One-stage scalp reconstruction using single-layer dermal regeneration template and split-thickness skin graft: a case series.

PURPOSE: Scalp full-thickness defects reconstruction following the resection of skin carcinoma poses significant challenges due to scalp anatomy complexity and limited vascularity. Despite various techniques available, including tissue expansion and local flaps, no single method stands as the gold standard. Moreover, cases requiring adjuvant radiotherapy further complicate reconstruction, demanding durable solutions. This study explores the efficacy of Integra® Dermal Regeneration Template Single Layer (Integra DRTSL) followed by split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) in one-stage scalp reconstruction post oncologic resection. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients undergoing this procedure from January 2020 to October 2023. Surgical outcomes, including graft take rates, complications, and adjuvant therapy tolerability, were assessed. RESULTS: Results demonstrated successful reconstruction in the majority of cases, with a complete graft take rate of 77% and minimal complications. Notably, the single-stage approach facilitated timely initiation of adjuvant therapy, crucial for oncologic management. Healing times were notably reduced (< 60 days), enabling early radiotherapy commencement. No local recurrences were observed during the 16-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: The use of Integra DRTSL with STSG in one-stage reconstruction presents a promising alternative, offering optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes with low complication rates. This approach streamlines the reconstruction process, ensuring timely adjuvant therapy initiation and maximizing patient outcomes, especially in the context of scalp cutaneous tumors requiring radiotherapy. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: This research was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Ethics Committee of University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" (protocol code N. 0013333, 29 April 2021).

A Double-Anonymised Histopathological Comparative Study of CO2 Laser and Coblation in Head and Neck Surgery.

CO2 Laser and Coblation are widely used in Head and neck Surgeries. This study compares the tissue changes produced by these two techniques. 50 Patients who underwent complete excision of benign and malignant pathologies in the Oral Cavity, Oropharynx, and Larynx with Coblation and CO2 Laser were included in the study. The primary excised specimen and another separate specimen from the base of the excised lesion were evaluated histologically based on criteria by Vescovi et al. (1). On histopathological examination, thermal effects (epithelial, connective tissue and vascular) produced by both techniques were comparable. However vascular changes were seen more in tissues CO2 Laser (P = 0.727). Incision margins were more regular in the CO2 Laser group (73%) than in Coblation (55%) but not statistically significant (P = 1.80). Depth of thermal damage (P = 0.171) and connective tissue changes(P = 0.279) was more with Coblation. Both Coblation and CO2 Laser can be used effectively in Head and Neck cases. CO2 Laser, when available, is a better option because of its precise excision, and less collateral tissue damage.

Rare Yet Relevant: Adult Onset Cervical Lymphangioma - Our Experience and Comprehensive Review.

Cervical lymphangiomas are anomalies that arise from lymphatic vessels, characterized by gradual and painless growth. While predominantly located in the neck, they may also manifest in the axilla, mediastinum, groin, and abdominal organs. Cervical lymphangioma usually occurs in children and is relatively rare in adults. The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of cervical lymphangiomas in adults. We reviewed the medical records and analysed clinical data obtained from fifteen adult patients who suffered from cervical lymphangioma and were operated from January 2021 to January 2023. Out of 15 cases, 73.3% were females and 26.7% were males. All tumours were unilaterally located. Five patients had prior history of associated dyspnoea / dysphagia. All 15 cervical lymphangiomas (100%) were adjacent to the carotid sheath .Tumour size ranged from 6 cm to 15 cm, with the maximum diameter of ≥ 15 cm in two cases, between 6 cm and 10 cm in eight cases and less than 6 cm in five cases. Further, in this study all cervical lymphangiomas were surgically excised. Postoperative courses were uneventful, and histo-pathological examinations confirmed all cases to be cystic lymphangiomas. A 6 -month follow-up in all 15 cases showed no recurrences. Overall, this study underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving clinicians, radiologists, and surgeons in the management of adult cervical lymphangiomas, with an emphasis on accurate diagnosis, appropriate classification, and tailored treatment strategies to optimize patient outcomes and minimize complications.

Fentanyl versus Dexmedetomidine Infusion in Head and Neck Free Flap Surgery for Comparison of Hemodynamic Parameters and Anaesthetic Requirements: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: This prospective, double-blinded, randomized study aimed to compare the efficacy of dexmedetomidine and fentanyl infusions in maintaining hemodynamics during head and neck free flap surgery, as well as their impact on the relative amount of blood loss. METHODS: Twenty patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II scheduled for elective head and neck free flap surgery were enrolled. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg over 10 min at anesthesia induction, followed by 0.2 to 0.75 µg/kg per hour infusion during maintenance) or fentanyl (1 to 2 µg/kg per hour infusion during maintenance). Intraoperative hemodynamic parameters, blood loss, blood transfusion requirements, surgeon satisfaction, adverse drug effects, and free flap survival up to 7 days were recorded. RESULTS: The dexmedetomidine group achieved a mean arterial pressure (MAP) value between 60 and 70 mmHg at multiple time points (15 min, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th hours), while the fentanyl group did not reach this range at any time point. The intergroup statistical analysis revealed a significant difference only at the 5th hour with (95% CI: -16.17 to -0.62) and P = 0.036. Additionally, the dexmedetomidine group exhibited lower heart rates (< 70/min) at several time points (15 min, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th hours) compared to the fentanyl group. The intergroup comparison indicated a statistically significant difference only at the 3rd hour with (95% CI: -20.94 to -0.45) and P = 0.042. CONCLUSION: Dexmedetomidine can be a useful adjuvant of GA for inducing controlled hypotension and decreasing bleeding in free flap surgery of the head and neck region without any detrimental effect on the free flap survival.

Primary Intranodal Epithelioid Haemangioendothelioma in the Submandibular Region: A Case Report.

Epithelioid haemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare vascular tumour that primarily affects the liver, lungs and bone. It is very rarely described in the head and neck region, and is exceptionally uncommon within the submandibular region. We report a very rare case of EHE originating in a lymph node within the submandibular salivary gland of a 54-year-old female patient. The tumour was resected and the patient was regularly followed up, with no recurrence of disease at 24 months postoperatively. A review of existing literature, clinical and immunohistopathological features are discussed, which highlight the diagnostic dilemma, absence of consensus for management and appropriate surveillance method associated with EHE.

Predicting Complications in Head and Neck Surgery: Comparing Calculators to Surgeons.

Objectives: Surgical outcomes determine national ranking, reputation, and funding, and are often assessed with objective surgical risk calculators (SRCs). Surgeons' assessments are not considered. This study aims to determine if surgeons or SRCs are more accurate in predicting outcomes. Methods: This prospective cohort study identified a surgeon's assessment on a patient's risk preoperatively. The patient's risk was also calculated using the SRC. Predictions were compared to patient outcomes and to each other to assess whether surgeons or the SRC were more accurate. Results: Of the 101 patients included, 37 (36.6%) experienced a complication of any kind and 18 (17.8%) experienced a serious complication. Smoking resulted in a 2.49 times higher overall complication rate (P = .04). Laryngectomy patients experienced the highest rate of complications (P = .02) compared to those undergoing free flap reconstruction [odds ratio (OR) 0.9] or any other surgery (OR 0.26). Both surgeons and the American College of Surgeons (ACS) tool performed poorly on the prediction of the outcome of any complication, with a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) of 0.51 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.39-0.62] and 0.58 (95% CI: 0.47-0.70), respectively, which was not statistically significant (P = .34). For the prediction of the outcome of serious complication, the AUC for surgeons and the ACS tool were 0.55 (95% CI: 0.41-0.69) and 0.60 (95% CI: 0.46-0.74), respectively, which was not statistically significant (P = .58). Conclusions: Neither validated risk calculators nor surgeons are accurate in predicting perioperative risk. The only risk factor that contributes to improving predictions for complications is preoperative smoking, although age and type of surgery are also significant predictors. Risk calculators may therefore not be appropriate metrics for assessing hospital performance. These findings can help guide preoperative counseling and may help in the development of more accurate predictive tools as the healthcare field continues to incorporate artificial intelligence into surgical planning.

Spindle cell lipoma, a rare entity affecting the larynx: A case report.

Spindle cell lipoma is a very rare occurrence in the larynx and can be cured by complete excision. In this case report we present the case of a 71-year-old female who presented to the otorhinolaryngology outpatient department of Northwest General Hospital and Research Centre, Peshawar, with complaints of occasional irritation and a foreign body sensation in the throat while swallowing, for the last three years. She had undergone a surgical procedure 30 years back for the same complaint and remained asymptomatic till three years back. On examination, through fibre-optic laryngoscope, the attending surgeon saw an abnormal mass arising from the aryepiglottic folds of the larynx. An excisional biopsy was performed through micro-laryngoscopy. The patient's symptoms subsequently improved and she is currently doing well. Histopathological reports confirmed it as spindle cell lipoma.

Medical Malpractice in Otolaryngology within the United States: A LexisNexis-Based Demographic Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Otolaryngologists are at a significantly greater risk of being sued than most other physicians. To date, there is a lack of studies characterizing trends in otolaryngology malpractice claims. To assess these trends and risk variables, this study examined malpractice claims against otolaryngologists. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective database review. SETTING: LexisNexis Jury Verdicts and Settlements. METHODS: The LexisNexis legal database was used to locate jury verdicts and settlements related to medical malpractice in otolaryngology, from 2018 to 2024. The study did not include any claims covered by the Social Security Disability Insurance, Workers' Compensation, Healthcare Law, or Criminal Law and Procedure categories. Temporal trends were evaluated, and logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors. RESULTS: Out of 903 items, 79 reported malpractice cases were included (mean age 44.5; 60.3% female). The most sued subspecialty was head and neck oncology (32.5%). Negligence (93.7%) was the primary cause of action. Of cases sent to the jury, 87.7% of them resulted in a verdict in favor of the defendant. The mean plaintiff verdict payout was $7,432,508.06 and the mean identified settlement amount was $1,562,500.00. Physical injury (62.0%) was the highest type of harm. Regional analysis indicated a higher percentage of cases from New York favored the defendant (21.1% vs 13.6%; P = .034). CONCLUSION: This study highlights key trends in otolaryngology malpractice claims, emphasizing the prevalence in cases of head and neck surgery, primarily attributed to negligence. By identifying trends and risk factors, otolaryngologists can get a better understanding of the dynamics surrounding malpractice.

Cavernous haemangioma of the masseter muscle: transoral approach.

Intramuscular haemangiomas (IH) are rare lesions, accounting for less than 1% of all haemangiomas. This article presents the case of a woman in her 40s with a swelling in her left cheek. CT revealed an intramuscular lesion within the masseter, suggestive of a venous malformation. Surgical treatment was carried out with intraoral access to the lesion, allowing for complete removal, resulting in temporary swelling and trismus. There was no facial paralysis. We discuss information on IH in the head and neck and their surgical approaches.

Incidental Finding of Double Posterior Belly of Digastric Muscle in Head and Neck Cancer Patient.

OBJECTIVES: The digastric muscles have important roles in swallowing, chewing, speech, and landmark identification during neck dissection. The posterior belly of the digastric muscle (PBDM) is often useful for defining boundaries in surgical neck dissection as it contributes to the carotid, submandibular, and submental triangles. The cadaveric prevalence rate of anatomic variations in the digastrics has been reported to be 31.4% of the population with most occurring in relation to the anterior belly of the digastric muscle (ABDM). Few reports describe variations in the PBDM. While anatomic variants of the digastric muscles do not present with clinical manifestations, they can be mistaken as neck masses and contribute to intraoperative complications. METHODS: We present a case report of a 73-year-old male with a past medical history significant for Parkinson's Disease, who was incidentally found to have a duplicate PBDM intraoperatively while receiving surgical management of a left buccal squamous cell cancer. RESULTS: Nine months prior to surgery, the patient began experiencing trismus and some mild dysphagia that were eventually worked up to reveal left buccal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Prior to this, the patient did not have clinical symptoms demonstrating dysfunction that could be related to or indicative of this anatomical abnormality preceding symptoms related to left buccal SCC growth. The procedure included a wide local excision, left modified radical neck dissection and left submental artery island flap with suprahyoid neck dissection. The superior duplicate PBDM was found to be overlying the stylohyoid muscle. CONCLUSIONS: It is important for surgeons operating in the head and neck to be aware of the possibility of this rare variation, and to be conscientious when it is identified so that it does not prohibit or limit a thorough dissection of the neck structures where oncologic clearance is paramount.

"High-risk" tumors of the lip treated with external beam radiotherapy and high-dose-rate brachytherapy: Long-term outcome.

BACKGROUND: Radiotherapy is a well-established treatment for lip cancer, with external radiotherapy (EBRT) or brachytherapy (BT). METHODS: This study evaluated outcome, tumor control, and aesthetics, for 101 patients with carcinoma of the lip, not suitable for surgery, treated with combined EBRT and BT. RESULTS: Squamous cell carcinoma was seen in 78 patients, basal cell carcinoma in 15, and other histologies in 8 patients. Tumors were advanced: 73% in category T2-T4. Local control at 3 and 5 years was 89%. Local failure appeared in 4/56 patients (7%) with primary RT compared to 7/45 (16%) in those with prior surgery, regional recurrence in 5 patients. Toxicity was mild. Cosmetic outcome, 87 patients evaluated, was bad for 9/40 patients with upfront surgery compared to 1/47 for primary RT patients (p = 0.003). Seven patients died from lip cancer (7%), three with originally N+ disease (43%). CONCLUSIONS: Combined EBRT and BT could be considered for lip tumors not candidates for surgery.

The effectiveness of fibrin sealants in head and neck surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Fibrin sealants are increasingly used in head and neck surgery to aid hemostasis, but individual studies lack conclusive evidence. This systematic review investigates their effectiveness compared to placebo or usual care in head and neck surgery. METHODS: Studies comparing fibrin sealant to placebo or usual care in patients 18 years or older who have undergone soft tissue surgery of the head and neck with drain placement were included. Primary outcomes include wound complications and time to surgical drain removal postoperatively. Secondary outcomes include length of hospital stay, drain volume output, surgical management of hematoma, blood transfusion rates, and adverse reactions. Electronic databases were searched on October 2023 for randomized controlled and quasi-experimental studies. Studies underwent independent screening, review, and appraisal by two reviewers using JBI appraisal tools. Certainty was assessed with GRADE, and meta-analysis was conducted using JBI SUMARI, presenting effect sizes as relative risk ratios or mean differences with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included examining 904 patients. The fibrin sealant group exhibited reduced postoperative wound complications (hematoma, seroma, wound dehiscence, wound infection) (RR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.45-0.92), shorter drain removal times (MD = - 0.49 days, 95% CI = - 0.68 to - 0.29), decreased drain output (MD = - 16.52 mL, 95% CI = - 18.56 to - 14.52), and shorter hospital stay (MD = - 0.84 days, 95% CI = - 1.11 to - 0.57) compared to controls. There was no statistically significant difference on the rate of intervention for postoperative hematoma and the rate of adverse reactions. DISCUSSION: Evidence demonstrates with low certainty that fibrin sealant use is associated with a modest reduction in the rate of wound complications, drain duration, and length of stay, and a small reduction in drain volume output. Methodological weaknesses and clinical heterogeneity limit these findings. Further research should focus on enhancing methodological quality and exploring the cost-effectiveness of fibrin sealant use in surgery. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: CRD42023412820. FUNDING: Nil.

A retrospective database analysis of pediatric parathyroidectomies from the United Kingdom registry of endocrine and Thyroid Surgeons.

INTRODUCTION: The United Kingdom Registry of Endocrine and Thyroid Surgery (UKRETS) holds the largest database of pediatric parathyroidectomy cases globally. There are currently no quoted acceptable cure or complication rates in the literature. METHODS: This retrospective database analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of targeted parathyroidectomy (tPTx) and bilateral neck exploration (BNE) in first-time parathyroidectomy for pediatric primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) through analysis of the UKRETS database (1995-2022). Pre-, intra- and postoperative outcomes were assessed and analyzed. RESULTS: 168 cases underwent parathyroidectomy; 25 (15%) familial and 143 (85%) sporadic PHPT. 69% were female with a mean age of 10 years (Range 0-17). BNE was the most common operative approach (61%; n = 103/168). The most frequently used imaging modality was US (80%; n = 135/168). Mean number of glands excised in familial cases was three compared to one gland in sporadic cases (p < 0.05). Familial cases had a significantly higher rate of postoperative hypocalcemia (32% vs. 9%, p < 0.05) and all were BNE. Cure rate was 96.9% (n = 127/131), with differences in cure rates that did not reach statistical significance (sporadic 98.2% vs. familial 90.5%, p = 0.06). Preoperative localization (image-positive or negative) made no difference to cure rates in either familial (90% vs. 91%, p = 0.94) or sporadic (97.5% vs. 100%, p = 0.4) cases. CONCLUSIONS: This analysis demonstrates that first-time pediatric parathyroidectomy for PHPT is safe and effective. Familial cases have a higher rate of postoperative hypocalcemia; therefore, parents should be informed of this when consented. Targeted parathyroidectomy is safe and effective in both sporadic and familial cases, as long as there is positive preoperative imaging.

High hydrostatic pressure treatment for advanced tissue grafts in reconstructive head and neck surgery.

The increasing importance of regenerative medicine has resulted in a growing need for advanced tissue replacement materials in head and neck surgery. Allo- and xenogenic graft processing is often time-consuming and can deteriorate the extracellular matrix (ECM). High hydrostatic pressure (HHP)-treatment could allow specific devitalization while retaining the essential properties of the ECM. Porcine connective tissue and cartilage were HHP-treated at 100-400 MPa for 10 min. Structural modifications following HHP-exposure were examined using electron microscopy, while devitalization was assessed through metabolism and cell death analyses. Furthermore, ECM alterations and decellularization were evaluated by histology, biomechanical testing, and DNA content analysis. Additionally, the inflammatory potential of HHP-treated tissue was evaluated in vivo using a dorsal skinfold chamber in a mouse model. The devitalization effects of HHP were dose-dependent, with a threshold identified at 200 MPa for fibroblasts and chondrocytes. At this pressure level, HHP induced structural alterations in cells, with a shift toward late-stage apoptosis. HHP-treatment preserved ECM structure and biomechanical properties, but did not remove cell debris from the tissue. This study observed a pressure-dependent increase of markers suggesting the occurrence of immunogenic cell death. In vivo investigations revealed an absence of inflammatory responses to HHP-treated tissue, indicating a favorable biological response to HHP. In conclusion, application of HHP devitalizes fibroblasts and chondrocytes at 200 MPa while retaining the essential properties of the ECM. Prospectively, HHP may simplify the preparation of allo- and xenogenic tissue replacement materials and increase the availability of grafts in head and neck surgery.

Reconstructive Surgery of the Head and Neck in Organ Transplant Recipients: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature.

The number of solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) is growing as a consequence of an increase in transplantations and longer survival; these patients, thus, frequently suffer various comorbidities and are subjected to the detrimental effects of immunosuppressive agents, which expose them to a higher risk of developing malignancies. These drugs also complicate the surgical treatment of neoplasms, as they can hinder wound healing, especially when associated with other unfavorable factors (e.g., previous radiotherapy, diabetes, etc.). We herein present our experience with a 74-year-old SOTR who underwent a radical extended parotidectomy and reconstruction with a submental island flap for a persistent cutaneous squamous carcinoma after radiotherapy; his complicated clinical course was characterized by incredibly slow wound healing. The current literature was reviewed to provide a succinct overview of the main difficulties of head and neck surgery in SOTRs. In particular, the immunosuppressive regimen can be tapered considering the individual risk and other elements should be carefully assessed, possibly prior to surgery, to prevent cumulative harm. New developments, including intraoperative monitoring of flap vascularization through indocyanine green fluorescence video-angiography and the prophylactic application of negative pressure wound therapy, when feasible, may be particularly beneficial for high-risk patients.

Non-recurrent Laryngeal Nerve During Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Thyroidectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Complete and precise knowledge of the neck anatomy and its eventual anomalies is crucial while performing a safe thyroid and parathyroid surgery. Embryo-genetic malformations of the IV branchial arch can lead to an uncommon anatomical alteration known as non-recurrent inferior laryngeal nerve. Its prevalence varies between 0.7% for the dextral branch and 0.04% for the sinistral. In these cases, the inferior laryngeal nerve branches originate directly from the cervical vagus nerve, entering the larynx without hooking, on the right side around the subclavian artery or on the left around the aortic arch. The presence of a non-recurrent laryngeal nerve is challenging, due to the increased risks of iatrogenic damage to the nerve, which results in hoarseness, dysphagia, glottal obstruction, vocal cords palsy, and serious airway impairment. We present the case of a 58-year-old woman. The patient was admitted to our department for a nodule classified as Bethesda IV in the right thyroid lobe. Through the use of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM), surgeons detected intraoperatively a non-recurrent laryngeal nerve. A subsequent computed tomography scan confirmed an anomalous right subclavian artery branching from the left aortic arch, the Lusoria Artery. Anatomical variants represent pitfalls in this case and an accurate knowledge of the neck region is imperative while performing thyroid surgery. Devices such as IONM are useful for detecting abnormalities that may lead to iatrogenic damages.

Vocal Fold Paralysis Following Benign Thyroid Nodule Laser Thermal Ablation.

Laser thermal ablation (LTA) is an increasingly common procedure to treat benign and malignant thyroid nodules, allowing patients to avoid thyroidectomy. There are few reported postprocedural complications of LTA among patients with benign thyroid nodules. While vocal fold paralysis is a well-known potential complication after thyroidectomy, we present the first case report of vocal fold paralysis following LTA. A female in her 80s presented to an outside endocrinologist with symptoms of hyperthyroidism and benign thyroid nodules. The patient underwent a fine needle aspiration biopsy, radioiodine uptake scan, radioactive thyroid ablation, and LTA at an outside institution. The patient first noticed hoarseness 2days after LTA, and she presented to our office with a weak, breathy voice more than 4months postprocedure. Videostroboscopic examination revealed immobility of the left vocal fold with incomplete glottic closure. After awake injection laryngoplasty in the office, the patient experienced voice improvement. In conclusion, LTA is a relatively new treatment modality with limited literature on adverse outcomes. As minimally invasive techniques such as LTA are becoming more common, it is essential to remain fully aware of risks to recognize and mitigate complications like vocal fold paralysis.

Enhancing Surgical Vision: Augmented Reality in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.

Augmented reality (AR) technology has become widely established in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. Over the past 20 years, numerous AR systems have been investigated and validated across the subspecialties, both in cadaveric and in live surgical studies. AR displays projected through head-mounted devices, microscopes, and endoscopes, most commonly, have demonstrated utility in preoperative planning, intraoperative guidance, and improvement of surgical decision-making. Specifically, they have demonstrated feasibility in guiding tumor margin resections, identifying critical structures intraoperatively, and displaying patient-specific virtual models derived from preoperative imaging, with millimetric accuracy. This review summarizes both established and emerging AR technologies, detailing how their systems work, what features they offer, and their clinical impact across otolaryngology subspecialties. As AR technology continues to advance, its integration holds promise for enhancing surgical precision, simulation training, and ultimately, improving patient outcomes.

Robot-assisted versus conventional neck dissection: a propensity score matched case-control study on perioperative and oncologic outcomes.

The widespread acceptance of robotic surgery is extending to oral procedures. The demand for minimally invasive techniques is driving research into the cosmetic and oncologic benefits of robotic neck surgery. This study used propensity score matching to analyze the clinical course and postoperative outcomes of robot-assisted neck dissections for oncologic efficacy and surgical safety. Between May 2020 and April 2024, 200 OSCC patients underwent surgery and 42 were excluded. The cohort included 158 patients, 128 of whom underwent unilateral neck dissection and 30 of whom underwent bilateral neck dissection. Robotic-assisted neck dissection (RAND) was performed in 36 patients while conventional transcervical neck dissection (CTND) was performed in 122 patients. Data analysis included several factors, including lymph node retrieval and perioperative outcomes, with 1:1 propensity score matching to ensure fairness. Each of the 39 neck specimens with 36 patients was selected. The CTND group was 8 years older overall than the RAND group, but otherwise similar in terms of primary site and clinical stage. The RAND group had a 55-min longer operative time and 140 cc more hemovac drainage than the CTND group, but the hospital stay and intensive care unit duration were the same, and the number of lymph nodes retrieved was the same. Survival rates also showed no difference across all stages. This shows that RAND is in no way inferior to CTND in terms of perioperative or oncologic outcomes, and demonstrates the safety of robot-assisted surgery, even in patients who require flaps or in patients with advanced stages.

Augmented Reality-Guided Frozen Section Analysis: Bringing the Pathologist From the Laboratory to the Operating Room.

Due to the anatomic complexity of the head and neck and variable proximity between laboratory and operating room (OR), effective communication during frozen section analysis (FSA) between surgeons and pathologists is challenging. This proof-of-concept study investigates an augmented reality (AR) protocol that allows pathologists to virtually join the OR from the laboratory. Head and neck cancer specimens were scanned ex vivo using a 3-dimensional scanner and uploaded into an AR platform. Eight head and neck specimens were discussed by surgeons and pathologists in an AR environment. AR-guided intraoperative consultation was used for specimen orientation and discussion of FSA margin sampling sites. One patient had positive initial margins on FSA and was re-resected to negative final margins. AR-guided FSA is possible and allows pathologists to join the operating from any location for intraoperative discussion.