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Objective: Patients undergoing free flap reconstruction of the oral cavity have traditionally received nothing by mouth for 6-14 days postoperatively to limit the risk of wound complications. Growing evidence suggests that initiation of oral intake may not increase the morbidity. This study further investigates the utility of "early feeding.", Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at a large, urban tertiary healthcare system. Patients who underwent free flap reconstruction for oral cavity cancer between June 1, 2020, and October 31, 2022, were grouped as early feeding (oral intake on or before Postoperative Day 5) or late feeding (LF) (oral intake after Postoperative Day 5). Outcomes included rate of orocutaneous fistula, development of other local or systemic complications, and hospital length of stay (LOS)., Results: Sixty six patients were studied, with 26 belonging to the LF group and 40 to the early feeding (EF) group. The LF group was significantly older (median age 64.5 vs. 80 years, p = 0.027) and more likely to have a defect extending beyond the oral cavity (25.0% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.037). No significant differences were found in orocutaneous fistula formation between the LF and EF groups (7.7% vs. 0%, p = 0.152), but the rate of total complications was significantly higher in the LF group (38.5% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.014). LOS was significantly longer in the LF group (12.5 vs. 6 days, p < 0.001)., Conclusion: These findings suggest that in the correctly suggested patient population, early postoperative oral intake may facilitate earlier hospital discharge without increasing the risk of postoperative complications., (© 2025 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Objective: Despite the rising incidence of pediatric differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), postoperative outcomes for such tumors have not been well-characterized. The objective of this study was to compare pathologic tumor characteristics and treatment outcomes for pediatric and adult patients with DTC., Study Design: Retrospective case-control study., Setting: National database., Methods: Pediatric (<18 years old) and adult (≥18 years old) patients who underwent surgery for DTC in the National Cancer Database (2004-2020) were included. Multivariable logistic, negative binomial, and linear regressions were used to compare pathologic tumor characteristics, treatment characteristics, and short-term surgical outcomes., Results: 337,864 patients with DTC met the study eligibility criteria; 3584 (1.1%) were pediatric patients and 334,280 (98.9%) were adults. After adjustment, pediatric patients were found to have higher rates of pathologic T upstaging (adjusted odds ratio [OR adj ]: 1.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23-1.59), N upstaging (OR adj : 2.53, 95% CI: 2.23-2.88), and extrathyroidal extension (OR adj : 1.58, 95% CI: 1.29-1.94), compared to adult patients. Pediatric patients were also more likely to receive neck dissection (OR adj : 2.80, 95% CI: 2.55-3.07) and radioactive iodine (OR adj : 1.42, 95% CI: 1.30-1.55). Pediatric patients had higher rates of positive surgical margins (OR adj : 1.25, 95% CI: 1.11-1.41) and 30-day readmissions (OR adj : 1.26, 95% CI: 1.00-1.58) than adult patients., Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that pediatric DTC is associated with more aggressive disease presentations, more radical treatment, and worse short-term surgical outcomes compared to DTC in adults. Pediatric DTC should be considered a unique clinical entity that requires personalized evaluation and multidisciplinary treatment by specialized providers., (© 2024 American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation.)

Introduction: Microbiome research has predominantly focused on the oral cavity and oropharynx's role in disease, while the upper airway, specifically the larynx and trachea, has been relatively overlooked. Examining the microbial communities in these regions can shed light on how dysbiosis influences diseases and their management. This review evaluates laryngotracheal microbial compositions in both healthy and diseased patients., Methods: We conducted a systematic review in EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central databases, yielding 1383 studies in the initial search. Inclusion criteria involved participants aged over 18 years and the use of next-generation 16s ribosomal sequencing methods., Results: We included 10 studies-seven focused on larynx sequencing and four on trachea sequencing (one investigated both sites). In a healthy larynx, diverse species such as Streptococcus, Cloacibacterium, Prevotella, and Helicobacter were found. Benign laryngeal diseases exhibited reduced microbial diversity, mainly dominated by Streptococcus. Subglottic stenosis patients showed diminished diversity in both idiopathic and iatrogenic scars. Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma displayed increased diversity, primarily featuring Fusobacterium. Among non-respiratory-compromised surgery patients, the tracheal microbiome was more diverse in diabetics and those later developing lower respiratory infections. Pneumonia patients exhibited an abundance of Prevotella and Streptococcus, linked to an increased 28-day survival rate, while Streptococcus and Haemophilus abundance correlated with successful extubation., Conclusions: The laryngotracheal region hosts a unique microbial community influenced by both benign and malignant conditions. Many lesions remain unexplored, underscoring the need for future studies encompassing diverse laryngotracheal conditions. Clinical trials assessing microbiome modifications may unveil novel therapeutic avenues., Level of Evidence: NA Laryngoscope, 134:4167-4175, 2024., (© 2024 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Background: In 2018, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network treatment guidelines began recommending the use of neck dissection during surgical management of stage I-II supraglottic laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC)., Methods: Trends and factors associated with the use of neck dissection during larynx-preserving surgery for patients with cT1-2, N0, M0 supraglottic LSCC in the National Cancer Database (2004-2020) were evaluated using multivariable-adjusted logistic regression., Results: Of the 2080 patients who satisfied study eligibility criteria, 633 (30.4%) underwent neck dissection. Between 2018 and 2020, the rate of neck dissection was 39.0% (114/292). After multivariable adjustment, academic facility type, undergoing biopsy prior to surgery, and more radical surgery were significant predictors of receiving neck dissection., Conclusions: The results of this national analysis suggest that the utilization of guideline-concordant neck dissection for management of stage I-II supraglottic LSCC remains low and highlight the need to promote the practice of neck dissection for this patient population., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Introduction: The function of the vocal folds (VFs) is determined by the phenotype, abundance, and distribution of differentiated cells within specific microenvironments. Identifying this histologic framework is crucial in understanding laryngeal disease. A paucity of studies investigating VF cellular heterogeneity has been undertaken. Here, we examined the cellular landscape of human VFs by utilizing single-nuclei RNA-sequencing., Methods: Normal true VF tissue was excised from five patients undergoing pitch elevation surgery. Tissue was snap frozen in liquid nitrogen and subjected to cellular digestion and nuclear extraction. Nuclei were processed for single-nucleus sequencing using the 10X Genomics Chromium platform. Sequencing reads were assembled using cellranger and analyzed with the scanpy package in python., Results: RNA sequencing revealed 18 global cell clusters. While many were of epithelial origin, expected cell types, such as fibroblasts, immune cells, muscle cells, and endothelial cells were present. Subcluster analysis defined unique epithelial, immune, and fibroblast subpopulations., Conclusion: This study evaluated the cellular heterogeneity of normal human VFs by utilizing single-nuclei RNA-sequencing. With further confirmation through additional spatial sequencing and microscopic imaging, a novel cellular map of the VFs may provide insight into new cellular targets for VF disease., Level of Evidence: NA Laryngoscope, 134:3193-3200, 2024., (© 2024 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Objective: To summarize the use of deep learning in the detection of voice disorders using acoustic and laryngoscopic input, compare specific neural networks in terms of accuracy, and assess their effectiveness compared to expert clinical visual examination., Data Sources: Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central., Review Methods: Databases were screened through November 11, 2023 for relevant studies. The inclusion criteria required studies to utilize a specified deep learning method, use laryngoscopy or acoustic input, and measure accuracy of binary classification between healthy patients and those with voice disorders., Results: Thirty-four studies met the inclusion criteria, with 18 focusing on voice analysis, 15 on imaging analysis, and 1 both. Across the 18 acoustic studies, 21 programs were used for identification of organic and functional voice disorders. These technologies included 10 convolutional neural networks (CNNs), 6 multilayer perceptrons (MLPs), and 5 other neural networks. The binary classification systems yielded a mean accuracy of 89.0% overall, including 93.7% for MLP programs and 84.5% for CNNs. Among the 15 imaging analysis studies, a total of 23 programs were utilized, resulting in a mean accuracy of 91.3%. Specifically, the twenty CNNs achieved a mean accuracy of 92.6% compared to 83.0% for the 3 MLPs., Conclusion: Deep learning models were shown to be highly accurate in the detection of voice pathology, with CNNs most effective for assessing laryngoscopy images and MLPs most effective for assessing acoustic input. While deep learning methods outperformed expert clinical exam in limited comparisons, further studies integrating external validation are necessary., (© 2024 American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Foundation.)

Background: Traditionally, patients undergoing free flap reconstruction for oral cavity defects have been given nothing by mouth for 6-14 days post-operatively due to concern for orocutaneous fistula development., Methods: Multiple databases were screened for studies assessing the rate of orocutaneous fistula formation in early (≤5 days) versus late (>5 days) feeding groups following oral cavity free flap reconstruction. Fixed- and random-effects meta-analyses were used., Results: One randomized controlled trial, one prospective cohort, and three retrospective cohort studies were included. The early feeding group displayed no significant increase in orocutaneous fistula formation (RD = -0.02, p = 0.06) or free flap failure (RD = -0.01, p = 0.39), with a significantly shorter hospital length of stay (mean difference [days] = -2.43, p < 0.01)., Conclusions: While further prospective trials are necessary, initiation of oral intake before post-operative day 5 may be appropriate in properly selected patients following oral reconstruction., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) of the laryngeal nerves has become an important tool for neck endocrine surgery. In this article, the authors review the current evidence behind its use in neck endocrine procedures. The subtypes of IONM, including intermittent IONM, continuous vagal IONM (vagal-CIONM), and laryngeal adductor reflex CIONM, will be discussed. Finally, the authors review recent advances in IONM, and how standardization of outcomes reporting will help minimise conjecture regarding the usefulness of IONM., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The COVID-19 pandemic precipitated drastic changes in cancer care. Its impact on the U.S. head and neck cancer population has yet to be fully understood. This study aims to understand the impact of pandemic-related changes on the head and neck cancer population. An observational study of head and neck cancer patients at a single institution during the spring of 2020 and 2019 was performed. Clinical characteristics and survival outcomes were analyzed. In 2020, 54 head and neck cancer patients were evaluated in the department of radiation oncology vs. 74 patients seen in 2019; 42% of the patients were female in 2019 versus 24% in 2020 ( p = 0.036). The median follow-up time was 19.4 and 31 months for 2020 and 2019, respectively. After adjusting for stage, the relapse-free survival probability at 6 and 12 months was 79% and 69% in 2020 vs. 96% and 89% in 2019, respectively ( p = 0.036). There was no significant difference in the overall survival, with 94% and 89% in 2020 and 2019, respectively ( p = 0.61). Twenty-one percent of patients received induction chemotherapy in 2020 versus 5% in 2019 ( p = 0.011); significantly more treatment incompletions occurred in 2020, 9% vs. 0% in 2019 ( p = 0.012). Moreover, the stage-adjusted RFS differed between cohorts, suggesting head and neck cancer patients seen during the initial wave of COVID-19 may experience worse oncologic outcomes.

Objective: Simulation may be a valuable tool in training laryngology office procedures on unsedated patients. However, no studies have examined whether existing awake procedure simulators improve trainee performance in laryngology. Our objective was to evaluate the transfer validity of a previously published 3D-printed laryngeal simulator in improving percutaneous injection laryngoplasty (PIL) competency compared with conventional educational materials with a single-blinded randomized controlled trial., Methods: Otolaryngology residents with fewer than 10 PIL procedures in their case logs were recruited. A pretraining survey was administered to participants to evaluate baseline procedure-specific knowledge and confidence. The participants underwent block randomization by postgraduate year to receive conventional educational materials either with or without additional training with a 3D-printed laryngeal simulator. Participants performed PIL on an anatomically distinct laryngeal model via trans-thyrohyoid and trans-cricothyroid approaches. Endoscopic and external performance recordings were de-identified and evaluated by two blinded laryngologists using an objective structured assessment of technical skill scale and PIL-specific checklist., Results: Twenty residents completed testing. Baseline characteristics demonstrate no significant differences in confidence level or PIL experience between groups. Senior residents receiving simulator training had significantly better respect for tissue during the trans-thyrohyoid approach compared with control (p < 0.0005). There were no significant differences in performance for junior residents., Conclusions: In this first transfer validity study of a simulator for office awake procedure in laryngology, we found that a previously described low-cost, high-fidelity 3D-printed PIL simulator improved performance of PIL amongst senior otolaryngology residents, suggesting this accessible model may be a valuable educational adjunct for advanced trainees to practice PIL., Level of Evidence: NA Laryngoscope, 134:318-323, 2024., (© 2023 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Purpose: For patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), locoregional failure and second primary tumors are common indications for adjuvant reirradiation (re-RT). Given an absence of clear consensus on the role of adjuvant re-RT, we sought to assess histopathologic risk factors of patients with HNSCC and their resulting outcomes after adjuvant re-RT with proton therapy., Methods and Materials: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with HNSCC who underwent salvage surgery at our institution followed by adjuvant re-RT with proton therapy over 1.5 years. All included patients received prior radiation therapy. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate locoregional recurrence-free survival and overall survival., Results: The cohort included 22 patients, with disease subsites, including oropharynx, oral cavity, hypopharynx, larynx, and nasopharynx. Depending on adverse pathologic features, adjuvant re-RT to 66 Gy (32% of cohort) or 60 Gy (68%), with (59%) or without (41%) concurrent systemic therapy was administered. The majority (86%) completed re-RT with no reported treatment delay; 3 patients experienced grade ≥3 acute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events toxicity and no patient required enteral feeding tube placement during re-RT. Median follow-up was 21.0 months (IQR, 11.7-25.2 months). Five patients had biopsy-proven disease recurrences a median of 5.9 months (IQR, 3.8-9.7 months) after re-RT. Locoregional recurrence-free survival was 95.2%, 70.2%, 64.8% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. OS was 100%, 79.2%, and 79.2% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Four patients had osteoradionecrosis on imaging a median of 13.2 months (IQR, 8.7-17.4 months) after re-RT, with 2 requiring surgical intervention., Conclusions: Adjuvant re-RT for patients with HNSCC was well-tolerated and offered reasonable local control in this high-risk cohort but appears to be associated with a risk of osteoradionecrosis. Additional study and longer follow-up could help define optimal patient management in this patient population., Competing Interests: Marshall Posner reports royalties or licenses from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; consulting fees from Naveris, Hookipa, Cel-SCI; participation on a Data Safety Monitoring Board or Advisory Board with Merck, Calliditas, Frizent, and Vivant Therapeutics. The remaining authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (© 2023 The Author(s).)

Background: The prognostic impact of depth of invasion (DOI) in American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition TNM staging for oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCCa) across oral cavity subsites is unknown., Methods: Overall survival of patients with pT1-4a OCSCCa in the National Cancer Database (2010-2017), stratified by tumor size and DOI across eight oral cavity subsites, was evaluated using multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazards modeling., Results: When stratified by tumor size ≤2 cm and >2 cm, DOI >5 mm and DOI >10 mm were only associated with worse overall survival, respectively, for tumors of the oral tongue (Tumor size ≤2 cm, DOI >5 mm v DOI ≤5 mm: HR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.12-1.53, p < 0.001; Tumor size >2 cm, DOI >10 mm v DOI ≤10 mm: HR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.01-1.30, p = 0.03). DOI >5 mm and DOI >10 mm was not prognostic for any other tumor location., Conclusions: These findings suggest that the current staging schema for DOI in OCSCCa may not be prognostic across all oral cavity subsites., (© 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: The impact of evaluating versus not evaluating surgical margins for early-stage laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) has not been evaluated., Methods: Overall survival was compared between patients who underwent endoscopic surgery for cT1-2, N0, M0 LSCC and had surgical margins evaluated versus not evaluated versus unevaluable in the National Cancer Database (2010-2019) using multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazards analyses., Results: 7597 patients met study eligibility criteria. 4123 (54.3%) patients underwent margin evaluation, 1631 (21.5%) did not undergo margin evaluation, and 1843 (24.3%) had unevaluable margins. Patients undergoing margin evaluation had better overall survival than patients who did not undergo margin evaluation (HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.78-1.00, p = 0.044) and patients with unevaluable margins (HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.78-0.98, p = 0.021). Patients undergoing margin evaluation received significantly less adjuvant radiation., Conclusions: Surgical margin evaluation is an important prognostic factor for patients receiving endoscopic surgery for early-stage LSCC and should be conducted whenever possible., (© 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Objective: Laryngoscopy corresponding with laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) is essential in diagnosing vocal fold paresis. However, baseline asymmetry or other diseases oftentimes confound the exam, making diagnosis difficult. There is currently no agreed upon endoscopic criteria proven to reliably correlate with LEMG findings. We define a set of endoscopic findings termed "paresis triad" that, when present together, reliably correlate with LEMG. The paresis triad consists of (1) hypocontraction of the weak side of the larynx with increased ventricular show, (2) hypercontraction of the intact side with bulging of the false fold covering the ventricle, and (3) tilting of the interarytenoid cleft to the weak side., Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients with laryngeal asymmetry on laryngoscopy. Patients were divided into two groups: those with consistent paresis triad findings across all pitches and intensities, and those without. All patients underwent LEMG by a neurolaryngologist blinded to the laryngoscopic findings. The endoscopies were then rereviewed in a blinded manner by a second laryngologist to assess inter- and intrarater reliability for identification of the triad., Results: Twelve patients met inclusion criteria (age 50 +/-15, 7F:5M). Nine had the paresis triad. Three had an inconsistent triad. All patients with the paresis triad had LEMG findings consistent with neurologic injury on the suspected side. All patients with inconsistent triad findings had normal LEMG., Conclusions: Our findings suggest the proposed laryngoscopic paresis triad may be useful objective criteria to diagnose paresis without the need for LEMG. Further prospective studies should examine a larger series of patients., Level of Evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 133:1712-1716, 2023., (© 2022 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate patient satisfaction with speech-language therapy televisits and to identify factors influencing the level of satisfaction., Methods: Participants were recruited from an academic tertiary voice and swallowing center who had completed ≥1 telehealth session of speech-language therapy with a speech-language pathologist between March, 2020 and April, 2021. Patient satisfaction was assessed using the Short Assessment of Patient Satisfaction (SAPS), a validated 7-item survey. Demographic characteristics of participants were collected from a review of patient charts., Results: 65/239 patients completed the SAPS survey, representing a response rate of 27%. The average age of study participants was 54.92 ± 16.45 years, with 49.2% identifying as female, 33.9% as male, and 16.9% as trans-female. The mean SAPS score was 22.60 ± 3.89, with 84.62% of patients satisfied or very satisfied with their visit. Patients were most satisfied with provider respect (3.91 ± 0.34) and care received (3.74 ± 0.64), and least satisfied with visit length (2.32 ± 1.38) and explanation of treatment results (2.62 ± 1.72). Patient satisfaction was positively correlated with younger age and an increased number of televisits. Satisfaction did not differ significantly by gender identity, type of therapy received, insurance type, travel distance, or prior in-person therapy., Conclusion: Clinicians are able to achieve high patient satisfaction with speech-language therapy when delivered by telehealth. Patient satisfaction remained high across diverse patient populations and range of clinical needs. Clinicians should remain cognizant of the unique limitations of older patients when conducting telehealth visits., Lay Summary: Clinicians are able to achieve high patient satisfaction with speech-language therapy when delivered via telehealth. Satisfaction remained high regardless of gender identity, type of therapy received, type of insurance, travel distance, or completion of prior in-person therapy., Level of Evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 133:895-900, 2023., (© 2022 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Objectives: Neurogenic Laryngeal Hypersensitivity (NLH) refers to a constellation of upper airway symptoms thought to be caused by a disturbance in afferent and/or efferent neural pathways creating an exaggerated hypersensitive laryngeal response. There is evidence to support behavioral therapy as treatment for improving symptoms from laryngeal motor dysfunction to sensory disturbance. This study aims to determine if there is significant symptomatic improvement in patients with NLH who received non-pharmacologic behavioral treatment performed by trained SLPs., Study Design: A retrospective review., Methods: A review of all patients with NLH from 2017 to 2020 was performed at a tertiary care voice and swallowing center. Subjects with persistent symptoms despite maximal medical management were considered for inclusion. Newcastle Laryngeal Hypersensitivity Questionnaire (NLHQ) was completed by patients before and after undergoing therapy by one of three trained SLPs. Posttherapy improvement was determined by utilizing the NLHQ's minimal clinically important difference of 1.7 points., Results: A total of 81 patients were included in this study. Study participants included 61 women and 20 men with an average age of 60.64±14.05 years. There was a statistically significant difference between the pre and post therapy scores amongst all patients when treated by each individual SLP and all three SLPs combined (P < 0.008). There was a clinically significant change in 66% of all patients, 76% of which presented with abnormal NLHQ scores, and 14% who presented with normal NLHQ scores., Conclusions: A standardized behavioral treatment protocol for patients with symptoms consistent with NLH is effective in improving symptoms in a large majority of patients. When following a standardized protocol SLPs can obtain similar results for their patients., (Copyright © 2022 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Demonstrate an understanding of incobotulinumtoxinA efficacy in the treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia (SD). Understand that incobotulinumtoxinA can successfully be used as an alternative to onabotulinumtoxinA and for secondary non-responders., Methods: We conducted a prospective open-label trial from 2016 until 2019 regarding the use of incobotulinimtoxinA for the treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia. Exclusion criteria included pregnant/nursing women, botulinum toxin for other indications, known allergy, neuromuscular or systemic diseases, use of aminoglycoside antibiotics, substance abuse, litigation regarding prior therapy, or other confounding conditions. Sixty-four injection sessions with completed with sixteen patients who were enrolled in the study and underwent EMG-guided incobotulinumtoxinA injections to the thyroarytenoid (TA) muscle using a hollow monopolar Teflon-coated needle via a trans-cricothyroid membrane approach. Dosages to each TA muscle were recorded and patients completed a Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10), a validated worksheet regarding their perceived percent of normal function (PNF) following treatment, and a side effect profile. Outcomes were analyzed using the paired t-test., Results: For primary transitioners to incobotulinimtoxinA, VHI-10 scores and best percent normal function did not significantly change. For non-responders, VHI-10 decreased from 32.5 on Botox to 19.5 on incobotulinimtoxinA and best PNF increased from 37.6 to 90 %, which was statistically significant. Transient side effects included breathiness., Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that incobotulinimtoxinA may be used successfully for adductor SD either as first line treatment or in secondary non-responders to onabotulinumtoxinA., (Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Thirty percent of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are at least 70 years of age. This number continues to rise as life expectancy continues to increase. Still, older adults with HNSCC remain underrepresented in clinical trials, resulting in ambiguity on optimal management. Older adults are a complex patient population, often requiring increased support due to issues relating to functional and performance status, medical comorbidities, and medication management. Furthermore, in older adults with HNSCC, many of these conditions are independently associated with increased toxicity and worse outcomes. Toxicity in the older adult remains difficult to predict and to understand, and as treatment decisions are based on treatment tolerability, it is essential to understand the toxicities and how to minimize them. Novel predictive scores are being developed specifically for older adults with HNSCC to understand toxicity and to assist in personalized treatment decisions. There are clinical trials presently underway that are investigating shortened radiation courses and novel, less toxic systemic treatments in this population. In the forthcoming sections, we provide a detailed overview of the clinical data, treatment paradigms, and considerations in this population. This review provides a comprehensive overview of existing clinical data and clinical considerations in the older adult head and neck cancer population. Additionally, we provide a detailed overview of pertinent current and ongoing clinical trials, as well as future areas for investigation.

Objectives: Respiratory, voice, and swallowing difficulties after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may result secondary to upper airway disease from prolonged intubation or mechanisms related to the virus itself. We examined a cohort who presented with new laryngeal complaints following documented SARS-CoV-2 infection. We characterized their voice, airway, and/or swallowing symptoms and reviewed the clinical course of their complaints to understand how the natural history of these symptoms relates to COVID-19 infections., Methods: Retrospective review of patients who presented to our department with upper aerodigestive complaints as sequelae of prior infection with, and management of, SARS-CoV-2., Results: Eighty-one patients met the inclusion criteria. Median age was 54.23 years (±17.36). Most common presenting symptoms were dysphonia ( n  = 58, 71.6%), dysphagia/odynophagia ( n  = 16, 19.75%), and sore throat ( n  = 9, 11.11%). Thirty-one patients (38.27%) presented after intubation. Mean length of intubation was 16.85 days (range 1-35). Eighteen patients underwent tracheostomy and were decannulated after an average of 70.69 days (range 23-160). Patients with history of intubation were significantly more likely than nonintubated patients to be diagnosed with a granuloma (8 vs. 0, respectively, p  < .01). Fifty patients (61.73%) were treated for SARS-CoV-2 without requiring intubation and were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with muscle tension dysphonia (19 vs. 1, p  < .01) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (18 vs. 1, p  < .01)., Conclusion: In patients with persistent dyspnea, dysphonia, or dysphagia after recovering from SARS-CoV-2, early otolaryngology consultation should be considered. Accurate diagnosis and prompt management of these common underlying etiologies may improve long-term patient outcomes., Level of Evidence: 4., (© 2022 The Authors. Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of The Triological Society.)

Purpose of Review: The optimal diagnosis and management of dystonic voice disorders are rooted in the nuanced understanding of their phenomenology. Distinguishing between subtypes of vocal dystonia is challenging, not only because the audible and physical presentations of these dystonia's can seem similar, but also because there is a lack of scientific consensus regarding the diagnostic criteria for these conditions. To help improve the clinician's acumen we focus on outlining the classification of the top three neurological voice disorders, notably: spasmodic dysphonia, (2) spasmodic dysphonia with tremor, and essential tremor of the voice. We also provide an algorithmic approach based on current evidence-based literature to guide practitioners through the clinical diagnosis and management of each possible etiology., Recent Findings: Much remains unknown about the subtypes of vocal dystonia, and this gap in our knowledge likely limits our ability to advance clinical management. Still, continued experience evaluating and treating these patients yields refined clinical evaluations and decision making., Summary: Improvements in our clinical decision-making can be made by acknowledging that our limited understanding of vocal dystonia may hinder what therapeutic interventions we can offer, yet our ability to accurately diagnose the dystonia is central to providing optimal patient management., (Copyright © 2021 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Static endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (SEES) is an instrumental evaluation developed for in-office identification of patients who may benefit from a modified barium swallow study (MBSS). We aim to determine the predictive value of SEES for evaluating dysphagia., Methods: A retrospective case series was performed on adults evaluated for dysphagia using SEES followed by MBSS at a single tertiary care center. Studies were evaluated by two blinded expert raters., Results: Fifty-eight patients were included. Thin liquid penetration on SEES had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 0.86 (95% CI 0.70-0.95), 0.63 (95% CI 0.24-0.91), 0.91 (95% CI 0.76-0.98), and 0.5 (0.19-0.81), respectively, for predicting thin liquid penetration on MBSS, and 1.0 (95% CI 0.59-1.0), 0.29 (95% CI 0.15-0.47), 0.23 (95% CI 0.10-0.41), and 1.0 (95% CI 0.69-1.0) for predicting thin liquid aspiration on MBSS. Thin liquid aspiration on SEES had a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 0.67 (95% CI 0.09-0.99), 0.85 (95% CI 0.66-0.96), 0.33 (95% CI 0.04-0.78), and 0.96 (95% CI 0.79-1.0), respectively, for predicting thin liquid aspiration on MBSS., Conclusions: SEES may be used as an objective in-office test to screen for aspiration and penetration. Thin liquid penetration on SEES is moderately sensitive for predicting penetration on MBSS. Absence of thin liquid penetration or aspiration on SEES has a high NPV for excluding aspiration on MBSS. Abnormalities on SEES or the need to view the entire swallowing mechanism should prompt an MBSS for a more complete evaluation of dysphagia.Level of Evidence: 4., Competing Interests: The authors declare no potential conflict of interests., (© 2021 The Authors. Laryngoscope Investigative Otolaryngology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of The Triological Society.)

Objective: A ranula is a mucus-filled salivary pseudocyst that forms in the floor of the mouth, commonly arising from the sublingual or submandibular salivary glands following obstruction or trauma. Complete excision of the injured gland and removal of the cyst content is the first-choice therapy, but has the potential for complications related to injury to nearby structures. As such, minimally invasive approaches such as percutaneous sclerotherapy have been investigated. We aim to contribute to the literature by assessing the efficacy and safety of our technique through our experience with 18 patients over the last decade., Methods: This retrospective study evaluated 18 patients with intraoral and plunging ranulas treated by percutaneous bleomycin ablation. The primary endpoint was the treatment result. Secondary endpoints included bleomycin dosage and complications., Results: The study evaluated 12 males and six females with a median age of 23.5 years (range 13-39 years). At a final follow-up of at least 2 months (6.5±5.5 months), four patients demonstrated complete response (22%) and 14 patients demonstrated residual presence, recurrence, or regrowth of the lesion (78%). There were no statistically significant associations between outcomes and history of prior treatment, number of treatments, and size or type of ranula. No complications were noted., Conclusions: Our findings indicate that bleomycin, while safe for use in various head and neck malformations, is of limited utility in ranula therapy when the offending gland is not addressed primarily.

Objectives/hypothesis: To determine the impact of electronic consultation on the otolaryngology clinic workflow at our high-volume public hospital., Study Design: Retrospective Observational Study., Methods: This is a retrospective observational analysis study. Operational data regarding clinic volume, referral patterns, and scheduling efficiency were assessed over a 9-month period in 2018 prior to implementation of electronic consultation. The same data were collected for the 9-month period immediately following implementation of electronic consultation in 2019., Results: During the pre-implementation (pre-EC) period, 3,243 otolaryngology referrals were made as compared to 4,249 post-implementation (post-EC). 86% of referrals were scheduled for a clinic appointment pre-EC, compared to 61% post-EC (P < .00001) 24.5% of patients were evaluated within 30 days pre-EC compared to 53.6% post-EC (P < .00001). The average time to be seen by an otolaryngology provider declined from 60.8 days pre-EC to 42.8 days post-EC (P = .0029). There was a 50% decline in the percentage of appointments canceled by patients in the post-EC period as compared to pre-EC., Conclusions: In our experience, implementation of electronic consultation significantly reduced both wait times for a clinic appointment and the percentage of no-show or canceled appointments. Electronic consultation may be a valuable tool in improving the efficiency and yield of the modern otolaryngology clinic., Level of Evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1792-E1796, 2021., (© 2020 American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society Inc, "The Triological Society" and American Laryngological Association (ALA).)

Purpose: To present the results of our implementation of a four-dimensional computed tomography- (4DCT) based parathyroid localization protocol for primary hyperparathyroidism at a safety net hospital., Methods: We performed a retrospective review of all patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism at Elmhurst Hospital Center from June 2016 - September 2019. Patients treated prior to the implementation of 4DCT during October 2018 served as historical controls for comparison. Imaging-related costs and hospital charges were obtained from the Radiology Department for each patient., Results: Forty-two patients underwent parathyroid surgery during the study period. Twenty patients had undergone 4DCT while 22 had nuclear medicine studies with or without ultrasonography. The sensitivity and specificity of 4DCT was 90.4% and 100% respectively, compared to 63% and 93.7% for nuclear imaging studies and 41% and 95% for ultrasound. The mean number of glands explored was significantly less in the 4DCT group, 1.8 ± 1.19 versus 2.77 ± 1.26 (p = 0.01). There was no increase in infrastructure or personnel costs associated with 4DCT implementation., Conclusions: 4DCT represents an increasingly common imaging modality for pre-operative parathyroid localization. Here we demonstrate that 4DCT is associated with a reduction in the number of glands explored and enables minimally invasive parathyroid surgery. 4DCT is a cost-effective and clinically sound localization study for parathyroid localization in an urban safety-net hospital., (Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Objective: To determine whether surgical case volume is a predictive factor of surgical outcomes when managing geriatric patients with head andneck cancer., Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. Data were obtainedfrom the Vizient Database, which included a total of 93 academicinstitutions. Men and women aged between 65 and 100 years undergoing head and neck cancer surgery during 2009 and 2012,excluding cases of thyroid cancer and skin cancer of the head and neck(n = 4544) were included in the study. Hospital case volume was definedas low (≤21 cases/year), moderate (22-49 cases/year), or high (≥50 cases/year). The frequency of comorbidities and complications wasmeasured by hospital case volume using a χ 2 test. Significancewas determined with an α level of .05., Results: The largest number of head and neck cancer cases involving comorbidities (90.54%) and the highest rate of overall complications(27.50%) occurred in moderate case volume institutions compared to athe complication rate of 22.89% in low volume hospitals and 21.50% in highvolume hospitals ( P < .0001). The most common comorbidities across all3 hospital case volumes included hypertension, metastatic cancer,and chronic pulmonary disease and the most common complicationsincluded hemorrhage/hematoma and postoperative pulmonarycompromise., Conclusion: With more geriatric patients requiring surgery for head andneck cancer, it would be beneficial to manage the more complex cases at high volume centers and to develop multidisciplinary teams to optimizecase management and minimize complications.

Objectives: Virtual reality (VR) has been used as nonpharmacologic anxiolysis benefiting patients undergoing office-based procedures. There is little research on VR use in laryngology. This study aims to determine the efficacy of VR as anxiolysis for patients undergoing in-office laryngotracheal procedures., Study Design: Randomized controlled trial., Setting: Tertiary care center., Methods: Adult patients undergoing office-based larynx and trachea injections, biopsy, or laser ablation were recruited and randomized to receive standard care with local anesthesia only or local anesthesia with adjunctive VR. Primary end point was procedural anxiety measured by the Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS). Subjective pain, measured using a visual analog scale, satisfaction scores, and procedure time, and baseline anxiety, measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), were also collected., Results: Eight patients were randomized to the control group and 8 to the VR group. SUDS scores were lower in the VR group than in the control group with mean values of 26.25 and 53.13, respectively ( P = .037). Baseline HADS scores did not differ between groups. There were no statistically significant differences in pain, satisfaction, or procedure time. Average satisfaction scores in VR and control groups were 6.44 and 6.25, respectively ( P = .770). Average pain scores were 3.53 and 2.64, respectively ( P = .434)., Conclusion: This pilot study suggests that VR distraction may be used as an adjunctive measure to decrease patient anxiety during office-based laryngology procedures. Procedures performed using standard local anesthesia resulted in low pain scores and high satisfaction scores even without adjunctive VR analgesia., Level of Evidence: 1., (© The Authors 2021.)

Objective: To determine the natural history of vocal fold cysts, by undertaking a retrospective analysis of data from a single clinical institute., Methods: All patients diagnosed with vocal fold cysts were identified from January 2006 to June 2018. A total of 87 patients that elected not to have surgery or who had an interval of observation greater than 90 days prior to surgical intervention were further analyzed. The primary outcome was whether the cyst enlarged, reduced in size, resolved or ruptured. The secondary outcome measures were whether cyst characteristics (translucent or opaque by gross appearance and/or the presence of inflammation), voice therapy or duration of follow up (≤/> 300 days) had an impact upon natural history., Results: There were 65 females and 22 males (47 years ±17). The mean duration of follow up was 589 days (Range 21 - 4523 days). The majority of cysts did not change (70.11%). The rest enlarged (12.64%), reduced in size (13.79%), resolved (1.15%) or ruptured (1.15%). There was no statistically significant relationship between the presence or absence of clinical signs of inflammation (P = .633) or voice therapy (P = .785) on natural history. There was an equivocal relationship between gross cyst appearance and natural history (P = .054), however there was a statistically significant relationship between the duration of follow up (P = .006) and natural history., Conclusion: Most vocal fold cysts appear to remain static in size over time. About 30% change, with half of these enlarging and half shrinking. In addition to some possibility of change in size, there is a small chance of resolution or spontaneous rupture with potentially serious consequences to the voice., Level of Evidence: 4. Laryngoscope, 130:2202-2207, 2020., (© 2019 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Objective: To determine whether the presence of a concomitant upper respiratory tract infection (URI) impacts upon Botulinum toxin (BoNT) efficacy in spasmodic dysphonia (SD) patients., Study Design: Case series and literature review., Methods: All SD patients with a concurrent URI, presenting for BoNT therapy at a clinical research center from November 2016 to December 2017 were included. A total of 12 patients were identified. Patients were followed for at least two BoNT treatment cycles (approximately 6 months). The primary outcome measure was efficacy of the initial BoNT injection and the secondary outcome measure was the efficacy of the subsequent BoNT injection., Results: All subjects had adductor type SD (ADSD). There were 10 females and two males with a median age of 55 years (±19.5). All patients were well established on a consistent BoNT treatment regime, with an average administered dose of 1.0 unit (range 0.2-1.80 units). Bilateral injections were administered to 10 patients. Regarding the primary outcome measure, five failed to have any response to BoNT (41.7%), four had a partial response (33.3%), and three had a positive response to treatment (25.0%). When patients had their follow-up injection in the absence of URI symptoms, 11 patients had a positive response to treatment (91.7%)., Conclusion: While the interplay between illness and BoNT efficacy is yet to be elucidated, we report that some patients are affected. We recommend that SD patients presenting for BoNT administration with a concomitant URI, should be counseled that their treatment might have decreased effect., Level of Evidence: 4 Laryngoscope, 130:1746-1749, 2020., (© 2019 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

A 65-year-old female presented with a foreign body sensation following an asthmatic attack associated with severe coughing. Six years earlier, the patient underwent medialization laryngoplasty (ML), which was complicated by a small tear (2 mm) in the right ventricle. One year following this, the patient developed Gore-Tex extrusion but elected only for partial removal. Healing was complete until 5 years later; on examination, the patient had evidence of Gore-Tex extrusion through the right ventricle. Implant extrusion is a recognized complication of ML. This case demonstrates several important surgical steps that can benefit otolaryngologists at all stages of their surgical career. Laryngoscope, 129:1420-1422, 2019., (© 2018 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy (surgery + adjuvant RT) versus adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (surgery + adjuvant CRT) in patients with T4N0M0, stage IV head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)., Methods: Between 1998 and 2011, 3518 and 885 patients were treated with surgery + adjuvant RT and surgery + adjuvant CRT, respectively. Three-year overall survival (OS) rates were determined and crude and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed., Results: Median follow-up was 41.8 months with 2193 reported deaths. The 3-year OS was 67.5% for surgery + adjuvant RT and 70.5% for surgery + adjuvant CRT (P = .013). For negative margins, the corresponding 3-year OS was 70.1% and 74.9% (P = .005). For positive margins, the corresponding 3-year OS was 56.0% and 60.6% (P = .079). On multivariate analysis, the beneficial effect for adjuvant CRT over adjuvant RT was not significant (HR 0.90; CI 0.79-1.03; P = .124)., Conclusion: In this cohort of patients with T4N0 HNSCC treated with surgery, there was no observed survival benefit of adjuvant CRT over adjuvant RT on multivariate analysis., (© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Objectives/hypothesis: Randomized trials have demonstrated that adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) confers an overall survival (OS) benefit over adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) alone in patients with resected head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with adverse pathologic features (positive surgical margins [SM+] and/or extracapsular extension [ECE]). Whether this OS benefit exists in an elderly population remains unknown., Study Design: Retrospective database study., Methods: Using the National Cancer Database, we identified 1,686 elderly patients (age ≥70 years) with resected HNSCC with SM+ and/or ECE, who received adjuvant CRT (491 patients, 29%) or adjuvant RT alone (1,195 patients, 71%) between 1998 and 2011. Three-year survival rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method both before and after propensity score matching (PSM). Crude and adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed using Cox regression modeling., Results: Median follow-up was 23.5 and 42.8 months for all and surviving patients, respectively. Three-year OS was 50.7% and 44.4% among patients receiving adjuvant CRT and RT alone, respectively (P = .002). On multivariate analysis, there was no significant improvement in OS with adjuvant CRT relative to adjuvant RT alone (HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.73-1.06). Similarly, a PSM cohort showed no significant difference in the 3-year OS for patients receiving adjuvant CRT versus adjuvant RT alone (48.8% and 50.9%, respectively; P = .839)., Conclusions: Although the addition of chemotherapy to adjuvant RT has been proven effective in randomized trials of patients with resected HNSCC with SM+ or ECE, it may be less efficacious in an elderly patient population treated outside of a controlled trial setting., Level of Evidence: 2c. Laryngoscope, 128:831-840, 2018., (© 2017 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Objective: Determine whether facility type effects overall survival in patients with oral cavity cancer., Study Design: Retrospective cohort study., Methods: Patients included in the National Cancer Database who were diagnosed with oral cavity cancer between 1998 and 2011 were included in the study. Data was stratified by facility where care was provided, including community cancer programs (CCP), comprehensive community cancer programs (CCCP), and academic centers (AC). Univariate analysis was performed using analysis of variance, chi squared, and log-rank test, whereas multivariate analysis was performed using Cox regression., Results: A total of 32,510 patients were included in the study, with 7.58% of patients receiving care at CCPs (n = 2,553), 39.53% at CCCPs (n = 12,852), and 52.61% at ACs (n = 17,105). Between 1998 and 2011, there was a greater percentage of patients receiving care at ACs, and a greater percentage of patients receiving surgical therapy versus nonsurgical therapy. Patients treated at ACs had the best 5-year overall survival of 51.26%, with a significant difference across facility types (P < 0.01). After adjusting for confounders, receiving care at ACs was a positive predictor of survival (hazard ratio: 0.95 95% confidence interval [0.91,0.98]))., Conclusion: Patients treated at ACs are more likely to receive surgical treatment, and have a greater 5-year overall survival compared to those patients treated at CCPs and CCCPs. Therefore, we advocate referring patients with advanced oral cavity cancers to ACs., Level of Evidence: 4. Laryngoscope, 127:2551-2557, 2017., (© 2017 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Purpose: Determine whether marital status is a significant predictor of survival in human papillomavirus-positive oropharyngeal cancer., Materials and Methods: A single center retrospective study included patients diagnosed with human papilloma virus-positive oropharyngeal cancer at Boston Medical Center between January 1, 2010 and December 30, 2015, and initiated treatment with curative intent at Boston Medical Center. Demographic data and tumor-related variables were recorded. Univariate analysis was performed using a two-sample t-test, chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test, and Kaplan Meier curves with a log rank test. Multivariate survival analysis was performed using a Cox regression model., Results: A total of 65 patients were included in the study with 24 patients described as married and 41 patients described as single. There was no significant difference in most demographic variables or tumor related variables between the two study groups, except single patients were significantly more likely to have government insurance (p=0.0431). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in 3-year overall survival between married patients and single patients (married=91.67% vs single=87.80%; p=0.6532) or 3-year progression free survival (married=79.17% vs single=85.37%; p=0.8136). After adjusting for confounders including age, sex, race, insurance type, smoking status, treatment, and AJCC combined pathologic stage, marital status was not a significant predictor of survival [HR=0.903; 95% CI (0.126,6.489); p=0.9192]., Conclusions: Although previous literature has demonstrated that married patients with head and neck cancer have a survival benefit compared to single patients with head and neck cancer, we were unable to demonstrate the same survival benefit in a cohort of patients with human papilloma virus-positive oropharyngeal cancer., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives/hypothesis: Evaluate the impact of case volume and other variables on cost and mortality after head and neck oncologic surgery in the geriatric population., Study Design: Cross-sectional study., Methods: The Vizient database was accessed for data on geriatric patients (age ≥65 years) who underwent surgery for head and neck cancers (excluding thyroid and skin cancer) at full member academic medical centers between 2009 and 2012. Multivariate, linear regression analyses, χ 2 tests, and analysis of variance were applied to evaluate significant associations between hospital case volume and independent variables including cost, cost index, mortality, mortality index, length of stay, length of stay index, and readmission rates., Results: A total of 4,544 patients were included. Total length of stay was 6.72 days in high-volume hospitals, compared to 8.12 days and 7.91 days in moderate- and low-volume hospitals, respectively (P = .0144). Frequency of intensive care unit stays was 36.5% in high-volume hospitals, compared to 42.19% and 40.29% in moderate- and low-volume hospitals, respectively (P = .0048). Mortality (0.78%) and average cost per case ($21,834) was lower, but nonsignificant in high-volume hospitals. Using multiple regression analysis, major severity of disease was positively associated with complication rate (P < .0001) and length of stay (P = .0481)., Conclusions: After controlling for other factors, high-volume academic medical centers have a lower intensive care unit stay, but no difference in mortality or average cost per case when compared to low-volume hospitals., Level of Evidence: 2b. Laryngoscope, 127:2539-2544, 2017., (© 2017 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Background: The decision to undergo laryngectomy carries medical, social, and emotional consequences. This study evaluates the understandability and actionability of current laryngectomy information., Methods: Laryngectomy-related educational materials from an online search were evaluated using the validated Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT). Reading difficulty was calculated using the Flesch-Kincaid Level, Flesch Reading Ease, Gunning-Fog Index (GFI), Coleman-Liau Index, Automated Readability Index, and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) score. Interrater agreement was assessed using Cohen's kappa. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship among readability, understandability, and actionability., Results: Forty-four articles were included. Interrater agreement was substantial (κ = 0.71). Mean understandability was 68.3% ± 17% and mean actionability was 66.3% ± 24%. Average reading difficulty exceeded the ability of an average American adult. There was a negative correlation between readability and understandability (R = -0.49; P < .05)., Conclusion: Most laryngectomy information is too difficult for the average person to read, understand, or act upon. Revisions may be warranted to benefit a larger readership., (© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: The objective was to assess demographic and survival patterns in patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma of the base of tongue., Methods: Patients were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database from 1973 through 2012 and were categorized by age, gender, race, historical stage A, and treatment. Incidence and survival were compared with Kaplan Meier curves and mortality hazard ratios., Results: A total of 216 patients were included. After adjusting for age, gender, race and tumor-directed treatment, patients over the age of 70years had a significantly increased mortality [HR=2.847, 95% CI (1.499, 5.404) p=0.0014]. Furthermore mortality among patients with distant disease was significantly increased [HR=2.474 95% CI (1.459, 4.195) p=0.00008]., Conclusion: By examining the largest collection of patients we have demonstrated that there is a significant difference in mortality based on both the age at diagnosis and in the setting of distant disease., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Tremor, affecting a dystonic body part, is a frequent feature of adult-onset dystonia. However, our understanding of dystonic tremor pathophysiology remains ambiguous as its interplay with the main co-occurring disorder, dystonia, is largely unknown. We used a combination of functional MRI, voxel-based morphometry and diffusion-weighted imaging to investigate similar and distinct patterns of brain functional and structural alterations in patients with dystonic tremor of voice (DTv) and isolated spasmodic dysphonia (SD). We found that, compared to controls, SD patients with and without DTv showed similarly increased activation in the sensorimotor cortex, inferior frontal (IFG) and superior temporal gyri, putamen and ventral thalamus, as well as deficient activation in the inferior parietal cortex and middle frontal gyrus (MFG). Common structural alterations were observed in the IFG and putamen, which were further coupled with functional abnormalities in both patient groups. Abnormal activation in left putamen was correlated with SD onset; SD/DTv onset was associated with right putaminal volumetric changes. DTv severity established a significant relationship with abnormal volume of the left IFG. Direct patient group comparisons showed that SD/DTv patients had additional abnormalities in MFG and cerebellar function and white matter integrity in the posterior limb of the internal capsule. Our findings suggest that dystonia and dystonic tremor, at least in the case of SD and SD/DTv, are heterogeneous disorders at different ends of the same pathophysiological spectrum, with each disorder carrying a characteristic neural signature, which may potentially help development of differential markers for these two conditions.

For complex reconstruction of osseous defects of the head and neck, three-dimensional (3D) computer planning has been available for over 20 years. However, despite its availability and recent refinements, it is a technology that has not been widely adopted. While 3D computer planning has been proposed to improve surgical precision, reduce operating time and enhance functional outcomes, the objective evidence supporting these claims is limited. Here we review the recent literature that supports the use of 3D computer planning for complex osseous defects of the mandible. We highlight a case example where 3D modeling played a critical role, particularly during the virtual surgical planning stage. Finally, we propose that routine post-operative 3D analysis become an essential element in determining operative success. Critical evaluation of outcomes will better define its use in complex reconstruction of osseous defects., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Laryngeal dystonia (LD) is a task-specific focal dystonia of unknown pathophysiology affecting speech production. We examined the demographics of anecdotally reported alcohol use and its effects on LD symptoms using an online survey based on Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap™) and National Spasmodic Dysphonia Association's patient registry. From 641 participants, 531 were selected for data analysis, and 110 were excluded because of unconfirmed diagnosis. A total of 406 patients (76.5 %) had LD and 125 (23.5 %) had LD and voice tremor (LD/VT). The consumption of alcohol was reported by 374 LD (92.1 %) and 109 LD/VT (87.2 %) patients. Improvement of voice symptoms after alcohol ingestion was noted by 227 LD (55.9 % of all patients) and 73 LD/VT (58.4 %), which paralleled the improvement observed by patient's family and/or friends in 214 LD (57.2 %) and 69 LD/VT (63.3 %) patients. The benefits lasted 1-3 h in both groups with the maximum effect after 2 drinks in LD patients (p = 0.002), whereas LD/VT symptoms improved independent of the consumed amount (p = 0.48). Our data suggest that isolated dystonic symptoms, such as in LD, are responsive to alcohol intake and this responsiveness is not attributed to the presence of VT, which is known to have significant benefits from alcohol ingestion. Alcohol may modulate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying abnormal neurotransmission of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in dystonia and as such provide new avenues for novel therapeutic options in these patients.

Objective: The aim of this study was to document the rate of pathologic neck disease in patients presenting with metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) to the parotid gland following parotidectomy and neck dissection in the clinically and radiologic negative neck., Study Design: Case series with chart review., Setting: Tertiary referral center., Subjects and Methods: The study involved a retrospective chart review from 1999 to 2008 of patients presenting with metastatic CSCC to the parotid at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia., Results: Eighty-one patients with metastatic parotid disease were identified. A total of 51 (63%) patients had no clinical or radiological evidence of cervical nodal disease. Forty-five patients (88%) were male, median age was 69 (range, 42-91) years, and the median follow-up was 16 (interquartile range, 9-44) months. Thirty-four of these patients underwent a parotidectomy and neck dissection with/without postoperative radiotherapy (RT). Occult pathological cervical nodal disease was found in 5 (14.7%) patients. Of those who received a neck dissection, 3 patients relapsed in the parotid, 1 in the neck alone, and 1 distantly., Conclusion: This series has shown that the rate of pathologically involved neck nodes in patients with metastatic CSCC to the parotid in the clinically node negative neck is low. Given many of these patients warrant postoperative RT to the parotid bed, an elective neck dissection may not be warranted as the parotid and neck may be treated in continuity with RT.