A low cost-video assisted-pneumatic oto-endoscopy system.

Pneumatic otoscopes do not support video assisted clinical examination, as they are not equipped with built-in cameras, so diagnosis is based on real-time direct observation rather than on video studying. On the other hand, classic rigid endoscopes usually provide otologists with a clear view of the tympanic membrane and its mobility, allowing subsequent video recording. Unfortunately, rigid endoscopes cannot be used for pneumatic otoscopy, unless they are properly fitted for such use.

Is cartilage better than temporalis muscle fascia in type I tympanoplasty? Implications for current surgical practice.

The aim of this study was to compare the hearing results and graft integration rates in patients undergoing myringoplasty for the reconstruction of the tympanic membrane, with the use of either cartilage or temporalis muscle fascia (TMF). A systematic literature review in Medline and other database sources up to February 2012 was carried out, and the pooled data were meta-analyzed. Twelve studies were systematically analyzed.

The Role of Postural Restrictions after BPPV Treatment: Real Effect on Successful Treatment and BPPV's Recurrence Rates.

Background. Canalith repositioning techniques are adequately established in the literature, as the treatment of choice for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. However, the role of the posttreatment instructions is still not clearly defined.

Liposarcoma of the nasopharynx: diagnosis and management of a rare diagnostic entity.

Liposarcoma is one of the most frequently occurring soft tissue sarcomas in adulthood. The majority of liposarcomas arise in the lower extremities and retroperitoneum, while the incidence of this tumor in the head and neck region is reported to be extremely low, comprising 1.8%-6.

Diagnosis and treatment of HIV-associated manifestations in otolaryngology.

Almost 30 years after its first description, HIV still remains a global pandemic. The present paper aims to review the current knowledge on the ear, nose and throat (ENT) manifestations of HIV infection, and present the available diagnostic and treatment options. A literature review was conducted in Medline and other available database sources.

Are intra-tympanically administered steroids effective in patients with sudden deafness? Implications for current clinical practice.

Over 60 years since its first report, sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) still represents an ill-explained condition, with potentially devastating effects for the quality of life of previously well patients. The present study critically reviewed the available evidence regarding the efficacy of intra-tympanic steroid administration in the treatment of SSNHL. Factors affecting that efficacy were also explored.

Universal newborn hearing screening, a revolutionary diagnosis of deafness: real benefits and limitations.

The finding that early detection of permanent congenital childhood hearing loss produces worthwhile benefit in terms of improved speech and language provides the rationale for the universal screening of newborns. The aim of the present study is to collect the current evidence with regard to the efficacy, the results and outcomes of universal hearing screening programs. An extensive search of the literature was performed in Medline and other available database sources.

Diagnostic challenges and safety considerations in cochlear implantation under the age of 12 months.

Aim: To review the current knowledge on cochlear implantation in infancy, regarding diagnostic, surgical and anesthetic challenges.

Study-design: Meta-analysis. EBM level: II.

Cochlear implantation under the first year of age--the outcomes. A critical systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: To review the current knowledge on cochlear implantation in infancy, regarding auditory perception/speech production outcomes.

Study-design: Meta-analysis. EBM level: II.

Supracricoid hemilaryngopharyngectomy for selected pyriform sinus carcinoma patients--a retrospective chart review.

Background: The aim of this study is to assess the functional and oncologic results of supracricoid hemilaryngopharyngectomy and report our experience in the technique, local control and overall survival rates.

Materials And Methods: 18 selected patients with pyriform sinus cancer treated by supracricoid hemilaryngopharyngectomy in a University Hospital setting. Retrospective chart review was used to assess functional and oncologic results of the procedure.

Recurrent acute otitis media and gastroesophageal reflux disease in children. is there an association?

Objective: To investigate whether there is a relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and recurrent acute otitis media (RAOM) in infants and children. Possible risk factors are also explored.

Material And Methods: 221 consecutive children who had symptoms and signs associated with GERD and had undergone a prolonged ambulatory 24-h esophageal pH-monitoring.

Congenital aural atresia reconstruction: a surgical procedure with a long history.

Background: Pinna deformities, combined with congenital aural atresia, have been a matter of serious debate in the literature as they are associated with major aesthetic and functional problems that are difficult to manage. These problems have been described as early as 2000 BC. The aim of the present article is to approach the whole problem as one (pinna malformation and aural atresia) and present the history as well as the current approaches in reconstruction.

Paraganglioma of the larynx: a case report.

Background: Paragangliomas arise from paraganglion cells as part of the diffuse neuroendocrine system. These tumors are generally considered benign. They appear rarely in the larynx and most of them are supraglottic.