Long-term voice outcome after thyroidectomy using energy based devices.

Objective: Voice dysfunction is frequently reported after thyroidectomy even in absence of vocal fold paralysis. The energy-based devices such as Harmonic scalpel (HS) or LigaSure (LS) are commonly used in conventional thyroidectomy. The objective of this study was to investigate the long-term voice outcome after total thyroidectomy using energy based devices.

Palatal implants for persistent snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea after laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty.

Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) was widely performed in 1990s as a surgical therapeutic procedure to improve snoring or mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, LAUP is not currently recommended as a treatment for OSA because the evidence for its efficacy is insufficient. Little is known about alternative minimally invasive surgery in patients who refuse continuous positive airway pressure or oral appliance after failed LAUP.

Increased expression of arginase I and II in allergic nasal mucosa.

Objectives/hypothesis: It is known that arginase may be a regulator of diverse pathways, including production of nitric oxide (NO). Increased expression of arginase has been reported in several inflammatory lung diseases, including allergic asthma, suggesting that this may be a common feature underlying the pathophysiology of airway hyperreactivity. Thus, arginase I and II may play a role in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis.