The molecular characteristics of recurrent/metastatic HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review of the literature.

Objectives: About 17% of patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), which is mainly comprised of oropharyngeal SCC (OPSCC), will experience disease recurrence, which is often considered incurable when manifested at a metastatic and/or recurrent stage. We conducted a critical qualitative systematic review. Our objectives were to provide an overview of the molecular landscape of recurrent/metastatic HPV-positive HNSCC as well as novel molecular biomarkers.

Comparative evaluation of a low-cost solar powered otoscope with a traditional device among health care workers in Malawi.

Objectives: To comparatively evaluate a low-cost otoscope with a traditional device among health care workers in Malawi.

Methods: The study is a prospective, comparative, qualitative observational survey of health care worker's opinions using 5-point Likert rating scales and tick box categories in a 10-item survey questionnaire. Twenty-five mixed cadre health care workers from the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Blantyre in Malawi were recruited.

A UK based two-centre review of multifocality and its role in the treatment of papillary thyroid cancer.

Introduction: Multifocality is increasingly observed in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) due to improvements in imaging and histopathological analysis. However, its significance in management, particularly as a sole risk-factor, remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of multifocality in predicting recurrence following thyroid lobectomy in a contemporary group of PTC patients managed in the UK.

Outpatient (same-day discharge) versus inpatient parotidectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Parotidectomy is often performed as an inpatient procedure largely due to drain insertion; however, outpatient parotidectomy has increasingly become an attractive alternative for its shorter hospital stays and greater efficiency in cost-effectiveness.

Objective Of Review: To assess the safety and feasibility of outpatient (or same-day discharge) parotidectomy compared with inpatient parotidectomy.

Type Of Review: Systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines.

Endoscopic Sphenopalatine Artery Ligation: General Applicability in a Teaching Unit.

Background:: Endoscopic sphenopalatine artery ligation (ESPAL) is the intervention of choice for refractory epistaxis in specialist ear, nose and throat (ENT)units and should be within the repertoire of competencies for all ENT trainees. Following its recent incorporation within the United Kingdom competency-based training syllabus as an explicit outcome standard, the ESPAL is not uncommonly being delivered by trainees under appropriate supervision. We assessed the efficacy and outcome of ESPAL in epistaxis management within our teaching hospitals.

Recurrent respiratory distress and cardiopulmonary arrest caused by megaoesophagus secondary to achalasia.

Introduction: Respiratory distress and arrest from tracheal compression secondary to megaoesophagus are rare complications of achalasia. We present the case of a man with end-stage achalasia who required oesophagectomy to prevent recurrent life-threatening tracheal compression and respiratory arrest. A literature review is also presented.

Adult-onset laryngomalacia: case reports and review of management.

Laryngomalacia is a dynamic airway condition characterised by inward collapse of flaccid supraglottic structures during inspiration. Although the most common cause of stridor in the paediatric population, adult-onset laryngomalacia remains a rare entity and its management, challenging. Two cases of adult-onset laryngomalacia are reported.