós-terapia (p=0,021). Conclusão O programa terapêutico miofuncional oral proposto promoveu aumento da abertura máxima vertical da mandíbula de pacientes submetidos à radioterapia e/ou quimioterapia adjuvante para tratamento de câncer de boca e orofaringe.

ABSTRACT Purpose Assess the effectiveness of an orofacial myofunctional therapeutic program in patients with oral or oropharyngeal cancer submitted to adjuvant radiotherapy through pre- and post-program comparison of maximum mandibular opening. Methods Prospective study involving five adult patients and five elderly patients postoperatively to oral cavity/oropharynx surgery who were awaiting the beginning of radiotherapy or had undergone fewer than five treatment sessions. The study participants had their maximum jaw opening measured using a sliding caliper at the beginning and end of the program. Two mobility exercises and three mandibular traction exercises were selected and weekly monitored presentially for 10 weeks. Descriptive data and pre- and post-therapy comparative measures were statistically analyzed using the Wilcoxon test. Results Ten patients (two women and eight men) with mean age of 58.4 years, median of 57.0 years, completed the therapeutic program. They presented mean maximum mandibular opening of 31.6 ± 11.7 and 36.4 ± 8.0 mm pre- and post-therapy, respectively (p =0.021). Conclusion The proposed orofacial myofunctional therapeutic program increased the maximum jaw opening of patients referred to adjuvant radiotherapy for oral cavity or oropharynx cancer treatment.

Oncological results of surgical treatment versus organ-function preservation in larynx and hypopharynx câncer / Resultado oncológico de tratamento cirúrgico versus protocolo de preservação de órgão em câncer de laringe e hipofaringe

Summary Introduction: Since the beginning of the 1990s, non-surgical radiochemotherapy treatment has become popular with the prospect of maintaining oncological results and preserving the organ in patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx. However, subsequent studies demonstrated increased recurrence and mortality after the non-surgical treatment became popular. Objective: To compare the oncological results of surgical and non-surgical treatments of patients with larynx and hypopharynx cancer and to evaluate the variables associated with disease recurrence. Method: This is a retrospective cohort study of 134 patients undergoing surgical (total or partial laryngectomy) or non-surgical (isolated radiotherapy, chemotherapy or induction chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy) treatment, with 62 patients in the surgical group and 72 in the non-surgical group. Results: Disease-free survival rates were higher in the surgical group (81.7% vs. 62.2%; p=0.028), especially in III/IV stages (p=0.018), locally advanced tumors T3 and T4a (p=0.021) and N0/N1 cases (p=0.005). The presence of cervical lymph nodes, especially N2/N3, was considered a risk factor for disease recurrence in both groups (HR=11.82; 95CI 3.42-40.88; p<0.0001). Patients not undergoing surgical treatment were 3.8 times more likely to develop recurrence (HR=3.76; 95CI 1.27-11.14; p=0.039). Conclusion: Patients with larynx or hypopharynx cancer non-surgically treated had a poorer disease-free survival, especially in cases with locally advanced tumors (T3 and T4a) and in which the neck was only slightly affected (N0/N1).

Resumo Introdução: A partir de estudos do início dos anos 1990, popularizou-se o tratamento não cirúrgico com radioquimioterapia, com a perspectiva de manutenção do resultado oncológico e preservação do órgão em pacientes com carcinoma espinocelular avançado de laringe e hipofaringe. Entretanto, estudos posteriores demonstraram aumento da recorrência e da mortalidade com a difusão do tratamento não cirúrgico. Objetivo: Comparar o resultado oncológico dos tratamentos cirúrgico e não cirúrgico de pacientes com câncer de laringe e hipofaringe e avaliar as variáveis associadas à recidiva de doença. Método: Estudo de coorte retrospectiva de pacientes submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico (laringectomia total ou parcial) e não cirúrgico (radioterapia isolada, radioterapia concomitante a quimioterapia ou quimioterapia de indução seguida de radioterapia e quimioterapia) de 134 pacientes, sendo 62 no grupo cirúrgico e 72 no não cirúrgico. Resultados: As taxas de sobrevivência livre de doença foram maiores no grupo cirúrgico (81,7% vs. 62,2%; p=0,028), principalmente em estádios III/IV (p=0,018), tumores localmente avançados T3 e T4a (p=0,021) e casos N0/N1 (p=0,005). A presença de linfonodos cervicais, principalmente N2/N3, foi considerada fator de risco para recidiva de doença nos dois grupos (HR=11,82; IC95% 3,42-40,88; p<0,0001). Pacientes não submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico apresentaram 3,8 vezes mais chance de desenvolvimento de recidiva (HR=3,76; IC95% 1,27-11,14; p=0,017). Conclusão: Pacientes com câncer de laringe ou hipofaringe tratados de forma não cirúrgica tiveram menor sobrevivência livre de doença, especialmente nos tumores localmente avançados (T3 e T4a) e com pescoço pouco comprometido (N0/N1).