Centralized Otolaryngology Research Efforts: Stepping-stones to Innovation and Equity in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.

The Centralized Otolaryngology Research Efforts (CORE) grant program coordinates research funding initiatives across the subspecialties of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. Modeled after National Institutes of Health study sections, CORE grant review processes provide comprehensive reviews of scientific proposals. The organizational structure and grant review process support grant-writing skills, attention to study design, and other components of academic maturation toward securing external grants from the National Institutes of Health or other agencies. As a learning community and a catalyst for scientific advances, CORE evaluates clinical, translational, basic science, and health services research. Amid the societal reckoning around long-standing social injustices and health inequities, an important question is to what extent CORE engenders diversity, equity, and inclusion for the otolaryngology workforce. This commentary explores CORE's track record as a stepping-stone for promoting equity and innovation in the specialty. Such insights can help maximize opportunities for cultivating diverse leaders across the career continuum.

Aerosol generation during cadaveric simulation of otologic surgery and live cochlear implantation.

OBJECTIVE: The risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission to healthcare workers through airborne aerosolization during otologic surgery has not been characterized. The objective of this study was to describe and quantify the aerosol generation during common otologic procedures in both cadaveric surgical simulation and live patient surgery. METHODS: The number concentrations of generated aerosols in the particle size range of 0.30 to 10.0 µm were quantified using an optical particle sizer during both a cadaveric simulation of routine otologic procedures as well as cochlear implant surgery on live patients in the operating room. RESULTS: In the cadaveric simulation, temporalis fascia graft harvest using cold techniques (without electrocautery) (n = 4) did not generate aerosols above baseline concentrations. Tympanoplasty (n = 3) and mastoidectomy (n = 3) both produced statistically significant increases in concentrations of aerosols (P < 0.05), predominantly submicron particles (< 1.0 µm). High-speed, powered drilling of the temporal bone during mastoidectomy with a Multi Flute cutting burr resulted in higher peak concentrations and greater number of spikes in aerosols than with a diamond burr. In the operating room, spikes in aerosols occurred during both cochlear implant surgeries. CONCLUSION: In the cadaveric simulation, temporalis fascia graft harvest without electrocautery did not generate aerosol levels above baseline, while significant aerosol levels were generated during mastoidectomy and to a much less degree during tympanoplasty. Aerosol spikes were appreciated during cochlear implantation surgery in live patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2.