Microdebrider decompression of schwannoma: a novel method of excising a neck mass.

Objective: This case report describes the excision of a large neck neurofibroma causing compression of the esophagus and airway in a young patient with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). At the conclusion of this article, readers should be able to describe a novel method of excising large encapsulated neck masses using microdebridement for decompression. The safety and efficacy of this method is discussed.

Quantification of ciliary beat frequency in sinonasal epithelial cells using differential interference contrast microscopy and high-speed digital video imaging.

Background: Mucociliary clearance is a critical upper airway host defense mechanism. Ciliated epithelium in the mammalian airway continually beat at a baseline frequency. Importantly, during times of stress such as exercise or infection, the cilia beat faster to increase clearance.

Surgical decisions in the management of frontal sinus osteomas.

Background: The development of chronic rhinosinusitis, a mucocele, or persistent headaches is a common indication for the removal of a frontal sinus osteoma. The best surgical approach to ensure complete and safe removal of the lesion is less clearcut. The advent of specialized frontal sinus instruments, angled endoscopes, and surgical navigational systems has made removal of frontal sinus osteomas possible through an endoscopic approach.

Evidence of bacterial biofilms in human chronic sinusitis.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether bacterial biofilms exist on the sinus mucosa surfaces of human subjects with recalcitrant chronic sinusitis. Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate patients with continued symptoms of chronic sinusitis despite prior appropriate medical and surgical management. Morphologic structures that confirm the presence of bacterial biofilms were identified on the sinus mucosa of patients infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a known biofilm former.