Comparing Mohs micrographic surgery and wide local excision in the management of head and neck dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: a scoping review

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare, locally aggressive cutaneous sarcoma with a propensity for recurrence. Its management, particularly in the head and neck (H&N) region, presents unique challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) compared to wide local excision (WLE) in treating H&N DFSP and its impact on recurrence rates and tissue preservation. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, yielding 29 relevant studies. We included studies comparing MMS and WLE in adult patients with H&N DFSP and reporting local recurrence outcomes. Data were analyzed using random effects analysis, with a meta-analysis performed for comparative studies. Analysis of studies demonstrated a lower recurrence for MMS. Comparative analysis of five studies involving 117 patients showed a significantly lower recurrence rate in the MMS group (2%) compared to the WLE group (19%). Margin status varied between studies, with some achieving negative margins at shorter distances. In the management of H&N DFSP, MMS has emerged as a superior surgical technique, consistently associated with reduced recurrence rates and the potential for tissue preservation. The adoption of MMS should be considered for its capacity to achieve negative margins with fewer processing steps, particularly in anatomically complex regions like the H&N.

Primary Management of Operable Locally Advanced Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Current Concepts and Strategies

INTRODUCTION

Locally advanced oral cavity carcinoma (LAOCSCC) is primarily treated with surgery followed by radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy.

METHODS

A review of literature using PubMED was performed for studies reporting the management of LAOCSCC. Based on the reviewed literature and opinions of experts in the field, recommendations were made.

RESULTS

Studies have shown that outcomes following resection of T4a and infranotch (inferior to mandibular notch) T4b are comparable. We discuss the concept of compartmental resection of LAOCSCC and issues concerning the management of the neck. Further, patients who refuse or are unable to undergo surgery can be treated with chemoradiotherapy with uncertain outcomes. The role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy has shown promise for organ (mandibular) preservation in a select subset of patients.

CONCLUSION

The management strategy for LAOCSCC should be determined in a multidisciplinary setting with emphasis on tumor control, functional preservation, and quality of life of the patient.

Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Indications in Non-Thyroid and Non-Parathyroid Surgery

Introperative nerve monitoring (IONM) of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is a well-established technique to aid in thyroid/parathyroid surgery. However, there is little evidence to support its use in non-thyroid or non-parathyroid surgery. The aim of this paper was to review the current evidence regarding the use of IONM in non-thyroid/non-parathyroid surgery in the head and neck and thorax. A literature search was performed from their inception up to January 2024, including the term "recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring". IONM in non-thyroid/non-parathyroid surgery has mainly been previously described in oesophageal surgery and in tracheal resections. However, there is little published evidence on the role of IONM with other resections in the vicinity of the RLN. Current evidence is low-level for the use of RLN IONM in non-thyroid/non-parathyroid surgery. However, clinicians should consider its use in surgery for pathologies where the RLN is exposed and could be injured.

Post-thyroidectomy pain relief is enhanced by wound infiltration. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Thyroidectomy is a common surgical procedure. Traditional options for pain management, such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), are limited by their side effects. Surgical wound infiltration with local anesthetics has the potential to reduce the need for analgesics in a number of surgical procedures. This systematic review and meta-analysis wanted to resolve these concerns and assess the efficacy of WI in the management of postoperative pain after thyroidectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The review adhered to Cochrane Collaboration and PRISMA standards. RCTs comparing WI with no infiltration or placebo were included. Patients with benign or malignant thyroid disease who underwent open thyroidectomy were eligible. Postoperative pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) as the primary outcome. Time to first rescue dose, the need for analgesic rescue in the first 24 h, and total opioid analgesic consumption were secondary outcomes. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and odds ratio (OR) were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

16 randomized controlled trials involving 1202 patients were included. At 6 and 8 h postoperatively, WI exhibited a statistically significant impact on pain management. In the WI group, the need for analgesic rescue was significantly reduced. At 4 h postoperatively, non-anesthetic medications demonstrated a significant analgesic effect.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis support the use of WI with local anesthetics for postoperative pain management after thyroidectomy. These findings have significant implications for improving perioperative care, especially in ambulatory settings where effective pain management is essential.

Ablation techniques or active surveillance compared to surgical resection in patients with low-risk papillary thyroid cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The global prevalence of thyroid cancer is on the rise. About one-third of newly diagnosed thyroid cancer cases comprise low-risk papillary thyroid cancer (1.5 cm or more minor). While surgical removal remains the prevailing approach for managing low-risk papillary thyroid cancer (LPTC) in patients, other options such as active surveillance (AS), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), and laser ablation (LA) are also being considered as viable alternatives. This study evaluated and compared surgical thyroid resection (TSR) versus non-surgical (NS) methods for treating patients with LPTC.

METHODS

The study encompassed an analysis of comparisons between surgical thyroid resection (TSR) and alternative approaches, including active surveillance (AS), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), or laser ablation (LA). The focus was on patients with biopsy-confirmed low-risk papillary thyroid cancer (LPTC) of less than 1.5 cm without preoperative indications of local or distant metastasis. The primary outcomes assessed were recurrence rates, disease-specific mortality, and quality of life (QoL). Data were collected from prominent databases, including Cochrane Database, Embase, MEDLINE, and Scopus, from inception to June 3rd, 2020. The CLARITY tool was utilized to evaluate bias risk. The analysis involved odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes, as well as mean differences (MD) and standardized mean differences (SMD) for continuous outcomes. The study is registered on PROSPERO under the identifier CRD42021235657.

RESULTS

The study incorporated 13 retrospective cohort studies involving 4034 patients. Surgical thyroid resection (TSR), active surveillance (AS), and minimally invasive techniques like radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), and laser ablation (LA) were performed in varying proportions of cases. The analysis indicated that specific disease mortality rates were comparable among AS, MWA, and TSR groups. The risk of recurrence, evaluated over different follow-up periods, showed no significant differences when comparing AS, RFA, MWA, or LA against TSR. Patients undergoing AS demonstrated better physical health-related quality of life (QoL) than those undergoing TSR. However, no substantial differences were observed in the overall mental health domain of QoL when comparing AS or RFA with TSR. The risk of bias was moderate in nine studies and high in four.

CONCLUSION

Low-quality evidence indicates comparable recurrence and disease-specific mortality risks among patients with LPTC who underwent ablation techniques or active surveillance (AS) compared to surgery. Nevertheless, individuals who opted for AS exhibited enhanced physical quality of life (QoL). Subsequent investigations are warranted to validate these findings.

Quality of life of patients with thyroid cancer in Colombia

INTRODUCTION

Quality of life (QoL) in thyroid cancer patients is comparable to patients with other tumours with worse prognosis. The aim was to evaluate QoL in Colombian patients with thyroid carcinoma and to explore the association of QoL scores with patient features.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study. The present research was carried out from data obtained for the validation study of the Spanish version of the THYCA-QoL. Adult patients with thyroid carcinoma who underwent total or partial thyroidectomy were included and asked to complete the Spanish-validated versions of the THYCA-QoL and EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaires. The scores of each domain and single items underwent linear transformation to values of 0-100. Comparisons of scale scores with clinical variables were performed.

RESULTS

We included 293 patients. The global EORTC QLQ-C30 score was 73.2±22.1 and the domains with poorer values were emotional and cognitive and the symptoms with poorer values were insomnia and fatigue. The global THYCA-QOL score was 28.4±17.8. The domains with poorer values were neuromuscular and psychological and the single items with poorer values were headaches and tingling hands/feet.

CONCLUSION

Colombian patients with thyroid cancer have a good prognosis, but they experience important problems related to QoL. QoL was influenced by demographic and clinical factors such as age, sex functional status and clinical stage.

Oral Cavity Cancer Surgical and Nodal Management: A Review From the American Head and Neck Society

Importance

Lymph node metastases from oral cavity cancers are seen frequently, and there is still inconsistency, and occasional controversies, regarding the surgical management of the neck in patients with oral cancer. This review is intended to offer a surgically focused discussion of the current recommendations regarding management of the neck, focusing on the indications and extent of dissection required in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma while balancing surgical risk and oncologic outcome.

Observations

The surgical management of the neck for oral cavity cancer has been robustly studied, as evidenced by substantial existing literature surrounding the topic. Prior published investigations have provided a sound foundation on which data-driven treatment algorithms can generally be recommended.

Conclusions

Existing literature suggests that patients with oral cavity cancer should be fully staged preoperatively, and most patients should receive a neck dissection even when clinically N0. Quality standards supported by the literature include separation of each level during specimen handling and lymph node yield of 18 or more nodes. Sentinel lymph node biopsy can be considered in select tumors and within a well-trained multidisciplinary team.

Early stimulated thyroglobulin after thyroidectomy for thyroid cancer predicts preradioiodine therapy thyroglobulin values

BACKGROUND

Follow-up of patients who undergo a total thyroidectomy is performed with thyroglobulin (Tg), and antithyroglobulin antibodies (AbTg). The objective of RAI adjuvant therapy is to negativize Tg to undetectable levels to ease the follow-up. The objective of this study was to evaluate the correlation of serum Tg values measured 2 weeks after surgery with the Tg value prior to RAI adjuvant therapy in order to define its utility as a reliable predictor of pretherapy Tg and as a potential predictor to avoid RAI adjuvant therapy.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of a cohort recruited prospectively. Adult patients with thyroid carcinoma who underwent total thyroidectomy and classified as intermediate or high risk by ATA guidelines. All patients were left without levothyroxine support after surgery and for at least two weeks. We measured biochemical markers two-four weeks after thyroidectomy and before and after RAI.

RESULTS

We included 75 patients. Thirty-three (44.0%) patients were classified as ATA high risk. In the post-RAI scan, only 1 (1.3%) showed distant metastases. The comparison between early postoperative and pretherapy Tg values showed that Tg decreased or remained stable at postoperative levels in 75 patients (100%).

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative Tg measurements are a reliable marker of pretherapy Tg levels in patients with intermediate- and high-risk thyroid carcinoma who are candidates for RAI adjuvant therapy. These results need correlation with outcomes and response to therapy in high-risk patients.

Pharyngeal Reconstruction Methods to Reduce the Risk of Pharyngocutaneous Fistula After Primary Total Laryngectomy: A Scoping Review

INTRODUCTION

The most common early postoperative complication after total laryngectomy (TL) is pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF). Rates of PCF are higher in patients who undergo salvage TL compared with primary TL. Published meta-analyses include heterogeneous studies making the conclusions difficult to interpret. The objectives of this scoping review were to explore the reconstructive techniques potentially available for primary TL and to clarify which could be the best technique for each clinical scenario.

METHODS

A list of available reconstructive techniques for primary TL was built and the potential comparisons between techniques were identified. A PubMed literature search was performed from inception to August 2022. Only case-control, comparative cohort, or randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies were included.

RESULTS

A meta-analysis of seven original studies showed a PCF risk difference (RD) of 14% (95% CI 8-20%) favoring stapler closure over manual suture. In a meta-analysis of 12 studies, we could not find statistically significant differences in PCF risk between primary vertical suture and T-shaped suture. Evidence for other pharyngeal closure alternatives is scarce.

CONCLUSION

We could not identify differences in the rate of PCF between continuous and T-shape suture configuration. Stapler closure seems to be followed by a lower rate of PCF than manual suture in those patients that are good candidates for this technique.

Satisfaction With Head and Neck Scar Appearance in Latin American Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Surgical scars have been related to poor quality of life, and this is important for head and neck scars. There is a paucity of data about the effect of scars on appearance in Latin American patients. The objective of this study was to describe the self-assessment of patient scars using the Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ).

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. The validated Spanish version of the PSAQ was used. Adult patients who underwent elective head and neck surgery were included. Demographic and clinical data were obtained from clinical charts. Univariate and multivariate analysis using a forward logistic regression was planned to assess the weight of specific subscale items on the overall subscale score for appearance and satisfaction with appearance.

Results

180 patients were recruited. A total of 144 (80%) patients were female, and the most frequent type of surgery was thyroidectomy. The global appearance, the global scar consciousness and the global scar appearance satisfaction was classified as excellent/good in 72.2%, 93.9% and 87.8% of patients, respectively. The multivariate analysis showed that color (OR 5.9, 95% CI 1.7-20.8), width (OR 58.9, [4.3-807.6]), and flatness (OR 5.7, [1.3-23.6]) were the items statistically associated with a regular/bad result in the appearance subscale.

Conclusions

There is a high level of satisfaction with head and neck scar appearance, and these data should be used to assess the impact of surgical interventions on cosmesis. The intrinsic characteristics of scars are the most relevant for defining scar satisfaction.

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on surgery for indeterminate thyroid nodules (THYCOVID): a retrospective, international, multicentre, cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Since its outbreak in early 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has diverted resources from non-urgent and elective procedures, leading to diagnosis and treatment delays, with an increased number of neoplasms at advanced stages worldwide. The aims of this study were to quantify the reduction in surgical activity for indeterminate thyroid nodules during the COVID-19 pandemic; and to evaluate whether delays in surgery led to an increased occurrence of aggressive tumours.

METHODS

In this retrospective, international, cross-sectional study, centres were invited to participate in June 22, 2022; each centre joining the study was asked to provide data from medical records on all surgical thyroidectomies consecutively performed from Jan 1, 2019, to Dec 31, 2021. Patients with indeterminate thyroid nodules were divided into three groups according to when they underwent surgery: from Jan 1, 2019, to Feb 29, 2020 (global prepandemic phase), from March 1, 2020, to May 31, 2021 (pandemic escalation phase), and from June 1 to Dec 31, 2021 (pandemic decrease phase). The main outcomes were, for each phase, the number of surgeries for indeterminate thyroid nodules, and in patients with a postoperative diagnosis of thyroid cancers, the occurrence of tumours larger than 10 mm, extrathyroidal extension, lymph node metastases, vascular invasion, distant metastases, and tumours at high risk of structural disease recurrence. Univariate analysis was used to compare the probability of aggressive thyroid features between the first and third study phases. The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05178186.

FINDINGS

Data from 157 centres (n=49 countries) on 87 467 patients who underwent surgery for benign and malignant thyroid disease were collected, of whom 22 974 patients (18 052 [78·6%] female patients and 4922 [21·4%] male patients) received surgery for indeterminate thyroid nodules. We observed a significant reduction in surgery for indeterminate thyroid nodules during the pandemic escalation phase (median monthly surgeries per centre, 1·4 [IQR 0·6-3·4]) compared with the prepandemic phase (2·0 [0·9-3·7]; p<0·0001) and pandemic decrease phase (2·3 [1·0-5·0]; p<0·0001). Compared with the prepandemic phase, in the pandemic decrease phase we observed an increased occurrence of thyroid tumours larger than 10 mm (2554 [69·0%] of 3704 vs 1515 [71·5%] of 2119; OR 1·1 [95% CI 1·0-1·3]; p=0·042), lymph node metastases (343 [9·3%] vs 264 [12·5%]; OR 1·4 [1·2-1·7]; p=0·0001), and tumours at high risk of structural disease recurrence (203 [5·7%] of 3584 vs 155 [7·7%] of 2006; OR 1·4 [1·1-1·7]; p=0·0039).

INTERPRETATION

Our study suggests that the reduction in surgical activity for indeterminate thyroid nodules during the COVID-19 pandemic period could have led to an increased occurrence of aggressive thyroid tumours. However, other compelling hypotheses, including increased selection of patients with aggressive malignancies during this period, should be considered. We suggest that surgery for indeterminate thyroid nodules should no longer be postponed even in future instances of pandemic escalation.

FUNDING

None.

Locoregional strategies to decrease postoperative pain and neck discomfort after open thyroidectomy: A scoping review

Adequate pain control enhances patients' quality of life and allows a quick return to normal activities. Current pain management practices may contribute to the crisis of opioid addiction. We summarize the evidence that evaluates locoregional interventions to decrease pain and neck discomfort after thyroidectomy. We designed a scoping review. The search strategy was made in the Pubmed/MEDLINE and EMBASE database. We included only systematic reviews and RCTs that compared two or more strategies. Forty-nine publications including 5045 patients fulfilled criteria. Sore throat frequency is higher for endotracheal intubation and topical administration of anesthetic before intubation decreases this. Pre-incisional infiltration of the surgical wound decreases postoperative pain. Bilateral superficial plexus nerve block decreases analgesic requirements during and after thyroidectomy. Wound massage and neck exercises decrease postoperative discomfort. Locoregional interventions significantly impact postoperative pain and may reduce opioid use and improve patient outcomes.

Management of Older Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

The projected increase in life expectancy over the next few decades is expected to result in a rise in age-related diseases, including cancer. Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a worldwide health problem with high rates of morbidity and mortality. In this report, we have critically reviewed the literature reporting the management of older patients with HNC. Older adults are more prone to complications and toxicities secondary to HNC treatment, especially those patients who are frail or have comorbidities. Thus, this population should be screened prior to treatment for such predispositions to maximize medical management of comorbidities. Chronologic age itself is not a reason for choosing less intensive treatment for older HNC patients. Whenever possible, also older patients should be treated according to the best standard of care, as nonstandard approaches may result in increased treatment failure rates and mortality. The treatment plan is best established by a multidisciplinary tumor board with shared decision-making with patients and family. Treatment modifications should be considered for those patients who have severe comorbidities, evidence of frailty (low performance status), or low performance status or those who refuse the recommendations of the tumor board.

Evaluating new treatments for anaplastic thyroid cancer

INTRODUCTION

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is one of the most lethal diseases known to humans with a median survival of 5 months. The American Thyroid Association (ATA) recently published guidelines for the treatment of this dreadful thyroid malignancy.

AREAS COVERED

This review presents the current therapeutic landscape of this challenging disease. We also present the results from trials published over the last five years and summarize currently active clinical trials.

EXPERT OPINION

Recent attempts to improve the prognosis of these tumors are moving toward personalized medicine, basing the treatment decision on the specific genetic profile of the individual tumor. The positive results of dabrafenib and trametinib for ATC harboring the BRAF V600E mutation have provided a useful treatment option. For the other genetic profiles, different drugs are available and can be used to individualize the treatment, likely using drug combinations. Combinations of drugs act on different molecular pathways and achieve inhibition at separate areas. With new targeted therapies, average survival has improved considerably and death from local disease progression or airway compromise is less likely with improvement in quality of life. Unfortunately, the results remain poor in terms of survival.

PSAT377 Minimally Invasive Treatment Modalities or Active Surveillance Compared to Surgery for Patients with Small Papillary Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

The incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing worldwide. A third of new thyroid cancer cases are small papillary thyroid cancer (1.5 cm or less in size). Although surgical intervention is the most common management option for patients with small papillary thyroid cancer (SPTC), active surveillance (AS), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), laser ablation (LA), and microwave ablation (MWA) are also considered as management alternatives. This study aimed to assess the comparative effectiveness of surgical (TS) vs. non-surgical management options for patients with SPTC.

Methods

We included studies comparing any type of TS versus AS, LA, RFA, or MWA in patients with a biopsy-proven SPTC of less than 1.5 cm without evidence of preoperative local or distant metastasis. The outcomes of interest were risk of recurrence of thyroid cancer, disease-specific mortality, and quality of life (QoL). All outcomes were measured at the longest follow-up. Literature search used Cochrane Database, Embase, and MEDLINE from inception to June 3rd, 2020. The CLARITY tool was used to assess the risk of bias. For dichotomous outcomes, we calculated odds ratios (OR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) using random-effects models. We estimated mean differences (MD) and standardized mean differences (SMD) based on predetermined criteria for continuous outcomes. PROSPERO (CRD42021235657).

Results

We included 14 retrospective cohort studies consisting of 6457 patients. TS, AS, RFA, MWA, and LA therapies were performed in 67.50% (n=4291), 21.03% (n=1337), 7.53% (n=479), 2.49% (n=255), and 1.27% (n=81) of cases, respectively. Disease-specific mortality (mean follow-up ranged from 37.5 to 120.0 months) was not different between patients who underwent TS versus AS. There was no data on mortality for the other noninvasive approaches. The risk of recurrence (mean follow-up ranged from 17.0 to 49.2 months) was not different when comparing LA, RFA, AS, or MWA against TS. The overall physical health domain of QoL (mean follow-up ranged from 10.8 to 29.6 months) was increased in patients who underwent AS (SMD: 0.23 95%CI 0.09; 0.37, k=2, I2=0.00%) compared to TS, but it was no different when comparing MWA or RFA versus TS. In addition, there were no differences in the overall mental health domain of QoL comparing AS or RFA vs TS. The risk of bias was considered moderate in nine studies and high in five studies.

Conclusion

Low evidence quality suggests equal risk of recurrence and mortality between SPTC patients who underwent minimally invasive treatment modalities or active surveillance compared to surgery. However, physical QoL was better in SPTC patients who underwent AS. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and draw robust conclusions.

Presentation: Saturday, June 11, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

PSAT281 Crico-tracheal Resection with End-to-End Anastomosis for Locally Advanced Thyroid Cancer: A Case Series of Early Postoperative Outcomes of a Low-Income Country from Latin America

Introduction

Tracheal invasion is a poor prognostic factor in patients with aggressive thyroid cancer. Crico-tracheal resection and primary anastomosis (CTRA) is the preferred surgical technique. Appropriate resection can improve early postoperative outcomes and long-term oncological outcomes. A recent systematic review of eastern literature showed a moderate rate of postoperative complications. However, there is a paucity of data regarding early postoperative complications in Latin America. Therefore, the aim of this report is to describe the early postoperative outcomes of three patients with thyroid cancer invading the trachea who underwent CTRA in two tertiary referral centers (1 public and 1 private) in a low-income country.

Clinical Cases

There were 2 females (F1: 53 y, F2: 55 y) and 1 male (M1: 53 y) patients from Ecuador. Patient F1 had follicular variant of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and was operated on in the public center and patients F2 and M1 had classic variant of PTC. Neck CT and perioperative flexible endoscopy were performed for airway invasion assessment. All patients underwent total thyroidectomy with circumferential CTRA. Patient F1 had a right lobe thyroid tumor with intraluminal invasion of the 5th tracheal ring up to the cricoid cartilage, the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and common carotid artery, and bilateral central neck lymph node metastasis. She underwent bilateral central neck dissection, carotid shaving, and RLN resection. Patient F2 showed an enlarged, multinodular thyroid invading the 4th up to the 1st tracheal ring, without luminal compromise. There was no invasion to other structures. Patient M1 had a right lobe thyroid tumor, with intraluminal invasion of the 4th tracheal ring up to the cricoid cartilage and invasion of the RLN. He underwent RLN resection. Patient F1 and M1 were classified as Shin IV and patient F2, Shin III. Regarding the 30-day postoperative complications, patient F1 had tracheostomy infection on day 5, tracheal dehiscence and anastomotic dehiscence that caused massive bleeding, cardiorespiratory failure and death on day 8. Patient M1 only presented mild bleeding through the traqueostomy tube on day 1, non-compressive cervical hematoma on day 2, and was discharged on day 5. Patient F2 had no complications and was discharged on day 3. The last 2 patients were decanulated successfully at the 2-week follow-up and received adjuvant radioactive iodine.

Conclusions

CTRA seems to be a safe procedure with moderate postoperative complications, low mortality, and zero tracheotomy-dependency rates in patients operated in Ecuador. Our results are similar to those described in the international literature. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and draw robust conclusions.

Presentation: Saturday, June 11, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Analysis of myocardial salvage with cardiac magnetic ressonance and angiography depending on the STEMI revascularization pathway in a PPCI centre

Background

Reperfusion networks have permitted improvements in reperfusion delays in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI)-treated ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, the impact on myocardial salvage (MS) of direct transfer to the catheterization laboratory (cath-lab) to minimize system delay remains unknown.

Objective

We sought to quantify the myocardial salvage index (MSI) acutely and to assess adverse remodeling at 6 months in PPCI-treated STEMI according to the mode of patient presentation.

Methods

Between 2005 and 2021 we included 493 patients in a single center registry of first PPCI-treated STEMI who were studied with Late gadolinium enhanced (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in the acute phase. Among them, 414 (84.0%) underwent a second LGE-CMR at 6 months. Subjects were classified depending on the mode of presentation: those diagnosed out-of-hospital and directly transferred to the cath-lab by the Emergency Medical Services (EMS group, 29.82%); subjects with first medical contact in a PCI-capable hospital (PCI-H group, 41.75%); and patients presenting to a non-PCI-capable center and transferred for PCI (non-PCI-H group, 28.43%). We computed the angiographic area at risk by BARI score, and combined it with the LGE-CMR derived infarct size to compute a validated MSI, expressed as percentage of area at risk. The change in ejection fraction (EF) and indexed left ventricle end-diastolic volume (iLVEDV) from baseline to 6 months was also computed.

Results

The mean age was 58.9±11.9 years, 84.5% were male and 51.4% had anterior STEMI. Total median ischaemic time was (median (interquartile range)) 126 (105–161) min in the EMS group, 201 (145–321) min in the PCI-H group and 300 (173–592) min in the non-PCI-H group (p&lt;0.01). MSI was 45.28±2.6%, 39.63±2.2% and 35.53±2.7% respectively (p=0.034). In a multiple linear regression model adjusting for relevant covariables, including initial TIMI flow, area at risk, Killip class, age, sex, diabetes, number of vessels and presence of collaterals, a 7.50% (95% CI 0.9 to 14.1%) increase in MSI was observed in the EMS group compared to the PCI-H group, and 11.03% (95% CI 3.9 to 18.2%) compared to the non-PCI-H group (p=0.027 and 0.003 respectively). At 6 months, the mean absolute increase in EF was 5.36±0.6% for the EMS group, 4.03±0.5% for the PCI-H group and 3.52±0.6% for the non-PCI-H group (p&lt;0.05 in the adjusted analysis) and the increase in iLVEDV was 2.37±7.3, 5.51±6.6 and 18.30±7.6 mL/m2 respectively (p=0.28).

Conclusions

Patients with out-of-hospital diagnostis of STEMI by the EMS who were directly transferred to the cath-lab showed shorter total ischaemic times, resulting in increased myocardial salvage and a trend towards improved indexes of left ventricular function at 6 months.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Grant from La Maratό de TV3 and grant from Fundaciό La Caixa

Benign Peripheral Non-cranial Nerve Sheath Tumors of the Neck

Benign peripheral non-cranial nerve sheath tumors are rare lesions, including both schwannomas and neurofibromas. These tumors arise from Schwann cells, and may originate from any peripheral, cranial, or autonomic nerve. Most of them are localized and sporadic but multifocal systemic forms can occur. Cervical sympathetic chain, brachial plexus, cervical plexus and spinal roots and nerves are the major nerve systems commonly affected. Dumbbell-shaped intra- and extradural tumors occur most commonly in the cervical spine, as well as purely extradural and paravertebral tumors. The management of these tumors has improved greatly owing to the developments in imaging techniques and surgical innovations such as endoscopically assisted approaches and robotic surgery. Microsurgical intracapsular excision of the tumor helped by the use of intraoperative fluorescent dyes and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring minimize postoperative neural deficit, since most schwannomas are encapsulated. Most tumors can be removed with a low rate of complications and recurrence. Radiotherapy should be considered for growing lesions that are not amenable to surgery. In asymptomatic patients, observation and serial scans is an option for elderly infirm patients.

The Selective Role of Open and Endoscopic Approaches for Sinonasal Malignant Tumours

Endoscopic endonasal surgery has been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of selected cases of sinonasal cancers. However, in cases of locally advanced neoplasms, as well as recurrences, the most appropriate approach is still debated. The present review aims to summarize the current state of knowledge on the utility of open approaches to resect sinonasal malignant tumours. Published comparative studies and meta-analyses suggest comparable oncological results with lower morbidity for the endoscopic approaches, but selection biases cannot be excluded. After a critical analysis of the available literature, it can be concluded that endoscopic surgery for selected lesions allows for oncologically safe resections with decreased morbidity. However, when endoscopic endonasal surgery is contraindicated and definitive chemoradiotherapy is not appropriate, craniofacial and transfacial approaches remain the best therapeutic option.

Revisiting the role of surgery in the treatment of Graves' disease

Graves' disease (GD) can be managed by antithyroid drugs (ATD), radioactive iodine (RAI) and surgery. Thyroidectomy offers the highest success rates for both primary and persistent disease, yet it is the least recommended or utilized option reaching <1% for primary disease and <25% for persistent disease. Several surveys have found surgery to be the least recommended by endocrinologists worldwide. With the development of remote access thyroidectomies and intraoperative nerve monitoring of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, combined with current knowledge of possible risks associated with RAI or failure of ATDs, revaluation of the benefit to harm ratio of surgery in the treatment of GD is warranted. The aim of this review is to discuss possible reasons for the low proportion of surgery in the treatment of GD, emphasizing an evidence-based approach to the clinicians' preferences for surgical referrals, surgical indications and confronting traditional reasons and concerns relating to the low referral rate with up-to-date data.

Voice Outcome After Carbon Dioxide Transoral Laser Microsurgery for Glottic Cancer According to the European Laryngological Society Classification of Cordectomy Types - A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Voice outcome after carbon dioxide transoral laser microsurgery (CO2TOLMS) for glottic cancer is of prime importance. However, a comprehensive overview according to the European Laryngological Society (ELS) classification of cordectomies is still lacking. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize data on voice outcome associated with individual types of ELS glottic cordectomy after CO2TOLMS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement. The initial search identified 936 records of which 25 publications were then included. Voice outcome data (Voice Handicap Index [VHI] version 30, grade of dysphonia [G] and maximum phonation time [MPT]) were extracted per resection type. Weighted averages were calculated.

RESULTS

Data show a gradual increase in the VHI scores although they were still similar for all cordectomy types (range 14.2 to 21.5). The grade of dysphonia showed a gradual increase with increasing resection depth (range 1.0 to 1.9). There was a gradual decrease in the MPT (range 15.2 to 7.2).

CONCLUSION

Voice outcome is related to cordectomy type with mild dysphonia characterizing ELS type I, II and III cordectomies, while more extended cordectomies (ELS type IV, V and VI) result in moderate dysphonia and shortness of breath during phonation. The voice handicap experienced by patients is limited even in the more extended cordectomies.

Supervisors' transformational leadership style and residents' job crafting in surgical training: the residents' views

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to explore the effects of three supervisors' leadership styles (transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire) on residents' job crafting.

METHODS

Sequential explanatory mixed-methods. First, a purposive sample of residents rated the leadership style of their supervisors and their own job crafting on the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire and the Dutch Job Crafting Scale. The effects were tested through linear mixed effects regression analysis. Thereafter we conducted semi-structured interviews with residents and conducted a thematic analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 116 residents participated. A transformational style had a positive effect on residents' job crafting (b = .19, t₍₁₁₂₎ =3.76, p=. 009), whereas the transactional and laissez-faire styles did not. This could be explained by the fact that residents felt a positive influence of the supervisors with such style on the atmosphere for training, on the job resources available to them, and on their modelling function for how to handle the demands of the environment.

CONCLUSIONS

A transformational style of the supervisor has a positive effect on residents' job crafting. Future research should explore the supervisors' perspective, as well as the effectiveness of leadership training for supervisors with a focus on resident outcomes, such as job crafting.

Effectiveness of core needle biopsy in the diagnosis of thyroid lymphoma and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Both anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) and thyroid lymphoma (TL) clinically present as rapidly enlarging neck masses. Unfortunately, in this situation, like in any other thyroid swelling, a routine fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytology is the first and only diagnostic test performed at the initial contact in the average thyroid practice. FNA, however, has a low sensitivity in diagnosing ATC and TL, and by the time the often "inconclusive" result is known, precious time has evolved, before going for core-needle biopsy (CNB) or incisional biopsy (IB) as the natural next diagnostic steps.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the diagnostic value of CNB in the clinical setting of a rapidly enlarging thyroid mass, via a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available data on CNB reliability in the differential diagnosis of ATC and TL.

METHODS

A PubMed, Embase and Web of Science database search was performed on June 23th 2021. Population of interest comprised patients who underwent CNB for clinical or ultrasonographical suspicion of ATC or TL, patients with a final diagnosis of ATC or TL after CNB, or after IB following CNB.

RESULTS

From a total of 17 studies, 166 patients were included. One hundred and thirty-six were diagnosed as TL and 14 as ATC following CNB. CNB, with a sensitivity and positive predictive value of 94,3% and 100% for TL and 80,1% and 100% for ATC respectively, proved to be superior to FNA (reported sensitivity for TL of 48% and for ATC of 61%). Furthermore, the need for additional diagnostic surgery after CNB was only 6.2% for TL and 17.6% for ATC.

CONCLUSIONS

Immediately performing CNB for a suspected diagnosis of ATC and TL in a rapidly enlarging thyroid mass is more appropriate and straightforward than a stepped diagnostic pathway using FNA first and awaiting the result before doing CNB.

Prophylactic central neck dissection for well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma: results and methodological assessment of systematic reviews

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to assess the methodological quality of systematic reviews evaluating the effectivness of prophylactic central neck dissection plus thyroidectomy to decrease locoregional recurrence in patients with thyroid carcinoma.

INTRODUCTION

Many systematic reviews have been published concerning prophylactic central neck dissection in well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma, finding inconsistent results regarding the risk of locoregional recurrence. Because systematic reviews are considered the best source on which to base clinical decisions, the assessment of methodological quality is important.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This paper included studies that mentioned that a systematic review was performed in adult patients with confirmed diagnosis of well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma without evidence of nodal metastatic disease who underwent total thyroidectomy. Reviews evaluated prophylactic central neck dissection compared with no neck diessection for decreasing locoregional recurrence.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, LILACS, Web of Science, CNKI, and Google Scholar. PROSPERO was searched for unpublished studies and gray literature. Data regarding the study characteristics, patient types, numbers of patients, and locoregional recurrence by group were extracted. Methodological characteristics, type of statistical analysis and summary estimator, heterogeneity, and publication bias were recorded. The methodological quality was measured using the AMSTAR 2 tool.

RESULTS

The search identified 12 systematic reviews. Only four systematic reviews reported adherence to methodological guidelines. The AMSTAR 2 critical criteria classified all the studies as critically low quality. The pooled risk difference for locoregional recurrence varied among studies from -5% to 0%. Most of the studies were published in high-impact journals.

CONCLUSIONS

The published systematic reviews that assessed prophylactic central neck dissection as an intervention to decrease the rate of locoregional recurrence have a critically low methodological quality. The results and recommendations based on these studies should be used with caution. The evaluation of methodological quality by peer reviewers must be improved.

De-escalation studies in HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer: How should we proceed?

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a well-established causative factor in a subset of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (HNSCC). Although HPV can be detected in various anatomical subsites, HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is the most common HPV-related malignancy of the head and neck, and its worldwide incidence is constantly rising. Patients with OPSCC are generally younger, have less co-morbidities and generally have better prognosis due to different biological mechanisms of carcinogenesis. These facts have generated hypotheses on potential treatment modifications, aiming to minimize treatment-related toxicities without compromising therapy efficacy. Numerous randomized clinical trials have been designed to verify this strategy and increasingly real-world evidence data from retrospective, observational studies is becoming available. Until now, the data do not support any modification in contemporary treatment protocols. In this narrative review, we outline recent data provided by both randomized controlled trials and real-world evidence of HPV-positive OPSCC in terms of clinical value. We critically analyze the potential value and drawbacks of the available data and highlight future research directions. This article was written by members and invitees of the International Head and Neck Scientific Group.(www.IHNSG.com).

Current therapeutic options for low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma: A scoping evidence review

Most cases of thyroid carcinoma are classified as low risk. These lesions have been treated with open surgery, remote access thyroidectomy, active surveillance, and percutaneous ablation. However, there is lack of consensus and clear indications for a specific treatment selection. The objective of this study is to review the literature regarding the indications for management selection for low-risk carcinomas. Systematic review exploring inclusion and exclusion criteria used to select patients with low-risk carcinomas for treatment approaches. The search found 69 studies. The inclusion criteria most reported were nodule diameter and histopathological confirmation of the tumor type. The most common exclusions were lymph node metastasis and extra-thyroidal extension. There was significant heterogeneity among inclusion and exclusion criteria according to the analyzed therapeutic approach. Alternative therapeutic approaches in low-risk carcinomas can be cautiously considered. Open thyroidectomy remains the standard treatment against which all other approaches must be compared.

Combination of white matter hyperintensities and Aβ burden is related to cognitive composites domain scores in subjective cognitive decline: the FACEHBI cohort

BACKGROUND

To explore whether the combination of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) and amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition is associated with worse cognitive performance on cognitive composites (CCs) domain scores in individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD).

METHODS

Two hundred participants from the FACEHBI cohort underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 18F-florbetaben positron emission tomography (FBB-PET), and neuropsychological assessment. WMHs were addressed through the Fazekas scale, the Age-Related White Matter Changes (ARWMC) scale, and the FreeSurfer pipeline. Eight CCs domain scores were created using the principal component analysis (PCA). Age, sex, education, and apolipoprotein E (APOE) were used as adjusting variables.

RESULTS

Adjusted multiple linear regression models showed that FreeSurfer (B - .245; 95% CI - .1.676, - .393, p = .016) and β burden (SUVR) (B - .180; 95% CI - 2.140, - .292; p = .070) were associated with face-name associative memory CCs domain score, although the latest one was not statistically significant after correction for multiple testing (p = .070). There was non-significant interaction of these two factors on this same CCs domain score (p = .54). However, its cumulative effects on face-name associative performance indicated that those individuals with either higher WMH load or higher Aβ burden showed the worst performance on the face-name associative memory CCs domain score.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that increased WMH load and increased Aβ are independently associated with poorer episodic memory performance in SCD individuals, indicating a cumulative effect of the combination of these two pathological conditions in promoting lower cognitive performance, an aspect that could help in terms of treatment and prevention.

Standardization for oncologic head and neck surgery

The inherent variability in performing specific surgical procedures for head and neck cancer remains a barrier for accurately assessing treatment outcomes, particularly in clinical trials. While non-surgical modalities for cancer therapeutics have evolved to become far more uniform, there remains the challenge to standardize surgery. The purpose of this review is to identify the barriers in achieving uniformity and to highlight efforts by surgical groups to standardize selected operations and nomenclature. While further improvements in standardization will remain a challenge, we must encourage surgical groups to focus on strategies that provide such a level.

How Surgical Leaders Transform Their Residents to Craft Their Jobs: Surgeons' Perspective

BACKGROUND

Surgeons should transform their residents to take the lead in their jobs and optimize their working conditions, so-called job crafting. We investigated the actions undertaken by surgeons with a transformational leadership style to encourage residents' job crafting, about which there is at present a paucity of information.

METHODS

We performed a qualitative study based on principles of constructivist grounded theory. In-depth interviews were held with a purposive sample of surgeons who were perceived as transformational leaders by their residents. During data analysis (open, axial, and selective coding), we compared inductive codes with deductive codes drawn from the job demands-resources and transformational leadership theories to reach a consensus on the interpretation of data and identification of the main themes.

RESULTS

Sixteen surgeons participated. Surgeons undertook five actions that enhanced job crafting in residents. They: one) modeled positive behaviors of a good surgeon; two) used a stepwise individual approach toward autonomy; three) connected with the resident as a person; four) supported residents in handling complications and errors; and five) they coached the resident to deal with competing interests. These actions had four consequences for residents. They led to: one) more responsibilities in patient care; two) more constructive relationships in the workplace; three) less pressure from workload and surgical care duties; and four) less personal difficulties and errors in patient care.

CONCLUSIONS

The actions undertaken by surgeons with a transformational leadership style have a positive association with the residents' ability to craft their jobs. This knowledge has implications for surgeons' leadership development with a view to workplace education.

The hidden curve behind COVID-19 outbreak: the impact of delay in treatment initiation in cancer patients and how to mitigate the additional risk of dying-the head and neck cancer model

PURPOSE

The rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic around the world caused most healthcare services to turn substantial attention to treatment of these patients and also to alter the structure of healthcare systems to address an infectious disease. As a result, many cancer patients had their treatment deferred during the pandemic, increasing the time-to-treatment initiation, the number of untreated patients (which will alter the dynamics of healthcare delivery in the post-pandemic era) and increasing their risk of death. Hence, we analyzed the impact on global cancer mortality considering the decline in oncology care during the COVID-19 outbreak using head and neck cancer, a known time-dependent disease, as a model.

METHODS

An online practical tool capable of predicting the risk of cancer patients dying due to the COVID-19 outbreak and also useful for mitigation strategies after the peak of the pandemic has been developed, based on a mathematical model. The scenarios were estimated by information of 15 oncological services worldwide, given a perspective from the five continents and also some simulations were conducted at world demographic data.

RESULTS

The model demonstrates that the more that cancer care was maintained during the outbreak and also the more it is increased during the mitigation period, the shorter will be the recovery, lessening the additional risk of dying due to time-to-treatment initiation.

CONCLUSIONS

This impact of COVID-19 pandemic on cancer patients is inevitable, but it is possible to minimize it with an effort measured by the proposed model.

Microscopic positive surgical margins in thyroid carcinoma: a proposal for thyroid oncology teams

PURPOSE

In the case of well-differentiated thyroid cancer, the importance of microscopic margin status remains controversial. We discuss the relevance of the effect of microscopic positive surgical margins in the early stages of differentiated thyroid cancer.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search and review of available evidence in English literature was undertaken.

RESULTS

A previous meta-analysis did not find an association between microscopic positive surgical margins and local recurrence. Heterogeneity of definitions and differences between microscopic surgical margins and extrathyroid extension are discussed. Impact on clinical decision-making is explored.

CONCLUSION

The finding of microscopic positive surgical margins in a patient with a thyroid tumor without intraoperative evidence of macroscopic invasion to adjacent structures, with complete resection made by the surgeon and without pathological report of extrathyroid extension, does not have a worse prognostic effect. We present a classification of surgical margins that may help thyroid oncology teams to tailor further management in patients with thyroid cancer.

Frozen section in thyroid gland follicular neoplasms: It's high time to abandon it!

Thyroid nodules are a very common clinical condition. The 2015 American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines recommend surgical excision for Bethesda IV nodules. The use of intraoperative frozen section (FS) has been recommended as a strategy to tailor the extent of the initial surgery. We critically evaluated the literature that discusses the utility and cost-effectiveness of FS to make an intraoperative decision in patients with thyroid nodules classified as follicular neoplasm. FS should not be recommended as a routine intraoperative test to assess for malignancy in thyroid follicular patterned lesions due to its low performance; the high number of deferred results; the inability to adequately assess histologically defining features; the improvements in risk stratification guiding total thyroidectomy; and the low cost-effectiveness of FS.

Management of the Neck in Well-Differentiated Thyroid Cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this narrative review, we discuss the indications for elective and therapeutic neck dissections and the postoperative surveillance and treatment options for recurrent nodal disease in patients with well-differentiated thyroid cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

Increased availability of advanced imaging modalities has led to an increased detection rate of previously occult nodal disease in thyroid cancer. Nodal metastases are more common in young patients, large primary tumors, specific genotypes, and certain histological types. While clinically evident nodal disease in the lateral neck compartments has a significant oncological impact, particularly in the older age group, microscopic metastases to the central or the lateral neck in well-differentiated thyroid cancer do not significantly affect outcome. As patients with clinically evident nodal disease are associated with worse outcomes, they should be treated surgically in order to reduce rates of regional recurrence and improve survival. The benefit of elective neck dissection remains unverified as the impact of microscopic disease on outcomes is not significant.

Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma to the Cervical Lymph Nodes From an Unknown Primary Cancer: Management in the HPV Era

Background

Patients with metastases in the lymph nodes of the neck and no obvious primary tumor, neck cancer with unknown primary (NCUP), represent a management challenge. A majority of patients have metastatic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), although other histologies do occur.

Methods

We comprehensively reviewed the literature, compared available guidelines, and conferred with an international team of experts.

Results

Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) and fine needle aspiration (FNA) under ultrasound guidance increase accuracy of diagnosis. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), determination of human papilloma virus (HPV) status, by p16 staining or by in situ hybridization (ISH), and next-generation gene sequencing can guide us regarding probable primary sites and tumor biology. Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) has been introduced for the early detection of subtle mucosal lesions. Direct laryngoscopy (DL) and tonsillectomy have long been procedures used in the search for a primary site. More recently, TransOral Robotic Surgery (TORS) or Transoral LASER Microsurgery (TLM) have been introduced for lingual tonsillectomy.

Conclusions

New technologies have been developed which can better detect, diagnose, and treat occult primary tumors. Decisions regarding therapy are based on the primary tumor site (if discovered) and N stage. Options include neck dissection with or without postoperative adjuvant therapy, primary irradiation, or combined chemotherapy with irradiation. The preferred treatment of patients whose primary remains unidentified is controversial.

Immediate Intraoperative Repair of the Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve in Thyroid Surgery

OBJECTIVES

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury is a recognized risk during thyroid and parathyroid surgery and can result in significant morbidity. The aim of this review paper is to consider the optimal approach to the immediate intraoperative repair of the RLN during thyroid surgery.

METHODS

A PubMed literature search was performed from inception to June 2020 using the following search strategy: immediate repair or repair recurrent laryngeal nerve, repair or reinnervation recurrent laryngeal nerve and immediate neurorraphy or neurorraphy recurrent laryngeal nerve.

RESULTS

Methods of immediate intraoperative repair of the RLN include direct end-to-end anastomosis, free nerve graft anastomosis, ansa cervicalis to RLN anastomosis, vagus to RLN anastomosis, and primary interposition graft. Techniques of nerve repair include micro-suturing, use of fibrin glue, and nerve grafting. Direct micro-suture is preferable when the defect can be repaired without tension. Fibrin glue has also been proposed for nerve repair but has been criticized for its toxicity, excessive slow reabsorption, and the risk of inflammatory reaction in the peripheral tissues. When the proximal stump of the RLN cannot be used, grafting could be done using transverse cervical nerve, supraclavicular nerve, vagus nerve, or ansa cervicalis.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence is low-level; however, it suggests that when the RLN has been severed, avulsed, or sacrificed during thyroid surgery it should be repaired intraoperatively. The immediate repair has on balance more advantages than disadvantages and should be considered whenever possible. This should enable the maintenance of vocal cord tone, better and prompter voice recovery and avoidance of aspiration. Laryngoscope, 131:1429-1435, 2021.

Comparison of different guidelines for oral cancer

BACKGROUND

Guidelines should provide accessible and reliable information for decision-making. Also, they should be translatable to multiple settings, allowing their use in diverse situations.

METHODS

We searched in GOOGLE, PUBMED, SCIELO, and SCOPUS for guidelines on oral squamous cell carcinoma. They were evaluated using the AGREE II protocol.

RESULTS

We identified 16 guidelines that fulfilled inclusion criteria. The mean score and range for each AGREE II domain were: "scope and purpose" 74.1% (6-100.0%); "stakeholder" 78.6% (0-100.0%); "rigor of development" 71.4% (0-100.0%); "clarity of presentation" 71.4% (6-100.0%); "applicability" 50.0% (0-85.7%); "editorial independence" 57.1% (14.3-85.7%) and "overall assessment" 57.1% (14.3-100.0%).

CONCLUSION

Guidelines for oral cancer present variable quality. Among those available, only four surpassed the 70% AGREE II score threshold.

Case for staged thyroidectomy

Recent modifications in the management of well-differentiated thyroid cancer have resulted in significant alterations in clinical approach. Utilizing a series of preoperative and postoperative risk factors involving both the patient and the disease pathology, we offer the term "staged thyroidectomy" to help organize these risk factors for patients and the endocrine team to optimize management. This approach is intended to incorporate our latest nuanced understanding of certain endocrine pathology and may serve to optimize patient outcomes.

Value and Quality of Care in Head and Neck Oncology

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The concept of value-based health care (VBHC) was articulated more than a decade ago. However, its clinical implementation remains an on-going process and a particularly demanding one for the domain of head and neck cancer (HNC). These cancers often present with fast growing tumors in functionally and cosmetically sensitive sites and afflict patients with differing circumstances and comorbidity. Moreover, the various treatment modalities and protocols have different effects on functional outcomes. Hence, the interpretation of what constitutes VBHC in head and neck oncology remains challenging.

RECENT FINDINGS

This monograph reviews developments in specific aspects of VBHC for HNC patients, including establishment of registries and quality indices (such as infrastructure, process, and outcome indicators). It emphasizes the importance of the multidisciplinary team, "time to treatment intervals," and adherence to guidelines. The discussion addresses major indicators including survival, quality of life and functional outcomes, and adverse events. Also, strengths and weaknesses of nomograms, prognostic and decision models, and variation of care warrant attention. Health care professionals, together with patients, must properly define quality and relevant outcomes, both for the individual patient as well as the HNC population. It is essential to capture and organize the relevant data so that they can be analyzed and the results used to improve both outcomes and value.

Experience with Active Surveillance of Thyroid Low-Risk Carcinoma in a Developing Country

Background: The incidence of thyroid carcinoma is growing worldwide. More than 50% of new malignant tumors are classified as classical papillary carcinomas in low-risk category with a low rate of recurrence and high long-term survival. Active surveillance is a strategy to control low-risk tumor evolution with the intention to avoid unnecessary treatments and maintain thyroid function. The aim of this study was to report a cohort of patients with thyroid nodules classified as Bethesda V-VI and who are under active surveillance in Colombia. Methods: A prospective cohort was assembled since January 2015. All patients had been evaluated clinically, biochemically with ultrasonography and fine needle aspiration biopsy previous to the first evaluation. Active surveillance was proposed to patients with asymptomatic low-risk carcinoma (<1.5 cm, encapsulated, without evidence of lymph node metastasis), independent of sex or age. The strategy included a specific discussion about the surgical option and expected risk of complications, risk of long-term thyroxine support, and the active surveillance strategy. The data on age, sex, reason for an ultrasound examination, ultrasound risk by American Thyroid Association (ATA) classification, size and volume of the nodule, reason to consider active surveillance and follow-up ultrasounds, and surgical decision were recorded prospectively. A Kaplan-Meier curve was constructed for the rate of growth and increase in volume of the nodule, growth >3 mm and increase in volume >50%, and need of operation. Results: One hundred two patients were analyzed. Seventy-five percent of patients had a nodule smaller than 1 cm. Only 24/102 (23%) nodules were classified as ATA low risk. Thirty-four of 102 (33.3%) nodules were classified as Bethesda VI and the others were Bethesda V. The median follow-up was 13.9 months, and 32.3% of patients had more than 24 months of follow-up. Only 11/102 (10.8%) nodules grew more than 3 mm and 26/102 (25.5%) nodules grew more than 50% in volume. 12.7% patients were submitted to surgery. The overall stability rate without growth >3 mm, without volume increase >50%, and without surgery at 24 months were 89.8%, 77.0%, and 85.5%, respectively Conclusions: Active surveillance is possible in developing Western countries with similar results to those provided by Asian and American authors.

Papillary Thyroid Cancer-Aggressive Variants and Impact on Management: A Narrative Review

Introduction

Aggressive variants of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) have been described with increasing frequency. These variants include diffuse sclerosing variant, tall cell variant, columnar cell variant, solid variant, and hobnail variant.

Methods

We have performed a review of the more aggressive variants of PTC with respect to main characteristics, histological and molecular features, and the consequences that the knowledge of these variants should have in the treatment of the patients.

Results

At the present time, we do not know the prognostic value of these aggressive PTC variants. The extent of the surgical treatment and adjuvant therapy necessary should be decided on the basis of the extent of the tumor at presentation and the opinion of experienced clinicians.

Conclusion

These aggressive variants should be known by clinicians, to avoid underdiagnosis, and treated according to the latest recommendations in the literature.

Recommendations for head and neck surgical oncology practice in a setting of acute severe resource constraint during the COVID-19 pandemic: an international consensus

The speed and scale of the global COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented pressures on health services worldwide, requiring new methods of service delivery during the health crisis. In the setting of severe resource constraint and high risk of infection to patients and clinicians, there is an urgent need to identify consensus statements on head and neck surgical oncology practice. We completed a modified Delphi consensus process of three rounds with 40 international experts in head and neck cancer surgical, radiation, and medical oncology, representing 35 international professional societies and national clinical trial groups. Endorsed by 39 societies and professional bodies, these consensus practice recommendations aim to decrease inconsistency of practice, reduce uncertainty in care, and provide reassurance for clinicians worldwide for head and neck surgical oncology in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and in the setting of acute severe resource constraint and high risk of infection to patients and staff.

COVID-19 pandemic: Effects and evidence-based recommendations for otolaryngology and head and neck surgery practice

The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a highly contagious zoonosis produced by SARS-CoV-2 that is spread human-to-human by respiratory secretions. It was declared by the WHO as a public health emergency. The most susceptible populations, needing mechanical ventilation, are the elderly and people with associated comorbidities. There is an important risk of contagion for anesthetists, dentists, head and neck surgeons, maxillofacial surgeons, ophthalmologists, and otolaryngologists. Health workers represent between 3.8% and 20% of the infected population; some 15% will develop severe complaints and among them, many will lose their lives. A large number of patients do not have overt signs and symptoms (fever/respiratory), yet pose a real risk to surgeons (who should know this fact and must therefore apply respiratory protective strategies for all patients they encounter). All interventions that have the potential to aerosolize aerodigestive secretions should be avoided or used only when mandatory. Health workers who are: pregnant, over 55 to 65 years of age, with a history of chronic diseases (uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and all clinical scenarios where immunosuppression is feasible, including that induced to treat chronic inflammatory conditions and organ transplants) should avoid the clinical attention of a potentially infected patient. Health care facilities should prioritize urgent and emergency visits and procedures until the present condition stabilizes; truly elective care should cease and discussed on a case-by-case basis for patients with cancer. For those who are working with COVID-19 infected patients' isolation is compulsory in the following settings: (a) unprotected close contact with COVID-19 pneumonia patients; (b) onset of fever, cough, shortness of breath, and other symptoms (gastrointestinal complaints, anosmia, and dysgeusia have been reported in a minority of cases). For any care or intervention in the upper aerodigestive tract region, irrespective of the setting and a confirmed diagnosis (eg, rhinoscopy or flexible laryngoscopy in the outpatient setting and tracheostomy or rigid endoscopy under anesthesia), it is strongly recommended that all health care personnel wear personal protective equipment such as N95, gown, cap, eye protection, and gloves. The procedures described are essential in trying to maintain safety of health care workers during COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, otolaryngologists, head and neck, and maxillofacial surgeons are per se exposed to the greatest risk of infection while caring for COVID-19 positive subjects, and their protection should be considered a priority in the present circumstances.

Incidence of Occult Lymph Node Metastasis in Primary Larynx Squamous Cell Carcinoma, by Subsite, T Classification and Neck Level: A Systematic Review

Background: Larynx cancer is a common site for tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract. In cases with a clinically negative neck, the indications for an elective neck treatment are still debated. The objective is to define the prevalence of occult metastasis based on the subsite of the primary tumor, T classification and neck node levels involved. Methods: All studies included provided the rate of occult metastases in cN0 larynx squamous cell carcinoma patients. The main outcome was the incidence of occult metastasis. The pooled incidence was calculated with random effects analysis. Results: 36 studies with 3803 patients fulfilled the criteria. The incidence of lymph node metastases for supraglottic and glottic tumors was 19.9% (95% CI 16.4–23.4) and 8.0% (95% CI 2.7–13.3), respectively. The incidence of occult metastasis for level I, level IV and level V was 2.4% (95% CI 0–6.1%), 2.0% (95% CI 0.9–3.1) and 0.4% (95% CI 0–1.0%), respectively. For all tumors, the incidence for sublevel IIB was 0.5% (95% CI 0–1.3). Conclusions: The incidence of occult lymph node metastasis is higher in supraglottic and T3–4 tumors. Level I and V and sublevel IIB should not be routinely included in the elective neck treatment of cN0 laryngeal cancer and, in addition, level IV should not be routinely included in cases of supraglottic tumors.

The role of radioactive iodine in the management of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer - An oncologic surgical perspective

With improved understanding of the biology of differentiated thyroid carcinoma its management is evolving. The approach to surgery for the primary tumour and elective nodal surgery is moving from a "one-size-fits-all" recommendation to a more personalised approach based on risk group stratification. With this selective approach to initial surgery, the indications for adjuvant radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy are also changing. This selective approach to adjuvant therapy requires understanding by the entire treatment team of the rationale for RAI, the potential for benefit, the limitations of the evidence, and the potential for side-effects. This review considers the evidence base for the benefits of using RAI in the primary and recurrent setting as well as the side-effects and risks from RAI treatment. By considering the pros and cons of adjuvant therapy we present an oncologic surgical perspective on selection of treatment for patients, both following pre-operative diagnostic biopsy and in the setting of a post-operative diagnosis of malignancy.

Utility of Routine Frozen Section of Thyroid Nodules Classified as Follicular Neoplasm

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of frozen section in thyroid nodules classified as follicular neoplasm.

METHODS

A diagnostic test meta-analysis was designed. Studies that assessed frozen section in patients with thyroid nodules and a fine-needle aspiration biopsy result of Bethesda IV were selected. The outcomes measured were the number of false- and true-positive and -negative results. We used the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2) instrument for methodological quality assessment and a bivariate mixed-effects regression framework and a likelihood-based estimation of the exact binomial approach.

RESULTS

Forty-six studies from 1991 to 2018 were included. Most studies had moderate methodological quality. The overall sensitivity and specificity were 43% (95% confidence internal [CI], 0.34-0.53) and 100% (95% CI, 0.99-1.00), respectively. The hierarchic summary receiver operating characteristic curve showed an area under the curve of 0.91 (95% CI, 0.80-0.97).

CONCLUSIONS

Frozen section demonstrates moderate diagnostic performance in patients with follicular neoplasm, and its utility for making intraoperative decisions is limited. Its routine use should be discouraged.

The risk of second primary tumors in head and neck cancer: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Second primary tumors (SPTs) are a common cause of reduced life expectancy in patients treated for head and neck cancer (HNC). This phenomenon forms an area to be addressed during posttreatment follow-up.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of literature following PRISMA guidelines, from 1979 to 2019, to investigate incidence of SPTs, synchronous, and metachronous, in HNC population.

RESULTS

Our review includes data of 456 130 patients from 61 articles. With a minimum follow-up of 22 months, mean incidence of SPTs was 13.2% (95% CI: 11.56-14.84): 5.3% (95% CI: 4.24-6.36) for synchronous SPTs and 9.4% (95% CI: 7.9-10.9) for metachronous SPTs. The most frequent site for SPTs was head and neck area, followed by the lungs and esophagus.

CONCLUSION

Although with wide variations between studies, the rate of SPTs in HNC patients is high. Given the impact in the prognosis, we must develop strategies for the early diagnosis of SPTs.