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The aim of the study was comparing the diagnostic role of the white light (WL) endoscopy, video laryngostroboscopy (VLS), and narrow-band imaging (NBI) in the evaluation of the benign vocal fold lesions.From March 2018 to June 2019, a total of 118 cases were enrolled in this study. Ninety-eight patients were suspected with vocal fold nodules, cysts, polyps, and sulcus vocalis and 20 patients without a history of dysphonia. Each patient was examined by WL, VLS, and NBI endoscopy. Recorded images and videos were analyzed and scored by three otorhinolaryngologists who had at least 3 years of experience in phoniatrics field. The evaluation results were compared between the methods and the physicians.A total of 118 cases were grouped by their confirmed diagnosis, vocal fold nodules (n = 28), vocal fold cyst (n = 24), vocal fold polyp (n = 9), and sulcus vocalis (n = 37). When the correct diagnosis rates of the physicians were compared, the statistical significance was found between the physicians in the WL and VLS method (P= 0.014, P= 0.027). No statistically significant difference was found among physicians in NBI method (P = 0.368). The difference between the diagnostic methods was found to be statistically significant in reaching the accurate diagnosis for benign vocal fold lesions (P0.001). While the difference between NBI-WL and VLS-WL was statistically significant (P0.001 and P0.001). The difference between NBI-VLS was not statistically significant while evaluating the vocal fold nodules, cysts, and sulcus vocalis separately (P= 0.102, P = 0.026, P = 0.157). Otherwise, it was statistically significant (P= 0.002) while evaluating total benign lesions in the study. The difference between NBI-VLS combination and VLS, NBI-VLS combination and VLS-WL combination were statistically significant (P0.001 and P= 0.001).This study showed that NBI assessments have similar accuracy and sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) to VLS and have a higher value than WL endoscopy in reaching the diagnosis for benign vocal fold lesions. Therefore, NBI can be accepted as a promising approach to identify benign laryngeal lesions due to its optical properties.

PURPOSE: Several bedside clinical tests have been proposed to predict difficult tracheal intubation. Unfortunately, when used alone, these tests show less than ideal prediction performance. Some multivariate tests have been proposed considering that the combination of some criteria could lead to better prediction performance. The goal of our research was to compare three previously described multivariate models in a group of adult patients undergoing general anesthesia. METHODS: This study included 220 patients scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia. A standardized airway evaluation which included modified Mallampati class (MM), thyromental distance (TMD), mouth opening distance (MOD), head and neck movement (HNM), and jaw protrusion capacity was performed before anesthesia. Multivariate models described by El-Ganzouri et al., Naguib et al., and Langeron et al. were calculated using the airway data. After anesthesia induction, an anesthesiologist performed the laryngoscopic classification and tracheal intubation. The sensitivity, specificity, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the models were calculated. RESULTS: The overall incidence of difficult laryngoscopic view (DLV) was 12.7%. The area under curve (AUC) for the Langeron, Naguib, and El-Ganzouri models were 0.834, 0.805, and 0.752, respectively, (Langeron...>...El-Ganzouri, p...=...0.004; Langeron...=...Naguib, p...=...0.278; Naguib...=...El-Ganzouri, p...=...0.101). The sensitivities were 85.7%, 67.9%, and 35.7% for the Langeron, Naguib, and El-Ganzouri models, respectively. CONCLUSION: The Langeron model had higher overall prediction performance than that of the El-Ganzouri model. Additionally, the Langeron score had higher sensitivity than the Naguib and El-Ganzouri scores, and therefore yielded a lower incidence of false negatives.

Background and objectives Several anthropometric measurements have been suggested to identify a potentially difficult airway. We studied thyromental height (TMH) as a predictor of difficult laryngoscopy and difficult intubation. We also compared TMH, ratio of height to thyromental distance (RHTMD), and thyromental distance (TMD) as predictors of difficult airway. Methods This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in 300 adult surgical patients requiring tracheal intubation. Preoperatively airway characteristics were assessed. Standard anesthesia was administered. Degree of difficulty with mask ventilation, laryngoscopic view, duration of laryngoscopy, and difficulty in tracheal intubation (intubation difficulty scale score) were noted. Multivariate logistics regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors for difficult laryngoscopy. Results Laryngoscopy was difficult in 46 of 300 (15.3%) patients; all 46 patients had Cormack-Lehane grade 3 view. Duration of laryngoscopy was 27 ± 11 s in patients with difficult laryngoscopy and 12.7 ± 3.9 s in easy laryngoscopy; p = 0.001. Multivariate analysis identified that TMH, presence of short neck, and history of snoring were independently associated with difficult laryngoscopy. Incidence of difficult intubation was 17.0%. A shorter TMH was associated with higher IDS scores; r = -0.16, p = 0.001. TMH and duration of laryngoscopy were found to be negatively correlated; a shorter TMH was associated with a longer duration of laryngoscopy; r = -0.13, p = 0.03. The cut-off threshold value for TMH in our study is 4.4 cm with a sensitivity of 66% and a specificity of 54%. Conclusion Thyromental height predicts difficult laryngoscopy and difficult intubation. TMD and RHTMD did not prove to be useful as predictors of difficult airway.

Summary Background The field of laryngology has grown exponentially since the advent of the transnasal flexible laryngoscopy. Flexible laryngoscopy when performed skillfully using the proper technique, facilitates a good view of the hidden areas of the larynx. Objective To compare the effectiveness of the topical agents in providing a more comfortable experience for the patient, allowing the practitioner to advance the endoscope with less friction, pain and discomfort for the patient using 10% lidocaine spray, 2% lidocaine gel, 4% lidocaine with xylometazoline (1:1) soaked pledgets, or aqueous gel. Materials and Methods A prospective randomized single-blinded clinical trial was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India where 376 patients were recruited and allocated into four groups based on the topical preparation used. Following endoscopy, each subject filled a questionnaire grading their experience on a visual analogue scale. The clinician also then answered a questionnaire on aspects of the endoscopy performed. Results The pain score and the ease of performing the procedure among the different groups were comparable. Those in the 10% lidocaine arm experienced significant burning sensation (P = 0.0001). The other variables such as throat pain (P = 0.783), gag reflex (P = 0.318), unpleasant taste (P = 0.092), globus (P = 0.190), swallowing difficulty after the procedure (P = 0.273), difficulty in breathing (P = 0.744) and willingness to have a repeat procedure (P = 0.883) were also comparable. Conclusion Aqueous gel can be used topically during a flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy instead of an anesthetic agent alone or one combined with a nasal decongestant.

Summary Objective The aim of this study is to explore the accuracy of two different approaches: transoral versus transnasal office-based laryngeal biopsy. Design Cohort-selection cross-sectional study. Setting Outpatient clinic of Phoniatrics in El Demerdash Hospital, faculty of medicine, Ain Sham University, Cairo, Egypt). Participants The study included all patients aged 18 years or more with suspicious lesions of the larynx or the oropharynx who are eligible for biopsy who came to the outpatient clinic due to different reasons during the period of March 2017 and March 2020. Main outcome measures Patients with suspicious lesions were referred for office-based-based biopsy—either transnasal biopsy or transoral biopsy. All patients were referred for subsequent direct laryngoscopy for definitive diagnosis. Results The overall sample was 60 cases with 30 in each group. The majority of both groups were smokers. The most frequent cause of referral for biopsy was suspicious laryngeal mass. The number of biopsies obtained was significantly higher in the transoral group. Both approaches were tolerated by all patients with few limited aspiration or epistaxis. The sensitivity of the transoral approach was compared with that of direct laryngoscopy and was 95.8% with a specificity of 83.3%. The sensitivity of the transnasal approach was compared with that of direct laryngoscopy and was 26.3%; the specificity was 90.9%. Conclusion The transoral approach to obtaining a biopsy from the upper aero-digestive tract has better diagnostic accuracy than the transnasal approach when combined with transnasal visualization and transcricothyroid anesthesia.

Background Both predictions and predictors of difficult laryngoscopy are controversial. Machine learning is an excellent alternative method for predicting difficult laryngoscopy. This study aimed to develop and validate practical predictive models for difficult laryngoscopy through machine learning. Methods Variables for the prediction of difficult laryngoscopy included age, Mallampati grade, body mass index, sternomental distance, and neck circumference. Difficult laryngoscopy was defined as grade 3 and 4 by the Cormack-Lehane classification. Pre-anesthesia and anesthesia data of 616 patients who had undergone anesthesia at a single center were included. The dataset was divided into a base training set (n = 492) and a base test set (n = 124), with equal distribution of difficult laryngoscopy. Training data sets were trained with six algorithms (multilayer perceptron, logistic regression, supportive vector machine, random forest, extreme gradient boosting, and light gradient boosting machine), and cross-validated. The model with the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was chosen as the final model, which was validated with the test set. Results The results of cross-validation were best using the light gradient boosting machine algorithm with Mallampati score x age and sternomental distance as predictive model parameters. The predicted AUROC for the difficult laryngoscopy class was 0.71 (95% confidence interval, 0.59–0.83; p = 0.014), and the recall (sensitivity) was 0.85. Conclusion Predicting difficult laryngoscopy is possible with three parameters. Severe damage resulting from failure to predict difficult laryngoscopy with high recall is small with the reported model. The model’s performance can be further enhanced by additional data training.

Various types of laryngoscopes have been invented to ameliorate the laryngoscopic view of the glottis, in normal and difficult airway, which helps anaesthesiologists to secure the airway during anaesthesia. In this prospective study, we aimed to compare the efficacy of the Airtraq video laryngoscope (AVL) and the Macintosh curved-blade laryngoscope (MBL), by using a common clinical assessment tool in patients with modified Mallampati class III and IV.A total of 60 patients [group A (AVL) and group M (MBL)] with modified Mallampati class III and IV listed for general anaesthesia were included. Each patient was intubated with either of the laryngoscope based on the group allotted. Time taken for tracheal intubation, grade of visualisation of glottis and need for manoeuvres to optimise the glottic view were compared.The degree of the glottic view during successful intubation attempt was easily appreciated in group A (p 0.0001). Difference in the requirement of manoeuvres for optimising the laryngeal view/assisting in intubation as assessed by manoeuvre score was easily appreciated in group A (p 0.010). Rise in heart rate and mean arterial pressure 1 and 2 min after intubation was more in group M than in group A (p 0.0001). No event of any airway trauma, as evidenced by visible trauma to lips or oral mucosa or blood on laryngoscope, was observed with either of the laryngoscope.The novel AVL provides better intubation conditions with greater ease of intubation, better glottic view and lesser haemodynamic alterations during laryngoscopy than MBL.

A 74-year-old farmer presented to the emergency department with a subacute history of progressive dyspnoea, wheeze and dysphonia. He was treated for an exacerbation of asthma with poor response to pharmacological therapy. Investigation of dysphonia via laryngoscopy identified a bilateral vocal cord palsy. Subsequently, the patient developed an episode of life-threatening stridor and hypercapnic respiratory failure requiring an emergency tracheostomy. Neurology input identified evidence of widespread muscle fasciculations on clinical examination. MRI of the brain and cervical spine were unremarkable. Electromyogram testing identified changes of acute denervation in several limbs consistent with a diagnosis of motor neuron disease (MND). Bilateral vocal cord palsy has been rarely reported in the literature as the heralding symptom resulting in the diagnosis of MND. In patients with a subacute onset of dysphonia, dyspnoea and stridor, MND should be a differential diagnosis.

Background Thyromental height (TMH) was first reported as a great single test for prediction of difficult laryngoscopies, although further studies have shown variable estimates of its accuracy. We thus performed this meta-analysis to summarize the predictive values of TMH mainly for prediction of difficult laryngoscopies. Methods A search in PubMed, EMBASE, LILACS, and Scielo was conducted in June 2020. We included prospective cohorts fully reported with patients ≥ 16 years old, providing data on predictive values of TMH for prediction of either difficult laryngoscopies or difficult intubations. Diagnostic properties and association between TMH and Cormack and Lehanes’s classification by direct laryngoscopy were evaluated. A random-effects meta-analysis using hierarchical models was performed. Results Eight studies evaluating 2844 patients were included. All included studies had high risk of bias and low concern regarding applicability. There was significant heterogeneity among the studies. The pooled diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and positive (LR+) and negative (LR-) likelihood ratios were as follows: DOR, 57.94 (95% CI: 18.19–184.55); LR+, 11.32 (95% CI: 4.28–29.92); and LR-, 0.23 (95% CI: 0.15–0.35). Summary sensitivity and specificity for studies with common threshold were 82.6 (95% CI: 74–88.8%) and 93.5 (95% CI: 79–98.2%), respectively. The estimated AUC was 81.1%. Conclusion TMH arises as a good predictor of difficult laryngoscopies in adult patients from diverse populations presenting better predictive values than most previously reported bedside tests. However, the high risk of bias throughout the studies may have skewed the results of the individual research as well as the summary points of the present meta-analysis.

Background Melatonin has been studied to have anxiolytic, sedative, and analgesic effects. However, there is limited data on the effect of melatonin in the attenuation of hemodynamic response to intubation. We aimed to study whether preanesthetic oral melatonin attenuates hemodynamic responses to intubation and anesthetic requirements. Methods Sixty-four patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomized into melatonin or placebo group (n = 32 each). Melatonin group received two tablets (3 mg each) of melatonin, and the placebo group received two tablets of vitamin D3 120 min before induction. Hemodynamic parameters were recorded during induction and postintubation for 15 minutes. Total induction dose of propofol, total intraoperative fentanyl consumption, and adverse effects of melatonin were also noted. Results Postintubation rise in heart rate (HR) was less in the melatonin group compared to the placebo group (10.59% vs. 37.08% at 1 min, respectively) (p< 0.0001). Maximum percentage increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean blood pressure (MBP) was lesser in melatonin group than placebo group (SBP 9.25% vs. 37.73%, DBP 10.58% vs. 35.51%, MBP 9.99% vs. 36.45% at 1 min postintubation. respectively) (p< 0.0001). Induction dose of propofol (1.42 mg.kg-1 vs. 2.01 mg.kg-1) and the number of patients requiring additional fentanyl intraoperatively (3 vs. 11) were also significantly reduced in the melatonin group. Conclusion Premedication with 6 mg of oral melatonin resulted in significant attenuation of postintubation rise in HR, SBP, DBP, and MBP. It also reduced the induction dose of propofol, total intraoperative fentanyl consumption without any adverse effects.

Background Early diagnosis of vocal cord iatrogenic injury is crucial, as is perioperative vocal cord evaluation. Methods Vocal cord mobility detected via transcutaneous laryngeal ultrasonography was compared with that detected via laryngoscopy (the reference). The vocal cord visualization rate of ultrasonography for evaluation of mobility was explored. Results The diagnostic odds ratio of transcutaneous laryngeal ultrasonography was 303.2212 (95% CI, [86.7944; 1059.3198]). The area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.944. The sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value were 0.9154 [0.8471; 0.9548], 0.9771 [0.9541; 0.9887], and 0.9915 [0.9868; 0.9946], respectively. The vocal cord visualization of ultrasonography used to evaluate vocal cord mobility was high (0.9572 [0.9091; 0.9804]). Conclusions Since transcutaneous laryngeal ultrasonography has the advantage in vocal cord visualization, it can be considered when laryngoscopy is unavailable or patients refuse laryngoscopy. Also, it is diagnostically accurate regardless of the used landmarks, VCP definition, and timing for application.

It is unclear if placing an ultrasound probe along each thyroid cartilage lamina (i.e. the lateral approach) can improve vocal cord (VC) visualization over in the midline (i.e. the midline approach) in trans-larygeal ultrasonography (TLUSG). This study compared VC visualization rates and diagnostic accuracy between the two approaches.Consecutive patients undergoing surgery had their VCs assessed by the two TLUSG approaches and flexible laryngoscopy within the same session. VC visualization rates and diagnostic accuracy of each approach were calculated and compared.Ninety patients (or 180 VCs) were analyzed. The lateral approach had significantly better overall VC visualization rate than the midline approach (93.3% vs. 82.2%, p=0.001), especially for males (75.0% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.002). Both approaches had comparable accuracy (100% vs. 99.4%).The lateral approach should be preferred because of the significantly better VC visualization rate and comparable accuracy to the midline approach.

This work deals with the assessment of balance of pressor hemodynamic responses on the stage of induction of anesthesia and tracheal intubation in elderly patients, their prevention and treatment. The study included 47 patients with ischemic heart disease, who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting. The average age of the patients was 69.3 ± 4.5 years, the average weight — 82.5 ± 7.4 kg. Depending on the method of the prevention and treatment of pressor reactions occurred in patients at the stage of tracheal intubation, all patients were divided into three groups. The first group (n = 12) consisted of patients, in whom we have used 2% lidocaine solution (100 mg) for the irrigation of vocal cords before introduction of the endotracheal tube. The second group (n = 18) consisted of patients, who were administered urapidil in a dose of 15–20 mg at the stage of laryngoscopy. In the third group of examinees (n = 17), a deepening of anesthesia was performed by additional fentanyl and propofol administration. In all patients at the stage of laryngoscopy, blood pressure (BP) increased by 23.6 ± 3.2 % from baseline. Immediately after intubation, in the first and third groups a further increase of systolic BP occurred, while in group 2, in which urapidil prophylactic administration was used, BP was lower by an average of 27.4 ± 2.6 % compared with BP values recorded in the first and third groups. Thus, patients with arterial hypertension at the stage of laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation are subject to pronounced hemodynamic pressor responses, for the prevention and treatment of which the introduction of urapidil is the most effective method.

A LifeFlight Retrieval Medicine air medical team was tasked to a rural facility 200 km away to manage and retrieve a 73-year-old woman with evolving airway obstruction. Resources at the referring site included a general practitioner with anesthetic skills training but no access to otorhinolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) or flexible fiberoptic airway devices. On arrival of the LifeFlight Retrieval Medicine, the patient became agitated, with deterioration in her airway patency. A clinical diagnosis of Ludwig's angina with evolving airway obstruction was made. Using a technique of ketamine-facilitated, spontaneous breathing tracheal intubation with a video laryngoscope, the retrieval team was able to safely secure the patient's airway before transporting her to a regional hospital with ear, nose, and throat surgical services. Computed tomographic imaging revealed an oropharyngeal abscess with spread into the larynx, which subsequently underwent surgical drainage. This case report outlines the technique of awake laryngoscopy with relevance to the retrieval physician and discusses some of the challenges and potential complications associated with it.

Introduction and objectives: Although lidocaine is widely used to prevent cardiovascular changes resulting from laryngoscopy and orotracheal intubation, it is still unclear whether there are more efficacious drugs. This study aimed to compare the beta-blocker esmolol with lidocaine regarding the effects on hemodynamic response after orotracheal intubation. Methods: The study has a prospective, randomized, double-blind, superiority design, and assessed 69 participants between 18 and 70 years of age, ASA I-II, scheduled for elective or emergency surgery under general anesthesia with orotracheal intubation. Participants were randomly allocated to receive 1.5 mg.kg-1 esmolol bolus followed by 0.1 mg.kg-1.min-1 esmolol infusion (n = 34) or 1.5 mg.kg-1 lidocaine bolus followed by 1.5 mg.kg-1.h-1 lidocaine infusion (n = 35). We recorded changes in heart rate, arterial blood pressure and incidence of adverse events. Results: Post-intubation tachycardia episodes were significantly less frequent in the esmolol group (5.9% vs. 34.3%; Relative Risk (RR) 0.17; 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) 0.04-0.71; Number Needed to Treat (NNT) 3.5; p = 0.015. After orotracheal intubation, mean heart rate was significantly lower in the esmolol group (74.5 vs. 84.5, p = 0.006). Similar results were observed in the subsequent 3 and 6 minutes (75.9 vs. 83.9, p = 0.023 and 74.6 vs. 83.0, p = 0.013, respectively). Conclusion: Esmolol was a safe and more effective intervention to reduce incidence of tachycardia and control heart rate immediately after tracheal intubation when compared to lidocaine.

Background and objectives Laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation lead to a sympathoadrenal response. We compared the efficacy of dexmedetomidine with fentanyl bolus to attenuate this response. Methods One hundred patients admitted for routine surgical procedures under general anesthesia were enrolled in this double blind, randomized, controlled study. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: Group F received injection of fentanyl 2 μg.kg-1 and Group D received injection of dexmedetomidine 0.5 μg.kg-1 diluted up to 5 mL by adding normal saline intravenously over 60 seconds. Five minutes thereafter, following induction with propofol and vecuronium, tracheal intubation was performed after 3 minutes of mask ventilation. Hemodynamic parameters were observed at an interval of 2 minutes before tracheal intubation and at an interval of 1 minute for 5 minutes after tracheal tube cuff inflation. Continuous variables are presented as mean with 95% confidence interval, and t-test was applied for comparing the difference of means between two groups after checking the normality condition. Chi-square test was applied to test the independence of attributes of categorical variables. Repeated measures two-way ANOVA was performed to compare the outcome variables between the two groups. Results The difference in heart rate and mean arterial pressure of patients in two groups after laryngoscopy and intubation was not statistically significant at any point of time. The hemodynamic changes did not require any intervention in the form of administration of rescue medication. Conclusions Dexmedetomidine 0.5 μg.kg-1 is as effective as fentanyl 2 μg.kg-1 in attenuating the hemodynamic response accompanying laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation. Clinical trial number & registry URL CTRI/2017/09/009857 [ctri.nic.in]

Background Subglottic stenosis (SGS) and tracheal stenosis (TS) are characterized by a narrowing of the airways. The goal of this study was to describe the characteristics and prognosis of nontraumatic and nontumoral SGS or TS. Research Question What are the inflammatory etiologies of SGS and TS, and what are their characteristics and prognosis? Study Design and Methods This multicenter, observational retrospective study was performed in patients with SGS or TS that was neither traumatic nor tumoral. Results Eighty-one patients were included, 33 (41%) with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and 21 (26%) with relapsing polychondritis (RP). GPA-related stenoses exhibited circumferential subglottic narrowing in 85% of cases, without calcifications. In contrast, RP-related stenoses displayed anterior involvement in 76%, in a longer distance from vocal cords (4 cm), with calcifications in 62%, and extension to bronchi in 86%. Other diagnoses included bullous dermatoses (n = 3), amyloidosis (n = 3), sarcoidosis (n = 2), and Crohn’s disease (n = 2); the remaining stenoses (n = 15) were idiopathic. SGS/TS was the initial manifestation of the disease in 66% of cases, with a median interval from stenosis to disease diagnosis of 12 months (interquartile range, 0-48 months). Despite the use of glucocorticoids in 80%, combined with methotrexate in 49%, endoscopic procedures were required in 68% of patients. Relapses of stenoses occurred in 76% without any difference between causes (82% in GPA, 67% in RP, and 75% in idiopathic SGS/TS). Three patients died due to the stenosis, two of RP and one of GPA. Interpretation These data show that GPA and RP are the two main inflammatory diseases presenting with SGS/TS. GPA-related stenoses are mostly subglottic and circumferential, whereas RP-related stenoses are mostly tracheal, anterior, and calcified with a frequent extension to bronchi. Relapses of stenoses are common, and relapse rates do not differ between causes. Diagnosis and management of SGS/TS require a multidisciplinary approach.

Ideally, an analysis method for laryngeal high-speed videoendoscopy (LHSV) based on the glottal area waveforms (GAW) requires images of a complete view of the glottis to ensure findings that are representatives of the vibratory behaviors of the whole vocal folds. However, in practice, the preferred images may not be obtained at all times. Often, the only available images that a clinician has to work with consist of a partial view of the glottis. This study aims to examine the effects of using images of a partial view of the glottis (ie, posterior-middle, anterior-middle, or middle) on the LHSV-based measures (ie, fundamental frequency (F0GAW), frequency perturbation (jitterGAW), amplitude perturbation (shimmerGAW), open quotient (OQGAW), and Nyquist plot). The participants consisted of 9 young normophonic females. The procedures involved LHSV recording of the vibration of the vocal folds. The images of the complete view of the glottis were analyzed to obtain the LHSV-based measures. The same images were used to simulate the images of partial views of the glottis by changing the outline of the region of interest to include only either the posterior-middle, anterior-middle, or middle parts of the glottis. The LHSV-based measures from the images of the partial views were then compared to those with the complete view . The results showed that all LHSV-based measures from the images of the posterior-middle view were similar to those of the complete view. However, only the F0GAW, jitterGAW, and shimmerGAW from the images of the anterior-middle and middle views were similar to those of the complete view. Lower OQGAW and different Nyquist plots than those of the complete view were generated by the images of the anterior-middle and middle views. In conclusion, all LHSV-based measures from the images of the posterior-middle view of the glottis, and only the F0GAW, jitterGAW, and shimmerGAW from the images of the anterior-middle and middle views of the glottis reflect the vibratory behaviors of the whole vocal folds. The same conclusion could not be applied to the OQGAW and Nyquist plots of the images of the anterior-middle and middle views of the glottis. A possible effect of the presence or absence of a posterior glottal gap on the findings warrants further confirmation.

Objectives Ectopic thymic tissue in the subglottis is an extremely rare disease that causes airway obstruction. Few cases reported were accurately diagnosed before surgery. Methods A case of a 2-year-old boy with airway obstruction caused by a left subglottic mass was reported. The presentation of radiological imaging, direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy, pathology, and surgical management were reviewed. An extensive search in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and EBSCO of English literature was performed without a limit of time. Results Besides our case, only six cases were reported since 1987. The definitive diagnosis on these patients were made with the findings of pathology, of which, five were ectopic thymus and two were ectopic thymic cysts. Our case was the only one with a correct suspicion preoperatively. Four cases underwent open surgical resection, and two cases underwent microlaryngeal surgery, while one deceased after emergency tracheostomy. No recurrences were found by six patients during the follow-up after successful treatments. Conclusion Ectopic thymus is a rare condition, infrequently considered in the differential diagnosis of subglottic masses. Modified laryngofissure may be an effective approach to removing the subglottic ectopic thymus and reconstructing the intact subglottic mucosa.

Laryngeal metastasis is an extremely rare condition. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no previous report on a laryngeal metastasis from renal cell carcinoma, which describes on details of the CT and MR imaging findings. A male patient in his 80s. Laryngoscopy revealed reddish-colored masses in the right false vocal cord and in the subglottic larynx. CT and MR imaging of this case showed multiple hypervascularized lesions with a wash-out effect in the supra and subglottis of the larynx and in the right intervertebral foramen of the cervical spine. Angiography revealed a hypervascular tumor consistent with the subglottic lesion. The histopathology and immunohistochemistry findings were compatible with laryngeal metastasis from renal clear cell carcinoma. A history of postoperative renal clear cell carcinoma about 7 years ago was later confirmed, which was not stated at the time of the initial imaging evaluation. It is a possible differential diagnosis in cases of multiple hypervascular masses in the head and neck region with a history of renal carcinoma. In particular, if the contrast-enhancement pattern of the lesion on the dynamic CT is similar to that of renal cell carcinoma. It is also important to reconfirm the patient's medical history, including postoperative status.

Objective To identify the incidence of difficult intubation in patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) undergoing cardiac surgery or catheterization. Design A retrospective cohort study. Setting A single-center academic quaternary pediatric hospital. Participants All patients were >18 years of age with ACHD undergoing endotracheal intubation within the Heart Center at Texas Children's Hospital between January 2012 and December 2019. Interventions None. Measurement and Main Results A retrospective chart review was performed, including patient demographics, preoperative airway assessment and intraoperative airway management characteristics. Airways were categorized as difficult using the Pediatric Difficult Intubation registry operational definitions. For patients classified as having a difficult airway, the preoperative airway examination findings were recorded in addition to factors associated with difficult airway in the adult. The study authors identified 1,029 patients with ACHD who underwent procedures with anesthesia at their institution and were analyzed for the presence of difficult airway. In total, 878 patients were intubated, with 4.3% (n = 38) identified to have difficult airway. The presence of concomitant syndromes was greater in patients with difficult intubations and those who were not intubated compared with those who were not difficult intubations (23.7% and 17.2 v 7.5; p Conclusions The study authors identified an incidence of difficult laryngoscopy in their cohort of ACHD patients to be 4.3%. Their incidences of difficult laryngoscopy were fewer than that reported in adult patients with noncongenital heart disease. Most importantly, the risk factors associated with difficult laryngoscopy in the normal adult may be different from those presenting with ACHD, necessitating further investigation.

Background: Thyroid surgeries are commonly done nowadays for benign and malignant conditions. Recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy (RLNP) is an important and potentially catastrophic complication of thyroid surgery. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of rigid endoscopy (Hopkins rod-lens telescope) performed at different time intervals on the diagnosis of RLNP in post-thyroid surgery patients. Aims and Objectives: To assess Proper Timing of Laryngoscopy in Post-thyroid Surgery patients to Detect RLN Injury. Materials and Methods: Rigid endoscopy was performed postoperatively at day 0 (T0), at 2nd day post-op (T1), and day 14 (T2). For patients with RLNP, repeated examinations were performed at 2 months (T3), 6 months (T4), and 12 months (T5). Results: The study included 50 patients of thyroid swelling with different diagnoses. Overall, 35 patients appeared for postoperative laryngoscopic examination of the vocal folds at our center, providing 61 nerves at risk. RLNP rate was 8.1% at T0, 11.5% at T1, 9.8% at T2, 8.1% at T3, 4.9% at T4, and 3.3% at T5. T1 was significantly superior to all other time intervals in terms of diagnosis of RLNP but statistically not significant. Conclusion: Rigid endoscopy is essential for the detection of vocal cord paralysis after thyroidectomy. We report different time evaluation criteria of vocal cord morbidity with great and significant variability of results. Second day post-op inspection of the larynx (T1) is suggested.

Background Tracheal intubation is a procedure that may cause various complications. The primary aim of this study is to investigate whether the Bispectral Index™ (BIS) can predict tracheal intubation complications sooner than other monitoring parameters. Methods A total of 55 consecutive patients were intubated. Sociodemographic data, the reason for tracheal intubation, diagnosis, starting dose or dose increase of a vasopressor drug, use of sedatives and muscle-relaxing agents, vital signs, BIS scores, and end-tidal CO2 values before the procedure, during laryngoscopy, and within 30 min after tracheal intubation were recorded along with their tracheal intubation-related complications. Results The mean age of the patients was 75.1 ± 14.4 years. Pneumonia (n = 17, 30.9%) and sepsis (n = 14, 25.5%) were found to be the two most prominent diagnoses. The most common indications for intubation were a low Glasgow Coma Scale score of ≤8 (67.3%) and respiratory failure (61.8%). Postintubation hemodynamic instability developed in 38 patients (69.1%).The BIS value obtained at minute 3 was the lowest among all measurements. Significantly lower values of BIS (minute 3) were found for patients with postintubation hemodynamic instability (46 vs. 72, p = 0.039). Using ketamine (OR = 8.99, 95% CI: 1.60–50.47, p = 0.013) and systoloc blood pressure (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.05, p = 0.017) were found to be significant risk factors for the development of postintubation hemodynamic instability. Conclusion In this study, the lowest BIS values were detected at minute three after intubation. The BIS values obtained at minute three were found to be significantly associated with the development of postintubation hemodynamic instability.

Background Accurate and timely evaluation of vocal cord function following thyroid surgery relieves the stress of both surgeon and anesthesiologist along with optimizing ongoing management. Conventional direct laryngoscopy is the commonly used tool for vocal cord assessment during extubation in thyroid surgeries. Videolaryngoscopes, are not well researched as an equipment to prognosticate extubation in thyroid surgery. Appropriate visualization and assessment of vocal cords during extubation with videolaryngoscopes can be useful for record keeping and documentation. This study was therefore conducted to compare the conventional direct laryngoscopy with prototypes of channeled and non-channeled videolaryngoscopes – Airtraq and McGrath respectively for extubation in thyroid surgery. Objective The aim of the study was to compare laryngoscopic view, vocal cord mobility during extubation after thyroid surgeries and to assess patient comfort during laryngoscopy. Methods Following approval from the Institutional Ethics board and informed consent from the patients, a prospective randomised study was conducted in 66 patients. Patients posted for elective thyroid surgery were recruited and followed a routine anaesthesia protocol for intubation. Towards the end of surgery dexmedetomidine infusion was started and patients appropriately reversed. Depending on the group, allotted patients underwent laryngoscopy either with standard direct laryngoscope with the Macintosh blade, McGrath MAC blade 3, or Airtraq size 3 optical laryngoscope. During laryngoscopy Cormack-Lehane grading, vocal cord mobility and patient reactivity were assessed and patients were extubated. Results Glottic visualization as assessed by the Cormack-Lehane grades were comparable among the three groups. Change in the Cormack-Lehane grading when compared with the one at the time of intubation was better with Airtraq than the other two groups with a p value of 0.023. The patient reactivity score was statistically significant between the groups (p = 0.006), and Airtraq scored better. The Ramsay sedation scores at different time intervals was not significant between the groups. Vocal cord mobility grading and complications were not different between the three groups. Conclusion Videolaryngoscopes provide a better glottic view during extubation with better patient reactivity scores. Airtraq outperformed standard laryngoscope and McGrath having better Cormack-Lehane grades and a better patient reactivity score.

During the last decade, guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation has shifted, placing chest compressions and defibrillation first and airway management second. Physicians are being forced to intubate simultaneously with uninterrupted, high quality chest compressions. Using a mannequin model, this study examines the differences between direct and video laryngoscopy, comparing their performance with and without simultaneous chest compressions.Fifty emergency medicine physicians were randomly assigned to intubate a mannequin six times, using direct laryngoscopy (DL) and with two video laryngoscopy (VL) systems, a C-MAC traditional Macintosh blade and a GlideScope hyperangulated blade, with and without simultaneous chest compressions. A total of 300 intubations were completed and variables including intubation times, accuracy, difficulty, success rates and glottic views were recorded.The C-MAC VL system resulted in quicker intubations compared to DL (p = 0.007) and the GlideScope VL system (p = 0.039) during active chest compressions. Compared to DL, intubations were rated easier for both the C-MAC (p 0.0001) and the GlideScope (p 0.0001). Intubation failure rates were also higher when DL was used compared to either the C-MAC or GlideScope (p = 0.029). VL devices provided a superior overall Cormack-Lehane grade view compared to DL (p 0.0001). The presence of chest compressions significantly impaired Cormack-Lehane views during direct laryngoscopy (p = 0.007). Chest compressions made the intubation more difficult under DL (p = 0.002) and when using the C-MAC (p = 0.031). Chest compressions also made ETT placement less accurate when using DL (p = 0.004).Using a mannequin model, the C-MAC conventional VL blade resulted in decrease intubation times compared with DL or the GlideScope hyperangulated VL blade system. Overall, VL out performed DL in terms of providing a superior glottic view, minimizing failed attempts, and improving physician's overall perception of intubation difficulty. Chest compressions resulted in worse Cormack-Lehane views and higher rates of inaccurate endotracheal tube placement with DL, compared to VL.

Objective ndoscopic laryngopharyngeal surgery (ELPS) is a useful surgery for superficial cancers of the head and neck region, but it has not yet been well evaluated for synchronous multiple primary cancers (multiple primaries). The purpose of this study was to clarify the safety and usefulness of ELPS for patients with multiple superficial primary cancers in the head and neck region. Methods rom December 2009 to December 2016, 145patients with superficial head and neck cancers underwent ELPS. The patients were divided into two groups; a group consisting of patients with a single primary cancer (single primary) and another group consisting of patients with synchronous multiple primaries, and the incidences of postoperative complications and lymph node metastasis were retrospectively compared between the two groups. Results f the 145 patients, 107 had a single primary cancer and 38 had multiple primaries. There was no significant difference in the age, sex, or rate of intraepithelial cancer between the two groups. Postoperative complications included dysphagia in 6 (5.6%) patients with a single primary and 2 (5.3%) patients with multiple primaries. One patient with multiple primaries required gastrostomy because of aspiration pneumonia. In addition, the following complications were also observed. Laryngeal paralysis occurred in 2 (1.9%) patients with a single primary, and 1 (2.6%) patient with multiple primaries; tracheostomy because of postoperative bleeding in 1 (0.9%) patient with a single primary; infection occurred in 2 (5.3%) patients with multiple primaries. Postoperative lymph node metastasis was found in 7 (6.5%) patients with a single primary and 6 (15.8%) patients with multiple primaries. Lymphatic invasion of the primary cancer was noted in 3 (2.8%) patients with a single primary and 5 (13.2%) patients with multiple primaries, being significantly higher in the latter group. Conclusion ELPS is also a safe surgery for patients with multiple primaries. However, the incidence of lymphatic invasion of the primary cancer was significantly higher in patients with multiple primaries.

Study objective When using a standard geometry laryngoscope, experts recommend engaging the hyoepiglottic ligament—a ligament deep to the vallecula not visible to the intubator. The median glossoepiglottic fold (hereafter termed midline vallecular fold) is a superficial mucosal structure, visible to the intubator, that lies in the midline of the vallecula. We aimed to determine whether engaging the midline vallecular fold with a standard geometry blade tip during orotracheal intubation improved laryngeal visualization. Methods We reviewed laryngoscopic videos from intubations by emergency physicians using standard geometry video laryngoscopes over a 2-year period. Two reviewers watched each video and recorded whether the blade tip engaged the midline vallecular fold (obscured the fold with the blade tip) and the best modified Cormack-Lehane grade and percent of glottic opening obtained. We compared laryngeal views in the presence and absence of fold engagement. Results We analyzed 183 discrete laryngoscopic episodes, including 113 instances in which the midline vallecular fold was engaged and 70 instances in which the fold was not engaged. The proportion with a Cormack-Lehane grade 1 or 2a was higher with fold engagement (96%) than without (87%) (absolute difference 9% [95% confidence interval (CI) 1 to 18%]). Ordinal logistic regression demonstrated that midline vallecular fold engagement was associated with a more favorable Cormack-Lehane grade (odds ratio 2.1 [95% CI 1.1 to 4.2]). The median percent of glottic opening score was 95% (interquartile range 90 to 100%) with fold engagement and 95% (65 to 100%) without engagement (median difference 0% [95% CI 0 to 5%]). Conclusion Engaging the midline vallecular fold with the laryngoscope blade tip during orotracheal intubation when using a standard geometry blade was associated with improved laryngeal visualization.

The hypoglossal nerve (CN XII) is a pure motor nerve arising as a paired nerve from its nuclei in the medulla, exiting the skull base via the hypoglossal canal, and descending the neck to innervate the muscles of the tongue. Iatrogenic hypoglossal nerve palsy is uncommon, but cases have been reported, especially after airway management in general anaesthesia and suspension laryngoscopy. We report a case of iatrogenic hypoglossal nerve palsy post-suspension laryngoscopy, which was managed conservatively with full recovery after three months. We discuss the importance of minimal consent for suspension laryngoscopy and possible methods to prevent this uncommon yet unpleasant complication.

Background: Fibrovascular polyps (FVPs) with hypopharyngeal pedicles (hFVPs) are the rare intraluminal benign tumours of the upper aerodigestive tract, and their accurate diagnosis and optimal management are challenging. Purpose: The present retrospective study attempted to explore the optimal diagnosis and treatment of hFVPs. Research Design: The clinical records of 2 patients with giant, irregularly shaped hFVPs, who underwent several failed surgical procedures after inaccurate diagnosis, were reviewed. Finally, the patients were correctly diagnosed and successfully treated at Capital Medical University Beijing Friendship Hospital in different years, 2018 and 2020. Results: Case 1 was of a 43-year-old woman with 2 months of progressive dysphagia. Gastroenterologists overlooked the origin of her FVP, and decided to sever its narrowest point in the oesophagus through endoscopy. However, upon unsuccessful removal of the mass, a gastrotomy procedure was performed to extract the mass 7 days later. Symptoms recurred 3 months after the treatment, and a fibreoptic laryngoscopy confirmed hFVP in the patient at our department. A transcervical approach was used to sever the hypopharyngeal pedicle, achieve haemostasis and remove the oesophageal tumour. No recurrence was detected during the 2-year follow-up period after the treatment. Case 2 was of a 32-year-old man with dysphagia who had previously undergone transthoracic and transcervical oesophagotomy procedures within a gap of 3 months for the removal of FVP causing dysphagia. The hypopharyngeal pedicle was not diagnosed in the patient. The symptoms of dysphagia recurred 4 years after the treatment, and a fibreoptic laryngoscope confirmed hFVP at our department. The tumour was removed successfully through the transcervical approach. No recurrence was detected during the 6-months follow-up after surgery. Conclusion: In conclusion, the transcervical approach is suitable for achieving haemostasis and removing giant, irregularly shaped hFVPs.

Background: A globus sensation is one of the most common complaints in otolaryngological practice. Patients with no associated abnormalities detected during the usual examinations performed in ENT clinics, are being diagnosed with globus sensation. Cervical ultrasonography is usually not performed in ENT clinics; however, it is useful in screening diseases of the subcutaneous tissue/organs, whose detection is not possible with the routine ENT examinations. The purpose of our study was to elucidate whether cervical ultrasound examination identifies abnormalities in patients with globus sensation. Methods: A single-centre retrospective cohort study. Cervical ultrasonographic examinations were performed on patients with globus sensation at the Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery of Tottori university hospital, a tertiary care centre, from January 2013 to September 2017. The subjects were 74 patients who complained of globus sensation with no abnormality in general otolaryngological examination including laryngoscopy. Results: Ultrasonography detected structural abnormalities in 60.8% of the patients with globus sensation: thyroid disorders in 41 patients, including: 35 patients with thyroid nodules, 4 patients with Hashimoto’s disease, 1 patient with Grave’s disease, and 1 patient with subacute thyroiditis; Sjögren syndrome in 2 patients; and cervical lipoma in 1 patient. Furthermore, 2 patients with thyroid disorders had concomitant esophageal cancer. Conclusion: Cervical ultrasonography identified thyroid disorders in patients with globus sensation, despite the normal ENT status. Therefore, it would be appropriate to adopt cervical ultrasonography as a routine examination at ENT clinics for patients with globus sensation.

Ultrasonography of the airway has potential as an alternative, non-invasive, method to monitor patients with subglottic stenosis in an outpatient setting. This prospective, interventional, double-blinded study aimed to correlate ultrasound-based and laryngoscopy-based subglottic stenosis assessment in adults. The study was conducted between July 2020 and March 2021 at a tertiary referral center. Consecutive adult patients with subglottic stenosis were evaluated using airway ultrasonography 1 day prior to scheduled laryngoscopy. The radiologist was blinded to the preoperative endoscopic findings, and the primary surgeon was blinded to the ultrasonographic measurements. The intraoperative subglottic diameter was defined as the outer diameter of an endotracheal tube passing through the subglottis without producing an air leak. Sixteen patients (11 females; age range, 17–66 years; mean = 44.06, SD = 12.79) were included. The ultrasonographic subglottic diameter ranged from 5.20 mm to 8.00 mm (mean = 6.24 mm, SD = 0.90). In 15 of 16 patients, the diameter difference between the ultrasonographic and intraoperative measurements ranged from -0.80 mm to 0.30 mm (mean = -0.20 mm, SD = 0.35). However, patient 6 had a difference of − 2.10 mm between the two measurements, which was attributed to thick laryngotracheal secretions interfering with the ultrasonographic air shadow. Data analysis of all 16 patients showed a statistically significant correlation between the readings obtained by the two techniques (r = 0.84, P = 0.000051). This study found a significant correlation between ultrasonography-based and laryngoscopy-based subglottic stenosis assessment in adult patients. It provides a basis for an alternative and potentially reliable method to monitor patients with subglottic stenosis.

OBJECTIVE A supraglottic airway device (SAD) may be utilised for rescue re-oxygenation following a failed attempt at endotracheal intubation with direct or video laryngoscopy. However, the choice of subsequent method to secure a definitive airway is not clearly established. The aim of the present study was to compare two techniques for securing a definitive airway via the in-situ SAD. METHODS A randomised controlled trial was undertaken. The population studied was emergency physicians (EPs) attending a cadaveric airway course. The intervention was intubation through a SAD using a retrograde intubation technique (RIT). The comparison was intubation through a SAD guided by a flexible airway scope (FAS). The primary outcome was time to intubation. The trial was registered with ANZCTR.org.au (ACTRN12621000995875). RESULTS Four EPs completed intubations using both methods on four cadavers for a total of 32 experiments. The mean time to intubation was 18.2 s (standard deviation 8.8) in the FAS group compared with 52.9 s (standard deviation 11.7) in the RIT group; a difference of 34.7 s (95% confidence interval 27.1-42.3, P

Laryngeal ultrasound (US) is becoming widely accepted for assessing true vocal fold immobility (TVFI), a potential complication of laryngeal and thyroid surgery. The objective of this project is to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of pooled evidence surrounding laryngeal US as a modality for diagnosing TVFI in adults at risk for the condition in comparison to laryngoscopy as a gold standard. Medical subject heading terms were used to search MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for relevant citations from January 1, 2000, to June 30, 2020. Studies were included if they involved patients 16 years and older, where laryngeal US was compared to laryngoscopy for TVFI. Studies were excluded if there were insufficient data to compute a sensitivity/specificity table after attempting to contact the authors. Case reports, and case series were also excluded. The initial search returned 1357 citations. Of these, 109 were selected for review utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Thirty citations describing 6033 patients were included in the final meta-analysis. A bivariate random effects meta-analysis was performed, revealing a pooled sensitivity for laryngeal US of 0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.88-0.98), a specificity of 0.99 (95% CI 0.97-0.99), and a diagnostic odds ratio of 1328.2 (95% CI 294.0-5996.5). The area under the curve of the hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.99 (95% CI 0.98-1.00). Laryngeal US demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity for detecting VFI in the hands of clinicians directly providing care to patients.

Objectives To assess a new application of artificial intelligence for real-time detection of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) in both white light (WL) and narrow-band imaging (NBI) videolaryngoscopies based on the You-Only-Look-Once (YOLO) deep learning convolutional neural network (CNN). Study design Experimental study with retrospective data. Methods Recorded videos of LSCC were retrospectively collected from in-office transnasal videoendoscopies and intraoperative rigid endoscopies. LSCC videoframes were extracted for training, validation, and testing of various YOLO models. Different techniques were used to enhance the image analysis: contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization, data augmentation techniques, and test time augmentation (TTA). The best-performing model was used to assess the automatic detection of LSCC in six videolaryngoscopies. Results Two hundred and nineteen patients were retrospectively enrolled. A total of 624 LSCC videoframes were extracted. The YOLO models were trained after random distribution of images into a training set (82.6%), validation set (8.2%), and testing set (9.2%). Among the various models, the ensemble algorithm (YOLOv5s with YOLOv5m-TTA) achieved the best LSCC detection results, with performance metrics in par with the results reported by other state-of-the-art detection models: 0.66 Precision (positive predicted value), 0.62 Recall (sensitivity), and 0.63 mean Average Precision at 0.5 intersection over union. Tests on the six videolaryngoscopies demonstrated an average computation time per videoframe of 0.026 seconds. Three demonstration videos are provided. Conclusion This study identified a suitable CNN model for LSCC detection in WL and NBI videolaryngoscopies. Detection performances are highly promising. The limited complexity and quick computational times for LSCC detection make this model ideal for real-time processing. Level of evidence 3 Laryngoscope, 2021.

The current article aims to highlight the varied presentation and management of vallecular cysts. We report three children, aged four years, 11 months and three days, diagnosed with vallecular cyst presenting to the Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya hospital, New Delhi, India in 2018 and 2019. They were reviewed retrospectively for clinical presentation, diagnostic tools and treatment options. All three cases had respiratory and feeding difficulties. The diagnosis in all of the three cases was made with laryngoscopy (flexible/direct) and imaging. All three patients were treated with the transoral approach aimed at the excision of the cyst using cold instruments. The postoperative period was uneventful. No recurrences were observed during the long-term follow-up. Vallecular cysts should be considered as one of the differentials in children with respiratory distress and dysphagia despite being a rare anomaly. A direct transoral approach is recommended for the excision of the vallecular cyst as it is a safe and reliable method with no recurrences to date. Keywords: Benign Cyst; Dyspnea; Dysphagia; Laryngoscopy; Case Report; India.

Laryngeal schwannomas are rare tumors of neural sheath origin. They normally present as a slow-growing, encapsulated, submucosal mass commonly in the supraglottic region. We describe a 13-year-old boy presenting with a 4-month history of progressive worsening dysphagia. Fiber optic laryngoscopy and computed tomography revealed a polypoidal mass in the laryngeal surface of epiglottis abutting left the aryepiglottic fold, base of the tongue and hypopharyngeal wall. Direct laryngoscopic evaluation and microdebrider assisted debulking was performed with tracheostomy. Schwannoma was confirmed by histopathological study. In a regular follow-up after two months, 70 degree endoscopic evaluation revealed similar mass in the left aryepiglottic fold obscuring the vocal cord. Definite complete excision of the tumor was planned and endoscopic excision of the masswas performed with removal of ipsilateral aryepiglottic fold, arytenoid and false vocal cord with retracheotomy. Rapid occurrence of mass after debulking and biopsy was demonstrated in this case. Though rare, neurogenic tumors of the larynx are life-threatening and need complete removal.

Introduction Hoarseness is a symptom with a varied etiology ranging from inflammatory condition, benign lesions to malignant lesions. Benign conditions are more common than malignant. Proper knowledge of clinical profile and evaluation is necessary to treat the cause. Objective It was conducted with the aim to study the clinical profile of patients with hoarseness of voice. Materials and Methods It was a descriptive cross-sectional study of 2 years conducted at Department of ENT at Tertiary Health Care Hospital, India. Patients aged above 10 years presenting with hoarseness of voice were included in the study. After detailed history related to sociodemographic particulars, clinical examinations including Hopkin’s rod examination in all patients and direct laryngoscopy, and radiological and histopathological examination were performed whenever indicated. Results Out of total 100 patients, maximum patients (32%) were in the age group of 21 to 30 years. There was slight male preponderance with male:female ratio of 1.17:1. Laborer (29%) was the major group affected in terms of occupation. Most common predisposing factor was smoking (35%). Commonest etiology for hoarseness of voice was chronic laryngitis (20%). Conclusion Hoarseness of voice as a symptom should never be ignored as its etiology may range from simple infection to malignancy. At our tertiary care center majority of patients come from rural area. Most of the etiological factors found in our study were treatable medically or surgically. Early diagnosis is the key to improve the outcome of treatment.

Objective: Prehospital emergency anesthesia in the form of rapid sequence intubation (RSI) is a critical intervention delivered by advanced prehospital critical care teams. Our previous simulation study determined the feasibility of in-aircraft RSI. We now examine whether this feasibility is preserved in a simulated setting when clinicians wear personal protective equipment (PPE) for aerosol-generating procedures (AGPs) for in-aircraft, on-the-ground RSI.Methods: Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex is a helicopter emergency medical service that uses an AW169 cabin simulator. Wearing full AGP PPE (eye protection, FFP3 mask, gown, and gloves), 10 doctor-paramedic teams performed RSI in a standard “can intubate, can ventilate” scenario and a “can't intubate, can't oxygenate” (CICO) scenario. Prespecified timings were reported, and participant feedback was sought by questionnaire.Results: RSI was most commonly performed by direct laryngoscopy and was successfully achieved in all scenarios. The time to completed endotracheal intubation (ETI) was fastest (287 seconds) in the standard scenario and slower (370 seconds, P = .01) in the CICO scenario. The time to ETI was not significantly delayed by wearing PPE in the standard (P = .19) or CICO variant (P = .97). Communication challenges, equipment complications, and PPE difficulties were reported, but ways to mitigate these were also reported.Conclusion: In-aircraft RSI (aircraft on the ground) while wearing PPE for AGPs had no significant impact on the time to successful completion of ETI in a simulated setting. Patient safety is paramount in civilian helicopter emergency medical services, but the adoption of in-aircraft RSI could confer significant patient benefit in terms of prehospital time savings, and further research is warranted.

Introduction: Adult epiglottitis is a disease process distinct from pediatric epiglottitis in microbiology, presentation, and clinical course. While traditionally considered more indolent and benign than in children, adult epiglottitis remains a cause of acute airway compromise with a mortality rate from 1-20%. Our objective was to characterize the disease course and evaluate the rate and type of airway management in this population at a tertiary, academic referral center. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of all adult patients (age ≥ 18) who were definitively diagnosed with infectious “epiglottitis,” “supraglottitis,” or “epiglottic abscess” by direct or indirect laryngoscopy during a nine-year period. Double data abstraction and a standardized data collection form were used to assess patient demographic characteristics, presenting features, and clinical course. The primary outcome was airway intervention by intubation, cricothyroidotomy, or tracheostomy, and the secondary outcome was mortality related to the disease. Results: Seventy patients met inclusion criteria. The mean age was 50.2 years (standard deviation ± 16.7), 60% of the patients were male, and 14.3% were diabetic. Fifty percent had symptoms that were present for ≥ 48 hours; 38.6% had voice changes, 13.1% had stridor, 12.9% had fever, 45.7% had odynophagia, and 47.1% had dysphagia noted in the ED. Twelve patients (17.1%) received an acute airway intervention including three who underwent emergent cricothyroidotomy, and one who had a tracheostomy. Two patients died and one suffered anoxic brain injury related to complications following difficult airway management. Conclusion: In this case series the majority of patients (82.9%) did not require airway intervention, but a third of those requiring intervention (5.7% of total) had a surgical airway performed with two deaths and one anoxic brain injury. Clinicians must remain vigilant to identify signs of impending airway compromise in acute adult epiglottitis and be familiar with difficult and failed airway algorithms to prevent morbidity and mortality in these patients.

Background The administration of sedation and neuromuscular blockade to facilitate extraglottic device (EGD) placement is known as rapid sequence airway (RSA). In the emergency department (ED), EGDs are used largely as rescue devices. In select patients, there may be significant advantages to using EGDs over laryngoscopy as the primary airway device in the ED. Objective Our study sought to describe the practice of RSA in the ED, including rates of successful oxygenation, ventilation, and complications from EGD use. Methods We identified patients in the ED between 2007 and 2017 who underwent RSA with the LMA® Fastrach™ (hereafter termed ILMA; Teleflex Medical Europe Ltd., Athlone, Ireland) placed as the first definitive airway management device. A trained abstractor performed chart and video review of the cases to determine patient characteristics, physician use of the ILMA, indication for ILMA placement, success of oxygenation and ventilation, success of intubation, and complications related to the device. Results During the study period, 94 patients underwent RSA with the ILMA. Of those, 93 (99%) were successfully oxygenated and ventilated, and when intubation was attempted, 89% were able to be intubated through the ILMA. The incidence of vomiting and aspiration was 1% and 3%, respectively. There were 30 different attending physicians who supervised RSA and the median number was 2 per physician in the 10-year study period. Conclusion The practice of RSA with the ILMA in the ED is associated with a high rate of successful oxygenation, ventilation, and intubation with infrequent complications, even when performed by physicians with few experiences in the approach.

Case Presentation A 31-year-old woman (gravida 3 and para 1-0-1-1 at 20 weeks gestation) was admitted to the hospital for a presumed acute asthma exacerbation. She had a history of severe persistent asthma since childhood. She described her symptoms as progressively worsening since the beginning of her pregnancy. In addition to her dyspnea and wheeze, both of which occurred at rest and with exertion, she complained of worsening hoarseness and mild dysphagia of solid foods over the week before admission. Her primary care provider treated her with a combined corticosteroid and long-acting beta-agonist inhaler, albuterol inhaler and nebulizer, azithromycin, and two courses of prednisone without improvement. Her allergist performed a handheld spirometry 2 months before admission that was repeated 3 weeks later in the office. She had a social history of alcohol dependence but had been sober for 9 months. She was a former one-pack-per-day smoker but quit 20 weeks before admission and used marijuana occasionally. She had no known occupational or inhalation exposures.

Introduction In the prehospital setting, when caring for critically ill patients, the ability to quickly and effectively secure a definitive airway can be a matter of life of death. As such, all helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) providers must be able to safely perform this procedure with speed and efficacy. Video laryngoscopy (VL) was invented and introduced as an improved technique for performing orotracheal intubation, and its use has become widespread amongst pre-hospital and HEMS organizations. Despite this, little information is available regarding the efficacy of VL when compared to standard direct laryngoscopy (DL) in this pre-hospital setting. As such, there is sparse evidence to guide the HEMS provider's decision on which to use when attempting to secure the airway of a critically ill patient. Provider preference often comes into play in this situation. In a preliminary survey, Nolen and Pokorney found that while the majority of Wisconsin Flight For Life (FFL) HEMS providers choose VL, variation does exist between providers in regards to VL vs DL preference. Self-reported success rates by providers suggested 100% first pass success with DL and 87.5 success with VL. This survey relied on provider recall, and further review of records is required to evaluate the accuracy of these reports. Currently, there is no protocol regarding which laryngoscopy modality to employ in the HEMS setting. This research aims to improving the quality of care received by patients who require orotracheal intubation by HEMS providers. To do this, we investigate whether the use of VL or DL increases successful orotracheal intubations by HEMS providers. We hypothesized that the first pass and overall success would be greater with VL and the overall complications would be less with VL when compared to DL. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed of all intubated patients transported by HEMS providers from January 2015 to July 2017. Inclusion Criteria Adult patients transported by HEMS providers that required orotracheal intubation and underwent at least one attempt at orotracheal intubation. Results When comparing the survey results, we found similar rates of DL vs VL attempts (15/21 vs 104/120). First pass success rates were overestimated for both modalities (100%/90.5% vs 87.5%/84.8%). First Pass Success Rate No statistically significant difference was found in 1st pass success rate. The top reported reason for failed DL attempts was inability to pass tube, while the top reported reason for failed VL attempts include blood/secretions on camera, followed by inability to pass tube. Overall Success Rate No statistically significant difference was found between the two modalities. However, there was notably no difference between 1st pass and overall success rate in the DL group, while the overall success improved over fist pass in the VL group. While not statistically significant, this trend results from more attempts and alterations by those performing VL prior to resorting to a rescue airway. The most common alteration made was change in VL blade, followed by changing from VL to DL. Complications DL and VL groups had nearly identical complication rates. In both groups, the primary complication was hypoxia, so BVM ventilation was utilized. There was one cardiac arrest in the DL group. Influencing Factors Overwhelmingly, the method of intubation favored by HEMS providers is video laryngoscopy (VL). In the survey by Pokorney and Nolan, provider preference was the most common reason for choosing a modality. Of the patient characteristics observed, no significant differences were found. Initial GCS showed near statistical significance, with lower initial GCS trending to VL. Perhaps VL is more utilized when indication for intubation is apparent immediately upon arrival on scene. Unresponsiveness as reason for intubation, however, did not vary significantly. Respiratory failure alone demonstrated a statistically significant difference with proportionally more VL intubations in these patients. No definition for what constitutes respiratory failure was present in the charts and the reason for this variance between modality used is unknown. Conclusion In the data reviewed, no significant differences were found in first pass or overall success rates for direct and video laryngoscopy. Additionally no significant difference was observed in the complication rates and no factors were found that influenced the decision to perform DL vs VL.

Publisher Copyright: © 2021 The Authors Objective: Airway management to ensure sufficient gas exchange is of major importance in emergency care. Prehospital endotracheal intubation (ETI) by paramedics is a widely debated method to ensure a patent airway. ETI is performed with procedural sedation in comatose patients because of the regulation. The use of medications increases the rate of successful airway management compared with nonmedication ETI and may also improve outcomes in patients with traumatic brain injury. In the absence of an operative emergency physician and with long distances, paramedic-induced airway management may increase the survival of patients in selected scenarios. A paramedic-staffed helicopter emergency medical system in Northern Finland operates in a rural area without an emergency physician and paralytic medications and treats critically ill patients using basic or advanced life support ground units. The aim of this study was to evaluate the success rates of ETI performed by a small, appropriately trained, and experienced group of 8 nurse paramedics in an out-of-hospital setting. Methods: The inclusion criterion for the study was an attempted intubation in patients with medical or traumatic indication for airway management by nurse paramedic. Results: Fifty-one patients were treated with ETI. The first-pass success rate was 72.5%, the second-pass success rate was 94.1%, and the overall success rate was 100% within 4 attempts. The median on-scene time was 54 minutes, and there were no signs of aspiration during laryngoscopy or after successful ETI. The primary mortality rate was 11.7%. Conclusion: The use of a rigid standard operating procedure for paramedic rapid sequence induction, paralytics, a video laryngoscope, and a gum elastic bougie might positively affect the ETI first-pass success rate. A follow-up study after these future modifications is needed. This small study suggests that intubation might be 1 option for airway management by an experienced nonanesthesiologist in Lapland.

BACKGROUND Endotracheal intubation for the purpose of providing anaesthesia was first described by William Mc Ewan. Jackson1 stressed the importance of anterior flexion of the lower cervical spine, in addition to obvious extension of the atlanto-occipital joint. Sniffing position has been commonly advocated as a standard head positioning for direct laryngoscopy which is achieved by flexion of the neck on chest and extension of the head at the atlanto-occipital joint. Present study was designed to evaluate the glottis view and ease of intubation achieved with direct laryngoscopy in the sniffing position with that of 25 degree backup position in a study group of 100 patients divided in 2 groups of 50 each. METHODS This study is a controlled comparative study. Controlled trial in 50 consecutive patients in each group [Group I and Group II] was conducted on patients who underwent elective surgery under general anaesthesia. Inclusion Criteria - General anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation, Aged 18 to 60 years, American society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grades I and II. Exclusion Criteria - Patients with body mass index more than 30 kg/m2. 1. Bucked teeth. 2. Restricted neck movement. 3. Inter-incisor gap less than 35 mm. 4. Thyro-mental distance less than 6 mm. 5. Patients with risk of regurgitation and aspiration. 6. Pharyngeal pathology. 7. Limitation of anterior and posterior movement of mandible 8. Pregnant patients Groups wereGroup I – Sniffing position Group II– 25 degree back up position RESULTS The glottis visualization was assessed by Cormack Lehane grading which revealed that glottis view was better in 25 degree backup position than sniffing position. CONCLUSIONS In our prospective randomized study in a series of 50 patients undergoing general anaesthesia in SIMS & RC, intubation difficulty scale (IDS) score was better in 25 degree backup position than sniffing position. It implies glottis view is better in 25 degree backup position than sniffing position. KEYWORDS Sniffing Position, 25 Degree Backup Position, Laryngoscopy

BACKGROUND Tracheal tumors are relatively rare in adults and uncommon in children. Tracheal neurilemmoma is a rare condition in adults that usually affects middle-aged people, but it can also occur in children. Because the clinical presentation is nonspecific and insidious, diagnosis is often delayed. The most common symptoms in these patients are stridor or wheezing (especially positional) and cough. A few patients are misdiagnosed and mistakenly treated for asthma. CASE SUMMARY A 10-year-old girl was admitted to our unit with a 2-mo history of recurrent cough, dyspnea, and tachypnea. Her condition was more severe after exercise. Her symptoms progressed despite treatment with inhaled fluticasone/salmeterol. Flexible electronic laryngoscopy showed a red, smooth, and round mushroom-shaped mass in the trachea, about 1 cm below the vocal cords. The surface of the mass was covered with several small and discontinuous blood vessels. About 90% of the tracheal lumen was occupied by the mass. A multidisciplinary operation was performed. The surgically resected mass was diagnosed as benign neurilemmoma by immunohistochemical analysis. CONCLUSION Intratracheal neurilemmoma is fairly rare in children. The main symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and dyspnea. The tumor’s size, location, and degree of intratracheal and extratracheal invasion can be measured by chest computed tomography. The main treatment strategies used for tracheal neurilemmoma are surgical resection and endoscopic excision. Long-term follow-up is warranted for the evaluation of outcomes and complications.

Laryngoscopy and intubation are noxious stimuli which result in marked sympathetic response. However, literature search did not reveal any study comparing nalbuphine and dexmedetomidine for attenuation of haemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and intubation.After Institutional Ethical Committee approval and written informed consent, 80 ASA I and II patients were randomised in two groups of 40 each. Group N received 0.2 mg/kg of nalbuphine; group D received 1 µg/kg dexmedetomidine over a period of 10 min. Anaesthesia was induced as per standard general anaesthesia practice. Haemodynamic parameters [Heart Rate (HR), Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP), & Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP)] were recorded at baseline, 0, 1, 3, 5, 10, and 15 min following intubation. Patients were also observed for any side effects of the study drugs.There was a significant decrease (pDexmedetomidine was found to be more effective in attenuating haemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and intubation as compared to nalbuphine.

Aim: The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness and safety of cuff inflation technique over conventional method of Magill forceps for Nasotracheal intubation NTI under direct laryngoscopy. Materials and Methods: After taking permission from institutional ethical committee, patients of 18-60 years of either sex of ASA grade I and ll were divided into groups of 40 each. In group C, cuff inflation technique and in group M, Magill forceps technique was used for navigating the endotracheal tube from oropharynx to glottic opening to achieve intubation. Parameters observed were time required for intubation, attempts of intubation, injury occurring to oropharyngeal structures during intubation and hemodynamic parameters. Cuff of endotracheal tube was assessed postoperatively for any leaksAnalysis of the data for the various parameters was done using paired t-test for intra-group comparison and student t-test for intergroup comparison and chi-square test was used for qualitative (non parametric) data. Results: There was no significant difference in demographic parameters, time required for intubation, number of attempts for intubation and hemodynamic parameters, but trauma to oropharyngeal structures was more in group M (8/40) compared to group C (0/40). (p?0.05) Trauma to cuff of endotracheal tube was seen in group M (1/40) while none in group C (0/40) which was statistically not significant (p?0.05). Conclusion: Thus, Cuff inflation technique can be used as an effective alternative to Magill forceps for oropharyngeal navigation of endotracheal tube under direct laryngoscopy guided nasotracheal intubation in patients with normal airways. Keywords: Direct laryngoscopy, Endotracheal tube, Magill forceps, Trauma.

Objectives: In most cases, suspension laryngoscopy (SL) is efficient, bloodless and with minimal post-procedure discomfort. We aimed to identify predictive patient factors for acceptable surgical views at SL as well as quantify our tertiary airway unit’s complication rates. Design: Prospective cohort study of 150 consecutive microlaryngoscopy procedures involving SL over an 8-month period between November 2019 and July 2020. Patients were assessed pre-operatively for pre-existing oral, temporomandibular, dental, pharyngeal or laryngeal pathology, interincisor distance and qualitative gross limitations to neck extension and forward head posture. Intraoperatively, the laryngoscopic view was graded by anesthetic and surgical teams, and complications were recorded on patient interview in recovery. Setting: Tertiary adult airway service for predominantly benign pathology. Results: Adequate surgical views were obtained in 149/150 procedures. BMI and limitations to chin and neck movement had mild positive correlations with more difficult views in their own rights, but did not correlate with a statistically significant increase in complications. There was a negative correlation between age and interincisor gap (p=0.014), and wider mouth opening correlated with a lower incidence of sore throat (p=0.023). Macroglossia showed a statistically significant positive correlation with tongue symptoms (p=1.611x10-8). Conclusion: In the context of an experienced airway unit with a high caseload of predominantly benign pathology, SL is very effective and safe with low associated morbidity and no mortality. Patient-reported neck and chin movement were found to correlate well with the surgical view obtained. The most common complication of SL is temporary sore throat and there remain recognized risks of temporary tongue and dental symptoms.

Objective: To describe a case of idiopathic cricopharyngeal achalasia (CPA) in a pediatric patient with acute onset of dysphagia managed conservatively with supportive care. Methods: Sixteen-month-old boy presented with acute onset of gagging and coughing with feeding. His exam was notable for a well-appearing child with pooling of oral secretions and coarse breath sounds. Plain film series did not show radio-opaque foreign body (FB) and an esophagram demonstrated an endoluminal filling defect of the cervical esophagus and aspiration of contrast. He was taken to the operating room for urgent endoscopy but no FB or food impaction was observed. He had persistent symptoms that required further evaluation and a multidisciplinary team approach. Bedside laryngoscopy did not reveal any abnormalities. Modified barium swallow (MBS) study revealed upper esophageal sphincter (UES) dysfunction, consistent with cricopharyngeal achalasia. Repeat upper endoscopy with biopsies demonstrated mucosal irritation overlying the UES but histologic studies were negative for infectious causes. Results: He was treated with supportive care, including nasogastric feedings for nutrition supplementation as he was unable to tolerate oral feedings without aspiration. Over the course of 3 months after discharge, his symptoms resolved and repeat MBS was normal. Conclusion: CPA is a rare cause of dysphagia in the pediatric population. Conservative management with supportive care is a reasonable approach in cases with acute onset in otherwise healthy children without underlying medical problems.

Noninvasive ventilation is frequently used in the treatment of infants with respiratory distress syndrome. This practice is often effective in higher gestational age neonates, but can be difficult in those with lower gestational ages as surfactant deficiency can be severe. While noninvasive ventilation avoids the negative effects of intubation and ventilator-induced lung injury, failure of this mode of support does occur with relative frequency and is primarily caused by the poorly compliant, surfactant-deficient lung. Because of the potential problems associated with laryngoscopy and intubation, neonatologists have developed various methods to deliver surfactant in minimally invasive ways with the aim of improving the success of noninvasive ventilation. Methods of minimally invasive surfactant administration include various thin catheter techniques, aerosolization/nebulization, and the use of a laryngeal mask airway/supraglottic airway device. The clinician should recognize that currently the only US Food and Drug Administration–approved device to deliver surfactant is an endotracheal tube and all methods reviewed here are considered off-label use. This review will focus primarily on surfactant administration through laryngeal or supraglottic airways, providing a review of the history of this technique, animal and human trials, and comparison with other minimally invasive techniques. In addition, this review provides a step-by-step instruction guide on how to perform this procedure, including a multimedia tutorial to facilitate learning.