Quality of life impairment in patients with head and neck cancer and their caregivers: a comparative study / Comprometimento na qualidade de vida de pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço e de seus cuidadores: estudo comparativo

Abstract Introduction: Head and neck cancer represents 3% of all the types of malignant neoplasms and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is responsible for 90% of these cases. There have been some studies evaluating the quality of life of these patients, but little is known about the physical and emotional effects on their caregivers. Objective: To evaluate the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer and their caregivers by applying validated questionnaires. Methods: Thirty patients with advanced tumors (SCC stage III or IV) and their 30 caregivers were included. Specific questionnaires (Coop/Wonca, EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC H&N35, Coop/Wonca, and Caregiver Strain Index - CSI) were applied during routine medical consultations. Results: Of the 30 patients, 28 were males and 25 had stage IV tumors, with mean age of 56.6 years. 36.7% had the primary tumor in the oropharynx and 70% reported pain. The functional cognitive, physical, and emotional scales were the most affected. Pain, fatigue, and sleep disorders were the most prevalent symptoms. Of the 30 caregivers, 23 were females and 70% were the primary caregivers. 36.7% of the caregivers had high levels of stress, mainly related to the feeling of incapacity. The comparison between patients and caregivers demonstrated that the two groups had similar quality of life impairment: physical fitness (p = 0.487), mental health (p = 0.615), daily activities (p = 0.793), social activities (p = 0.301), changes in health (p = 0.649), and overall health (p = 0.168). Conclusion: Quality of life impairment is similar between patients and their caregivers. This result demonstrates that not only the patients show quality of life impairment, but their caregivers also have it and at similar proportions.

Resumo Introdução: O câncer de cabeça e pescoço representa 3% de todos os tipos de neoplasias malignas e o carcinoma espinocelular corresponde a 90% dos casos. Há estudos sobre a qualidade de vida desses pacientes, mas pouco se conhece sobre os prejuízos físico e emocional dos seus cuidadores. Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida de pacientes com câncer de cabeça e pescoço e comparativamente de seus cuidadores a partir da aplicação de questionários validados. Método: A casuística foi constituída de 30 pacientes com tumores avançados (carcinomas espinocelulares de estádio III ou IV) de cabeça e pescoço e 30 cuidadores. Foram aplicados questionários específicos (Coop/Wonca, EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC H&N35, Coop/Wonca e Caregiver Strain Index - CSI) a partir de visitas de rotina ao ambulatório. Resultados: Dos 30 pacientes, 28 eram do sexo masculino e 25 apresentavam estádio IV, com idade média de 56,6 anos. 36,7% tinham o tumor primário na orofaringe e 70% sentiam dor. As escalas funcionais cognitivas, física e emocional foram as mais afetadas. Dor, fadiga e distúrbio do sono foram os sintomas mais prevalentes. Dos 30 cuidadores, 23 eram do sexo feminino e 70% eram cuidadores primários. 36,7% dos cuidadores apresentaram alto nível de estresse, principalmente relacionado à sensação de incapacidade. A comparação entre pacientes e cuidadores demonstram que os dois grupos apresentam semelhante comprometimento da qualidade de vida: aptidão física (p = 0,487), saúde mental (p = 0,615), atividades diárias (p = 0,793), atividades sociais (p = 0,301), mudança na saúde (p = 0,649), saúde geral (p = 0,168). Conclusão: O comprometimento na qualidade de vida é semelhante entre pacientes e seus cuidadores, ou seja, não só os indivíduos de fato doentes apresentam prejuízo na sua qualidade de vida, mas os seus cuidadores também e na mesma proporção.

Diabetes mellitus, metformin and head and neck cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes mellitus (DM (Diabetes Mellitus)) is directly associated with some cancers. However, studies on the association between diabetes mellitus and head and neck cancer (HNC (Head and Neck Cancer)) have rendered controversial results. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between DM and HNC, as well as the impact of metformin use on the risk of HNC. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This case-control study was conducted within the framework of the Brazilian Head and Neck Genome Project in 2011-2014. The study included 1021 HNC cases with histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck admitted to five large hospitals in São Paulo state. A total of 1063 controls were selected in the same hospitals. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using unconditional logistic regression. RESULTS: Diabetic participants had a decreased risk of HNC (OR=0.68; 95% CI: 0.49-0.95) than non-diabetic participants, and this risk was further decreased among diabetic metformin users (OR=0.54; 95% CI: 0.29-0.99). Diabetic metformin users that were current smokers (OR=0.13; 95% CI: 0.04-0.44) or had an alcohol consumption of >40g/day (OR=0.31; 95% CI: 0.11-0.88) had lower risk of HNC than equivalent non-diabetic participants. CONCLUSION: The risk of HNC was decreased among diabetic participants; metformin use may at least partially explain this inverse association.

Quality of life impairment in patients with head and neck cancer and their caregivers: a comparative study.

INTRODUCTION: Head and neck cancer represents 3% of all the types of malignant neoplasms and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is responsible for 90% of these cases. There have been some studies evaluating the quality of life of these patients, but little is known about the physical and emotional effects on their caregivers. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer and their caregivers by applying validated questionnaires. METHODS: Thirty patients with advanced tumors (SCC stage III or IV) and their 30 caregivers were included. Specific questionnaires (Coop/Wonca, EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC H&N35, Coop/Wonca, and Caregiver Strain Index - CSI) were applied during routine medical consultations. RESULTS: Of the 30 patients, 28 were males and 25 had stage IV tumors, with mean age of 56.6 years. 36.7% had the primary tumor in the oropharynx and 70% reported pain. The functional cognitive, physical, and emotional scales were the most affected. Pain, fatigue, and sleep disorders were the most prevalent symptoms. Of the 30 caregivers, 23 were females and 70% were the primary caregivers. 36.7% of the caregivers had high levels of stress, mainly related to the feeling of incapacity. The comparison between patients and caregivers demonstrated that the two groups had similar quality of life impairment: physical fitness (p=0.487), mental health (p=0.615), daily activities (p=0.793), social activities (p=0.301), changes in health (p=0.649), and overall health (p=0.168). CONCLUSION: Quality of life impairment is similar between patients and their caregivers. This result demonstrates that not only the patients show quality of life impairment, but their caregivers also have it and at similar proportions.

The Profile of Heparanase Expression Distinguishes Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma from Benign Neoplasms.

INTRODUCTION: The search for a specific marker that could help to distinguish between differentiated thyroid carcinoma and benign lesions remains elusive in clinical practice. Heparanase (HPSE) is an endo-beta-glucoronidase implicated in the process of tumor invasion, and the heparanase-2 (HPSE2) modulates HPSE activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of heparanases in the development and differential diagnosis of follicular pattern thyroid lesions. METHODS: HPSE and HPSE2 expression by qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry evaluation, western blot analysis and HPSE enzymatic activity were evaluated. RESULTS: The expression of heparanases by qRT-PCR showed an increase of HPSE2 in thyroid carcinoma (P = 0.001). HPSE activity was found to be higher in the malignant neoplasms than in the benign tumors (P<0.0001). On Western blot analysis, HPSE2 isoforms were detected only in malignant tumors. The immunohistochemical assay allowed us to establish a distinct pattern for malignant and benign tumors. Carcinomas showed a typical combination of positive labeling for neoplastic cells and negative immunostaining in colloid, when compared to benign tumors (P<0.0001). The proposed diagnostic test presents sensitivity and negative predictive value of around 100%, showing itself to be an accurate test for distinguishing between malignant and benign lesions. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows, for the first time, a distinct profile of HPSE expression in thyroid carcinoma suggesting its role in carcinogenesis.

Complete pathologic response as a prognostic factor for squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx post-chemoradiotherapy / Resposta patológica completa como fator prognóstico no carcinoma espinocelular de orofaringe após quimiorradioterapia

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION: Chemoradiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (SCCO) provides good results for locoregional disease control, with high rates of complete clinical and pathologic responses, mainly in the neck. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether complete pathologic response after chemoradiotherapy is related to the prognosis of patients with SCCO. METHODS: Data were prospectively extracted from clinical records of N2 and N3 SCCO patients submitted to a planned neck dissection after chemoradiotherapy. RESULTS: A total of 19 patients were evaluated. Half of patients obtained complete pathologic response in the neck. Distant or locoregional recurrence occurred in approximately 42% of patients, and 26% died. Statistical analysis showed an association between complete pathologic response and lower disease recurrence rate (77.8% vs. 20.8%; p = 0.017) and greater overall survival (88.9% vs. 23.3%;p = 0.049). CONCLUSION: The presence of a complete pathologic response after chemoradiotherapy positively influences the prognosis of patients with SCCO.

RESUMO Introdução: O tratamento baseado em quimirradioterapia do Carcinoma Espinocelular de Orofaringe (CECOF) apresenta bons resultados no controle locorregional da doença com boas taxas de resposta clínica e patológica completas especialmente no pescoço. Objetivo: Determinar se a resposta patológica completa após quimiorradioterapia estárelacionada aos prognósticos dos pacientes com CECOF. Método: Os dados foram obtidos de maneira prospectiva da revisão de prontuários de pacientes com CECOF N2 e N3 submetidos a esvaziamento cervical planejado após quimiorradioterapia. Resultados: Um total de 19 pacientes foram avaliados. Metade dos indivíduos apresentou resposta patológica completa no pescoço. Recidiva à distância ou locorregional ocorreu em aproximadamente 42% dos pacientes e 26% deles morreram. A análise estatística demonstrou uma associação entre resposta patológica completa e menor taxa de recidiva (77,8% vs.20,8%; p = 0,017) e maior sobrevivência global (88,9% vs.23,3%; p = 0,049). Conclusão: A presença de resposta patológica completa após quimiorradioterapia influencia positivamente no prognóstico de pacientes com carcinoma espinocelular de orofaringe.

Complete pathologic response as a prognostic factor for squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx post-chemoradiotherapy.

INTRODUCTION: Chemoradiotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (SCCO) provides good results for locoregional disease control, with high rates of complete clinical and pathologic responses, mainly in the neck. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether complete pathologic response after chemoradiotherapy is related to the prognosis of patients with SCCO. METHODS: Data were prospectively extracted from clinical records of N2 and N3 SCCO patients submitted to a planned neck dissection after chemoradiotherapy. RESULTS: A total of 19 patients were evaluated. Half of patients obtained complete pathologic response in the neck. Distant or locoregional recurrence occurred in approximately 42% of patients, and 26% died. Statistical analysis showed an association between complete pathologic response and lower disease recurrence rate (77.8% vs. 20.8%; p=0.017) and greater overall survival (88.9% vs. 23.3%; p=0.049). CONCLUSION: The presence of a complete pathologic response after chemoradiotherapy positively influences the prognosis of patients with SCCO.

Oral cancer preventive campaigns: are we reaching the real target? / Campanha de prevenção do câncer de boca: estamos atingindo o verdadeiro público-alvo?

Introduction: Oral cavity malignant neoplasms have a high mortality rate. For this reason, preventive campaigns have been developed, both to educate the population and to diagnose lesions at an early stage. However, there are studies that contest the validity of these endeavors, principally because the target audience of the campaigns may not conform to the group at highest risk for oral malignancy. Objective: To describe the profile of patients who avail themselves of the preventive campaign, identify the presence of oral lesions in that population, and compare that data with the epidemiological profile of patients with oral cancer. Methods: Cross-sectional historical cohort study performed by analysis of epidemiological data of the campaign "Abra a Boca para a Saúde" collected in the years from 2008 to 2013. Results: In the years analyzed, 11,965 people were treated and 859 lesions were diagnosed, all benign. There was a female predominance (52.7%), with mean age of 44 years (±15.4 years); 26% were smokers and 29% reported alcohol consumption. It is known that the group at highest risk to develop oral cancer is 60to 70-year-old men, who are alcoholic smokers. Conclusion: The population that seeks preventive campaigns is not the main risk group for the disease. This fact explains the low number of lesions and the lack of cancer detection. .

Introdução: As neoplasias malignas de cavidade oral possuem alta taxa de mortalidade. Por essa razão, existem diversas campanhas de prevenção do câncer bucal, visando orientar a população e diagnosticar lesões em estágio precoce. Contudo, vários estudos contestam a validade dessas iniciativas, uma vez que o público alvo atingido pode não representar o verdadeiro grupo de risco. Objetivo: Descrever o perfil dos pacientes que procuraram a campanha de prevenção, identificar a presença de lesões orais e comparar os dados com o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes portadores de câncer bucal. Método: Coorte histórica transversal. Foram levantados os dados epidemiológicos da campanha "Abra a boca para a saúde" dos anos de 2008 a 2013. Resultados: Nos anos avaliados, 11965 pessoas foram atendidas e 859 lesões diagnosticadas, todas benignas. A predominância foi do sexo feminino (52,7%), com média de idade de 44 anos (± 15,4 anos), 26% eram tabagistas e 29% relatavam uso de álcool. Sabe-se que o grupo de risco corresponde a homens, entre 60 e 70 anos, tabagistas e etilistas. Conclusão: A população que procura a campanha não é o principal grupo de risco para a doença, fato que explica o baixo número de lesões detectadas e nenhum câncer. .

Oral cancer preventive campaigns: are we reaching the real target?

INTRODUCTION: Oral cavity malignant neoplasms have a high mortality rate. For this reason, preventive campaigns have been developed, both to educate the population and to diagnose lesions at an early stage. However, there are studies that contest the validity of these endeavors, principally because the target audience of the campaigns may not conform to the group at highest risk for oral malignancy. OBJECTIVE: To describe the profile of patients who avail themselves of the preventive campaign, identify the presence of oral lesions in that population, and compare that data with the epidemiological profile of patients with oral cancer. METHODS: Cross-sectional historical cohort study performed by analysis of epidemiological data of the campaign "Abra a Boca para a Saúde" collected in the years from 2008 to 2013. RESULTS: In the years analyzed, 11,965 people were treated and 859 lesions were diagnosed, all benign. There was a female predominance (52.7%), with mean age of 44 years (±15.4 years); 26% were smokers and 29% reported alcohol consumption. It is known that the group at highest risk to develop oral cancer is 60- to 70-year-old men, who are alcoholic smokers. CONCLUSION: The population that seeks preventive campaigns is not the main risk group for the disease. This fact explains the low number of lesions and the lack of cancer detection.

Metástase extensa para o seio maxilar como primeira manifestação de carcinoma tireoidiano / Extensive metastasis to the maxillary sinus as the first manifestation of thyroid carcinoma

Introdução: A incidência do câncer de tireoide vem crescendo de maneira considerável, sendo o sexo feminino mais acometido. O carcinoma da tireoide pode ser classificado em bem diferenciado, pouco diferenciado, medular e anaplásico. Metástases em seio maxilar raramente são encontradas, com um número reduzido de casos na literatura. Relato do caso: Paciente do sexo feminino, 78 anos, sem queixas iniciais, trazida ao ambulatório de Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço do Hospital Estadual Mario Covas por familiares, que notaram, há dois meses, protrusão de olho esquerdo associada à diminuição da acuidade visual do mesmo. Ao exame físico se notou uma tireoide cinco vezes aumentada, endurecida, heterogênea e aparentemente multinodular; assimetria de hemiface esquerda com parestesia; e proptose de órbita esquerda. O tratamento da paciente consistiu em tireoidectomia total e radioterapia adjuvante. Paciente foi a óbito no 29º pós-operatório por pneumonia nosocomial e edema agudo de pulmão. Conclusões: Paciente possuía carcinoma pouco diferenciado de tireoide, uma variante incomum de câncer tireoidiano, com metástase rara para seio maxilar. Trata-se de uma manifestação agressiva do carcinoma tireoidiano, resultando em prognóstico ruim e taxa de mortalidade alta.

Serum and salivary macrophage migration inhibitory factor in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma.

The overexpression of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been identified in a variety of tumors and the investigation of its molecular mechanisms in tumor progression is a key topic of research. The present study aimed to investigate MIF as a potential marker for disease control or recurrence, and to assess the association between serum and salivary MIF and the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Serum and salivary samples were collected prior to and following the surgical treatment of 50 patients with OSCC. MIF concentrations were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the adopted level of statistical significance was P<0.05. The results revealed that serum MIF concentrations were significantly reduced following tumor resection in OSCC patients. Furthermore, higher preoperative salivary MIF concentrations were observed in patients with larger tumors and in those who succumbed to the disease. In conclusion, high salivary and serological MIF concentrations were identified in patients with OSCC. Nevertheless, only serological MIF concentrations may be considered as a potential marker for the early detection of OSCC recurrence once the salivary levels, prior and following treatment, do not show any significant differences.

Carcinoma anaplásico da tireoide: um caso raro de sobrevivência em longo prazo após tratamento exclusivo com quimiorradioterapia / Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: rare case of long-term survival after exclusive chemoradioterapy

Paciente masculino, 30 anos, com nódulo em região cervical anterior associado à dispneia progressiva. Tomografia computadorizada de pescoço com massa em lobo tireoidiano esquerdo com invasão das estruturas musculares adjacentes, desvio da traqueia e extensão ao mediastino superior. A lesão era irressecável por invasão circular da traqueia, sendo então apenas realizado biópsia da lesão que evidenciou carcinoma anaplásico da tireoide. Encaminhado para tratamento paliativo com radioterapia concomitante à quimioterapia. Trinta e dois meses após o diagnóstico, o paciente ainda encontra-se assintomático, sem evidência de doença metastática à distância e com doença locorregional radiologicamente estável. Trata-se do primeiro relato de um caso de carcinoma anaplásico de tireoide submetido exclusivamente à paliação com sobrevida desta magnitude e que ainda está em seguimento oncológico.

Thirty year-old male with an anterior cervical nodule associated with progressive dyspnea. Neck computed tomography showed a mass in the left thyroid lobe with adjacent muscular invasion, tracheal deviation and extension to the upper mediastinum. The lesion was unressectable because of tracheal circular invasion and therefore he was submitted just to a biopsy which evidenced thyroid anaplastic carcinoma. Palliative treatment was then performed with radiotherapy concomitant to chemotherapy. Thirtytwo months after diagnosis the patient is still asymptomatic, with no evidence of distant metastatic disease and with local disease radiologically stable. This is the first case report of a patient with thyroid anaplastic carcinoma submitted exclusively to palliation with a survival of this magnitude and still on oncologic follow up.

Tratamento do carcinoma epidermoide de orofaringe com quimioterapia e radioterapia / Treatment of oropharingeal squamous cell cancer with chemotherapy and radiotherapy

Introdução: Os tumores malignos da orofaringe constituem uma parcela significativa dos tumores sólidos humanos¹ e quase a totalidade dos casos é representada por carcinomas epidermoides (CEC)2 . O Carcinoma Epidermoide de orofaringe (CECOF), que tem como principais fatores etiológicos o tabagismo, o etilismo e o papilomavírus humano (HPV) é mais frequente na sexta e sétima décadas de vida. Objetivo: Estabelecer o perfil dos pacientes portadores de CEC de orofaringe e determinar os resultados oncológicos do tratamento do carcinoma epidermoide de orofaringe (CECOF) com quimioterapia (QT) e radioterapia (RDT), principalmente em relação aos resultados e ao impacto do tratamento, resposta tumoral, sobrevida e complicações. Material e Métidos: Estudo retrospectivo com análise de prontuários. Foram estudados 59 pacientes deste Serviço com diagnóstico de CECOF, cujo tratamento proposto foi QT e RDT, no período de 2005 a 2011. A amostra contém 54 homens e 5 mulheres, com idade de 34 a 77 anos (média de 52 anos) e índice de massa corpórea (IMC) entre 15,4 e 31,2 (média de 19,68). A localização do tumor primário teve como distribuição: loja tonsilar (43,4%), base da língua (26,4%), pálato mole (13,2%), úvula (3,4%), parede posterior (3,4%) e mais de um subsítio (14,2%). A maioria apresentava doença avançada (64,4% estadio IV e 27,1% estadio III), com apenas 5 pacientes (8,5%) em estádio II Dezoito pacientes (30,5%) apresentavam algum tipo de comorbidade (hipertensão arterial sistêmica, diabetes, arteriopatia ou doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica) e o índice de Karnofsky variou de 70 a 100% (70=29,2%; 80=28,6%, 90=39% e 100%-44,9%). Resultados: Dos 59 paciente analisados, 6 pacientes (10,15%) não iniciaram ou não completaram a RDT devido a complicações graves da QT e foram a óbito. A resposta ao tratamento dos 53 pacientes analisados foi parcial em 45,3% dos casos e completa em 54,7%. O índice de complicações menores (toxicidade grau I e II) foi 64,2% e 35,8% para complicações maiores (toxicidade grau III e IV), sendo que 24 (45,2%) pacientes necessitaram de alimentação enteral durante o tratamento. Ao final do período estudado, 23 pacientes estavam vivos sem doença (38,98%), 3 vivos com doença (5,08%), 21 mortos pelo câncer (45,76%) e cinco mortos assintomáticos (causa do óbito não relacionado ao câncer - 10,16%). Dos 53 pacientes avaliados, 24 pacientes apresentaram progressão da doença e sobrevivência acumulada de 49,2% e 27 evoluíram a óbito com sobrevivência acumulada de 33,8%. Assim, a mediana de sobrevivência foi 31 meses para progressão e óbito. Conclusões: O estudo mostrou uma casuística de pacientes que possivelmente reflete o perfil da doença tratada no Brasil com taxas de resposta tumoral, sobrevivência global, progressão da doença e complicações semelhantes aos dados da literatura, apresentando-se como alternativa de tratamento, principalmente em estadios avançados da doença.

Introduction: The malignant tumors of the oropharynx are an important part of the human solid tumors, and almost all of them are represented by squamous cell cancers (CEC). The etiological factors of the oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer (CECOF) are mainly tobacco, alcohol and the human papilomavirus (HPV). The CECOF is also more frequent in the sixth and seventh decade of life. Objective: The aim of this study is establish the profile of patients with SCC of the oropharynx and to determine the oncological results of treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (CECOF) with chemotherapy (CT) and radiotherapy (RDT), especially in relation to the results and impact of treatment, tumor response, survival and complications. Results: Six of fifth nine patients not started or did not complete radiotherapy due to severe complications from chemotherapy and died. The response to treatment of 53 patients analyzed was partial in 45.3% of cases and 54.7% complete. The rate of minor complications (toxicity grade I and II) was 64.2% and 35.8% for major complications (toxicity grade III and IV), with 24 (45.2%) patients required enteral feeding during treatment. At the end of the study period, 23 patients were alive without disease (38.98%), 3 are alive with disease (5.08%), 21 died with cancer (45.76%) and five dead asymptomatic (cause of death not related to cancer - 10.16%). Of the 53 patients, 24 patients had disease progression and cumulative survival of 49.2% and 27 progressed to death with cumulative survival of 33.8% (Figure 1). Thus, the median survival was 31 months for progression and death. Conclusion: The study showed that the patients possibly reflet the profile of the treated disease in Brazil with tumor response rates, overall survival, disease progression and complications similar to the literature, presenting itself as an alternative treatment mainly in more advanced stages.

Total thyroidectomy with ultrasonic scalpel: a multicenter, randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The ultrasonic scalpel is a recently introduced device in head and neck surgery. Total thyroidectomy is the most common endocrine procedure performed by surgeons. METHODS: This was an open, phase IV, multicenter, randomized controlled trial (RCT) that compared the use of an ultrasonic scalpel with a conventional technique in patients who underwent total thyroidectomy. The outcomes were surgical complication rate, operative time, drainage volume, postoperative pain, and costs. RESULTS: In all, 261 patients were included in 11 centers. There was a mean difference of 17% of operative time in favor of the ultrasonic scalpel group. There were no differences in postoperative complications. There was a difference in costs of 14% in favor of the ultrasonic scalpel group, but it was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The use of an ultrasonic scalpel was as safe as that of the conventional technique and had the advantage of a shorter operative time and lower postoperative drainage. Costs were not different between groups.

Tobacco and alcohol use after head and neck cancer treatment: influence of the type of oncological treatment employed.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the cigarette smoking and alcohol intake maintenance rate in patients treated for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and to compare the observed outcome with the type of oncological treatment employed. METHODS: One hundred and ten patients treated for high aero-digestive tract squamous cell carcinoma were included and divided into a surgical group, treated with a surgery, and a medical group, treated with chemotherapy and/or radiation. The patients were interviewed to determine whether or not they had persisted with the smoking and drinking behavior after treatment. The habit maintenance rate was compared with the treatment modality employed. The relationship between the oncological status of the patients and the cigarette smoking and alcohol intake rates found was also tested. RESULTS: Among smokers, 35% maintained the habit after treatment. The medical group had a significantly higher percentage of patients maintaining smoking compared with the surgical group (58.3% vs 25.0%; p = 0.004). Among alcohol users, 16.6% kept drinking alcoholic beverages, with a percentage also shown higher for the medical group (23.8% vs 13,3%), but with no statistically significant difference. The oncological status of patients was not related to the maintenance of the habits studied. CONCLUSION: Smoking and alcoholism maintenance rates are high after head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is treated, especially if we consider smoking in patients treated with chemotherapy and/or radiation. A more effective multidisciplinary approach is required in order to obtain better rates of tobacco and alcohol quitting, especially in patients undergoing non-surgical treatments.

Manutenção do tabagismo e etilismo em pacientes tratados por câncer de cabeça e pescoço: influência do tipo de tratamento oncológico empregado / Tobacco and alcohol use after head and neck cancer treatment: influence of the type of oncological treatment employed

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a taxa de manutenção do tabagismo e etilismo em pacientes tratados por carcinoma epidermoide da cabeça e pescoço e comparar o resultado observado com a modalidade do tratamento oncológico empregado. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos 110 pacientes tratados por carcinoma epidermoide das vias aereodigestivas altas, divididos em grupo cirúrgico, tratado com cirurgia, e grupo clínico, tratado com quimioterapia e/ou radioterapia. Os pacientes foram entrevistados a fim de determinar se houve manutenção dos hábitos após o tratamento. Comparou-se a taxa de manutenção dos hábitos com a modalidade de tratamento empregada. Testou-se também a relação entre o status oncológico dos pacientes com as taxas de tabagismo e etilismo encontradas. RESULTADOS: Entre os tabagistas, 35 por cento mantiveram este hábito após o tratamento. No grupo clínico, houve um percentual significativamente maior de pacientes que mantiveram o tabagismo com relação ao grupo cirúrgico (58,3 por cento x 25 por cento; p = 0,004). Entre os etilistas, 16,6 por cento continuaram a ingerir bebidas alcoólicas, percentagem que também se mostrou maior no grupo clínico (23,8 por cento x 13,3 por cento), porém sem diferença estatisticamente significativa. O status oncológico dos pacientes não apresentou relação com a manutenção dos hábitos estudados. CONCLUSÃO: São altas as taxas de manutenção de tabagismo e etilismo após o tratamento do carcinoma epidermoide de cabeça e pescoço, especialmente se considerarmos o tabagismo nos pacientes tratados com quimioterapia e/ou radioterapia. Uma abordagem multidisciplinar mais efetiva é necessária com vista a obter melhores taxas de abandono do tabaco e do álcool, especialmente no grupo de pacientes submetidos a tratamentos não cirúrgicos.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the cigarette smoking and alcohol intake maintenance rate in patients treated for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and to compare the observed outcome with the type of oncological treatment employed. METHODS: One hundred and ten patients treated for high aero-digestive tract squamous cell carcinoma were included and divided into a surgical group, treated with a surgery, and a medical group, treated with chemotherapy and/or radiation. The patients were interviewed to determine whether or not they had persisted with the smoking and drinking behavior after treatment. The habit maintenance rate was compared with the treatment modality employed. The relationship between the oncological status of the patients and the cigarette smoking and alcohol intake rates found was also tested. RESULTS: Among smokers, 35 percent maintained the habit after treatment. The medical group had a significantly higher percentage of patients maintaining smoking compared with the surgical group (58.3 percent vs 25.0 percent; p = 0.004). Among alcohol users, 16.6 percent kept drinking alcoholic beverages, with a percentage also shown higher for the medical group (23.8 percent vs 13,3 percent), but with no statistically significant difference. The oncological status of patients was not related to the maintenance of the habits studied. CONCLUSION: Smoking and alcoholism maintenance rates are high after head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is treated, especially if we consider smoking in patients treated with chemotherapy and/or radiation. A more effective multidisciplinary approach is required in order to obtain better rates of tobacco and alcohol quitting, especially in patients undergoing non-surgical treatments.

Delayed pharyngoesophageal reconstruction with combined local and regional flaps: a case report.

We describe an unusual technique for performing delayed pharyngoesophageal reconstruction following circumferential pharyngolaryngectomy. The patient was a 52-year-old man who underwent a circumferential pharyngolaryngectomy for the treatment of hypopharyngeal carcinoma. In view of the patient's poor clinical status, we opted to perform a pharyngostomy and an esophagostomy and to postpone pharyngoesophageal reconstruction for a more appropriate occasion. After the patient's clinical condition had sufficiently improved, the repair was planned. Microsurgical flaps were contraindicated because the blood flow through the cervical vessels was unreliable. Pharyngoesophageal continuity was restored with a cervical flap vascularized by the prevertebral fascia, a pectoralis major myocutaneous flap, and a deltopectoralis flap. A reasonable degree of deglutition was achieved, and no signs of stricture were detected. Although our technique was unusual, we believed that it might provide a valid alternative when a delayed pharyngoesophageal reconstruction is required and free flaps are contraindicated for any reason.

Pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps for head and neck reconstruction: factors influencing occurrences of complications and the final outcome / Retalho miocutâneo de peitoral maior em reconstruções de cabeça e pescoço: fatores que influenciam a ocorrência de complicações e o resultado final

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Pedicled flaps play an important role in cancer treatment centers, particularly in developing and emerging countries. The aim of this study was to identify factors that may cause complications and influence the final result from reconstructions using pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps (PMMFs) for head and neck defect repair following cancer resection. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study at the Hospital de Ensino Padre Anchieta of Faculdade de Medicina do ABC (FMABC). METHODS: Data on 58 patients who underwent head and neck defect reconstruction using PMMFs were reviewed. The final result from the reconstruction (success or failure) and the complications observed were evaluated in relation to the patients' ages, area reconstructed, disease stage, previous oncological treatment and need for blood transfusion. RESULTS: There were no total flap losses. The reconstruction success rate was 93.1 percent. Flap-related complications occurred in 43.1 percent of the cases, and half of them were considered major. Most of the complications were successfully treated. Defects originating in the hypopharynx were correlated with the development of major complications (p = 0.02) and with reconstruction failure (p < 0.001). Previous oncological treatment negatively influenced the reconstruction success (p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Since the risk factors for developing major complications and reconstruction failure are known, it is important to heed the technical details and provide careful clinical support for patients in a more critical condition, so that better results from using PMMFs can be obtained.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Retalhos pediculados têm grande importância nos centros de tratamento do câncer, principalmente em países emergentes e em desenvolvimento. O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar fatores que determinam complicações e influenciam no resultado final das reconstruções com retalho miocutâneo de peitoral maior (RMPM) no reparo de defeitos cirúrgicos por ressecções de cânceres de cabeça e pescoço. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal no Hospital de Ensino Padre Anchieta da Faculdade de Medicina do ABC. MÉTODOS: Dados de 58 pacientes submetidos a reconstruções de defeitos de cabeça e pescoço com RMPM foram revisados. O resultado final da reconstrução (sucesso ou falha) e as complicações observadas foram avaliados de acordo com a idade do paciente, área reconstruída, estágio da doença, tratamento oncológico prévio e necessidade de transfusão sanguínea. RESULTADOS: Não houve perda total de retalho. A taxa de sucesso da reconstrução foi de 93,1 por cento. Complicações relacionadas ao retalho ocorreram em 43,1 por cento dos casos e 50 por cento delas foram considerados como complicações maiores. A maioria das complicações foi tratada com sucesso. Os defeitos originados da hipofaringe relacionaram-se com o desenvolvimento de complicações maiores (p = 0,02) e falhas na reconstrução (p < 0,001). Tratamento oncológico prévio influenciou negativamente no sucesso da reconstrução (p = 0,04). CONCLUSÕES: Como os fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de complicações maiores e de falha na reconstrução são conhecidos, é importante atentar para detalhes técnicos e empregar suporte clínico cuidadoso aos pacientes mais críticos para que sejam obtidos melhores resultados com o uso do RMPM.

Linfadenopatia cervical na infância: etiologia, diagnóstico diferenciale terapêutica: [revisão] / Cervical lymphadenopathy in children: etiology, differential diagnosis and management: [review]

Linfadenopatia é o termo empregado em qualquer alteração em tamanho e consistência de linfonodos. A linfadenopatia cervical é um problema muito frequente nos pacientes da faixa etária pediátrica e, em geral, representa reação transitória a processos inflamatórios ou infecciosos locorregionais ou sistêmicos. Porém, em uma pequena parcela, há neoplasias como fator etiológico. Na grande maioria das vezes, esses pacientes são efetivamente tratados pelo pediatra, porém, quando não há resposta à terapia inicial ou quando há suspeita de malignidade, o cirurgião pediátrico ou de cabeça e pescoço deve ser consultado. Este trabalho teve por objetivo revisar a etiologia, o diagnóstico diferencial e a terapêutica da linfadenopatia cervical na infância.

Lymphadenopathy refers to any alteration in size and consistency involving lymph nodes. Cervical lymphadenopathy is a very frequent problem in the pediatric group and, in general, represents a transitory reaction to locoregional or systemic inflammatory or infectious process. However, in a few cases, there is neoplasia as etiologic factor. Although most patients are successfully treated by their pediatrician, the pediatric or head and neck surgeon should be consulted for patients who fail to respond to initial therapy or for those in whom there is a suspiciousness of malignancy. The aim of this article was to review the etiology, the differential diagnosis, and the management of cervical lymphadenopathy in children.

Retalho pediculado temporofrontal para reconstrução de defeitos em cabeça e pescoço / Pedicle temporofrontal flap for head and neck reconstruction

Objetivo: Os retalhos livres, considerados o padrão-ouro na cirurgia reparadora, não podem ser utilizados na reconstrução de todos os defeitos pós-excisionais cervicofaciais, principalmente naqueles pacientes portadores de severas comorbidades clínicas. Dessa forma, retalhos pediculados clássicos, como o retalho temporofrontal, ainda representam uma alternativa ao cirurgião de cabeça e pescoço. Este trabalho teve por objetivo descrever nossa experiência com a utilização do retalho temporofrontal, baseado na artéria temporal superficial para a reconstrução de defeitos pós-excisionais em cabeça e pescoço. Método: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo de cinco casos consecutivos de pacientes portadores de neoplasias malignas do território da cabeça e pescoço, tratados entre 2000 e 2009, nos quais foi utilizado o retalho temporofrontal. Nos cinco pacientes, os retalhos livres estavam contraindicados devido a comorbidades clínicas ou à falta de condições técnicas para a realização de microcirurgia. Resultados: Não foi observada perda total do retalho em nenhum caso. Houve integração completa do enxerto de pele na área doadora nos cinco casos. Todos os pacientes receberam alta precoce, sem complicações imediatas. Os objetivos da reconstrução foram alcançados em quatro dos cinco pacientes. Conclusão: Analisando os nossos resultados, observamos que o retalho temporofrontal apresentou boa evolução na maioria dos casos, com reabilitação funcional satisfatória em quatro dos cinco pacientes. Em função das limitações da microcirurgia em nosso meio, a utilização de retalhos loco-regionais pediculados, como o retalho temporofrontal, deve fazer parte da formação do cirurgião de cabeça e pescoço.

Objective: The free flaps are considered the gold standard for surgical reconstruction. However, this technique cannot be employed to the reconstruction of all cervicofacial post-excision defects, principally in those patients with serious clinical comorbidities. Hence, classical pedicle flaps, like the forehead flap, are still an option for the head and neck surgeon. The aim of this paper was to describe our experience with the use of the forehead flap, based on the superficial temporal artery for post-excision head and neck defects reconstruction. Method: We performed a retrospective study of five consecutive cases, from 2000 to 2009, in which the pedicle forehead flap was utilized to treat head and neck cancer patients. In these five cases, the free flaps were contraindicated due to clinical comorbidities or the lack of technical condition for the employment of microsurgery. Results: There were no total flap losses. The skin graft was entirely integrated to the donor area in all cases. All patients were discharged in a few days without early complications. The objectives of the reconstruction were achieved in four of five patients. Conclusion: The pedicle forehead flap presented a good outcome in most of the cases, with acceptable functional rehabilitation in four of five patients. Due to the limitations of microsurgery, the employment of pedicle loco-regional flaps, like the forehead flap, must be part of professional formation of head and neck surgeons.

O ramo peitoral da artéria tóraco-acromial como pedículo principal do retalho miocutâneo de peitoral maior: estudo anatômico em cadáver / The pectoralis branch of thoracoacromial artery as the main pedicle of pectoralis major myocutaneous flap: cadaveric anatomic study

Introdução: O sucesso dos retalhos miocutâneos é baseado no seu adequado aporte sanguíneo, sendo importante o conhecimento da localização e a preservação de pedículos vasculares para que um músculo seja empregado como retalho. O retalho miocutâneo de peitoral maior é um dos mais utilizados nas reconstruções em cabeça e pescoço. Objetivos: 1) Estudar a anatomia topográfica do ramo peitoral da artéria toracoacromial (principal pedículo vascular do retalho miocutâneo de peitoral maior), em relação a parâmetros anatômicos fixos; 2) determinar o comprimento do pedículo vascular após a confecção do retalho; 3) verificar se fatores antropométricos ou o lado de dissecção influenciam no comprimento do pedículo vascular. Casuística: 50 retalhos dissecados em 25 cadáveres adultos frescos. Métodos: Identificou-se a origem do ramo peitoral da artéria toracoacromial, classificada em três tipos: tipo A quando situada mais de 2cm medialmente à linha medioclavicular; tipo B quando distante, medial ou lateralmente a esta, em até 2cm; e tipo C quando situada mais de 2cm lateralmente a esta linha. O comprimento do pedículo foi medido do ponto medioclavicular até borda superior da ilha de pele. Resultados: A origem do ramo peitoral da artéria toracoacromial deu-se na artéria axilar em todos os casos. O comprimento médio do pedículo foi de 17,67 ± 2,24cm, sendo este determinado pelas seguintes variáveis antropométricas (p<0,05 - correlação de Pearson): distância biacromial, relação entre a distância mastóide-fúrcula pela distância acrômio-trocantérica e a relação entre a distância mastóide-fúrcula pela distância biacromial. Conclusões: Estabeleceu-se a linha medioclavicular como referência anatômica para a classificação da origem do ramo peitoral da artéria toracoacromial, sendo que o comprimento do pedículo vascular pode ser influenciado por fatores antropométricos.

Introduction: The success of myocutaneous flaps is based on a reliable blood supply. To transfer a muscle as a flap it is important to know the location and to preserve the vascular pedicles. The pectoralis major myocutaneous flap is one of the most employed flaps in head and neck reconstruction. Objectives: 1) To study the topographic anatomy of the pectoralis branch of the thoracoacromial artery (the main vascular pedicle of pectoralis major myocutaneous flap) and its relationship to fixed anatomic parameters; 2) to measure the pedicle length after the flap was harvested; and 3) to verify if anthropometric data and the side of dissection influence the pedicle length. Casuistic: 50 flaps were dissected in 25 adult fresh cadavers. Methods: The origin of the pectoralis branch of the thoracoacromial artery was identified and classified in three types based on its relationship to the midclavicular line: type A and C when up to 2cm medial or lateral, respectively, to this line; and type B when between the two other described types. Pedicle length was measured from the clavicle's medium point to the skin island superior border. Results: The origin of the pectoralis branch of the thoracoacromial artery was in the axillary artery in all cases. The average length of the pedicle was 17.67 ± 2.24cm, showing statistical significant relationship with: the interacromion distance and the ratio between the mastoids-supraesternal notch distance and acromion-trochanter distance and also the ratio between the mastoids-supraesternal notch distance and the interacromion distance. Conclusion: Midclavicular line was established as the anatomic reference to classify the origin of the pectoral branch of the thoracoacromial artery. The results obtained suggest that the pedicle length might be influenced by anthropometric data.