[Sialendoscopy--learning curve and nation-wide survey in German ENT-departments]

Endoscope-assisted resection of nonneoplastic space-occupying lesion in oral and maxillofacial areas

Endoscope-assisted oral and maxillofacial surgeries have been applied to the resection of tumors with minimal invasion and good cosmetic outcomes. However, with regard to endoscope-assisted resection of nonneoplastic space-occupying lesion (NSOL) in oral and maxillofacial areas which differ from tumors in treatment, there are no systematic reports. Therefore the advantages and limitations of the endoscopy-assisted approach (EAA) in resection of NSOL remain unclear. In this novel study we describe endoscope technique for resection of NSOL in face and submandibular areas and compare the feasibility and effectiveness of EAA with external approach (EA). Eleven patients underwent EAA and 20 patients underwent EA procedures. The perioperative and postoperative outcomes of the patients were evaluated. The resection of NSOL with EAA was completed successfully with a shorter hospitalization duration, less bleeding, a smaller incison and better satisfaction with appearance than with the EA procedure (P < 0.01). Our study showed that endoscope-assisted resection of NSOL is technically safe, feasible and practicable. Good cosmetic results with minimal invasion can be achieved with this new technique and therefore this may be a promising new standard procedure in oral and maxillofacial areas.

Learning curve in diagnostic and interventional sialendoscopy for obstructive salivary diseases

Sialendoscopy is a new diagnostic and surgical tool for management of salivary gland diseases that offers the opportunity to treat selected pathologies less invasively and with better results compared to previous techniques. As with any new technique, an adequate training programme involving a gradual learning curve is mandatory to quickly obtain results similar to those reported in the literature. This includes an appropriate diagnostic programme, correct patient selection and knowledge of possible pitfalls. In this retrospective study, the outcomes of the first 141 procedures (74 on the parotid gland and 67 on the submandibular gland) performed with this technique in our Department from 2009 to 2013 were compared with those reported in the literature. Patients were divided into three groups: Group A (the first 49 procedures performed), Group B (the next 50 procedures), and Group C (the last 42 procedures). There were no statistically significant differences relative to mean procedure times, recurrence of symptomatology after treatment, need for further treatments and rates of minor complications between groups. No major complications were seen. The increase in experience resulted in an increased number of interventional sialendoscopies performed under local anaesthesia instead of general anaesthesia (51% vs 18% vs 14%). In only three of 130 glands treated (2.3%) was gland resection required. We also evaluated which technique had been used for stone removal and rate of failure, which was similar in all groups (13.6% vs 15% vs 15%). Our results do not substantially differ from those reported in the literature. Initial difficulties in catheterising the papilla could be overcome with practise on fresh human specimens or fresh pig heads. Lack of precision regarding diagnostic imaging techniques was remedied by improving the competence of the surgeon in performing pre- and postoperative ultrasound. The creation of specialised centres capable of treating up to 1 to 2 million people would be desirable in order to better stratify pathologies, validate the investment in equipment and gain the necessary experience in the various surgical techniques.

Sialendoscopy: what is it and what is its awareness?

In expanding the scope of sialendoscopy across the globe and assessing the impact of training activities at the European Sialendoscopy Training Centre, this study was conducted to find out the knowledge and attitude among respondents as well as identify potential obstacles to the initiation of the procedure. Delegates attending the 2011 International Federation of Otorhinolaryngological Societies meeting received a set of five questions. There were a total of 257 responses from 57 countries. Nearly all (238/257) were practising in the academic setting. A significant number of respondents had heard about sialendoscopy (231/257). An equal number found it interesting and were keen to learn more about the procedure (233/257). More than 85 % (219/257) respondents expressed their desire to start sialendoscopy. Hurdles to overcome included financial limitations (110) and "not enough knowledge" (100). Awareness about the existence of the procedure was rather high although the knowledge was limited. Several of the responders seemed keen on starting it, but had not done so due to financial limitations. However, there was a high rate of bias owing to the limited number of responders per country precluding a country-wise inference of awareness. Moreover, meetings of this nature tend to be attended by academics who in general seem to be more aware of new developments than their non-academic peers. Future surveys can address these issues as part of ensuring the universal adoption of sialendoscopy.