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Accurate and real-time surgical instrument segmentation is important in the endoscopic vision of robot-assisted surgery, and significant challenges are posed by frequent instrument-tissue contacts and continuous change of observation perspective. For these challenging tasks more and more deep neural networks (DNN) models are designed in recent years. We are motivated to propose a general embeddable approach to improve these current DNN segmentation models without increasing the model parameter number. Firstly, observing the limited rotation-invariance performance of DNN, we proposed the Multi-Angle Feature Aggregation (MAFA) method, leveraging active image rotation to gain richer visual cues and make the prediction more robust to instrument orientation changes. Secondly, in the end-to-end training stage, the auxiliary contour supervision is utilized to guide the model to learn the boundary awareness, so that the contour shape of segmentation mask is more precise. The proposed method is validated with ablation experiments on the novel Sinus-Surgery datasets collected from surgeons' operations, and is compared to the existing methods on a public dataset collected with a da Vinci Xi Robot., Comment: Accepted by IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters

Deep learning-based methods have achieved promising results on surgical instrument segmentation. However, the high computation cost may limit the application of deep models to time-sensitive tasks such as online surgical video analysis for robotic-assisted surgery. Moreover, current methods may still suffer from challenging conditions in surgical images such as various lighting conditions and the presence of blood. We propose a novel Multi-frame Feature Aggregation (MFFA) module to aggregate video frame features temporally and spatially in a recurrent mode. By distributing the computation load of deep feature extraction over sequential frames, we can use a lightweight encoder to reduce the computation costs at each time step. Moreover, public surgical videos usually are not labeled frame by frame, so we develop a method that can randomly synthesize a surgical frame sequence from a single labeled frame to assist network training. We demonstrate that our approach achieves superior performance to corresponding deeper segmentation models on two public surgery datasets., Comment: Published in IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters (Early Access)

IMPORTANCE: There is no imaging standard to model nasal cartilage for the planning of rhinoplasty procedures. Preoperative visualization of cartilage may improve objective evaluation of nasal deformities, surgical planning, and surgical reconstruction. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the feasibility of visualizing nasal cartilage using high resolution micro–computed tomography (CT) compared with the criterion standard of pathologic findings in a cadaveric specimen and to evaluate its accuracy compared with various clinical CT protocols. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Anatomic study at the University of Washington using single human cadaveric nasal specimens performed from July 10, 2017, to March 30, 2018. INTERVENTIONS: A micro-CT acquisition with 60-micron resolution was obtained of a nasal specimen. The specimen was then scanned with 5 different clinical CT protocols to span both clinical care and machine limits. The specimen was then sectioned in 5-mm axial slices for pathologic analysis. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Micro-CT images were registered to pathologic specimen cross-sections using a graphite fiducial system. Cartilage substructures were manually segmented and analyzed. A library of matched images across the micro-CT and various clinical CT protocols was then developed. Region of interest analysis was performed for each of the cartilage structures and their boundaries on clinical CT protocols and micro-CT, with the outcome of mean (SD) density using Hounsfield units. RESULTS: A single human cadaveric nasal specimen was used to obtain the following results. Lower lateral cartilage, upper lateral cartilage, and septal cartilage were accurately delineated on the micro-CT images compared with pathologic findings. The mean absolute deviation from pathologic findings was 0.30 mm for septal cartilage thickness, 0.98 mm for maximal upper lateral cartilage length, and 1.40 mm for maximal lower lateral cartilage length. On clinical CT protocols, only septal cartilage was well discriminated from boundary. Higher radiation dose resulted in more accurate density measurements of cartilage, but it did not ultimately improve ability to discriminate cartilage. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The results of this anatomic study may represent a notable step toward advancing knowledge of the capabilities and pitfalls of nasal cartilage visualization on CT. Nasal cartilage visualization was feasible on the micro-CT compared with pathologic findings. Future research may further examine the barriers to accurately visualizing upper lateral cartilage and lower lateral cartilage, a prerequisite for clinical application. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: NA.

Successful multidisciplinary treatment of skull base pathology requires precise preoperative planning. Current surgical approach (pathway) selection for these complex procedures depends on an individual surgeon’s experiences and background training. Because of anatomical variation in both normal tissue and pathology (eg, tumor), a successful surgical pathway used on one patient is not necessarily the best approach on another patient. The question is how to define and obtain optimized patient-specific surgical approach pathways? In this article, we demonstrate that the surgeon’s knowledge and decision making in preoperative planning can be modeled by a multiobjective cost function in a retrospective analysis of actual complex skull base cases. Two different approaches— weighted-sum approach and Pareto optimality—were used with a defined cost function to derive optimized surgical pathways based on preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans and manually designated pathology. With the first method, surgeon’s preferences were input as a set of weights for each objective before the search. In the second approach, the surgeon’s preferences were used to select a surgical pathway from the computed Pareto optimal set. Using preoperative CT and magnetic resonance imaging, the patient-specific surgical pathways derived by these methods were similar (85% agreement) to the actual approaches performed on patients. In one case where the actual surgical approach was different, revision surgery was required and was performed utilizing the computationally derived approach pathway.

Transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (TONES) is a relatively new technique that not only allows access to the contents of the orbit but also the intracranial compartment, including the anterior cranial fossa, middle fossa and lateral cavernous sinus. In this study, we aimed to retrospectively review the largest experience to our knowledge with regards to surgical outcomes of skull base pathologies treated with a TONES procedure. Forty patients (aged 3–89 years) underwent 45 TONES procedures between the years of 2006–2013. Pathologies were cerebrospinal fluid leak repair (n = 16), traumatic fracture (n = 8), tumor (n = 11), meningoencephalocele (n = 5), hematoma (n = 1), and infection (n = 4). Three patients had a persistent complication at 3 months, including a case each of enophthalmos (unnoticed by patient), epiphora (delayed presentation at 2 months requiring dacryocystorhinostomy), and ptosis (improved at 1 year). Surgical success was achieved in all patients. Of special import, there were no cases of visual decline, diplopia, or stroke. There was no mortality. To our knowledge this is the first study and largest experience of TONES (level 4 evidence) to detail outcomes with respect to skull base pathologies. Our results indicate that TONES procedures can be performed with minimal morbidity. Further studies are needed to assess equivalency with craniotomy based approaches though this initial report is encouraging.

Background Laryngeal angiosarcoma is rare and the prognosis is poor. The purpose of this study was to describe the first case of cutaneous angiosarcoma metastatic to the larynx and systematically review all cases of laryngeal angiosarcoma. Methods A 61-year-old man presented with an alar lesion diagnosed as angiosarcoma and was treated with wide local resection and radiation. Six years later, he presented with a laryngeal mass histologically similar to the initial tumor. A systematic review of reported cases of angiosarcoma of the larynx was performed. Results Eighteen cases were identified. Mean age of presentation was 64.3 years. Men represented 66.7%. Mean follow-up was 34.1 months. Forty-seven percent died with disseminated disease at a mean of 18.4 months. Our patient did well with serial resection. Conclusion To the best of our knowledge, this case represents the first documented case of cutaneous angiosarcoma metastatic to the larynx and suggests that serial resection with long-term surveillance may be of benefit in some cases. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2015

A 52-year-old woman presented with decreased vision, diplopia, esotropia, proptosis, and right orbital pain. Clinical examination was suspicious for an orbital mass and additionally revealed a thyroid gland mass. Imaging studies showed an enhancing mass within the right lateral rectus muscle and a heterogeneous mass in the left lobe of the thyroid gland. Excisional biopsies of the thyroid and orbital lesions were consistent with metastatic undifferentiated/anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. This represents the first reported case of undifferentiated/anaplastic thyroid carcinoma metastatic to the orbit.

Background Objective assessment of surgical skills is resource intensive and requires valuable time of expert surgeons. The goal of this study was to assess the ability of a large group of laypersons using a crowd-sourcing tool to grade a surgical procedure (cricothyrotomy) performed on a simulator. The grading included an assessment of the entire procedure by completing an objective assessment of technical skills survey. Materials and methods Two groups of graders were recruited as follows: (1) Amazon Mechanical Turk users and (2) three expert surgeons from University of Washington Department of Otolaryngology. Graders were presented with a video of participants performing the procedure on the simulator and were asked to grade the video using the objective assessment of technical skills questions. Mechanical Turk users were paid $0.50 for each completed survey. It took 10 h to obtain all responses from 30 Mechanical Turk users for 26 training participants (26 videos/tasks), whereas it took 60 d for three expert surgeons to complete the same 26 tasks. Results The assessment of surgical performance by a group (n = 30) of laypersons matched the assessment by a group (n = 3) of expert surgeons with a good level of agreement determined by Cronbach alpha coefficient = 0.83. Conclusions We found crowd sourcing was an efficient, accurate, and inexpensive method for skills assessment with a good level of agreement to experts' grading.

Objectives/hypothesis Current static reanimation of the midface fails to provide adequate functional and aesthetic improvement; there is a need for more effective static correction of the ptotic midface. Our objective herein was to describe a novel method of static midface suspension that produces improved functional and aesthetic outcomes compared to previous techniques. Specifically, our goal was to describe the technique of alar and oral commissure repositioning via modiolar rotational cheiloplasty with alar base transposition, and gingivobuccal sulcoplasty. Study design Retrospective case series. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the results of a series of adult patients desiring surgical intervention for paralysis of the central oval of the face at a tertiary care referral center. We present our technique of modiolar rotational cheiloplasty first with an example case, including subjective outcomes reported by the patient and objective improvements in facial appearance using Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Facial Assessment by Computer Evaluation Program (MEEI FACE-Gram) software, then demonstrate long-term outcomes from the series. Results Clinically, patients noted subjective improvement in drooling, buccal stasis of food, dysarthria, nasal obstruction, and overall appearance. Patients with significant atrophy and lateral displacement of the lower lip underwent concomitant wedge resection, which further improved the symmetry and position of the lips. The MEEI FACE-Gram software demonstrated objective improvement in symmetry of smile and position of the philtrum and nasal base in an example case. Conclusions Modiolar rotational cheiloplasty with alar base transposition is an effective and efficient static procedure for midface palsy that improves both function and appearance. Level of evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 129:2262-2268, 2019.

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) is a mesenchymal neoplasm of irregular, hyperproliferative vasculature embedded within a fibrous stroma. Histologically, vessels range from slit-like to widely dilated and lack normal smooth musculature, making them delicate and prone to bleeding (Beham et al, Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 254(4):196–199, 1997).

Objective To determine whether wrist motion measured by a smartphone application can be used as a performance metric for a simulated airway procedure requiring both wrist and finger dexterity. We hypothesized that this accelerometer application could detect differences between novices and experienced surgeons performing simulated cricothyrotomy. Setting Academic medical center. Study Design Prospective pilot cohort study. Methods Voluntary surgeons and nonsurgeons were recruited. After viewing a training video, smartphones with accelerometer applications were attached to both wrists while subjects performed a cricothyrotomy on a validated task trainer. Procedure time and motion parameters, including average resultant acceleration (ARA), total resultant acceleration (TRA), and suprathreshold acceleration events (STAEs), were collected for dominant and nondominant hands. Subjects were stratified by prior experience. Blinded experts scored each performance using Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS), and t tests were used to compare performance. Results Thirty subjects were enrolled. Median age was 26 years, and 20 subjects were male. In the dominant hand, significant differences were seen between novice and experienced surgeons in TRA ( P = .005) and procedure time ( P = .006), while no significant differences were seen in STAEs ( P = .42) and ARA ( P = .33). In the nondominant hand, all variables were significantly different between the 2 groups: STAEs ( P = .012), ARA ( P = .007), TRA ( P = .004), and procedure time ( P = .006). Conclusions Wrist motion measured by a low-cost smartphone application can distinguish between novice and experienced surgeons performing simulated airway surgery. This tool provides cost-effective and objective performance feedback.

We present a fully automatic method for segmenting orbital structures (globes, optic nerves, and extraocular muscles) in CT images. Prior anatomical knowledge, such as shape, intensity, and spatial relationships of organs and landmarks, were utilized to define a volume of interest (VOI) that contains the desired structures. Then, VOI was used for fast localization and successful segmentation of each structure using predefined rules. Testing our method with 30 publicly available datasets, the average Dice similarity coefficient for right and left sides of [0.81, 0.79] eye globes, [0.72, 0.79] optic nerves, and [0.73, 0.76] extraocular muscles were achieved. The proposed method is accurate, efficient, does not require training data, and its intuitive pipeline allows the user to modify or extend to other structures.

Objective: To develop a method to measure intraoperative surgical instrument motion. This model will be applicable to the study of surgical instrument kinematics including surgical training, skill verification, and the development of surgical warning systems that detect aberrant instrument motion that may result in patient injury. Design: We developed an algorithm to automate derivation of surgical instrument kinematics in an endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery model. Surgical instrument motion was recorded during a cadaveric endoscopic transnasal approach to the pituitary using a navigation system modified to record intraoperative time-stamped Euclidian coordinates and Euler angles. Microdebrider tip coordinates and angles were referenced to the cadaver’s preoperative computed tomography scan allowing us to assess surgical instrument kinematics over time. A representative cadaveric endoscopic endonasal approach to the pituitary was performed to demonstrate feasibility of our algorithm for deriving surgical instrument kinematics. Conclusions: Technical feasibility of automatically measuring intraoperative surgical instrument motion and deriving kinematics measurements was demonstrated using standard navigation equipment.

Purpose: The Sonopet Ultrasonic Aspirator is a surgical tool that uses low-frequency ultrasonic vibrations to fragment tissue while simultaneously irrigating and aspirating the surgical field. This technology is becoming more widely used in orbital, lacrimal, neurological, and skull base surgery, but few studies have examined the learning curve associated with adoption of this technology. We present our surgical learning curve, pearls, and pitfalls using the newest generation Sonopet Ultrasonic Aspirator Universal handpiece in endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (eDCR) surgery. Methods: Retrospective chart review of consecutive eDCR surgeries performed by a single surgeon adopting the Sonopet Universal handpiece. Data collected include demographic information, indications for surgery, surgical time, intraoperative findings, anatomic and functional results, and complications. Results: Twenty-six eDCR surgeries in 20 patients were performed from October 2011 – May 2013. Most patients were female (85.7%) with mean age 53.6 years (range 4–84) and mean follow up of 378 days (range 7–761). For routine unilateral and bilateral surgeries, surgery time decreased by 36.4% and 33.9% before reaching a plateau of 67.2 and 80.7 minutes per case, respectively. Mean surgery time for non-sequential unilateral complex cases was 85.1 minutes, which did not vary significantly over the learning curve. We achieved 100% anatomic success and 84.6% functional success. Conclusions: The Sonopet Ultrasonic Aspirator Universal handpiece can be used safely and effectively for eDCR surgery. A significant learning curve exists for adoption of this technology. Appropriate handpiece tip selection and machine setting adjustments are crucial for successful adoption of this technology and avoidance of complications.

Objective. Integration of robotic surgical technology into skull base surgery is limited due to minimum angle requirements between robotic tools (narrow funnel effect), steep angle of approach, and instrumentation size. The objectives of this study were to systematically analyze surgical approach portals using a computer model, determine optimal approaches, and assess feasibility of the derived approaches on robotic surgical systems. Study Design. Computer analysis on 10 computed tomography scans was performed to determine approach trajectories, angles between robotic tools, and distances to specified skull base target locations for transorbital and transnasal surgical approach portals. Setting. Dry laboratory and cadaver laboratory. Subjects and Methods. The optimal combinations were tested on the da Vinci and Raven robotic systems. Results. Multiportal analyses showed the angles between 2 robotic tools were 14.7, 28.3, and 52.0 degrees in the cases of 2 transnasal portals, combined transnasal and medial orbit portals, and bilateral superior orbit portals, respectively, approaching a prechiasmatic target. The addition of medial and superior transorbital portals improved the skull base trajectory angles 21 and 27 degrees, respectively. Two robotic tools required an angle of at least 20 degrees between them to function effectively at skull base targets. Conclusion. Technical feasibility of robotic transorbital and transnasal approaches to access sella and parasellar target locations was demonstrated. This technique addresses the 2 major drawbacks of (1) the narrow funnel effect generated from portals in close proximity and (2) the steep angle of approach to the skull base, as observed in previous studies analyzing transoral, transcervical, transmaxillary, and transhyoid portals.

Objective To design and assess the quality of a novel lateral retrocanthal endoscopic approach to the lateral cavernous sinus. Design Computer modeling software was used to optimize the geometry of the surgical pathway, which was confirmed on cadaver specimens. We calculated trajectories and surgically accessible areas to the middle fossa while applying a constraint on the amount of soft tissue retraction. Setting Virtual computer model to simulate the surgical approach and cadaver laboratory. Participants The authors. Main Outcome Measures Adequate surgical access to the lateral cavernous sinus and adjacent regions as determined by operations on the cadaver specimens. Additionally, geometric limitations were imposed as determined by the model so that retraction on soft tissue structures was maintained at a clinically safe distance. Results Our calculations revealed adequate access to the lateral cavernous sinus, Meckel cave, orbital apex, and middle fossa floor. Cadaveric testing revealed sufficient access to these areas using

(1) To describe repair of complex orbital fractures using computer planning with preoperative virtual reconstruction, mirror image overlay, endoscopy, and surgical navigation. (2) To test the hypothesis that this technique improves outcomes in complex orbital fractures.A series of 113 consecutive severe orbital fracture cases was analyzed, 56 of which were performed with mirror image overlay guidance, and 57 of which were repaired without. Data were collected on patient characteristics, fracture severity, diplopia and globe position outcomes, complications, and need for revision surgery.The mirror image overlay group showed decreased postoperative diplopia in all fracture types (P = .003); the effectiveness was maximal for fractures that involved 3 or 4 walls or the posterior one-third of the orbital floor (P.001). The need for revision surgery was greatly reduced in this cohort (4% vs 20%; P = .03).The efficacy of mirror image overlay navigation and orbital endoscopy was studied in one of the largest series of complex orbital fractures in the literature. Based on statistically significant improved outcomes in postoperative diplopia and orbital volume, as well as the decreased need for revision surgery, we accept the hypothesis that mirror image overlay guidance improves outcomes in complex orbital reconstruction and recommend its use for complex orbital fracture repair.

Importance Segmental mandibulectomy for tumors that distort the buccal surface of the mandible present a reconstructive challenge. Objective To determine whether mandible alignment after navigation-guided mandible reconstruction is better than alignment after non–template-assisted freehand reconstruction and as good as template-assisted reconstruction in a cadaveric trial. Design, Setting, and Participants A cadaveric trial using 10 specimens was conducted at a tertiary academic center. Fiducials were created on the ramus to compare alignment with each intervention. Segmental mandibulectomy was performed on each cadaver. Each cadaver underwent navigation-guided reconstruction, template-assisted reconstruction using a manually shaped plate, and non–template-assisted freehand reconstruction with plate contouring performed after mandibulectomy. The study was conducted from October 1, 2015, to January 1, 2016; data analysis was performed from February 1, 2016, to March 1, 2016. Interventions Segmental mandibulectomy, navigation-guided reconstruction, template-assisted reconstruction using a manually shaped plate, and non–template-assisted freehand reconstruction. Main Outcomes and Measures Ramus fiducial coordinates were recorded at baseline and after each intervention. Mandible dimensions were measured using cephalometric landmarks. Postintervention and baseline differences in ramus and mandible position were calculated. Results Ramus alignment was not significantly different between navigation-guided and template-assisted reconstruction, differing by 0.54 mm (98.3% CI, −0.38 to 1.47 mm). Non–template-assisted freehand reconstruction was associated with a 3.14-mm difference in alignment compared with template-assisted reconstruction (98.3% CI, 1.09 to 5.19 mm). Navigation-guided alignment resulted in a 3.69-mm improvement in alignment compared with non–template-assisted freehand reconstruction (98.3% CI, 1.79 to 5.58 mm). There was some improvement in the gonion-gonion and lingula mandibulae–lingula mandibulae (Lm-Lm) alignment for navigation-assisted compared with non–template-assisted freehand reconstruction by 1.97 mm (98.3% CI, −0.65 to 4.58 mm) and 1.39 mm (98.3% CI, −0.17 to 2.95 mm), respectively. There was marginal evidence of better Lm-Lm alignment for navigation-guided than template-assisted reconstruction (0.44 mm; 98.3% CI, −0.06 to 0.95 mm). Conclusions and Relevance Mandible alignment following navigation-guided reconstruction is similar to template-assisted reconstruction. Navigation-guided alignment is likely better than non–template-assisted freehand reconstruction, and navigation guidance offers a reliable technique for real-time adjustment when reconstructing complex surgical defects, such as tumors effacing the buccal cortex of the mandible.

Objectives Describe instrument motion during live endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) and evaluate kinematics within anatomic regions. Design Case series. Setting Tertiary academic center. Participants A single skull base surgeon performed six anterior skull base approaches to the pituitary. Main Outcomes and Measures Time-stamped instrument coordinates were recorded using an optical tracking system. Kinematics (i.e., mean cumulative instrument travel, velocity, acceleration, and angular velocity) was calculated by anatomic region including nasal vestibule, anterior and posterior ethmoid, sphenoid, and lateral opticocarotid recess (lOCR) regions. Results We observed mean (standard deviation, SD) velocities of 6.14 cm/s (1.55) in the nasal vestibule versus 1.65 cm/s (0.34) near the lOCR. Mean (SD) acceleration was 7,480 cm/s2 (5790) in the vestibule versus 928 cm/s2 (662) near the lOCR. Mean (SD) angular velocity was 17.2 degrees/s (8.31) in the vestibule and 5.37 degrees/s (1.09) near the lOCR. We observed a decreasing trend in the geometric mean velocity, acceleration, and angular velocity when approaching the pituitary (p Conclusion Using a novel method for analyzing instrument motion during live ESBS, we observed a decreasing trend in kinematics with proximity to the pituitary. Additional characterization of surgical instrument motion is paramount for optimizing patient safety and training.

This article highlights the major vascular supply of the orbit and structures supplied by these vessels. Key anatomic principles are then reviewed as they pertain to endoscopic orbital surgery in order to avoid serious orbital hemorrhages. Next, preoperative planning and patient education are outlined as well as description of orbital compartment syndrome. This is followed by discussion of various techniques for managing orbital hemorrhage in the intraoperative and postoperative setting.

Transnasal endoscopic surgery has remained at the forefront of surgical management of sinogenic complications involving the frontal sinus, orbit, and anterior skull base. However, the difficulty in accessing certain areas of these anatomical regions can potentially limit its use. Transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (TONES) was recently introduced to transgress the limits of transnasal endoscopic surgery; the access that it provides could add additional surgical pathways for treating sinogenic complications involving the frontal sinus, orbit, and anterior cranial fossa. We describe a prospective series of 13 patients who underwent TONES for the management of various sinogenic complications, including epidural abscess, orbital abscess, and fronto-orbital mucocele or mucopyocele, as well as subperiosteal abscess presenting with orbital apex syndrome. The primary outcome measurement was the efficacy of TONES in treating these pathologies. TONES provided effective access to the frontal sinus, orbit, and the anterior cranial fossa. All patients demonstrated postoperative resolution of initial clinical symptoms with well-hidden surgical scars. There were no ophthalmologic complications or recurrence of pathology. Based on our experience, TONES appears to provide a valuable addition to the current surgical armamentarium for treating selected complications of sinusitis.

Sinonasal myxomas are rare neoplasms in the pediatric population. We present a case of extensive sinonasal myxoma involving the anterior skull base in an infant. A 16-month-old African-American female was initially referred to our clinic for evaluation of a possible nasal fracture after falling. Examination demonstrated mild nasal edema, but there was no sign of fracture. Over several weeks, the swelling progressed, and the left eye became proptotic. Imaging demonstrated a massive sinonasal mass involving the skull base. The patient underwent transnasal endoscopic biopsy, which was diagnostic of myxoma. Complete extirpation of the lesion was performed via a combined subcranial, sublabial, and transnasal endoscopic-assisted approach. Her postoperative course was unremarkable and she remained symptom-free with no evidence of disease seven months later. Sinonasal myxoma is rare disease in the pediatric population with the propensity to be locally aggressive. Histologically, it resembles other disease processes, making diagnosis challenging. Endoscopic-assisted approaches can facilitate complete extirpation.

To prospectively evaluate the safety, effectiveness, and utility of orbital and transorbital endoscopic surgery.Case series with planned data collection.Level 1 trauma center and tertiary academic hospital.Consecutive sample of 107 patients undergoing orbital or transorbital endoscopic operations.Ability to achieve intraoperative goals using endoscopic approach; occurrence of predetermined intraoperative or postoperative complications.One hundred seven patients (aged 6-83 years) underwent orbital or transorbital endoscopic surgery for 6 different indications. Seven incisions were used. Endoscopic orbitotomies were made through all 4 orbital walls to access surrounding structures. Intraoperative goals were achieved endoscopically in 106 patients. Mean follow-up was 3 months (mean ± SD, 3.0 ± 3.5). No complication was directly related to surgical approach or use of endoscopy. Seventeen complications were detected in 2 categories: persistent diplopia and persistent vision change. No patient had vision loss. No nonfracture patient suffered a complication. Subgroup analysis demonstrated no difference in surgical success rates when compared with transnasal and transantral medial orbital wall and orbital floor repair and cerebrospinal fluid leak repair. Endoscopic visualization was advantageous in several respects: superior visualization and lighting, particularly posterior to the equator of the globe; image magnification; and video monitoring for education and operating room staff involvement. It also facilitated surgical navigation and computer-aided reconstruction.Orbital and transorbital endoscopy are versatile, effective, and safe approaches useful for addressing diverse urgent and elective problems. In appropriate clinical situations, these procedures may offer better access and visualization than open or transnasal approaches.

Objectives: To describe an anatomic and clinical outcome study of transorbital neuroendoscopic surgical (TONES) for the repair of complex anterior cranial fossa (ACF) cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. Design: Anatomic cadaver investigation and clinical outcomes evaluation. Methods: An anatomic cadaver study was undertaken to determine the anatomic feasibility of the TONES approaches for repair of CSF leaks, and determine the optimal approaches for these repairs. A targeted outcome analysis was performed on 10 consecutive patients who underwent 12 ACF CSF leak repairs by TONES. Results: The cadaver study demonstrated that the entire ACF can be accessed by TONES. Due to the rise and angulation of the orbital roof above the interorbital ACF, the precaruncular (PC) approach optimal for a coplanar target approach in the interorbital ACF, and the superior lid crease (SLC) trajectory is preferable for procedures involving the supraorbital ACF. There were no complications in the 12 clinical procedures. Fifty percent of the cases were revisions, referred after up to five previous craniotomies and endoscopic procedures; all TONES repairs were successful with a single operation. Conclusions: The use of TONES to repair ACF CSF leaks was demonstrated to be technically feasible in cadaver and clinical studies. The SLC approach was optimal for supraorbital ACF leaks; the PC approach was preferable for interorbital ACF pathology. TONES was shown to be highly effective for treating complex pathology that was refractory to correction through frontal craniotomy and /or transnasal endoscopy, providing safe, minimally disruptive direct coplanar routes for target approach and manipulation. Laryngoscope, 2011

Background Transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (TONES) pathways attempt to address some of the technical challenges of accessing laterally placed anterior skull base lesions or paramedian lesions that cross neurovascular structures. TONES approaches allow simultaneous coplanar visualization and working space above and below the skull base. Objective To present an anatomic study, a description of the surgical techniques, and an analysis of the safety and efficacy of 20 consecutive procedures using TONES for a variety of pathological conditions. Methods Sixteen patients underwent 20 TONES procedures for anterior skull base pathology, including repair of cerebrospinal leak, optic nerve decompression, repair of cranial base fractures, and removal of 3 skull base tumors. Ten patients were male, and 6 were female. The mean age at presentation was 44 years. Follow-up was 6 to 18 months with a mean of 9 months. Results There were no significant complications or treatment failures in any of the 20 procedures. A variety of pathological conditions were treated, including cerebrospinal fluid leaks, fractures, mass lesions, and tumors. The TONES approach provided up to 4 separate access ports with ample exposure for manipulation and correction of the pathology. Conclusion This anatomic and prospective outcome study demonstrates that TONES provides safe and effective coplanar endoscopic access to the anterior and middle cranial base. These novel TONES approaches may be added to the wide range of published minimally invasive armamentarium when approaching challenging skull base pathology.

Purpose of review Facial paralysis is a devastating and debilitating condition for which a range of management options exists; all of them continue to have limitations. We review the recent scientific literature and highlight key developments and opportunities for further exploration with the goal that this may help direct clinical practice and research endeavor. Recent findings We reviewed recent findings in the evaluation of facial paralysis, pharmacological management, nerve injury prevention and treatment. This includes review of novel techniques using photography and videography. Review of surgical and adjunctive techniques identifies several refinements of existing techniques, some novel techniques, and the value of adjunctive materials and therapies. Summary Management of facial paralysis remains an area of active investigation and innovation. The challenge to researchers and care providers will be to continue to explore and refine management strategies while maintaining rigorous and standardized means of evaluation and follow-up, such that outcomes may be determined and reported accurately and in a way that they can be transferred to other clinical practices. Further study of the role of growth factors and stem cells in facial nerve regeneration is critical, and is the most likely means of surmounting the remaining barriers to successful outcomes in alleviating the ravages of this devastating malady.

The lower eyelid conforms precisely across its length to the complex topography of the cornea, conjunctiva, and globe. Along with the upper eyelid, it protects the eye from foreign bodies, prevents desiccation, and helps circulate the tear film from its origin in the lacrimal gland to its drainage at the lacrimal puncta. Paralysis of the lower eyelid may result in ectropion, lid laxity, epiphora, and lagophthalmos. This article presents a structural approach to the evaluation and treatment of lower eyelid paralysis and describes the surgical procedures designed to correct the three-dimensional anatomic abnormalities underlying this disorder. These procedures are frequently performed in conjunction with upper lid procedures that are described in a previous article by Bergeron and Moe in this issue of the journal.

To develop and evaluate a minimally invasive technique of lateral orbitotomy that provides improved orbital access with fewer complications.A cadaver study was undertaken to develop a technique of transconjunctival lateral orbitotomy that preserves the structural integrity of the eyelid support system and provides extended access to the orbit from floor to roof. We then evaluated the procedure in an outcome study of 30 consecutive patients.The cadaver investigations demonstrated that a transconjunctival lateral retrocanthal approach is technically possible and provides improved direct access to the lateral orbit. In the study of 30 consecutive procedures, there were no complications resulting from the surgical access. The wound healing was rapid, without tissue distortion or scars. The exposure was ample for all surgical interventions.Lateral retrocanthal orbitotomy is a new approach that provides extended access to the entire lateral orbit. The technique is rapid and can be extended in a single continuous incision to the medial orbit. The structural integrity of the lateral retinaculum is preserved, which appears to improve the postoperative cosmetic and functional result.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to describe the use of a full-thickness skin graft from the groin for coverage of the radial forearm free flap donor site. Our hypothesis is that the use of the full-thickness skin graft decreases morbidity and improves functional and cosmetic outcome at the skin graft donor site while also providing excellent coverage of the forearm donor site. Study design This study used a retrospective chart review design. Materials and methods Patients undergoing radial forearm free flap reconstructions from 1995 to 2005 were included. Forty patients underwent radial forearm free flap reconstruction with closure of the forearm donor site with a full-thickness skin graft harvested from the groin. The inguinal donor site was closed primarily. Medical records including clinic notes, operative reports, and photographs were reviewed. Results There was 1 minor wound dehiscence at the groin site, and there were 5 minor forearm wound dehiscences with 2 cases of tendon exposure; all dehiscences were treated conservatively with local wound care. Both the groin wound and forearm donor sites healed satisfactorily in all cases, with no impairment of function related to the skin graft. All patients expressed satisfaction with the postoperative pain, functional outcome, and cosmetic appearance related to both the skin graft and forearm donor sites. Conclusions Full-thickness skin graft from the groin for coverage of the radial forearm free flap donor site is an effective, safe alternative to the traditional split thickness skin graft.

To describe a new 3-dimensional technique for medial canthal repositioning, precaruncular medial canthopexy (PMC), and to present an outcome study demonstrating its efficacy.Data (age, sex, cause, and initial symptoms) were collected prospectively on patients with malposition of the lower eyelid. All patients were photographed before and after surgery in a set protocol. The type and severity of eyelid malposition were documented using the Ectropion Grading Scale (EGS) before and after each procedure. Surgical outcome was evaluated by objective improvement of ectropion grading and subjective resolution of symptoms.Precaruncular medial canthopexy was performed on 30 eyelids of 27 consecutive patients (10 were revisions) for correction of medial eyelid laxity or malposition. Twenty-six patients had ectropion, and 1 had bilateral entropion. The most common cause of eyelid malposition was facial paralysis (n = 21). Ancillary procedures, most commonly lateral transorbital canthopexy (for correction of lateral ectropion), were performed on 60% of the eyelids at the time of PMC. Twenty-eight procedures resulted in complete restoration of the medial canthus to a normal position (EGS grade I). Two patients had minimal residual medial scleral show after surgery (EGS grade II) but experienced symptom relief. There were no wound infections or perioperative complications.Precaruncular medial canthopexy rapidly and safely restores support in all 3 dimensions without blocking the visual field or damaging the lacrimal system, with minimal morbidity and excellent wound healing. In addition to being a primary technique for correcting medial eyelid malposition, PMC should be routinely considered as an adjunct procedure when correcting lateral eyelid malposition.

Laryngeal angiosarcoma is rare and the prognosis is poor. The purpose of this study was to describe the first case of cutaneous angiosarcoma metastatic to the larynx and systematically review all cases of laryngeal angiosarcoma.A 61-year-old man presented with an alar lesion diagnosed as angiosarcoma and was treated with wide local resection and radiation. Six years later, he presented with a laryngeal mass histologically similar to the initial tumor. A systematic review of reported cases of angiosarcoma of the larynx was performed.Eighteen cases were identified. Mean age of presentation was 64.3 years. Men represented 66.7%. Mean follow-up was 34.1 months. Forty-seven percent died with disseminated disease at a mean of 18.4 months. Our patient did well with serial resection.To the best of our knowledge, this case represents the first documented case of cutaneous angiosarcoma metastatic to the larynx and suggests that serial resection with long-term surveillance may be of benefit in some cases.

To evaluate the treatment, outcome, and prognostic factors in patients with head and neck sarcomas treated in an academic medical center.Case series.Academic medical center.We performed a retrospective analysis of adult patients (n = 97) with primary head and neck sarcomas treated between 2000 and 2012. We analyzed the treatment, outcome, and potential factors predictive of disease-free survival and disease-specific survival. We also evaluated the outcome and prognostic factors in patients with bone and soft tissue sarcomas.The median overall survival was 6.8 years, with 2-year and 5-year overall survival rates of 78% (95% confidence interval [CI], 66%-86%) and 59% (95% CI, 44%-72%), respectively. Univariable analysis revealed that age at diagnosis (60 years: hazard ratio [HR], 2.7; 95% CI, 1.2-6.2; P = .01), surgical intervention (HR, 8.3; 95% CI, 3.5-19.5; P.001), and metastatic disease (HR, 4.3; 95% CI, 1.3-13.6; P = .01) were significantly associated with disease-specific survival.In this study, patients over the age of 60 years at diagnosis and those with inoperable disease at initial presentation had significantly worse disease-specific survival. Surgical intervention remains the optimal treatment modality for those with resectable disease and was associated with significantly better survival in this heterogeneous series. Further multi-institutional studies are required to better define prognostic factors in individual histological subtypes.

Program Description:There are significant technological advances occurring in different otolaryngology subspecialties. In addition, there are many opportunities for cross-pollenization of ideas to ...

In 1982, Fisch described his results for the surgical treatment of 74 paragangliomas of the temporal bone, 5 years after his description of the infratemporal fossa approaches (types A and B). This study reviews the subsequent experience of the Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery of the University of Zürich with more than 136 surgically treated cases of paraganglioma of the temporal bone and discusses our current therapy 20 years after the initial description. One hundred nineteen (90%) of the patients had advanced tumors (Fisch class C or C+D), and 81 (68%) had intracranial extension. Total tumor excision was possible in 109 (82%) patients. Subtotal excision was performed in 22 (17%) patients, 21 of whom had intradural tumor invasion. In these cases, the resection was limited not by actual tumor size but by the degree of intracranial intradural tumor extension. Partial tumor excision was undertaken in only 1 patient with a C4De2Di2 tumor. The success rate in preservation of function of the lower cranial nerves was encouraging. Of the 69 patients whose facial nerve status was followed postoperatively, 81% maintained Fisch grade 76 to 100% (House-Brackman grades I and II). Analysis of follow-up data ranging from 2 to 11 years demonstrated 98% disease-free survival when total tumor extirpation was possible. In the patients who underwent subtotal or partial surgical resection there has been no subsequent tumor growth detected by either clinical or neuroradiological evaluation. We have confirmed after more than 20 years of experience that the infratemporal fossa approaches are a safe, highly effective means of surgical management of paragangliomas of the temporal bone, allowing eradication or arrest of disease with minimal morbidity. Limited intradural surgical resection in cases of very extensive tumors can greatly benefit patients for whom complete excision is not an option.

There are numerous approaches to correcting laxity of the lateral canthal tendon, each with advantages and drawbacks. Critical evaluation of these techniques is not possible, however, as there is no grading system currently in use to describe this condition or to report outcomes, and prospective trials are lacking.To report and assess a new procedure for repair of the lateral canthus (lateral transorbital canthopexy) and to describe the Ectropion Grading Scale (EGS), with a prospective outcome analysis of their use.Prospective outcome study of 15 consecutive patients (16 procedures).Tertiary referral center in Zurich, Switzerland.Consecutive sample of patients referred for treatment of ectropion of various causes.Preoperative and postoperative EGS grades were recorded, a preoperative and postoperative patient-based questionnaire was administered, and lateral transorbital canthopexy was performed.Outcome was determined by improvement in EGS grade and results of the patient-based symptom questionnaire.There were no surgical failures or complications in the study. An average of 83% reduction in patient-reported discomfort was achieved. Two patients with facial paralysis needed medial canthal repositioning. The EGS allowed clear recording of lower eyelid position before and after lateral transorbital canthopexy, and the procedure was uncomplicated to perform.Lateral transorbital canthopexy is an effective technique for the correction of lower eyelid laxity and appears to allow refined, durable adjustment of the lateral canthus. Self-reported patient satisfaction confirmed the high rate of success of the procedure in this study. The EGS permits critical evaluation and reporting of results and may assist in predicting which patients will need concomitant correction of the medial canthus. Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2000;2:9-15

Purpose: To assess the health-related quality of life (QOL) of long-term survivors of carcinomas of different subsites of the head and neck following curative radiotherapy (RT). Patients and Methods: Patients continuously free from recurrence or second primary tumors treated 1988-1994 were contacted 5.1 to 5.9 years after RT and asked to fill in the EORTC QLQ-C30 core questionnaire and the HN carcinomas of the vocal cord T1-2 N0 ), or had included bilateral neck nodes and the primary tumor outside the nasopharynx (group B; AJC Stage II to IV) or within the nasopharynx, respectively (group C; Stage II to IV). Response rate was 97% (group A; n = 41), 69% (group B; n = 26) and 71% (group C; n = 12), respectively. The groups were different with respect to age (older in group A), alcohol consumption (absent in group C) and proportion of females (more in group C). Results: Patients with nasopharyngeal cancer reported the highest morbidity on the H&N module (dry mouth, sticky saliva, trismus, problems with teeth, trouble eating). However, these symptoms did not have a high impact on global QOL or fuction scores on the QLQ-C30 core questionnaire. Patients in group B reported a lower global QOL but less severe symptoms on the module. Conclusion: The high morbidity of patients treated for a nasopharyngeal cancer may be explained by the location of the target volume which included the bilateral temporo-mandibular joints and the salivary glands. These patients require appropriate care during follow-up and will probably profit most from new RT techniques with sparing of normal tissues.