Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Introduction: The nose and throat are areas of high viral load, which could place otolaryngologists at an even higher risk for COVID-19 than other health-care workers. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in otorhinolaryngologists in southern Brazil, its relationship to demographic data, professional practice and reported symptoms of COVID-19, and compare it with official data on other health-care workers of the state and the general population in the same period. Methods: In this cross-sectional multicenter study, otolaryngologists actively practicing officially registered in Rio Grande do Sul were screened for IgM and IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 from August 1 to September 15, 2020. A questionnaire was also applied. Results: We screened 358 (80.1%) of 447 actively practicing otolaryngologists (195 [54.5%] male; mean [SD] age, 47.77 [13.57] years; range, 26-84 years). Twenty-three were positive for IgM and/or IgG (6.4%). This result was significantly associated with reports of infected household contacts (19/315 negatives and 8/23 positives; p<0.001). From 23 seropositive participants, 14 were asymptomatic (60.9%; p< 0.001). There were no significant associations between seroconversion and age, sex, number of patient appointments and surgical procedures, workplace (hospital or private practice), patients with or without respiratory symptoms, or level of personal protective equipment used. The rate of COVID-19 in all health-care workers in the state was 7.69% at the end of the same period. Data from state government seroprevalence was 5.26 (risk ratio [RR]; 95% CI 3.27–8.45) and 4.66 (RR; 95% CI 2.93–7.43) times higher in otolaryngologists than in the general population in August and September, respectively. Conclusion: Otolaryngologists had a higher seroconversion rate than the general population. Using personal protective equipment, the level of occupational exposure did not result in higher rates of infection than other health-care workers, but the presence of infected household contacts was associated with higher rates of seroconversion.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Introduction: The effect of the quantity of olfactory neuroepithelium in the middle turbinate on the postoperative olfactory function for middle turbinate concha bullosa patients has not yet been evaluated. Objective: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the olfactory structures in the middle turbinate by immunohistochemical analysis of the olfactory marker protein and to correlate the immunostaining results with the olfaction test results for patients with middle turbinate concha bullosa. Methods: Surgical materials of 18 middle turbinate concha bullosa patients who had undergone lateral marsupialization surgery were immunostained with olfactory marker protein antibodies. Smell diskettes olfaction test was applied to all of the study group patients both preoperatively and three months postoperatively. A visual analog scale was used to quantify the sense of nasal obstruction. Results: It was observed that the postoperative smell scores and the nasal obstruction visual analog scale values were significantly improved as compared to the preoperative values (p<0.05). In addition, there was a significant correlation between the smell score gain and the visual analog scale gain values (r = 0.682). Results also indicated no significant correlation between the olfactory marker protein staining scores and the smell scores (p > 0.05). Conclusion: This first paper demonstrated that the quantity of the olfactory mucosa in the middle turbinate was not a determining factor for the postoperative smell function degree for middle turbinate concha bullosa patients. The underlying cause of the olfactory deficit for middle turbinate concha bullosa patients seems to be obstruction related rather than the middle turbinate’s olfactory mucosa containing status.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: To compare the efficacy of endoscopic and open resection of sinonasal malignancies. Methods: The search was performed using PubMed (1950–2020), Embase (1974–2020), the Cochrane library, and the website clinicaltrials.gov. The hazard ratio, HR, 95% confidence interval, CI, of the rates of overall survival and disease-free survival and the demographic characteristics of the included studies were extracted and analyzed. Pooled analysis was conducted with the studies’ individual patient data, using log-rank test, Kaplan-Meier survival, and Cox regression analysis. Results: Of 1939 articles retrieved, 23 articles were included. Overall, 1373 cases were incorporated into the final analysis, 653 (47.56%) of which underwent the surgery through an endoscopic approach, whereas 720 (52.44%) cases utilized the open approach. The overall survival was comparable between endoscopic and open resection (HR = 0.84 [95% CI: 0.65–1.07], p = 0.16; random effects analysis). Pooled analysis with Cox regression revealed significant differences in overall survival (HR = 0.568 [95%CI:0.380-0.849], p = 0.006) and disease-free survival (HR = 0.628 [95%CI:0.424-0.929], p = 0.02) between endoscopic and open approaches. Conclusion: The aggregated evidence suggests the survival outcome of endoscopic resection is comparable or greater than that of open resection of sinonasal malignancies.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Introduction: High-volume corticosteroid nasal irrigation is a treatment option in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. In Brazil, alternatives are used to optimize its cost and popularize its use, such as 1% compounded budesonide drops or betamethasone cream, and it is necessary to study these treatment modalities. Objective: To evaluate the clinical response of nasal irrigation with 1% compounded budesonide drops or betamethasone cream compared to nasal sprays utilized in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study with 257 patients. One hundred and eight patients using corticosteroid nasal irrigation (292 treatment cycles) and 149 using corticosteroid nasal spray (300 treatment cycles) were included. Evaluation of subjective improvement, adverse events, exacerbations, and objective assessments with SNOT-22 and Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score were performed, in addition to sub-analyses related to nasal polyps and previous surgery. Results: Corticosteroid nasal irrigation and corticosteroid nasal spray improved the Lund–Kennedy endoscopic score, with more adverse events in the corticosteroid nasal irrigation group. Previous surgery increased corticosteroid nasal irrigation improvement, with greater subjective improvement and fewer exacerbations. 1% compounded budesonide drops were better than betamethasone cream in the Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score, with fewer adverse events. A 1,000 μg dose of 1% compounded budesonide drops was more effective than 500 μg. Conclusion: Corticosteroid nasal irrigation was effective in improving the Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score in chronic rhinosinusitis, especially in patients with nasal polyps and previous surgery, in addition to promoting a higher rate of subjective improvement and fewer exacerbations than corticosteroid nasal spray, but with more adverse events. 1% compounded budesonide drops improved the Lund-Kennedy endoscopic score with fewer adverse events than betamethasone cream, particularly at higher doses (1000 μg).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: We aimed to reveal whether there is nasal involvement by examining the Nasal Mucociliary Clearance (NMC) and the relationship between this activity and disease severity in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients. Methods: In this prospective study, NMC time, disease activity (Disease Activity Score 28) and blood parameters of RA patients (n = 87) were investigated and compared with the healthy control group (n = 50). In addition, the relationship between DAS 28 and NMC was investigated. Results: The mean NMC of the RA group was 9.51 ± 3.54 min, the mean NMC of the control group was 8.69 ± 2.85 min, and there was no significant difference between the two groups. There was no correlation between NMC and disease duration, and DAS 28. The mean NMC of the RA patients with Anti Cyclic Citrulled Peptide (Anti-CCP) positive was significantly higher than the negative ones. Conclusion: Although there was no significant difference in NMC values between the RA and control group, the NMC of the Anti-CCP positive patients was higher. Level of evidence: Level 2.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: Olfaction influences nutrition, safety, and the cognitive development of children. Presently there are few olfactory tests for children, and normative reference values are generally lacking. In this study, we validate the Pediatric Smell WheelTM (PSW) to evaluate olfactory function in Brazilian children. Methods: We modified and validated the PSW, a test developed in the United States, for administration in Brazil, and established normative data for Brazilian children. The validation process consisted of five phases. First, we identified odorants familiar to Brazilian children. Second, we established the test-retest reliability of the Brazilian PSW test that employed these odorants. Third, we compared the test scores of healthy children to those microsmic from adenoid hypertrophy. Fourth, we examined the test’s ability to detect improvement in olfactory function before and after adenoidectomy. Finally, we determined a normative 10th percentile cut point for defining microsmia in a sample of 169 healthy Brazilian children between 5 and 12 years of age. Results: Eleven odors were identified for inclusion in the test. The test-retest reliability was modest (r = 0.54, p < 0.001), although likely attenuated based on the inclusion of only data from children with normal function. The test clearly differentiated the olfactory function of children with adenoid hypertrophy from that of healthy children and demonstrated the return of function after adenoidectomy. An overall score <7 was found useful in defining hyposmia, although additional age-related cut-points were also defined. Conclusion: A Brazilian version of the PSW was developed and validated and found to be efficacious in detecting smell dysfunction in children ranging in age from 5 to 12 years. Level of evidence: 1b (Diagnosis).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: With this radio-anatomical study, we aimed to describe the distribution of the depth of the olfactory fossa based on the Keros classification in the pediatric population in our region and to reduce complication rates by providing normative data. Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted with computed tomography imaging of the paranasal sinuses of 390 pediatric patients referred over a six-year period in Sakarya and Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine. Patients were divided into 3 groups as 1–6, 6–12, and 12–18 years old. The depth of the olfactory fossa was measured and classified according to the Keros classification. The incidence of Keros asymmetries was also investigated. Results: The distribution of the depth of a total of 780 olfactory fossa according to the Keros classification was 24.7% Keros I, 65.9% Keros II, and 9.4% Keros III. When the groups were evaluated with each other and within each group, it was seen that the prevalence of Keros I type was significantly higher in the first group (p < 0.05), and the prevalence of Keros type II was significantly higher in the second and third groups (p < 0.05). Apart from this, the number of Keros type III increased in the third group compared to the first two groups and showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Among all patients, asymmetry of the olfactory fossa was detected in 29 patients (7.4%). Although the number of olfactory fossa asymmetry was low in group I, it was not significantly different between the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: In our study, high Keros I rate and low Keros III rate in children aged -6 were remarkable. Especially for children under the age of six, questions arise about the validity of the Keros classification. More detailed studies in larger populations, in different ethnicities, and with various age groups are needed. Level of evidence: Level 3.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objectives: To highlight the prevalence of respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartomas in the olfactory cleft of patients with nasal polyposis. To demonstrate characteristics indicative of hamartoma on the CT scans of paranasal sinuses during surgery and in histopathological exams. Methods: Cross-sectional study carried out in Hospital das Clínicas da UFMG and Núcleo de Otorrino BH. We performed 114 nasal endoscopic surgeries for polyposis, between February 2015 and November 2019. We assessed the olfactory cleft width in all preoperative CT scans. Upon seeing an indication of hamartoma on the CT scan, we took a tissue sample from the olfactory cleft during the surgery and sent for histopathological exam. We referred the samples to a pathologist experienced in the anatomopathological diagnosis of respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartomas. Results: Of the 114 patients with polyposis, 54 (47.4%) had olfactory cleft enlargement and, 100% of them had tissue with a dense and hardened polypoid aspect, with a slight cerebri-form appearance in this region during the surgery. Histology confirmed a respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartoma. Conclusion: This observation suggests that the presence of hamartomas in polyposis is common, but underdiagnosed. Level of evidence: Step 3 (Level 3).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard treatment for OSA. A wide variety of masks are used during CPAP therapy. The aim of the study is to compare polysomnography outcomes during titration for different types of masks (oronasal, nasal and pillow) and assess the impact on PAP titration. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed all CPAP titration polysomnography for one year. Anthropometric data and baseline apnea severity were documented. Results: A total of 497 patients were evaluated. Nasal masks were used in 82.3% (n = 409), pillow in 14.1% (n = 70) and oronasal in 3.6% (n = 18). There was no difference according to body mass index and baseline apnea-hypopnea index among the groups. The oronasal group was older and had higher titrated CPAP pressure, higher residual apnea-hypopnea index, lower sleep efficiency, more superficial N1 sleep and longer wake time after sleep onset. All other polysomnography outcomes were similar among the groups. The mean CPAP level was 11.6 ± 2.1 cm H2O for the oronasal mask, 10.1 ± 2.1 cm H2O for the nasal mask and 9.8 ± 2.2 cm H2O for the pillow. The residual apnea-hypopnea index was 10.4 ± 7.9 for the oronasal mask, 5.49 ± 5.34 events/h for the nasal mask and 4.98 ± 5.48 events/h for the pillow. The baseline apnea-hypopnea index was correlated with of a higher CPAP pressure for all the groups (p< 0.001 for the nasal group, p = 0.001 for the pillow group and p = 0.049 for the oronasal group). Body mass index and residual AHI were correlated with of a higher CPAP pressure for the nasal and pillow groups only (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The interface can have a significant impact on the effectiveness of PAP titration. Patients with oronasal masks have higher CPAP pressure, higher residual apnea-hypopnea index, lower sleep efficiency and higher wake time after sleep onset. Oronasal masks should not be recommended as the first choice for apnea patients. Level of evidence: Level 3.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objectives: Three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures have many applications such as stem cell biology research, new drug discovery, cancer, and Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP). This disease is characterized by a significant impact on quality of life and productivity. The diversity of factors that act in the progression of CRSwNP point to the creation of a cell culture model that allows the integration of different cell types with extracellular matrix. This work aimed to create a cell culture model in 3 dimensions (spheroids) for the study of Nasal Polyposis. Methods: Nasal polyp tissue from patients diagnosed with CRSwNP was mechanically dissociated using tweezers and a scalpel and the solution containing cells and small aggregates of nasal polyps was transferred to a Petri dish containing 5 mL of culture medium at the concentration of 106 cells/mL. Results: The spheroids were cultivated for 20 days, fixed and analyzed using confocal microscopy. In a 3D culture environment, the spheroids were formed both by clustering cells and from small tissue fragments. In the cultures analyzed, the ciliary beat was present from the dissociation of the cells up to 20 days in culture. Conclusion: Our findings also point to these characteristics showing the environment generated in our study, the cells remained differentiated for a longer time and with ciliary beating. Thus, this work shows that nasal polyp-derived cells can be maintained in a 3D environment, enabling better strategies for understanding CRSwNP in situations similar to those found in vivo. Level of evidence: Laboratory studies.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objectives: During the COVID-19 pandemic, several cases of changes in olfaction and taste associated with the infection have been reported. Therefore, otolaryngologists are frequently the first medical professionals sought by patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of olfaction and taste disorders in patients hospitalized with COVID-19, and their association with other clinical manifestations and patient evolution during hospitalization. Methods: 248 patients, admitted to three public hospitals in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, were prospectively included: Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (HC-UFMG), Hospital Júlia Kubitschek (HJK) and Hospital Eduardo de Menezes (HEM), who, upon admission to hospital, presented with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome due to COVID-19. Clinical and laboratory variables and outcomes during hospitalization were prospectively collected from the electronic medical records. The collection of sociodemographic and symptomatology data during the acute phase was carried out prospectively in electronic medical records and confirmed with the patients at a subsequent outpatient visit. Results: The most frequently reported symptoms were dyspnea (77.4%), cough (69.8%) and fever (55.2%). During the acute phase of the disease, 95 (38.3%) and 87 (35.1%) patients reported taste and olfaction disorders, respectively. There was a lower prevalence of dysosmia among patients with previous comorbidities (p < 0.05). Both symptoms were associated with less need for intensive care admission (p = 0.001 for dysgeusia and p = 0.021 for dysosmia) and a negative correlation with length of hospital stay (dysosmia: r= −0.175, p < 0.05; dysgeusia: r = −0.29, p < 0.001) and length of stay in the ICU (dysosmia: r = −0.136, p < 0.05; dysgeusia: r = −0.215, p < 0.05). The absence of taste disorders was also associated with a greater need for mechanical ventilation (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Changes in taste and olfaction were reported by a large number of patients in the acute phase of COVID-19. In this study, both were markers of better clinical patient evolution. Level of evidence: 1B.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the impact of change in p-value threshold from 0.05 to 0.005, on published Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) over the last ten years in the field of chronic rhinosinusitis. Methods: A search of the PubMed database from 1st January 2011 to 31st December 2020 was conducted to include all RCTs that used p-value to determine the effects of an intervention. Data extracted included p-values, type of intervention, publishing journal with indexing, registration, funding, and multi- or single center status. The proportion of primary endpoints having p < 0.005 was determined first, followed by those with p > 0.005 but <0.05. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine if any trial characteristic was associated with reporting of significant p-values. Results: In total, 168 primary endpoints were identified from 123 RCTs. On analysis, 80 had a p-value <0.05, i.e., statistically significant on conventional parameter. Out of these, 53.75% had a p-value <0.005, which would retain significance under the proposed threshold, and the remaining 46.25% to be reclassified as ‘‘suggestive’’. None of the trial characteristics were contributing to reporting of conventional or proposed p-values on logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: Lowering the p-value threshold would render 46.25% of a decade of published RCTs results (in the field of CRS) to be reclassified as merely ‘‘suggestive’’ and not significant. Trial characteristics were not found contributing to reporting of p-value <0.005 or even <0.05. Level of evidence: II.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence and characteristics of OD through Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) and the Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10) in hypertensive patients with OSA, as well as to describe the sensitivity of EAT-10 for the detection of OD in this population. Methods: This study included a convenience sample in which 85 resistant hypertensive patients diagnosed with OSA in an university hospital participated. Participants were subjected to the EAT-10 (index test) and FEES (reference standard). Results: The median EAT-10 score was 2 (0–5.5). According to the FEES, 27 participants did not have dysphagia, 42 had mild dysphagia and 16 had mild to moderate dysphagia. The sensitivity of the EAT-10 was 70.7% (95% CI: 57.3–81.9) at a cutoff score ≤1, with a discriminatory power of 67.4% (p = 0.005). The most prevalent symptom in this population was “food stuck in the throat”, while the most prevalent signs were delayed initiation of the pharyngeal phase of swallowing, premature bolus spillage and pharyngeal residue. Conclusion: In our study, the cutoff score for the EAT-10 for screening for OD in this population was ≥ 1. In conclusion, this population presented a high prevalence of dysphagia detected in FEES and its severity is associated with higher EAT-10 scores.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: To evaluate, by a three-dimensional study, the volumetric and integumentary effects of rapid maxillary expansion on the nose, in mouth breathing kids with maxillary hypoplasia, in the short term, assessing the possible interference of gender, growth and age on the results achieved. Methods: 120 mouth breathing patients with maxilla hypoplasia were divided into an Experimental Group treated by rapid maxillary expansion (n = 104, 62 males and 42 females, mean age 10.1 years, SD = 2.10, ranging from 5.1 to 13.9 years); and Control Group, constituted by 16 patients (9 males and 7 females, mean age 9.3 years, SD = 2.1 years, ranging from 6.1 to 13.2 years). Patients in the experimental group underwent multislice computed tomography examinations at two different times: (T1) pre-expansion and (T2) post-expansion. The control group was submitted to the same tests at the same time intervals. Six soft tissue variables of the nose were studied, besides the volume and area of the nasal cavity, and the measurement and comparison of data between T1 and T2 were performed using the Dolphin Imaging 11.7 Premium software. Results: The experimental group showed significant mean increases in all soft tissue variables studied (p < 0.005), yet there were no significant changes in the control group. In the comparison between groups, only inclination of the nasal dorsum did not present any significant change. Conclusion: Rapid maxillary expansion may alter the nasal shape and physiology, by anatomical changes in the nose soft tissues, making it an important aid in the treatment of mouth breathing in childhood. Level of evidence: The soft tissues of the nose play an important role in nasal shape and physiology and facial esthetics, and since they are directly related to the nasal valves, they are fundamental for maintenance and stability of the nasal breathing pattern.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: To analyze the anatomical relationship between the lacrimal sac and the agger nasi cell on Computed Tomography (CT); to correlate the right and left sides on each scan. Methods: CT scans of adult patients were reviewed for pneumatization of the agger nasi and its relationship to the lacrimal sac. The degree of agreement between the right and left sides was also evaluated. Results: A total of 130 CT scans were examined. An agger nasi cell was found medial to the lacrimal sac in 59.23% of scans. On 86.15% of scans, pneumatization was similar on both sides. Conclusion: The agger nasi air cell is located medial to the lacrimal sac in more than half of individuals. The right and left sides exhibit the same pneumatization pattern in approximately 80% of cases. Level of evidence: 4.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: To compare recurrence rates and symptomatic relief in symptomatic maxillary sinus Retention Cysts (RCs) between Middle Meatus Antrostomy (MMA) alone and Inferior Meatus Antrostomy (IMA) with basal mucosa electrocoagulation. Methods: Patients with symptomatic unilateral maxillary RCs were randomly allocated to MMA (n = 54) and IMA combined with mucosa electrocoagulation (n = 53) groups. Symptomatic relief, cyst recurrence, and closure of the antrostomy opening were compared at 12-months postoperatively. Results: Symptomatic failure occurred in 13 (12.1%) patients, including 9 (16.7%) MMA and 4 (7.5%) IMA patients; this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.251). Postoperative cyst recurrence occurred in 16 (29.7%) and 1 (1.9%) patient in the MMA and IMA groups, respectively (p<0.0001). Closure of the opening occurred in 7 (13.0%) and 17 (32.1%) patients in the MMA and IMA groups, respectively (p = 0.032). However, there were no significant pairwise correlations between closure of the opening and symptomatic failure or cyst recurrence. Conclusion: IMA combined with basal mucosa electrocoagulation and MMA alone provided similar symptomatic relief for symptomatic maxillary RCs, but IMA had shorter operation times and lower postoperative recurrence rates of RCs. Level of evidence: Level 1b.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objectives: To evaluate the acquisition of surgical skills by otolaryngology residents and established the minimum number of dissections of a lamb’s model to be performed before practicing on human patients. Methods: Nineteen second-year otolaryngology residents performed ten dissections each, five on each nasal cavity, always practicing the same three surgical procedures on the lamb model. Each student’s training lasted 2-months, and the entire training intervention lasted 4-years, over four generations of residents. All dissections were recorded and were selected at random for examination by two independent otolaryngology surgeons, who were otherwise not involved in the research. Assessment of the 190 dissections used an instrument validated for surgical training of medical residents. Results: To a 1% significance level, statistical analysis revealed increased performance and satisfactory results were observed after the sixth dissection. Furthermore, after the eighth dissection, skill acquisition was relevant and sustained. Conclusion: Training in endoscopic nasal surgery on a lamb’s head model improves surgical skills and handling of surgical instruments. Our results showed the relevance of the lamb model for training in otolaryngology surgery, impacting on patient safety. Level of evidence: 2.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the surgical rehabilitation of cleft lip and/or palate by the Brazilian public health system. Methods: Retrospective, analytical and comparative ecological study, with information on hospital procedures performed on individuals with cleft lip and/or palate in Centers authorized by the Brazilian public health system, between the years 2008 and 2020. The information was collected in databases Ministry of Health data. Results: Between 2008 and 2020, there was an increase of 8 (36.4%) qualified Centers in Brazil, currently having 30 Centers in 100% of the geographic regions. The surgical procedures performed totaled 68,716; with multiple surgeries being the most frequent. Complete cleft lip and palate was the most frequent type in hospital admissions. The public financial resources invested in the surgical rehabilitation of cleft lip and palate in the qualified Lip and Palate Malformation Treatment Centers were US$ 39,693 million, making an average value per procedure of US$ 577.64. Conclusions: In Brazil, public health system performed and financed, over the years 2008 and 2020, an important volume of surgical procedures for cleft lip and/or palate, which presented a polarization in the Southeast region but with a slight tendency expansion to other regions of the country. The most performed surgical procedures were multiple surgeries and mostly for individuals with cleft lip and palate. The amounts paid showed a heretogeneous distribution in the national territory. Level of evidence: Level 5: Report containing program evaluation data.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: Formation of scar on the face after septorhinoplasty may disturb the patient due to cosmetic concerns. One of the main factors affecting scar outcomes is probably the suture material used. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of different suture materials on scar outcomes of alar base in patients undergoing septorhinoplasty. Methods: Thirty-one patients who underwent alar base intervention during primary septorhinoplasty were divided into two groups according to the suture material used as the Polypropylene group (n = 16), (Polypropylene, Prolene 6/0; Ethicon Inc., Somerville, NJ, USA) and the Polyglactin group (n = 15), (Irradiated polyglactin 911, Vicryl RapidTM 6/0; Ethicon Inc., Somerville, NJ, USA). The scar outcomes of alar base were compared between the Polypropylene and Polyglactin groups. The modified Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale was used to measure wound healing results at one and 12-months postoperatively for objective evaluation. Patient satisfaction questionnaire was used for subjective evaluation. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale and patient questionnaire scores between Polypropylene and Polyglactin groups. Irradiated Vicryl Rapid had poor cosmetic outcomes in the alar base when compared to polypropylene, indicating no statistically significant difference. Conclusion: Both sutures can be used for closure of alar base considering their advantages and disadvantages, in patients undergoing septorhinoplasty. Level of evidence: Treatment Benefits; Level 2 (Randomized Trial).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: The aim of this retrospective study is to investigate the prevalence of Infraorbital Canal Protrusion (ICP) degree into the maxillary sinus and its relationship with variations in adjacent structures on Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images. Methods: 350 CBCT images (700 Infraorbital Canal [IC]) were evaluated retrospectively. ICP was divided into 3 subtypes according to the protrusion degree. The correlation between IC types and variations in adjacent anatomical structures (Haller cell, middle nasal concha pneumatization, maxillary sinus mucosal thickening and septa) was evaluated. The distance between Infraorbital Canal and Cnine Root (IC-CR) was also measured. For type 3, measurements were performed on IC as the length of the bony septum from the IC to the Mxillary Sinus Wall (IC-MSW), the distance from the inferior orbital rim, where the IC begins to protrude into the maxillary sinus (IOR-ICP), the vertical distance from the IC to the Maxillary Sinus Roof (IC-MSR) and Floor (IC-MSF). Results: The prevalence of type 1, 2 and 3 was 62.9%, 29.1%, and 8% respectively. IC-CR was 10.2, 10.7 and 11.4 mm in type 1, 2 and 3, respectively. IC-MSW, IOR-ICP, IC-MSRand floor IC-MSF was 3.8, 10.9, 7.4 and 27.7mm, respectively. On the right and left side, statistically significant correlation was found between IC types and the presence of the Haller cell and sinus septa. But there was no significant correlation between IC types and middle concha pneumatization. Conclusion: Accurate diagnosis of ICP is very important in preventing infraorbital nerve damage in surgical procedures to be performed in the maxillary region. The results of this study could be a guide for surgical planning in this region. Level of evidence: Retrospective study.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objectives: Nigella sativa oil is known antiallergic and immunomodulatory effects. We aimed to compare this oil with mometasone furoate, a topical steroid, on a rat model in the prevention of allergic rhinitis symptoms. Methods: A total of 28 two-to-four-month-old Wistar Hannover rats weighing 250–350 g were randomly divided into four groups of seven, which included control, allergic rhinitis, mometasone furoate, and Nigella sativa oil groups. Loss of cilia, an increase of goblet cells, vascular proliferation, inflammatory cell count, eosinophil infiltration, and the degree of hypertrophy in chondrocytes were assessed by light microscopy. Results: The frequency of nasal scratching in the Nigella sativa oil group was found to be significantly lower compared with the allergic rhinitis group (p < 0.05). Typical inflammatory changes seen in allergic rhinitis were not detected in the Nigella sativa oil group. No inflammation was observed in 85.7% of both the healthy control group and the Nigella sativa oil group. In addition, no inflammation was observed in 71.4% of the mometasone furoate group, and this difference was found to be significant compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, eosinophil infiltration, cilia loss, chondrocyte hypertrophy, vascular proliferation, and goblet cell increase were found to be significantly decreased in the mometazone furoate and Nigella sativa oil groups compared to the allergic rhinitis group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: According to the findings obtained from this study, we found anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects of Nigella sativa oil as equally effective as mometasone furoate in the treatment of experimentaly generated allergic rhinitis. Level of evidence: IV.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objectives: Hypertrophic palatine tonsils play a role in the blockage of the upper airway, one of the known causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Therefore, it is possible that there is an association between tonsil size and the success of pharyngeal surgery during OSA treatment. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between tonsil grade and volume, as well as to establish whether a relationship exists between tonsil size and the success rate of pharyngeal surgery (tonsillectomy and pharyngoplasty with barbed sutures). Methods: This retrospective study includes forty-four adult patients who underwent tonsillectomy and pharyngeal surgery with barbed sutures for the treatment of simple snoring and OSA between January 2016 and September 2019. Patients who had been previously tonsillectomized or those for whom tonsil volume measurement was lacking were excluded. All patients underwent a pre-operative physical exploration at the clinic exam room and a sleep study. Prior to surgery a Drug Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) was performed. Tonsil volume was measured intraoperatively using the water displacement method. The same sleep study was repeated six months following surgery. Results: A significant correlation was found between tonsil grade and volume and between such measurements and the blockage observed at the level of the oropharynx during the DISE. Moreover, an association was observed between tonsil volume, but not tonsil grade, and the success of tonsillectomy and pharyngoplasty with barbed sutures. A tonsil volume greater than 6.5 cm3 was linked to success during pharyngeal surgery. Conclusion: A correlation exists between tonsil grade and tonsil volume. A bigger tonsil volume is associated with a greater success rate of oropharyngeal surgery during treatment of OSA. Level of evidence: Level 3, non-randomized cohort study.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: The present prospective clinical study aimed to investigate the effects of rapid maxillary expansion on the airway, correlating airway volumes obtained on multi-slice computed tomography and polysomnography assessment of oxygen saturation and apnea/hypopnea index. Methods: Twenty-four patients (11 with obstructive sleep apnea and 13 with residual snoring, mean age 10.0 (1.8), were enrolled in the study. Each patient underwent multislice computed tomography and nocturnal polysomnography before rapid maxillary expansion and after removal of maxillary expansion after six months. Airway regions were segmented, and volumes were computed. Results: The increase in oropharyngeal volume was significant in both groups. Oxygen saturation and apnea/hypopnea index were not statistically significant. No correlation was found between total airway volume, oxygen saturation, and apnea/hypopnea index changes between the time points examined. Conclusions: This study showed that when rapid maxillary expansion is performed in individuals with sleep-disordered breathing, there were statistically significant differences in oropharyngeal volume between pre- and post-rapid maxillary expansion, but there was no correlation between oxygen saturation values and oropharyngeal volume increase. Level of evidence: The article is classified as Evidence Level 3 (Three).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to report 6 cases of sinonasal/basicranial myxofibrosarcoma and review demographic data, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, therapeutic methods, and prognosis on this subject in the literature. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of six patients referred to our hospital during a 10-year period from 2010 to 2020. Results: In this series, there were four males and two females. The tumours originated from the maxillary sinus in all six cases. The symptoms were nonspecific, and all patients underwent endoscopic resection alone or combined with open resection. The postoperative period was uneventful. All patients were diagnosed with myxofibrosarcoma. After a median follow-up period of 36 (6–52) months, the recurrence rate of MFS was 66.7% (4/6), and the mortality rate was 50% (3/6). Conclusion: Sinonasal/basicranial MFS is a rare neoplasm, and the most common primary site is the maxillary sinus. When diagnosing MFS, osteolysis may help rule out benign lesions. So far surgery is the mainstay of treatment for sinonasal/basicranial MFS. Our surgical strategy using endoscopic resection or endoscopic resection combined with open resection to achieve a negative surgical margin and using re-excision operations to treat relapsed cases may be recommended to rhinologists who treat MFS. Prospective randomised trials are needed to study the role of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and our surgical strategy for sinonasal/basicranial MFS. Diagnosing patients at an earlier stage and better patient compliance with follow-up plans may improve the prognosis of patients.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objectives: Nasal polyps that originate from the sphenoid sinus and reach the nasopharynx are called sphenochoanal polyps. Reports on sphenochoanal polyps in children have thus far been limited only to case reports. This review aims to describe and summarize clinical presentation, diagnosis, management, surgical approaches to the sphenochoanal polyps with recurrence rate after surgery in pediatric patients reported in the literature. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library Databases for articles published prior to December 2021 to identify all studies reporting on pediatric patients with sphenochoanal polyps. Clinical presentation, management options, surgical approaches and outcomes of applied management were extracted from included studies. Results: 9 articles provided data on 11 eligible patients with an age range 3 years and 8 months-16 years. The commonest symptoms included: nasal obstruction, nasal discharge, and headache respectively. All patients were subjected to surgical treatment. No recurrences after the endoscopic sphenoidotomy were reported. Conclusion: Sphenochoanal polyps should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of unilateral nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses masses. Misdiagnosis can result in recurrences in patients with sphenochoanal polyp, who can be mistakenly diagnosed with antrochoanal polyp and underwent inadequate treatment not involving sphenoidotomy and exact identification of the site of implantation. The symptoms of sphenochoanal polyps are nonspecific.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Objective: Sleep is fundamental for both health and wellness. The advent of “on a chip” and “smartphone” technologies have created an explosion of inexpensive, at-home applications and devices specifically addressing sleep health and sleep disordered breathing. Sleep-related smartphone Applications and devices are offering diagnosis, management, and treatment of a variety of sleep disorders, mainly obstructive sleep apnea. New technology requires both a learning curve and a review of reliability. Our objective was to evaluate which app have scientific publications as well as their potential to help in the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of sleep disordered breathing. Methods: We search for relevant sleep apnea related apps on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. In addition, an exhaustive literature search was carried out in MEDLINE, EMBase, web of science and Scopus for works of apps or devices that have published in the scientific literature and have been used in a clinical setting for diagnosis or treatment of sleep disordered breathing performing a systematic review. Results: We found 10 smartphone apps that met the inclusion criteria. Conclusions: The development of these apps and devices has a great future, but today are not as accurate as other traditional options. This new technology offers accessible, inexpensive, and continuous at home data monitoring of obstructive sleep apnea, but still does not count with proper testing and their validation may be unreliable.