The effects of superior semicircular canal dehiscence on the labyrinth: does size matter?

Background: Superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) is characterized by lack of bony covering of the superior semicircular canal in the inner ear, resulting in a third mobile window with altered functioning of the superior semicircular canal. Vertigo in association with sound and pressure changes often occurs. This study examines the relationship between dehiscence size and frequency of sound-induced vertigo.

A prospective randomised single blinded study comparing harmonic scalpel tonsillectomy with bipolar tonsillectomy.

Objective: To compare the differences in pain, analgesic use and bleeding in children after tonsillectomy using either a harmonic scalpel or a bipolar diathermy surgical technique.

Methods: Children 6-15 years presenting for tonsillectomy were randomised to either a harmonic scalpel or bipolar diathermy surgical technique. Post-operative pain scores (VAS, 0-10) were recorded within 30 min of surgery and again at the 4h hospital discharge.

An anatomical protrusion exists on the posterior hypopharyngeal wall in some elderly cadavers.

Dysfunction of the cricopharyngeus is a common cause for dysphagia in the elderly and results in the appearance of the cricopharyngeal bar on a barium swallow radiological examination. However, manometrically normal relaxation of the cricopharyngeus has been observed in patients with a permanent cricopharyngeal bar, which implies that some structural changes may occur in the pharyngoesophageal wall. The aim of this study was to examine the macro-microscopic morphological features in the posterior hypopharyngeal wall of elderly human cadavers.

Paediatric small cavity mastoid surgery: second look tympanotomy.

Objective: Following surgery for retraction pocket/cholesteatoma there is risk of residual disease, after canal wall up surgery a second look tympanotomy is routinely recommended. After canal wall down (CWDM) surgery this is not routine. In certain situations the senior author recommends second look tympanotomy.