Repair of lateral temporo-sphenoidal encephalocoele via an endoscopic transorbital approach: ex vivo 3D printed simulation followed by in vivo deployment.

BACKGROUND: A temporo-sphenoidal encephalocoele occurs when temporal lobe herniates through a defect in the greater wing of the sphenoid bone into the sphenoid air sinus. The natural history is not well-understood, though presentation in adulthood with CSF rhinorrhoea and/or meningitis is typical. Lateral pneumatisation of the sphenoid sinus and elevated BMI may be contributory. AIMS: We explored the feasibility of a transorbital approach (TOA) for repair, using a combination of 3D modelling and simulation. We then successfully deployed this technique in vivo. METHODS: CT imaging for three patients who had previously undergone transcranial repair of lateral temporo-sphenoidal encephalocoele was used to generate data allowing 3D printed models of the skull base to be produced. The transorbital approach was simulated by performing a lateral orbitotomy followed by drilling of the sphenoid wing to expose the antero-basal middle fossa. 3D object scanning was used to create virtual models of the skull base post-surgery, from which surgical access was quantified in two ways: the area (mm2) of the middle fossa exposed by the TOA and the vertical attack angle. RESULTS: The mean surface area of the cranial access window achieved by simulated TOA was 325mm2. The mean vertical attack angle was 25°. One patient was subsequently treated successfully via TOA with no recurrence of their CSF leak, no orbital morbidity, excellent cosmesis, but resolving V2 numbness (follow-up 7 months). CONCLUSIONS: We have shown that the transorbital approach provides adequate surgical access. In our single case, surgical repair of a lateral temporo-sphenoidal encephalocoele via TOA was feasible, safe, and effective. This approach may offer some advantages compared with transcranial or endonasal approaches.

Using simulation as a platform to prepare for ear, nose and throat emergencies in the coronavirus disease 2019 era and beyond.

BACKGROUND: Following limited clinical exposure during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, a simulation-based platform aimed at providing a unique and safe learning tool was established. The aim was to improve the skills, knowledge and confidence of new ENT doctors. METHOD: The course was developed through 5 iterations over 28 months, moving from a half-day session to 2 full-day courses with more scenarios. Participant, faculty and local simulation team feedback drove course development. High-fidelity scenarios were provided, ranging from epistaxis to stridor, using technology including SimMan3 G mannequin, mask-Ed™ and nasendoscopy simulators. RESULTS: Participant feedback consistently demonstrated that the knowledge and skills acquired enhanced preparedness for working in ENT, with impact being sustained in clinical practice. CONCLUSION: Preparing healthcare professionals adequately is essential to enhancing patient safety. This simulation course has been effective in supporting new doctors in ENT and has subsequently been rolled out at a national level.

Exploring the influence of nasal morbidity on quality of life following endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery: a retrospective cohort study of 95 patients.

The endoscopic endonasal approach is more disruptive to normal anatomy (particularly nasal mucosa) than the transseptal submucosal microscopic approach. This may result in greater postoperative nasal morbidity, in turn reducing quality of life. We aimed to assess the severity and time course of nasal morbidity, and its impact on quality of life, following endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery in this retrospective cohort study. We identified 95 patients who underwent endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery for anterior skull base pathologies. Nasal-specific questions from the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) and the Anterior Skull Base inventory (ASB-12) were combined with quality-of-life questions. Patient demographics, diagnosis, and operative data were collected from electronic records. Age of the cohort ranged from 14-83 years. Time elapsed since surgery ranged from 3-85 months. 85/95 (89%) felt that nasal morbidity associated with surgery was acceptable, given the underlying reason for, and outcome of surgery; 10/95 (11%) did not. 71/95 (75%) reported no change or improvement in olfaction 3-months following surgery. 24/95 (25%) reported a deterioration in olfaction which was mild in 7%, moderate in 7%, and severe in 11%. Nasal crusting, nasal obstruction, and headache were moderately problematic symptoms but improved significantly by 3-month follow-up. Nasal discharge, nasal pain, and nasal whistling were mildly problematic and improved significantly by 3-months. 62/95 (65%) patients reported 'no change' in day-to-day activities due to the effects on their nose after surgery. 19/95 (20%) had 'mild inconvenience', 8/95 (8%) 'moderate inconvenience' and 6/95 (6%) 'severe inconvenience'. Endoscopic anterior skull base surgery is associated with nasal morbidity. Whilst 35% of patients appreciate a consequent negative impact on day-to-day life, the overwhelming majority feel that nasal morbidity is acceptable, given the wider surgical goals.

British Rhinological Society Consensus Guidance on the use of biological therapies for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

OBJECTIVES: We set out to create Consensus Guidelines, based on current evidence and relative risks of adverse effects and the costs of different treatments, which reflect the views of the British Rhinological Society (BRS) Council on where the use of biologics should be positioned within treatment pathways for CRSwNP, specifically in the setting of the National Health Service (NHS). DESIGN: An expert panel of 16 members was assembled. A review of the literature and evidence synthesis was undertaken and circulated to the panel. We used the RAND/UCLA methodology with a multi-step process to make recommendations on the use of biologics. SETTING: N/A. PARTICIPANTS: N/A. RESULTS: Recommendations were made, based on underlying disease severity, prior treatments and co-morbidities. A group of patients for whom biologics were considered an appropriate treatment option for CRSwNP was defined. CONCLUSIONS: Although biologics are not currently available for the treatment of CRSwNP, the BRS Council have defined a group of patients who have higher rates of "failure" with current treatment pathways, higher resource use and are more likely to suffer with uncontrolled symptoms. We would urge NICE to consider approval of biologics for such indications without applying further restrictions on use.

Management of new onset loss of sense of smell during the COVID-19 pandemic - BRS Consensus Guidelines.

OBJECTIVES: The primary aim of the study is to provide recommendations for the investigation and management of patients with new onset loss of sense of smell during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN: After undertaking a literature review, we used the RAND/UCLA methodology with a multi-step process to reach consensus about treatment options, onward referral, and imaging. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: An expert panel consisting of 15 members was assembled. A literature review was undertaken prior to the study and evidence was summarised for the panellists. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The panel undertook a process of ranking and classifying appropriateness of different investigations and treatment options for new onset loss of sense of smell during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a 9-point Likert scale, panellists scored whether a treatment was: Not recommended, optional, or recommended. Consensus was achieved when more than 70% of responses fell into the category defined by the mean. RESULTS: Consensus was reached on the majority of statements after 2 rounds of ranking. Disagreement meant no recommendation was made regarding one treatment, using Vitamin A drops. Alpha-lipoic acid was not recommended, olfactory training was recommended for all patients with persistent loss of sense of smell of more than 2 weeks duration, and oral steroids, steroid rinses, and omega 3 supplements may be considered on an individual basis. Recommendations regarding the need for referral and investigation have been made. CONCLUSION: This study identified the appropriateness of olfactory training, different medical treatment options, referral guidelines and imaging for patients with COVID-19-related loss of sense of smell. The guideline may evolve as our experience of COVID-19 develops.

Defining appropriateness criteria for endoscopic sinus surgery in the management of adult dental implant patients with incidental maxillary sinus findings on conebeam computed tomography.

OBJECTIVES: Conebeam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging is commonly requested by dental implant surgeons, preoperatively, for patients being considered for dental implants. Incidental maxillary sinus findings often result in otolaryngology (ENT) referral for further assessment. CBCT findings include transient and benign mucosal changes that may not require any intervention and therefore unnecessarily delay implant surgery. We aim to define appropriateness criteria for ESS in the management of adult dental implant patients with incidental maxillary sinus findings on CBCT and provide guidance to both dental implant and ENT surgeons. DESIGN: The RAND/UCLA appropriateness methodology was used to develop and define the appropriateness criteria. SETTING: A virtual panel of 13 international experts in ESS. PARTICIPANTS: The expert panel completed two rounds of a modified Delphi ranking process for nine clinical scenarios, considering various factors affecting decision-making processes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: To define appropriateness criteria for ESS in adult dental implant patients who have incidental maxillary sinus findings on CBCT. RESULTS: Patients with clinical symptoms and endoscopic findings of chronic rhinosinusitis together with an obstructed ostiomeatal complex (OMC) and concentric mucosal thickening of the ipsilateral maxillary sinus or pansinusitis were deemed appropriate candidates for ESS prior to their dental implant. ESS was not appropriate in asymptomatic patients with a patent OMC and mucosal thickening isolated to floor of the ipsilateral maxillary sinus. For uncertain scenarios, further discussion between dental implant and ENT surgeon should be considered. CONCLUSIONS: This study has developed and reported a list of appropriateness criteria to offer ESS in adult dental implant patients with incidental maxillary sinus findings on CBCT.

Randomized controlled trial: hybrid technique using balloon dilation of the frontal sinus drainage pathway.

BACKGROUND: The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) to evaluate frontal sinus ostial patency following balloon dilation with the Ventera Sinus Dilation System, compared with frontal sinusotomy (Draf 2a); and (2) to compare mean blood loss and mean surgical time for frontal sinusotomy using balloon dilation compared with traditional surgical methods. METHODS: A single blinded, randomized, controlled, prospective study was performed at St. Paul's Sinus Center, Vancouver, a tertiary referral rhinology center. Thirty patients undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) were randomized to a hybrid approach with exposure of the frontal recess using standard instrumentation and then balloon dilation of 1 frontal sinus drainage pathway and traditional frontal sinusotomy for the opposite side. Blood loss and surgical time for opening the frontal sinus drainage pathway was recorded for each side. Patients acted as their own controls. Ostial patency and size were assessed 5 weeks and 3 months postoperatively using endoscopy. Ostial patency was also recorded at 1 year following surgery. RESULTS: All frontal sinus ostia in both groups (n = 30) were successfully opened and were patent with both techniques 3 months postoperatively. All frontal sinus ostia assessed at 1 year (73%) remained patent and none required revision frontal surgery. Balloon dilation showed a mean surgical time of 655 seconds compared to 898 seconds for traditional FESS (p = 0.03). Mean blood loss was less with balloon dilation (58 mL vs 91 mL; p = 0.008). CONCLUSION: A hybrid balloon technique successfully dilates the frontal sinus drainage pathway with reduced blood loss. Also, short-term patency appears to be comparable to traditional frontal sinusotomy.

The safety and performance of a maxillary sinus ostium self-dilation device: a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Balloon dilation is now commonly used to open sinus ostia while preserving mucosa and minimizing trauma. A new maxillary sinus ostium (MSO) self-dilation device that functions on the principle of osmosis, absorbing a small amount of fluid from the surrounding tissues, can be placed into the MSO under endoscopic visualization and slowly enlarge its outer diameter. The slower dilation may further minimize tissue damage and scarring compared to the currently available balloon dilation systems. The MSO self-dilating expansion device has never been studied before in clinical trials; the purpose of this pilot study is to determine the safety and performance of the device in human subjects. METHODS: Twelve chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients presenting with maxillary sinus inflammation requiring FESS were enrolled. The device was inserted into the MSO at the start of surgery and removed after 60 minutes. Endoscopic evaluation for patency was performed immediately after removal, and at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. Adverse events were recorded intraoperatively and at each subsequent visit. RESULTS: The device was successfully inserted in 100% of cases attempted (19/19 MSOs, 12 patients). Seventeen (89%) devices remained in the MSO for 60 minutes and dilated to a mean diameter of 4.8 ± 0.5 mm. One patient was withdrawn from the study. No adverse events occurred during insertion or removal of the device. At 3 months postinsertion 14 of 15 MSO dilated (93%) were confirmed patent. CONCLUSION: Placement of an osmotic self-dilating expansion device in human MSO is safe, achievable and effective at dilating the ostia.

The safety and efficacy of short-term budesonide delivered via mucosal atomization device for chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis.

BACKGROUND: Budesonide is a potent corticosteroid commonly prescribed for management of inflammation in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The standard for prescribing budesonide is via impregnated nasal saline irrigation (INSI), although recently the mucosal atomization device (MAD) has emerged as a theoretically superior method of distributing medication into the sinuses. The MAD atomizes medication into small droplets and this is thought to enhance absorption and improve bioavailability. However, no studies have shown whether enhanced absorption and improved bioavailability of budesonide via MAD causes adrenal suppression. The objective of this study is to determine whether budesonide via MAD affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. METHODS: Twenty CRS patients were recruited from a tertiary rhinology clinic and randomized to take budesonide (1 mg) via MAD or via INSI twice a day for 60 days. The adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test and 22-item Sinonasal Outcomes Test (SNOT-22) questionnaire were administered on days 1, 30, and 60 of the study. Plasma budesonide and cortisol levels were simultaneously quantified using a high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry technique. RESULTS: There was no indication of adrenal suppression in either group (n = 20) based on ACTH stimulation test results nor was there significant plasma budesonide levels detected in either group. Quality of life, as indicated by SNOT-22, did not differ between groups at 60 days (p = 0.404; 95% confidence interval [CI], -37.2 to 15.9), but SNOT-22 scores for patients using MAD did show statistically significant improvement at 60 days compared to baseline (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION: The MAD is likely a safe and effective method of delivering budesonide to the sinuses in the short term.

The efficacy and safety of an office-based polypectomy with a vacuum-powered microdebrider.

BACKGROUND: The waiting time for functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) in the Canadian public healthcare system can be lengthy. Many such patients have significant nasal obstruction resulting in a poor quality of life. A simple and safe office-based polypectomy device to debulk nasal polyps allows immediate alleviation of nasal obstruction and better access for topical medications. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy, safety, and patient tolerability of a vacuum-powered microdebrider in the outpatient clinic setting. METHODS: The clinical charts of patients with CRSwNP who underwent office polypectomy with a vacuum-powered microdebrider between May 2012 and February 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. These patients were either awaiting surgery or had recurrent polyposis postsurgery that was amenable to office polypectomy. Previously completed procedural and clinical outcomes questionnaires by the patients and surgeon were analyzed. RESULTS: Sixty-eight patients underwent office polypectomy in this case series. Fifty-nine procedures (87%) were successfully completed. Failed complete polyp resections were due to fibrous polyps (n = 7; 10%), device failure (n = 1; 1.5%), and obstruction from a deviated nasal septum (n = 1; 1.5%). There was a 43% improvement in nasal obstruction score and significant reduction in polyp grade postpolypectomy. Majority of patients (n = 66; 97%) reported a comfort level of "fair" to "excellent." Bleeding was "light" in 61 cases (90%). There were no complications encountered. CONCLUSION: The vacuum-powered microdebrider is a safe, effective, and well-tolerated instrument to resect nonfibrous nasal polyps in the outpatient setting.

Blood transfusion requirements for endoscopic sinonasal inverted papilloma resections.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic resection of sinonasal Inverted Papilloma (SNIP) tumors has been shown to reduce intra-operative blood loss and recovery time compared to open approaches. The purpose of this study is to investigate the incidence and requirements of blood transfusion for endoscopic SNIP surgeries. METHODS: An individual retrospective cohort study of endoscopic SNIP surgeries over a 10-year period was performed. Age, sex, pre-existing co-morbidity, use of anti-coagulants, tumor type and stage, time of surgery, estimated blood loss and the requirement for blood transfusion were recorded. RESULTS: 82 patients were included (57 males, 25 females). 4 (5%) Stage 1, 7 (8.5%) Stage 2, 62 (75.5%) Stage 3 and 9 (11%) Stage 4 SNIP tumors were identified according to the Krouse staging system. 3 (4%) patients required blood transfusion. 3 of the 9 (33%) Stage 4 tumors required blood transfusion. Stage 4 tumors were significantly associated with blood transfusion (p < 0.05). Higher staged tumors were associated with greater blood loss (p < 0.05) than lower staged cases. No other tumor stage required blood transfusion and no other pre-operative variable was associated with requirement for blood transfusion. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic SNIP resections rarely require blood transfusions. No pre-operative factor other than tumor stage is associated with the requirement for blood transfusion. We would therefore suggest that only Stage 4 SNIP tumors require pre-operative type and screen.

Comparing the reverse Trendelenburg and horizontal position for endoscopic sinus surgery: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the 15-degree reverse Trendelenburg position (RTP) during functional endoscopic sinus surgery improves endoscopic field of view and reduces intraoperative blood loss when compared with the horizontal position (HP). STUDY DESIGN: A prospective, randomized controlled trial. SETTING: St Paul's Sinus Centre, Vancouver, Canada. SUBJECTS: Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), with or without nasal polyposis, receiving functional endoscopic sinus surgery were included. Patients were excluded if they had severe or uncontrolled hypertension and cardiovascular disease, continued use of anticoagulants, impaired coagulation, or a sinonasal tumor. METHODS: Sixty-four patients with CRS undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) were randomized to either 15-degree RTP (experimental arm) or HP (control arm) from October 2011 to February 2012. Boezaart endoscopic field-of-view grading system was the primary outcome measure. Lund-Mackay computed tomography (CT) score, total blood loss, blood loss per minute, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, anesthetic technique, and surgery time were also recorded. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in mean Boezaart scoring between RTP and HP: 1.66 vs 2.33 (P < .001), with RTP producing a better endoscopic field of view. There was also a lower total blood loss and blood loss per minute with RTP (P = .01, P = .03). There was no significant difference in disease severity (P > .05), time of surgery (P > .05), or mean arterial pressure (P > .05) between the 2 surgical positions. CONCLUSION: The 15-degree RTP improves the endoscopic field of view and reduces blood loss during FESS. We would therefore recommend its use.

Evaluation of domestic and Yucatan swine nasal sinus anatomy as models for future sinonasal research of medications delivered by standard instruments used in functional endoscopic sinus surgery.

BACKGROUND: There is a need to find an animal model to study new medications to improve mucosal wound healing after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Current literature suggests swine as a potential candidate. The lack of information correlating swine computer tomography (CT) and endoscopic sinonasal anatomy prompted us to investigate them in the domestic and Yucatan swine to determine their feasibility as models to test new medications and drug-embedded stents applied using FESS techniques. METHODS: Two domestic pig heads and 2 Yucatan pig heads were imaged using helical thin slice (1 mm) CT. Two rhinologists analyzed the images and performed endoscopy on the swine. Particular attention was given to accessing the frontal sinus and suturing stents to the nasal septum using standard endoscopic instruments. RESULTS: CT confirmed that swine sinonasal anatomy is largely similar to human, with all major sinuses present. The middle and inferior turbinates of swine arise from a single uniturbinate. The superior turbinates contain large concha bullosa. Unlike human, swine nasal septum is bone anteriorly and cartilage posteriorly. The frontal sinus ostia, regardless of head size, were consistently around 10 cm from the nasal aperture. On endoscopy, domestic swine frontal sinus ostia were easily accessible for topical medication deposition. Silastic splints can be sutured to the domestic swine septum through the posterior cartilaginous portion, allowing for studies involving medication-eluting material. The narrower nasal cavity of Yucatan pigs prohibited endoscopic maneuvers. CONCLUSION: Domestic swine, but not Yucatan, are a feasible model for future sinonasal research using standard FESS instruments.

Blood transfusion requirements for endoscopic sinonasal inverted papilloma resections.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic resection of sinonasal inverted papilloma (SNIP) tumours has been shown to reduce intraoperative blood loss and recovery time compared to open approaches. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence and requirements of blood transfusion for endoscopic SNIP surgeries. STUDY DESIGN: Individual retrospective cohort study. SETTING: St. Paul's Sinus Centre, a tertiary referral rhinology centre. METHODS: An individual retrospective cohort study of endoscopic SNIP surgeries over a 10-year period was performed. Age, sex, pre-existing comorbidity, use of anticoagulants, tumour type and stage, time of surgery, estimated blood loss, and requirement for blood transfusion were recorded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Incidence of blood transfusion, type and screen, and crossmatch requisitions. RESULTS: Eighty-two patients were included (57 males, 25 females). Four (5%) stage 1, 7 (8.5%) stage 2, 62 (75.5%) stage 3, and 9 (11%) stage 4 SNIP tumours were identified according to the Krouse staging system. Three (4%) patients required blood transfusion. Three of the nine (33%) stage 4 tumours required blood transfusion. Stage 4 tumours were significantly associated with blood transfusion (p < .05). Higher-staged tumours were associated with greater blood loss (p < .05) than lower-staged cases. No other tumour stage required blood transfusion, and no other preoperative variable was associated with the requirement for blood transfusion. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic SNIP resections rarely require blood transfusions. No preoperative factor other than tumour stage is associated with the requirement for blood transfusion. We therefore suggest that only stage 4 SNIP tumours require preoperative type and screen testing.

Total neopharyngeal stenosis following pharyngolaryngo-oesophagectomy with gastric interposition: Successful recanalisation using a transcervical radiologically guided technique.

INTRODUCTION: Pharyngo-oesophageal stricturing is common following treatment of head and neck cancers. Absolute dysphagia secondary to total stenosis, although rare, is particularly debilitating and presents a significant therapeutic challenge. We present a strategy for managing total neopharyngeal stenosis following pharyngolaryngo-oesophagectomy (PLOG). PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 71-year-old female developed total neopharyngeal stenosis following PLOG with gastric interposition for squamous cell carcinoma of the proximal cervical oesophagus/post-cricoid. A transcervical, percutaneous, radiologically guided procedure was performed to restore lumenal patency, which enabled resumption of oral feeding. DISCUSSION: Established treatments for pharyngo-oesophageal strictures are frequently limited by complications in patients with complex strictures or total stenoses. Whilst several interventions have been described, recent interest has focussed on combined antegrade/retrograde endoscopic procedures dilating a pre-existing gastrostomy site for access. This was not possible in our patient due to the surgically altered anatomy which posed a unique therapeutic challenge. CONCLUSION: This is the first reported percutaneous, transcervical, radiologically guided technique to treat neopharyngeal stenosis following PLOG. It demonstrates a novel and efficacious approach which may be considered in the management of this rare but significant complication.