Damage control of laryngotracheal trauma: the golden day / Control de daños del trauma laringotraqueal: todo en 24 horas

Abstract Laryngotracheal trauma is rare but potentially life-threatening as it implies a high risk of compromising airway patency. A consensus on damage control management for laryngotracheal trauma is presented in this article. Tracheal injuries require a primary repair. In the setting of massive destruction, the airway patency must be assured, local hemostasis and control measures should be performed, and definitive management must be deferred. On the other hand, management of laryngeal trauma should be conservative, primary repair should be chosen only if minimal disruption, otherwise, management should be delayed. Definitive management must be carried out, if possible, in the first 24 hours by a multidisciplinary team conformed by trauma and emergency surgery, head and neck surgery, otorhinolaryngology, and chest surgery. Conservative management is proposed as the damage control strategy in laryngotracheal trauma.

Resumen El trauma laringotraqueal es poco frecuente, pero con alto riesgo de comprometer la permeabilidad la vía aérea. El presente artículo presenta el consenso de manejo de control de daños del trauma laringotraqueal. En el manejo de las lesiones de tráquea se debe realizar un reparo primario; y en los casos con una destrucción masiva se debe asegurar la vía aérea, realizar hemostasia local, medidas de control y diferir el manejo definitivo. El manejo del trauma laríngeo debe ser conservador y diferir su manejo, a menos que la lesión sea mínima y se puede optar por un reparo primario. El manejo definitivo se debe realizar durante las primeras 24 hora por un equipo multidisciplinario de los servicios de cirugía de trauma y emergencias, cirugía de cabeza y cuello, otorrinolaringología, y cirugía de tórax. Se propone optar por la estrategia de control de daños en el trauma laringotraqueal.

Trauma laríngeo externo y fractura de cartílago tiroides: revisión de la literatura / External laryngeal trauma and thyroid cartilage fracture: a literature review

RESUMEN El trauma laríngeo constituye un grupo de lesiones infrecuentes, pero de gran importancia clínica dada su alta morbimortalidad. Requiere un alto nivel de sospecha, puesto que muchas de estas lesiones pueden pasar desapercibidas en la evaluación inicial. Se debe sospechar en todo paciente que se presenta con traumatismo cervical y síntomas que van desde la disfonía y el dolor cervical anterior, a la disnea e incluso el compromiso respiratorio severo por obstrucción de la vía aérea. El abordaje de estos pacientes debe iniciar con la evaluación de la vía aérea y asegurar su estabilidad, para luego enfocarse en el diagnóstico y manejo específico de las lesiones. Presentamos a continuación una revisión bibliográfica en cuanto a los mecanismos de trauma, presentación clínica, diagnóstico, clasificación y manejo.

ABSTRACT The laryngeal trauma constitutes a group of infrequent lesions, but with great clinical importance, given its high morbidity and mortality. It requires a high level of suspicion, since many of these injuries may go unnoticed at the initial evaluation. It should be suspected in every patient presenting with cervical trauma and symptoms ranging from dysphonia and anterior cervical pain, to dyspnea or even severe respiratory distress, due to obstruction of the airway. The approach of these patients should begin with the evaluation of the airway and ensure its stability, to then focus on the diagnosis and specific management of the lesions. We present an updated literature review regarding the mechanisms of trauma, clinical presentation, diagnosis, classification and management.

Laryngeal and vocal alterations after thyroidectomy / Alterações laríngeas e vocais após tireoidectomia

Abstract Introduction: Dysphonia is a common symptom after thyroidectomy. Objective: To analyze the vocal symptoms, auditory-perceptual and acoustic vocal, videolaryngoscopy, the surgical procedures and histopathological findings in patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Methods: Prospective study. Patients submitted to thyroidectomy were evaluated as follows: anamnesis, laryngoscopy, and acoustic vocal assessments. Moments: pre-operative, 1st post (15 days), 2nd post (1 month), 3rd post (3 months), and 4th post (6 months). Results: Among the 151 patients (130 women; 21 men). Type of surgery: lobectomy + isthmectomy n = 40, total thyroidectomy n = 88, thyroidectomy + lymph node dissection n = 23. Vocal symptoms were reported by 42 patients in the 1st post (27.8%) decreasing to 7.2% after 6 months. In the acoustic analysis, f0 and APQ were decreased in women. Videolaryngoscopies showed that 144 patients (95.3%) had normal exams in the preoperative moment. Vocal fold palsies were diagnosed in 34 paralyzes at the 1st post, 32 recurrent laryngeal nerve (lobectomy + isthmectomy n = 6; total thyroidectomy n = 17; thyroidectomy + lymph node dissection n = 9) and 2 superior laryngeal nerve (lobectomy + isthmectomy n = 1; Total thyroidectomy + lymph node dissection n = 1). After 6 months, 10 patients persisted with paralysis of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (6.6%). Histopathology and correlation with vocal fold palsy: colloid nodular goiter (n = 76; palsy n = 13), thyroiditis (n = 8; palsy n = 0), and carcinoma (n = 67; palsy n = 21). Conclusion: Vocal symptoms, reported by 27.8% of the patients on the 1st post decreased to 7% in 6 months. In the acoustic analysis, f0 and APQ were decreased. Transient paralysis of the vocal folds secondary to recurrent and superior laryngeal nerve injury occurred in, respectively, 21% and 1.3% of the patients, decreasing to 6.6% and 0% after 6 months.

Resumo Introdução: A disfonia é um sintoma comum após a tireoidectomia. Objetivo: Analisar os sintomas vocais, auditivo-perceptivos e acústica vocal, videolaringoscopia, procedimento cirúrgico e achados histopatológicos em pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia. Método: Estudo prospectivo. Pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia foram avaliados da seguinte forma: anamnese, laringoscopia e avaliações vocais acústicas. Momentos: pré-operatório, 1ª avaliação pós (15 dias), 2ª avaliação pós (1 mês), 3ª avaliação pós (3 meses) e 4ª avaliação pós-operatória (6 meses). Resultados: Dos 151 pacientes, 130 eram mulheres e 21, homens. Tipos de cirurgia: lobectomia + istmectomia n = 40, tireoidectomia total n = 88, tireoidectomia + dissecção de linfonodo n = 23. Sintomas vocais foram relatados por 42 pacientes na 1ª avaliação pós-operatória (27,8%), reduzidos para 7,2% após 6 meses. Na análise acústica, f0 e APQ estavam diminuídos nas mulheres. As videolaringoscopias mostraram que 144 pacientes (95,3%) tiveram exames normais no momento pré-operatório. Paralisia das cordas vocais foi diagnosticada em 34 pacientes na 1ª avaliação pós-operatória, 32 do nervo laríngeo recorrente (lobectomia + istmectomia - n = 6; tireoidectomia total - n = 17; tireoidectomia total + dissecção de linfonodos - n = 9) e 2 do nervo laríngeo superior (lobectomia + istmectomia - n = 1; tireoidectomia total + dissecção de linfonodos - n = 1). Após 6 meses, 10 pacientes persistiram com paralisia do nervo laríngeo recorrente (6,6%). Histopatologia e correlação com paralisia das cordas vocais: bócio coloide nodular (n = 76; paralisia n = 13), tireoidite (n = 8; paralisia n = 0) e carcinoma (n = 67; paralisia n = 21). Conclusão: Os sintomas vocais, relatados por 27,8% dos pacientes na 1ª avaliação pós-operatória, diminuíram para 7% em 6 meses. Na análise acústica, f0 e APQ diminuíram. A paralisia transitória de cordas vocais secundária à lesão do nervo laríngeo recorrente e nervo laríngeo superior ocorreu, respectivamente, em 21% e 1,3% dos pacientes, reduziu-se para 6,6% e 0% após 6 meses.

Presentación inusual de fracturas laríngeas: reporte de dos casos de fracturas laríngeas no traumáticas / Unusual presentation of laryngeal fractures: report of two cases of non-traumatic laryngeal fractures

Las fracturas laríngeas se producen principalmente en el contexto de traumas cervicales, ahorcamiento o estrangulamiento. Las fracturas laríngeas no traumáticas son excepcionales, existiendo escasos reportes en la literatura. A continuación, presentamos dos casos de fracturas laríngeas no traumáticas evaluadas en nuestro servicio.

Laryngeal fractures occur mainly in the context of cervical trauma, hanging or strangulation. Nontraumatic laryngeal fractures are rare and there are fewreports in the literature. We present two cases of nontraumatic laryngeal fractures evaluated in our service.

Lesões orais e correlação com aspectos clínicos, epidemiológicos e laboratoriais da paracoccidioidomicose / Oral lesions and correlation with clinical, epidemiological and laboratory aspects of paracoccidioidomycosis

Introdução: a paracoccidioidomicose (PCM) é uma micose sistêmica endêmica cuja incidência vem aumentando de forma significativa na região norte do Brasil. Duas espécies, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis e Paracoccidioides lutzii podem causar a doença. A última aparenta ter maior importância em Rondônia, estado com as maiores taxas de incidência e mortalidade por PCM do Brasil. Objetivo: descrever as características clínicas, epidemiológicas e laboratoriais de pacientes portadores de PCM e estabelecer correlação com lesões orais. Material e Métodos: estudo retrospectivo de pacientes atendidos no Centro de Referência em Medicina Tropical de Rondônia durante o período de janeiro de 2013 a dezembro de 2016. Resultados: foram diagnosticados 107 pacientes com média de idade de 53,8 anos, sendo 100 homens e 07 mulheres. Observou-se que 77% mantinham contato ou relataram experiência anterior com lavoura. A maioria (98,1%) apresentou a forma crônica da doença. O diagnóstico foi confirmado em 74,7%, e baseado em achados clínicos e/ou epidemiológicos no restante. O diagnóstico sorológico não esteve disponível no período. O tempo médio entre o início dos sintomas e a realização do diagnóstico foi de 7,3 meses. Os principais locais acometidos foram os pulmões (95,3%), seguidos da cavidade oral (55,1%) e dos gânglios (28%). Na cavidade oral, a faringe/laringe predominou (33%), seguida da mucosa jugal (17,8%) e palato mole (13,1%). Houve 58,3% de associação com tabagismo. O medicamento mais utilizado para o tratamento foi o Itraconazol, fornecido pelo governo. Conclusão: não houve diferença entre os grupos com ou sem comprometimento da cavidade oral. A presença de lesões orais em mais da metade dos casos, com diagnóstico mais acessível, sugere que se pode diminuir o tempo entre o início dos sintomas e o início do tratamento, e contribuir para uma menor proporção de sequelas. Sugere-se ainda que o P. lutzii pode manifestar doença com características clínicas, epidemiológicas e laboratoriais semelhantes ao P. brasiliensis, exceto pela menor proporção de formas agudas de PCM. Mas novos estudos são necessários(AU)

Background: Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is an endemic systemic mycosis whose incidence has been increasing significantly in the northern region of Brazil. Two species, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Paracoccidioides lutzii can cause the disease. The latter appears to be more important in Rondônia, the state with the highest incidence and mortality rates by PCM in Brazil. Objective: To describe the clinical, epidemiological and laboratory characteristics of PCM patients and to establish correlation with oral lesions. Material and Methods: a retrospective study of patients attended at the Reference Center in Tropical Medicine of Rondônia during the period from January 2013 to December 2016. Results: A total of 107 patients were diagnosed, with mean age of 53.8 years, 100 men and 7 women. It was observed that 77% maintained contact or reported previous experience with rural areas. The majority (98.1%) presented the chronic form of the disease. The diagnosis was confirmed by the finding of the fungus in clinical specimens in 74.7%, and based on clinical and/or epidemiological findings in the rest. The serological diagnosis was not available in the period. The mean time between onset of symptoms and the diagnosis was 7.3 months. The main sites were the lungs (95.3%), followed by the oral cavity (55.1%) and the ganglia (28%). In the oral cavity, the pharynx/larynx predominated (33%), followed by jugal mucosa (17.8%) and soft palate (13.1%). There was an 58,3% association with smoking. The most commonly used drug was Itraconazole in 93.5% of patients. Conclusion: There was no difference between groups with or without oral cavity involvement. The presence of oral lesions in more than half of the cases, with a more accessible diagnosis, suggests that the time between onset of symptoms and the beginning of treatment can be shortened and contribute to a lower proportion of sequelae. It is also suggested that P. lutzii can manifest disease with clinical, epidemiological and laboratory characteristics similar to P. brasiliensis, except for the smaller proportion of acute forms of PCM. But new studies are needed(AU)

Incidence and endoscopic characteristics of acute laryngeal lesions in children undergoing endotracheal intubation / Incidência e características endoscópicas de lesões agudas laríngeas em crianças submetidas à intubação endotraqueal

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Acute laryngeal lesions after intubation appear to be precursors of chronic lesions. OBJECTIVE: To describe the incidence and type of acute laryngeal lesions after extubation in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). METHODS: A cohort study involving children from birth to <5 years, submitted to intubation for more than 24 h in the PICU of an university hospital. In the first eight hours after extubation, a flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy (FFL) was performed at the bedside. Those with moderate to severe abnormalities underwent a second examination seven to ten days later. RESULTS: 177 patients were included, with a median age of 2.46 months. The mean intubation time was 8.19 days. Seventy-three (41.2%) patients had moderate or severe alterations at the FFL, with the remaining showing only minor alterations or normal results. During follow-up, 16 children from the group with moderate to severe lesions developed subglottic stenosis. One patient from the normal FFL group had subglottic stenosis, resulting in an incidence of 9.6% of chronic lesions. CONCLUSION: Most children in the study developed mild acute laryngeal lesions caused by endotracheal intubation, which improved in a few days after extubation.

Resumo Introdução: As lesões laríngeas agudas após a intubação parecem ser precursoras das lesões crônicas. Objetivo: Descrever a incidência e o tipo de lesões laríngeas agudas após extubação em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica (UTIP). Método: Estudo de coorte envolvendo crianças de 0 a 5 anos incompletos, com intubação por mais de 24 horas na UTIP de um hospital universitário. Nas primeiras 8 horas após extubação, uma nasofibrolaringoscopia à beira do leito foi realizada. Aqueles com anormalidades moderadas a graves foram submetidos a novo exame entre 7-10 dias após. Resultados: 177 pacientes foram incluídos, com idade mediana de 2,46 meses. O tempo médio de intubação foi de 8,19 dias. Setenta e três (41,2%) pacientes apresentaram alterações moderadas ou graves à laringoscopia, o restante mostrando apenas alterações leves ou exame normal. Durante o acompanhamento, 16 crianças do grupo lesões moderada a grave desenvolveram estenose subglótica. Um paciente do grupo laringoscopia normal teve estenose subglótica, somando-se uma incidência de 9,6% de lesões crônicas. Conclusão: A maioria das crianças do estudo desenvolveu lesões laríngeas agudas leves decorrentes da intubação endotraqueal, com melhora em alguns dias após a extubação.

Pattern of causes and management of permanent loss of voice studied at a tertiary care hospital

To determine the frequency of causes of hoarseness leading to permanent loss of voice and discuss their management. This descriptive study was carried out at the department of ENT, Head and Neck Surgery, Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar from January 2009 to December 2011. All these patients were evaluated in terms of detailed history, thorough examination and relevant investigations. Biopsy from laryngeal mass was taken in case of tumours. Total laryngectomy was performed in patients with advanced laryngeal tumours provided with preoperative counseling regarding postoperative handicaps. The patients with laryngeal narrowing due to trauma were subjected to laryngeal stenting. The data was analyzed using SPSS 15. Out of 16 patients 10 were male and 6 were female with male: female ratio of 1.6:1. The ages ranged from 09-75 years with mean age of 43.68 +/- S.D 18.65 years. Majority of patients [68.75%] had low socioeconomic status. Main presentation of these patients was hoarseness [100%]. The commonest cause of change of voice was laryngeal carcinoma [n-6, 37.5%], followed by blast injury [25%].Endolaryngeal stenting was the commonest [43.75%] procedure performed for traumatic laryngeal stenosis followed by total laryngectomy. Most of the patients gained good esophageal speech. It is concluded that beside laryngeal cancer, trauma to the larynx is a common cause of permanent loss of voice resulting due to increased incidence of violence in our set up. Esophageal speech can be easily and successfully instituted in laryngectomized patients among other voice rehabilitative options

Ingestión de 208 cuerpos extraños en niños: enero 2004 - abril 2009 / Ingestion of 208 foreign bodies in children: January 2004 - April 2009

Introducción: La ingesta de cuerpo extraño representa la segunda causa de urgencia endoscópica en niños. Objetivo: Evaluar nuestra experiencia en niños con ingesta de cuerpo extraño: sexo, edad, tipo, conducta y complicaciones. Pacientes y métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo longitudinal a 208 niños hospitalizados por esta etiología desde Enero de 2004 hasta Abril de 2009 en Hospital Universitario Dr. "Luis Razetti", Barcelona. A todos se les realizó Radiografías de cervical, tórax y abdomen. Resultados: Predominaron: masculinos (55,77%), y preescolares (70,67%). Los objetos más frecuentes fueron: moneda (164/208), zarcillo (6/208), pinza de cabello, pila de reloj, semilla 4/208 en cada uno. Con respecto a los procedimientos: 1. Endoscopia: (177/208), de estos 166 se encontraron en esófago (93,37% en 1/3 superior), 130 se extrajo el objeto con pinza, 40 se le desplazó a estómago y 5 no se encontraron. Se evidenció lesión de mucosa a 43 y a 3/177 estenosis esofágica; dos ameritaron cirugía. 2. Laringoscopia: (4/208) y 3. Broncoscopia (2/208): un imperdible en bronquio derecho y una semilla en bronquio izquierdo. 4. Expulsión natural por heces (25/208). Conclusión: La ingesta de cuerpo extraño está entre las primeras causas de los accidentes en los niños, amerita un diagnóstico e intervención precoz.

Introduction: Intake of foreign bodies represents the second cause endoscopic emergency in children. Objectives: Evaluate our experience with children in foreign body intake: sex, age, type, conduct and complications. Patients and methods: A retrospective longitudinal study in 208 children hospitalized for this etiology since January 2004 until April 2009 at Dr. "Luis Razetti", Barcelona University Hospital. All underwent cervical, thoracic and abdominal radiographs. Results: prevailed: male (55.77%), and pre-school (70.67%). Objects frequently found were: currency (164/208), earring (6/208), hairclip, clock battery, seed 4/208 in each. With concerning the procedures: 1. Endoscopy: (177/208), of these 166 were found in the esophagus (93.37% in 1/3 superior), 130 extracted the object with clamp, 40 were displaced to the stomach and 5 were not found. Mucosal injury was found to 43 and in 3/177 esophageal stenosis, two requierd surgery. 2. Laringoscopy: (4/208) and 3. Bronchroscopy (2/208): a safety pin in the right bronchus and a seed in left bronchus. 4. Natural expulsion by feces (25/208). Conclusion: foreign body intake is among the primary causes of accidents in children, deserves a diagnosis and precocious intervention.

Management of laryngotracheal and tracheobronchial injuries

Laryngotracheal and tracheobronchial injuries are uncommon, and their successful diagnosis and management often require a high level of expertise. This paper aimed at retrospective analysis of a thoracic surgeon's experience in the diagnosis and management of traumatic injuries to the larynx, trachea and major bronchi. Forty one patients with major airway trauma were managed from March 1994 to November 2008. Their demographic characteristics including age, gender, mechanisms and locations of injuries, associated other organ injuries as well as surgical airway managements and the outcomes were recorded. Seven patients had re-implantation of the main bronchus, and one patient had a repair of the right upper lobe bronchus with concomitant bilobectomy. In cases of tracheal injury, 16 patients had a primary repair of trachea. However, seven patients with tracheal injury first conservative approaches, but 4 of them were later subjected to sleeve resection of trachea. In patients with laryngotracheal injuries, and in a patient with thermal injury, Montgomery T-Tube was used with or without repair and/or reconstruction. Four patients died, but no significant morbidity was seen in others. The analysis of the cases suggests that laryngotracheal and tracheobronchial injuries require early correct diagnosis, skillful management, and prompt individualized surgical airway repair

Accidentes por cuerpos extraños en las vías respiratorias bajas en el niño / Accidents caused by presence of foreign bodies in low airways in children

Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron caracterizar los aspectos clínicos y la estructura familiar en los casos de accidentes por cuerpos extraños en las vías respiratorias bajas, en la infancia. MÉTODOS. Se realizó una investigación descriptiva, retrospectiva y transversal sobre accidentes por aspiración de cuerpos extraños, que se basó en la obtención de datos de las historias clínicas y entrevistas a los padres o tutores de pacientes que ingresaron en el Hospital Pediàtrico William Soler, entre enero de 2003 y diciembre de 2007. Se entrevistaron 42 personas, y a los responsables del cuidado de los niños se les pidió completar un modelo de entrevista personal, sobre la accidentalidad en el hogar, el funcionamiento y la estructura familiar. Los resultados se expresaron en frecuencias absolutas y relativas, respectivamente. Se analizó el tipo de cuerpo extraño, la localización, el sexo del paciente, la edad, la caracterización de la familia, el tratamiento utilizado y el resultado final. RESULTADOS. Los grupos etarios más afectados fueron los integrados por niños menores de 5 años (66,7 por ciento). Hubo un predominio del sexo masculino (76,2 por ciento). El 66,7 por ciento de los accidentes ocurrieron en el hogar y el 83,3 por ciento de los niños estaban acompañados en el momento del accidente. Los objetos de mayor incidencia fueron los no orgánicos (52,4 por ciento), y la localización anatómica más frecuentemente afectada fue el bronquio derecho (66,6 por ciento). Las principales complicaciones fueron atelectasia (21,4 por ciento) y neumonía (16,7 por ciento). Hubo un fallecido (2,3 por ciento). Se observó que un 38 por ciento de las familias se encontraban en la etapa de extensión y a su vez el 64 por ciento de ellas presentaban algún tipo de crisis paranormativa. CONCLUSIONES. Los posibles factores de riesgo encontrados en nuestros pacientes fueron edad, sexo, descuido por parte de los padres, nivel sociocultural bajo y familias extensas.

Aims of present paper were to characterize the clinical features and the family structure in cases of accidents caused by presence foreign body in low airways during childhood. METHODS: A descriptive, retrospective and cross-sectional research on accident from foreign body aspiration based on medical records data and interviews with parents and tutors of patients admitted in William Soler"ç Children Hospital from January, 2003 to December, 2007. A total of 42 persons was interviewed and to carers were asked to fill in a personal interview form on home-accidents, performance, and family structure. Results were expressed in absolute and relative frequencies, respectively. We analyzed the type of the foreign body, its location, patient's sex and age, family characterization, treatment used, and final result. RESULTS: Age groups more involved were the children aged under 5 years (66,7 percent). There was predominance of male sex (76,2 percent). The 66,7 percent of accidents occurred at home and in 83,3 percent the children were accompanied at moment of the accident. The great incidence of objects was the non-organic ones (52,5 percent), and the more frequent involved anatomical location was the right bronchus (66,6 percent). Major complications were atelectasia (21,4 percent) and pneumonia (16,7 percent). There was a deceased (2,3 percent). We note that a 38 percent of families were in increasing stage, and at the same time the 64 percent of them had some type of paranormal crisis. CONCLUSIONS: The potential risk factor observed in our patients were the age, sex, carelessness by parents, a low sociocultural level and family overcrowding.

Sequelas laríngeas devido inalação acidental de amônia anidra / Laryngeal sequelae due to accidental inhalation of anhydrous ammonia

Introdução: Amônia Anidra (AA) é um cáustico comumente usado na indústria que, acidentalmente, pode causar queimaduras, mesmo com um breve contato. Como ocorre com outras queimaduras por álcalis, a lavagem precoce remove a AA das áreas afetadas e é fundamental para limitar a lesão tecidual. A concentração do tóxico e a duração do contato determinam o grau de destruição da pele e das mucosas. Um caminhão carregado de AA (NH3) capotou na estrada, liberando densa nuvem de gás AA. Cinquenta e quatro pessoas inalaram o gás e, depois de noventa dias, três pessoas ainda apresentavam rouquidão, sendo por nós examinadas. Relalto do Caso: Avaliamos três pacientes com sequelas laríngeas por queimadura após inalação de AA. Encontramos um caso de hiperemia e edema, um de granuloma de 1/3 posterior de prega vocal esquerda e um de sinéquia de pregas vocais. São comentados os achados de necropsia, tanto macro quanto microscopicamente. São discutidas as sequelas apresentadas, bem como os melhores tratamentos.

Introduction: Anhydrous Ammonia (AA) is a caustic compound commonly used in the industry that can cause burns, even with brief contact. As with other alkali burns, the early washing to remove the AA from burnt areas is crucial to limit tissue damage. The concentration of toxic agent and duration of its contact determine the degree of skin and mucosa destruction. A tanker truck carrying AA (NH3) fell off a highway, and released a dense cloud of AA gas. Fifty-four people inhaled the gas and after ninety days, three people were still experiencing hoarseness and were examined. Case Report: We assessed three patients with laryngeal sequelae due to AA inhalation burn. We found a case of hyperemia and edema, one case of granuloma of the posterior third portion of the left vocal cord, and one case of vocal cord adhesion. Necropsy findings are commented both macroscopically and microscopically. The sequelae and the best treatments for them are discussed herein.

Lesão de laringe por entubação orotraqueal / Injuries larynx for orotracheal intubation

Neste artigo de revisão os autores descrve as principais lesões laríngeas causadas por entubação oro e nasotraquaeal a apartir de seus mecanismos de trauma e fatores predisponentes. Revisão da anatomia da laringe, suas patologias quanto à sintomatologia, diagnóstico e métodos terapêuticos também são abordados neste artigo.

Neurofibroma subglótico: diagnóstico y tratamiento quirúrgico / Subglotic neurofibroma: diagnostic and surgical treatment

El neurofibroma de laringe es una patología muy poco frecuente, clínicamente se caracteriza por una sintomatología asociada a la obstrucción de la vía aérea superior. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino de 54 años de edad quien consulta por estridor y disnea, se le practica una fibrobroncoscopia flexible que reporta la presencia de una tumoración subglótica de tamaño 3x3 cm. Se realiza como procedimiento quirúrgico: una cervicotomía y laringofisura a través del cartílago tiroides con exposición del área subglótica y resección completa de la tumoración, cuyo resultado histológico reportó un neurofibroma. La evolución posoperatoria fue satisfactoria, actualmente el paciente se encuentra sin recidiva de la tumoración posterior a cinco años de evaluación continua.

Post intubation trauma: A prospective autopsy study.

Prolonged intubation of the trachea in the treatment of acute respiratory failure has become common in intensive care units during last two decades. Although intubation of the trachea confers great advantage, lesions of the larynx and the trachea may result and are severe on occasions. Hence, it is important that, our knowledge regarding the effects of intubation on the respiratory tract needs to be expanded with all available means of study. This at times can be a challenging issue in routine medicolegal work, as they are of potential nature for misinterpretation and needs caution in interpreting.

Nódulos vocais: análise anátomo-funcional / Vocal nodules: functional and anatomical analysis

Objetivo: traçar o perfil epidemiológico/clínico de uma população portadora de nódulos vocais diagnosticados e comparar os tipos de fendas glóticas à fonação. Métodos: foram avaliados os registros de 70 pacientes portadores de nódulos vocais diagnosticados através de exame videolaringoestroboscópico no período de junho de 2003 a maio de 2004. As imagens arquivadas foram analisadas por quatro fonoaudiólogos e dois otorrinolaringologistas, conforme os seguintes parâmetros: simetria laríngea, aspecto da lesão, tipo de fenda, onda mucosa, movimento muco-ondulatório, amplitude de vibração, presença de sinais de refluxo e constrição supraglótica. Resultados: os dadosencontrados apontam maior incidência de nódulos vocais em mulheres adultas que utilizavam a voz profissionalmente. Clinicamente, não houve associação significativa entre pacientes fumantes com queixa de refluxo e pacientes portadores de nódulos. Ao exame videolaringoestroboscópico observamos:87,4% de lesões bilaterais e 12,6% unilaterais. O fechamento supraglótico medial ocorreu em apenas 01 caso, sendo caracterizado como unilateral e não participando da fonação. Em 3 pacientes identificou-se a presença de microweb. Todos os pacientes apresentaram fenda glótica, sendo 90,9% delas classificadas como dupla. Conclusão: a amostra foi composta predominantemente por mulheres,com idade média de 34,64 anos, não fumantes, professoras, trabalhando em três turnos, cuja queixa de rouquidão teve duração média de 5,68 meses, apresentando ao exame laringe simétricacom nódulos bilaterais, de igual tamanho. Houve significância estatística apontando proporção maior de fendas duplas.

Purpose: to determine the epidemiological/clinical profile of patients with vocal nodules, and comparetheir glottic closure during phonation. Methods: seventy vocal nodules patients were evaluated by videolaryngostroboscopy at Instituto de Otorrinolaringologia de Minas Gerais, from June 2003 to May 2004. The video images were analyzed by 4 speech therapists and 2 otorhinolaryngologists, according to the following criteria: laryngeal symmetry, lesion aspect, kind of glottic closure, mucous wave, vocalfold vibration ,vibratory amplitude, gastroesophageal reflux signals and supraglottalconstriction. Results: Data showed that the highest incidence was found with adult professional voice user females. Clinically, it was observed that there was no meaningful relationship among smoking patients or the ones withgastroesophageal reflux and those with vocal nodules. The videolaryngostroboscopy showed: 87.4% bilateral lesions and 12.6% unilateral lesions. We noted that medial supraglottal closure was found injust one case, characterized as an unilateral lesion and with no participation during phonation. Threesubjects presented a Microweb. All patients had incomplete glottal closure and 90.9% of them were classified as double. Conclusion: the sample was composed mainly by non- smoking female teachers, about 34 years old, involved in a three journey workday with a 5.68 moths hoarseness complaintpresenting laryngeal symmetry, and bilateral nodules same size. There was a statistically significant proportion of incomplete glottal closure.

Enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico como causa de daño laríngeo / Gastroesophageal reflux disease as cause of laryngeal damage

Se ha reportado que la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE) puede ser causa de daño laríngeo entre 18 por ciento-50 por ciento, existiendo aún controversias en relación con su rol patogénico. Objetivo: Evaluar en forma objetiva la presencia de reflujo gastroesofágico patológico en pacientes con síntomas faringo-laríngeos y daño laríngeo demostrado en los cuales se sospechaba existencia de una ERGE. Pacientes y método: Estudio descriptivo de 50 pacientes consecutivos con síntomas y daño laríngeo confirmado, evaluados con un examen videolaringoscópico, endoscopía digestiva alta, manometría esofágica y monitoreo del pH esofágico de 24 horas. En 12 pacientes se estudió, además, reflujo biliar con Bilitec (MR) 2000. Resultados: Se encontró síntomas típicos de ERGE en 32 por ciento, esofagitis endoscópica en 38 por ciento, reflujo gastroesofágico anormal (pHmetría) en 36 por ciento y esfínter gastroesofágico incompetente en 50 por ciento. El RGE fue preponderantemente supino y postprandial. El estudio de reflujo biliar fue negativo. Trastorno motor inespecífico se encontró en 22 por ciento y esófago cascanueces en 50 por ciento. Discusión: La ERGE no siempre es la causa de síntomas laríngeos y no existe correlación clara entre síntomas, daño laríngeo, motilidad esofágica, demostración de reflujo y esofagitis endoscópica. Debe efectuarse una evaluación objetiva del rol de la ERGE como causa de síntomas y de daño faringo-laríngeo para no "sobrediagnosticar" la enfermedad.

Apresentação atípica de nódulo reumatóide da laringe / Atipical presentation of rheumatoid nodule of the larynx

A presença de alterações laríngeas em pacientes com artrite reumatóide já é bem documentada na literatura, sendo a artrite da articulação crico-aritenoide a mais comum. entretanto, a descrição de nódulos reumatóides na laringe é bastante rara.

Penetrating laryngotracheal trauma resulting in vocal cord avulsion

Penetrating neck trauma present difficult management issues by virtue of their rarity. Undiagnosed laryngotracheal injuries have serious implications, especially in the context of multiple trauma, where other injuries overshadow that of the laryngotracheal complex. This is a case of a schizophrenic patient with multiple self-inflicted cuts on his throat and abdomen. Injuries include open, comminuted laryngeal complex lacerations with vocal cord avulsion, as well as evisceration of small bowel. Adequate assessment using both direct laryngoscopy and rigid endoscopy, coupled with open exploration, allowed optimal exposure and fixation of the larynx in the anatomical configuration. The post-operative outcome of the airway and voice remained satisfactory at follow-up. A high index of suspicion coupled with adequate surgical approach allowed establishment of a functional larynx.

Laryngotracheal transection in blunt trauma of the neck.

Laryngotracheal injuries are relatively rare following blunt trauma to the neck and chest but results in a high degree of morbidity and mortality. Complete disruption of the trachea is extremely rare and a systematic approach is needed for early diagnosis and management. The symptoms and physical signs do not necessarily correlate with the severity of injury as was observed in the presented cases here. An early diagnosis and surgical exploration is a must for a reasonably favourable outcome.

Acute external laryngeal injury.

A retrospective study of 35 patients with acute external laryngeal injury who were treated at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital from January 1989 to 1998 was done. Eighty-six per cent of the patients with blunt trauma had been injured from a motor vehicle accident and the rest had a penetrating injury from a stab wound. The frequent signs and symptoms were hoarseness, skin contusion, pain and subcutaneous emphysema. The severity of the injury was classified into minor and major groups. There were 2 patients in the minor group and 33 in the major group. Both patients in the minor injury group had good result from conservative treatment. All patients in the major injury group, except one with left vocal cord paralysis, required surgical management. No airway problem was found in any patient and only one patient had unintelligible voice after treatment. Twenty-three per cent had minor complications and responded well to conventional treatment. Early diagnosis and proper management gave the best outcome of the patient's airway and voice.