Endoscopic Repair of Anterior Skull Base Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks is Successful in Frail Patients

OBJECTIVE

Surgical frailty estimates a patient's ability to withstand the physiologic stress of an intervention. There is limited data regarding the impact of frailty on endoscopic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak repair.

METHODS

Patients undergoing CSF leak repair at two tertiary academic skull base programs were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic, treatment, and postoperative outcomes data were recorded. Frailty was calculated using validated indices, including the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and the Modified 5-Item Frailty Index (mFI-5). Outcomes included 30-day medical and surgical complications and readmission.

RESULTS

A total of 185 patients were included with 128 (69.2%) female patients and average age of 54 ± 14 years. The average body mass index was 34.6 ± 8.5. The most common identified etiology was idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) in 64 patients (34.6%). A total of 125 patients (68%) underwent perioperative lumbar drain placement (primarily to measure intracranial pressures and diagnose IIH). Most patients were ASA class 3 (48.6%) with mean CCI 2.14 ± 2.23 and mFI-5 0.97 ± 0.90. Three patients had postoperative CSF leaks, with an overall repair success rate of 98.4%. There was no association between increased frailty and 30-day medical outcomes, surgical outcomes, or readmission (all p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic CSF leak repair in a frail population, including lumbar drain placement and bed rest, was not associated with an increased rate of complications. Previous data suggests increased complications in open craniotomy procedures in patients with significant comorbidities. This study suggests that the endoscopic approach to CSF leak repair is well tolerated in the frail population.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV Laryngoscope, 2024.

Combined Transnasal, Transoral Excision of Odontogenic Cysts Offers Reduced Recurrence Rates and Favorable Sinonasal Outcomes

Odontogenic cysts impact the adjacent dentition and maxillary sinus. A combined transnasal, transoral approach for removal offers reduced recurrence rates and favorable sinonasal outcomes compared with historic transoral-only approaches.

Efficacy of EDS-FLU for Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Two Randomized Controlled Trials (ReOpen1 and ReOpen2)

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a prevalent inflammatory disease. No medications are Food and Drug Administration-approved for the most common form, CRS without nasal polyps (also called "chronic sinusitis"). Novel biomechanics of the exhalation delivery system deliver fluticasone (EDS-FLU; XHANCE) to sinonasal areas above the inferior turbinate, especially sinus drainage pathways not reached by standard-delivery nasal sprays.

OBJECTIVE

Assess EDS-FLU efficacy for CRS (irrespective of nasal polyps).

METHODS

Two randomized, EDS-placebo-controlled trials in adults with CRS irrespective of polyps (ReOpen1) or exclusively without polyps (ReOpen2) were conducted at 120 sites in 13 countries. Patients received EDS-FLU 1 or 2 sprays/nostril, or EDS-placebo, twice daily for 24 weeks. Coprimary measures were composite symptom score through week 4 and ethmoid/maxillary sinus percent opacification by computed tomography at week 24.

RESULTS

ReOpen1 (N = 332) composite symptom score least-squares mean change for EDS-FLU 1 or 2 sprays/nostril versus EDS-placebo was -1.58 and -1.60 versus -0.62 (P < .001, P < .001); ReOpen2 (N = 223), -1.54 and -1.74 versus -0.81 (P = .011, P = .001). In ReOpen1, sinus opacification least-squares mean change for EDS-FLU 1 or 2 sprays/nostril versus EDS-placebo was -5.58 and -6.20 versus -1.60 (P = .045, P = .018), and in ReOpen2, -7.00 and -5.14 versus +1.19 (P < .001, P = .009). Acute disease exacerbations were reduced by 56% to 66% with EDS-FLU versus EDS-placebo (P = .001). There were significant, and similar magnitude, symptom reductions in patients using standard-delivery nasal steroid products just before entering the study (P < .001). Adverse events were similar to standard-delivery intranasal steroids.

CONCLUSIONS

EDS-FLU is the first nonsurgical treatment demonstrated to reduce symptoms, intrasinus opacification, and exacerbations in replicate randomized clinical trials in CRS, regardless of polyp status.

Predictive factors for decreased baseline quality of life in patients with sinonasal malignancies

BACKGROUND

The impact of sinonasal malignancies (SNMs) on quality of life (QOL) at presentation is poorly understood. The Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and University of Washington Quality of Life (UWQOL) are validated QOL instruments with distinctive subdomains. This study aims to identify factors impacting pretreatment QOL in SNM patients to personalize multidisciplinary management and counseling.

METHODS

Patients with previously untreated SNMs were prospectively enrolled (2015-2022) in a multicenter observational study. Baseline pretreatment QOL instruments (SNOT-22, UWQOL) were obtained along with demographics, comorbidities, histopathology/staging, tumor involvement, and symptoms. Multivariable regression models identified factors associated with reduced baseline QOL.

RESULTS

Among 204 patients, presenting baseline QOL was significantly reduced. Multivariable regression showed worse total SNOT-22 QOL in patients with skull base erosion (p = 0.02). SNOT-rhinologic QOL was worse in women (p = 0.009), patients with epistaxis (p = 0.036), and industrial exposure (p = 0.005). SNOT extranasal QOL was worse in patients with industrial exposure (p = 0.016); worse SNOT ear/facial QOL if perineural invasion (PNI) (p = 0.027). Squamous cell carcinoma pathology (p = 0.037), palate involvement (p = 0.012), and pain (p = 0.017) were associated with worse SNOT sleep QOL scores. SNOT psychological subdomain scores were significantly worse in patients with palate lesions (p = 0.022), skull base erosion (p = 0.025), and T1 staging (p = 0.023). Low QOL was more likely in the presence of PNI on UW health (p = 0.019) and orbital erosion on UW overall (p = 0.03). UW social QOL was worse if palatal involvement (p = 0.023) or PNI (p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate a negative impact on baseline QOL in patients with SNMs and suggest sex-specific and symptom-related lower QOL scores, with minimal histopathology association. Anatomical tumor involvement may be more reflective of QOL than T-staging, as orbital and skull base erosion, PNI, and palate lesions are significantly associated with reduced baseline QOL.

Integrated Molecular and Histological Insights for Targeted Therapies in Mesenchymal Sinonasal Tract Tumors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of mesenchymal sinonasal tract tumors (STTs), a distinct subset of STTs. Despite their rarity, mesenchymal STTs represent a unique clinical challenge, characterized by their rarity, often slow progression, and frequently subtle or overlooked symptoms. The complex anatomy of the sinonasal area, which includes critical structures such as the orbit, brain, and cranial nerves, further complicates surgical treatment options. This underscores an urgent need for more advanced and specialized therapeutic approaches.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advancements in molecular diagnostics, particularly in next-generation sequencing, have significantly enhanced our understanding of STTs. Consequently, the World Health Organization has updated its tumor classification to better reflect the distinct histological and molecular profiles of these tumors, as well as to categorize mesenchymal STTs with greater accuracy. The growing understanding of the molecular characteristics of mesenchymal STTs opens new possibilities for targeted therapeutic interventions, marking a significant shift in treatment paradigms. This review article concentrates on mesenchymal STTs, specifically addressing sinonasal tract angiofibroma, sinonasal glomangiopericytoma, biphenotypic sinonasal sarcoma, and skull base chordoma. These entities are marked by unique histopathological and molecular features, which challenge conventional treatment approaches and simultaneously open avenues for novel targeted therapies. Our discussion is geared towards delineating the molecular underpinnings of mesenchymal STTs, with the objective of enhancing therapeutic strategies and addressing the existing shortcomings in the management of these intricate tumors.

Utilizing Histopathology to Predict Success with Macrolide Therapy in CRS Patients

There is currently interest regarding CRSsNP patients with refractory symptomatology following functional endoscopic sinus surgery, and which of these patients can derive benefit from low-dose macrolide therapy. In the present study, we analyze a cohort of over fifty CRSsNP patients on macrolide therapy; structured histopathological findings at the time of surgery were analyzed against the success of macrolide treatment. Independently, fibrosis, absence of squamous metaplasia, absence of eosinophilia, presence of neutrophilic infiltrate, and lymphoplasmocytic predominance were all associated with objective success of macrolide treatment; these findings may allow clinicians to more appropriately select patients for this therapy.

SNOT-22 subdomain outcomes following treatment for sinonasal malignancy: A prospective, multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Patients with sinonasal malignancy (SNM) present with significant sinonasal quality of life (QOL) impairment. Global sinonasal QOL as measured by the 22-item Sinonasal Outcomes Test (SNOT-22) has been shown to improve with treatment. This study aims to characterize SNOT-22 subdomain outcomes in SNM.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with SNM were prospectively enrolled in a multi-center patient registry. SNOT-22 scores were collected at the time of diagnosis and through the post-treatment period for up to 5 years. Multivariable regression analysis was used to identify drivers of variation in SNOT-22 subdomains.

RESULTS

Note that 234 patients were reviewed, with a mean follow-up of 22 months (3 months-64 months). Rhinologic, psychological, and sleep subdomains significantly improved versus baseline (all p < 0.05). Subanalysis of 40 patients with follow-up at all timepoints showed statistically significant improvement in rhinologic, extra-nasal, psychological, and sleep subdomains, with minimal clinically important difference met between 2 and 5 years in sleep and psychological subdomains. Adjuvant chemoradiation was associated with worse outcomes in rhinologic (adjusted odds ratio (5.22 [1.69-8.66])), extra-nasal (2.21 [0.22-4.17]) and ear/facial (5.53 [2.10-8.91]) subdomains. Pterygopalatine fossa involvement was associated with worse outcomes in rhinologic (3.22 [0.54-5.93]) and ear/facial (2.97 [0.32-5.65]) subdomains. Positive margins (5.74 [2.17-9.29]) and surgical approach-combined versus endoscopic (3.41 [0.78-6.05])-were associated with worse psychological outcomes. Adjuvant radiation (2.28 [0.18-4.40]) was associated with worse sleep outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Sinonasal QOL improvements associated with treatment of SNM are driven by rhinologic, extra-nasal, psychological, and sleep subdomains.

International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Sinonasal Tumors

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal neoplasms, whether benign and malignant, pose a significant challenge to clinicians and represent a model area for multidisciplinary collaboration in order to optimize patient care. The International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology: Sinonasal Tumors (ICSNT) aims to summarize the best available evidence and presents 48 thematic and histopathology-based topics spanning the field.

METHODS

In accordance with prior International Consensus Statement on Allergy and Rhinology documents, ICSNT assigned each topic as an Evidence-Based Review with Recommendations, Evidence-Based Review, and Literature Review based on the level of evidence. An international group of multidisciplinary author teams were assembled for the topic reviews using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses format, and completed sections underwent a thorough and iterative consensus-building process. The final document underwent rigorous synthesis and review prior to publication.

RESULTS

The ICSNT document consists of four major sections: general principles, benign neoplasms and lesions, malignant neoplasms, and quality of life and surveillance. It covers 48 conceptual and/or histopathology-based topics relevant to sinonasal neoplasms and masses. Topics with a high level of evidence provided specific recommendations, while other areas summarized the current state of evidence. A final section highlights research opportunities and future directions, contributing to advancing knowledge and community intervention.

CONCLUSION

As an embodiment of the multidisciplinary and collaborative model of care in sinonasal neoplasms and masses, ICSNT was designed as a comprehensive, international, and multidisciplinary collaborative endeavor. Its primary objective is to summarize the existing evidence in the field of sinonasal neoplasms and masses.

Impact of Frailty on Postoperative Outcomes in Extended Endonasal Skull Base Surgery for Suprasellar Pathologies

OBJECTIVE

Frailty metrics estimate a patient's ability to tolerate physiologic stress and there are limited frailty data in patients undergoing expanded endonasal approaches (EEA) for suprasellar pathologies. Elevated frailty metrics have been associated with increased perioperative complications in patients undergoing craniotomies. We sought to examine this potential relationship in EEA.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Two tertiary academic skull base centers.

METHODS

Cases of patients undergoing EEA for suprasellar pathologies were reviewed. Demographic, treatment, survival, and postoperative outcomes data were recorded. Frailty was calculated using validated indexes, including the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, the modified 5-item frailty index (mFI-5), and the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI). Primary outcomes included 30-day medical and surgical complications.

RESULTS

A total of 88 patients were included, with 59 (67%) female patients and a mean age of 54 ± 15 years. The most common pathologies included 53 meningiomas (60.2%) and 21 craniopharyngiomas (23.9%). Most patients were ASA class 3 (54.5%) with mean mFI-5 0.82 ± 1.01 and CCI 4.18 ± 2.42. There was no association between increased frailty and 30-day medical or surgical outcomes (including postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak), prolonged length of hospital stay, or mortality (all P > .05). Higher mFI-5 was associated with an increased risk for 30-day readmission (odds ratio: 2.35, 95% confidence Interval: 1.10-5.64, P = .04).

CONCLUSION

Despite the patient population being notably frail, we only identified an increased risk for 30-day readmission and observed no links with deteriorating surgical, medical, or mortality outcomes. This implies that conventional frailty metrics may not effectively align with EEA outcomes.

Akt activator SC79 stimulates antibacterial nitric oxide generation in human nasal epithelial cells in vitro

BACKGROUND

The role of Akt in nasal immunity is unstudied. Akt phosphorylates and activates endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expressed in epithelial ciliated cells. Nitric oxide (NO) production by ciliated cells can have antibacterial and antiviral effects. Increasing nasal NO may be a useful antipathogen strategy in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). We previously showed that small-molecule Akt activator SC79 induces nasal cell NO production and suppresses IL-8 via the transcription factor Nrf-2. We hypothesized that SC79 NO production may additionally have antibacterial effects.

METHODS

NO production was measured using fluorescent dye DAF-FM. We tested effects of SC79 during co-culture of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with primary nasal epithelial cells, using CFU counting and live-dead staining to quantify bacterial killing. Pharmacology determined the mechanism of SC79-induced NO production and tested dependence on Akt.

RESULTS

SC79 induced dose-dependent, Akt-dependent NO production in nasal epithelial cells. The NO production required eNOS and Akt. The NO released into the airway surface liquid killed P. aeruginosa. No toxicity (LDH release) or inflammatory effects (IL8 transcription) were observed over 24 h.

CONCLUSIONS

Together, these data suggest multiple immune pathways are stimulated by SC79, with antipathogen effects. This in vitro pilot study suggests that a small-molecule Akt activator may have clinical utility in CRS or respiratory other infection settings, warranting future in vivo studies.

Clinical and technical factors in endoscopic skull base surgery associated with reconstructive success

BACKGROUND

In this study, we identified key discrete clinical and technical factors that may correlate with primary reconstructive success in endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS).

METHODS

ESBS cases with intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks at four tertiary academic rhinology programs were retrospectively reviewed. Logistic regression identified factors associated with surgical outcomes by defect subsite (anterior cranial fossa [ACF], suprasellar [SS], purely sellar, posterior cranial fossa [PCF]).

RESULTS

Of 706 patients (50.4% female), 61.9% had pituitary adenomas, 73.4% had sellar or SS defects, and 20.5% had high-flow intraoperative CSF leaks. The postoperative CSF leak rate was 7.8%. Larger defect size predicted ACF postoperative leaks; use of rigid reconstruction and older age protected against sellar postoperative leaks; and use of dural sealants compared to fibrin glue protected against PCF postoperative leaks. SS postoperative leaks occurred less frequently with the use of dural onlay. Body-mass index, intraoperative CSF leak flow rate, and the use of lumbar drain were not significantly associated with postoperative CSF leak. Meningitis was associated with larger tumors in ACF defects, nondissolvable nasal packing in SS defects, and high-flow intraoperative leaks in PCF defects. Sinus infections were more common in sellar defects with synthetic grafts and nondissolvable nasal packing.

CONCLUSIONS

Depending on defect subsite, reconstructive success following ESBS may be influenced by factors, such as age, defect size, and the use of rigid reconstruction, dural onlay, and tissue sealants.

Multi-institutional Analysis of Endoscopic Sellar Surgical Volumes During the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE

We sought to quantify trends in operative volumes and complications of endoscopic sellar surgery before and after the COVID-19 pandemic onset.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a retrospective analysis.

SETTING

TriNetX database analysis.

METHODS

All adults undergoing neuroendoscopy for resection of pituitary tumor (Current Procedural Terminology code 62165) with diagnosis of benign/malignant neoplasm of pituitary gland (D35.2/C75.1) or benign/malignant neoplasm of craniopharyngeal duct (D35.3/C75.2) were included using the TriNetX database for 2 years before (pre-COVID group) and 2 years after (post-COVID group) February 17, 2020.

RESULTS

A total of 1238 patients in the pre-COVID group and 1186 patients in the post-COVID group were compared. Age, gender, and race were statistically similar between the groups (P > .05). Surgical volume decreased by 6% in the post-COVID group. In 2020 Q2, operative volume decreased by 19%, and in 2021 Q4 (peak COVID-19 caseload in the United States), operative volumes decreased by 29% compared to 2 years prior. Postoperative complications including meningitis (P = .49), cerebrospinal fluid leak (P = .36), visual field deficits (P = .07), postoperative pneumonia or respiratory failure (P = .42), and 30-day readmission rates (P = .89) were similar between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Overall, endoscopic sellar surgery may continue to fluctuate with increased COVID-19 outbreaks. Patient outcomes do not appear to be worsened by decreased operative volumes or delays in nonurgent surgeries.

Utility of a LangChain and OpenAI GPT-powered chatbot based on the international consensus statement on allergy and rhinology: Rhinosinusitis

KEY POINTS

We created a LangChain/OpenAI API-powered chatbot based solely on International Consensus Statement of Allergy and Rhinology: Rhinosinusitis (ICAR-RS). The ICAR-RS chatbot is able to provide direct and actionable recommendations. Utilization of consensus statements provides an opportunity for AI applications in healthcare.

Recurrence patterns among patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma: A multi-institutional study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate recurrence patterns and survival after recurrence among patients with sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM).

METHODS

This was a multi-institutional retrospective review from seven U.S. institutions of patients with SNMM from 1991 to 2022. Recurrence was categorized as local, regional, distant, or multifocal. Kaplan-Meier tests were used to evaluate disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and post-recurrence survival (PRS) reported with standard errors (SE) and log-rank testing used for comparison. Cox-regression was further used, with hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) reported.

RESULTS

Among 196 patients with SNMM, there were 146 patients with recurrence (74.5%). Among all patients, 60-month DFS (SE) was 15.5% (2.9%), 60-month OS (SE) was 44.7% (3.7%), mean age ± standard deviation at diagnosis was 69.7 ± 12.5 years, and 54.6% were female. In 26 patients who underwent primary treatment of the neck, 60-month DFS did not differ from no treatment (p > 0.05). Isolated distant recurrence was most common (42.8%), followed by local (28.3%), multifocal (20.7%), and regional recurrence (8.3%). Among patients with regional recurrence in the neck, there was no 60-month PRS benefit for patients undergoing salvage neck dissection or radiation (p > 0.05). Among patients with distant recurrence, only immunotherapy was associated with improved 12-month PRS (HR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.11-0.92, p = 0.034), and no treatment group was associated with improved 24- or 60-month PRS (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

SNMM is associated with a high recurrence rate and poor survival. Primary treatment of the neck was not associated with reduced recurrence, and immunotherapy for treatment of distant recurrence was associated with increased 12-month PRS.

Postoperative mometasone irrigations improve quality of life in skull base tumor patients

Objectives

The use of topical corticosteroids to manage postoperative sinonasal symptoms after endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) has not been well studied. We quantified long-term impact of postoperative steroid irrigations (SIs) on quality of life of patients after ESBS.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients at the University of Pennsylvania undergoing ESBS from 2010 to 2019. Data on patient demographics and postoperative treatment with nasal saline irrigation twice daily with and without dissolved steroids (mometasone or budesonide) was collected. Preoperative, and 1-, 3-, 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month postoperative Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) scores were assessed.

Results

A total of 727 patients were assessed (53.4% males), with 479 patients in the no SI group and 248 patients in the SI group. Preoperative SNOT-22 scores did not differ significantly (P = 0.19). 1-, 3-, 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month post-op SNOT-22 scores did not significantly differ between groups. However, mometasone irrigations resulted in significantly lower postoperative 2-year SNOT-22 scores compared to budesonide (P < 0.01) and saline (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Though corticosteroid irrigations are routine in managing inflammatory sinus disease, their role in postoperative management after ESBS for tumors is unclear. Our findings suggest that mometasone irrigation may be effective at improving postoperative quality of life in patients after ESBS.

Microdebrider complications in sinus surgery: Analysis of the openFDA database

Objective

Functional endoscopic sinus surgery is a commonly performed otolaryngologic procedure that often uses the microdebrider device for tissue removal. Given the ubiquitous nature of the instrument, we sought to better define the patterns of device failure using the postmarket surveillance openFDA database.

Methods

The openFDA database was queried for all microdebrider-related adverse events from January 1, 2000 to November 1, 2020. Descriptive information on the nature of device failure and any associated patient injury was compiled. Reports not directly related to device failure were excluded from the analysis.

Results

A total of 641 events were included in the analysis. The most common device failure was overheating (n = 348, 54.3%), followed by material separation (n = 173, 27%), and inconsistent device activation (n = 52, 8.1%). Of the reported events, the vast majority did not result in patient harm (n = 579, 90.3%). On review of the remaining cases, only 24 events (3.7%) resulted in true harm to the patient, defined as a temporary or permanent injury or >30 min of additional anesthesia time. Of these cases, the need to reschedule surgical cases (n = 5, 0.8%), retained foreign body (n = 5, 0.8%), and thermal tissue injury (n = 3,0.5%) were the most common. Five patients suffered an injury due to surgeon error unrelated to device malfunction (n = 5, 0.8%).

Conclusions

Microdebrider device failures are extremely rare. When they do occur, less than 10% result in patient harm. In cases of patient harm related to microdebrider failure, preoperative testing of the device before use could prevent many of the reported malfunctions.

The use of aprepitant for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting in endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery

BACKGROUND

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are adverse effects after surgery, which may increase the risk of complications. Aprepitant is a neurokinin-1 receptor blocker and has been shown to reduce chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting and PONV. However, its role in endoscopic skull base surgery remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of aprepitant in reducing PONV in endoscopic transsphenoidal (TSA) pituitary surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review between July 2021 and January 2023 of 127 consecutive patients who underwent TSA was performed at a tertiary academic institution. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on preoperative aprepitant use. Two groups were matched based on known risk factors of PONV (age, sex, nonsmoking, and history of PONV). The primary outcome was the incidence of PONV. Secondary outcome measures included the number of anti-emetic use, length of stay, and postoperative cererebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.

RESULTS

After matching, 48 patients were included in each group. The aprepitant group demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of vomiting than the non-aprepitant group (2.1% vs 22.9%, p = 0.002). The number of nausea episodes and anti-emetic use decreased with aprepitant use (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the incidence of nausea, length of stay, or postoperative CSF leak. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that aprepitant decreased the incidence of postoperative vomiting with odds ratio of 0.107.

CONCLUSION

Aprepitant may serve as a useful preoperative treatment to reduce PONV in patients undergoing TSA. Further studies are needed to evaluate its impact in other arenas of endoscopic skull base surgery.

Readability and quality analysis of patient education materials in aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease

KEY POINTS

Patients are increasingly turning to online education materials to aid with disease management. Patient education materials on aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease are of poor readability with significant room for improvement.

Long-term quality of life after treatment in sinonasal malignancy: A prospective, multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Quality of life (QOL) for individuals with sinonasal malignancy (SNM) is significantly under-studied, yet it is critical for counseling and may impact treatment. In this study we evaluated how patient, treatment, and disease factors impact sinonasal-specific and generalized QOL using validated metrics in a large cohort over a 5-year posttreatment time frame.

METHODS

Patients with SNM who underwent definitive treatment with curative intent were enrolled in a prospective, multisite, longitudinal observational study. QOL was assessed using the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UWQOL) instruments at pretreatment baseline and multiple follow-ups through 5 years posttreatment. Multivariable modeling was used to determine demographic, disease, and treatment factors associated with disease-specific and generalized physical and social/emotional function QOL.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-four patients with SNM were analyzed. All QOL indices were impaired at pretreatment baseline and improved after treatment. SNOT-22 scores improved 3 months and UWQOL scores improved 6 to 9 months posttreatment. Patients who underwent open compared with endoscopic tumor resection had worse generalized QOL (p < 0.001), adjusted for factors including T stage. Pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) involvement was associated with worse QOL (SNOT-22, p < 0.001; UWQOL Physical dimension, p = 0.02). Adjuvant radiation was associated with worse disease-specific QOL (p = 0.03). Neck dissection was associated with worse generalized physical function QOL (p = 0.01). Positive margins were associated with worse generalized social/emotional function QOL (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Disease-specific and generalized QOL is impaired at baseline in patients with SNM and improves after treatment. Endoscopic resection is associated with better QOL. PPF involvement, adjuvant radiation, neck dissection, and positive margins were associated with worse QOL posttreatment.

Frailty does not worsen postoperative outcomes in sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is an aggressive malignancy frequently requiring surgical resection and adjuvant treatment. Frailty is a metric that attempts to estimate a patient's ability to tolerate the physiologic stress of treatment. There is limited work describing frailty in patients with sinonasal cancer. We sought to determine the impact of frailty on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing treatment for sinonasal SCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cases of patients undergoing surgical resection of sinonasal SCC at two tertiary medical centers were queried. Demographic, treatment, and survival data were recorded. Frailty was calculated using validated indexes, including the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, modified 5-item frailty index (mFI-5), and the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Primary outcomes included medical and surgical complications, readmission, and length of stay (LOS).

RESULTS

38 patients were included. There were 23 (60.5 %) men and 15 (39.5 %) women with an average age of 59.6 ± 12.1 years. MFI-5 was 0.76 ± 0.54 and CCI was 5.71 ± 2.64. No significant association was noted between frailty measures and postoperative outcomes including 30-day medical complications, 30-day surgical complications, any 30-day complication, and readmission. Increased ASA was noted to be predictive of increased length of stay (Incidence Rate Ratio: 1.80, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.16-2.83, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

We found no association between frailty metrics and worsening surgical or medical postoperative outcomes. This suggests that frailty metrics may not be as relevant for sinonasal surgery even for advanced pathologies, given the more limited physiologic impact of minimally invasive surgery.

A metagenomic analysis of the virome of inverted papilloma and squamous cell carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Inverted papilloma (IP) is a sinonasal tumor with a well-known potential for malignant transformation. The role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in its pathogenesis has been controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine the virome associated with IP, with progression to carcinoma in situ (CIS), and invasive carcinoma.

METHODS

To determine the HPV-specific types, a metagenomics assay that contains 62,886 probes targeting viral genomes in a microarray format was used. The platform screens DNA and RNA from fixed tissues from eight controls, 16 IP without dysplasia, five IP with CIS, and 13 IP-associated squamous cell carcinoma (IPSCC). Paired with next-generation sequencing, 48 types of HPV with 857 region-specific probes were interrogated against the tumors.

RESULTS

The prevalence of HPV-16 was 14%, 42%, 70%, and 73% in control tissue, IP without dysplasia, IP with CIS, and IPSCC, respectively. The prevalence of HPV-18 had a similar progressive increase in prevalence, with 14%, 27%, 67%, and 74%, respectively. The assay allowed region-specific analysis, which identified the only oncogenic HPV-18 E6 to be statistically significant when compared with control tissue. The prevalence of HPV-18 E6 was 0% in control tissue, 25% in IP without dysplasia, 60% in IP with CIS, and 77% in IPSCC.

CONCLUSIONS

There are over 200 HPV types that infect human epithelial cells, of which only a few are known to be high-risk. Our study demonstrated a trend of increasing prevalence of HPV-18 E6 that correlated with histologic severity, which is novel and supports a potential role for HPV in the pathogenesis of IP.

Orbital resection by intranasal technique (ORBIT): A new classification system for reporting endoscopically resectable primary benign orbital tumors

BACKGROUND

The Cavernous Hemangioma Exclusively Endonasal Resection (CHEER) staging system has become the gold standard for outcomes reporting in endoscopic orbital surgery for orbital cavernous hemangiomas (OCHs). A recent systematic review demonstrated similar outcomes between OCHs and other primary benign orbital tumors (PBOTs). Therefore, we hypothesized that a simplified and more comprehensive classification system could be developed to predict surgical outcomes of other PBOTs.

METHODS

Patient and tumor characteristics as well as surgical outcomes from 11 international centers were recorded. All tumors were retrospectively assigned an Orbital Resection by Intranasal Technique (ORBIT) class and stratified based on surgical approach as either exclusively endoscopic or combined (endoscopic and open). Outcomes based on approach were compared using chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests. The Cochrane-Armitage test for trend was used to analyze outcomes by class.

RESULTS

Findings from 110 PBOTs from 110 patients (age 49.0 ± 15.0 years, 51.9% female) were included in the analysis. Higher ORBIT class was associated with a lower likelihood of gross total resection (GTR). GTR was more likely to be achieved when an exclusively endoscopic approach was utilized (p < 0.05). Tumors resected using a combined approach tended to be larger, to present with diplopia, and to have an immediate postoperative cranial nerve palsy (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic treatment of PBOTs is an effective approach, with favorable short-term and long-term postoperative outcomes as well as low rate of adverse events. The ORBIT classification system is an anatomic-based framework that effectively facilitates high-quality outcomes reporting for all PBOTs.

The benefits and risks of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for postoperative analgesia in sinonasal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have emerged as an alternative to opioids for optimal postoperative pain management. However, the adoption of NSAIDs in sinonasal surgery has been impeded by a theoretical concern for postoperative bleeding. Our objective is to systematically review the efficacy and safety of NSAIDs for patients undergoing sinonasal surgery.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched from inception to January 27, 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and comparative observational studies in any language were considered. Screening, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were performed in duplicate. Our outcomes were postoperative pain scores, requirement for rescue analgesia, and postoperative adverse events (epistaxis, nausea/vomiting).

RESULTS

Out of 4661 records, 15 RCTs (enrolling 1210 patients) and two observational studies were included. Following endoscopic sinus surgery, there was no difference in pain scores between NSAIDs and non-NSAIDs groups (standardized mean differences [SMD] 0.44 units better, 95% CI -0.18 to 1.05). Following septorhinoplasty, NSAIDs decreased pain scores compared to non-NSAID regimens (SMD 1.14 units better, 95% CI 0.61 to 1.67 units better). Overall, NSAIDs reduced the need for rescue medication with a relative risk (RR) of 0.45 (95% CI 0.24 to 0.84). In addition, NSAIDs decreased the risk of nausea with an RR of 0.62 (95% CI 0.42 to 0.91) and did not increase the risk of epistaxis (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.23-2.22).

CONCLUSION

Among patients undergoing sinonasal surgery, NSAIDs are beneficial in postoperative pain management and avoidance of postoperative nausea without increasing the risk of postoperative epistaxis.

The Impact of Delay in Treatment on Survival in Surgically Managed Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma

Background  Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is a rare, aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis, and multimodal therapy is the standard of care. We sought to characterize treatment delays in SNUC managed with surgery and adjuvant radiation and to determine the impact on survival using the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Methods  This was a retrospective, population-based cohort study of patients with SNUC between 2004 and 2016 in the NCDB. The intervals of diagnosis to surgery (DTS), surgery to radiation (SRT), and radiation duration (RTD) were examined. Recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) was performed to identify the variables with the greatest impact on survival. The association between treatment delay and overall survival (OS) was then assessed using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression. Results  Of 173 patients who met inclusion criteria, 65.9% were male, average age at diagnosis was 56.6 years, and 5-year OS was 48.1%. Median durations of DTS, SRT, and RTD were 18, 43, and 46 days, respectively. Predictors of treatment delay included Black race, government insurance excluding Medicare/Medicaid, and positive margins. RPA-derived optimal thresholds were 29, 28, and 38 days for DTS, SRT and RTD, respectively. On multivariate analysis, positive margins (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.82; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.28-10.2) and DTS less than 29 days (HR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.23-4.73) were associated with worse OS. Conclusion  Our results likely reflect the aggressive nature of the disease with surgeons taking more invasive disease to the operating room more quickly. Median treatment intervals described may serve as relevant national benchmarks.

Microbial metabolite succinate activates solitary chemosensory cells in the human sinonasal epithelium

BACKGROUND

Succinate, although most famous for its role in the Krebs cycle, can be released extracellularly as a signal of cellular distress, particularly in situations of metabolic stress and inflammation. Solitary chemosensory cells (SCCs) express SUCNR1, the succinate receptor, and modulate type 2 inflammatory responses in helminth and protozoal infections in the small intestine. SCCs are the dominant epithelial source of interleukin-25, as well as an important source of cysteinyl leukotrienes in the airway, and have been implicated as upstream agents in type 2 inflammation in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and asthma.

METHODS

In this study, we used scRNAseq analysis, live cell imaging of intracellular calcium from primary sinonasal air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures from 1 donor, and measure antimicrobial peptide release from 5 donors to demonstrate preliminary evidence suggesting that succinate can act as a stimulant of SCCs in the human sinonasal epithelium.

RESULTS

Results from scRNAseq analysis show that approximately 10% of the SCC/ionocyte cluster of cells expressed SUCNR1 as well as a small population of immune cells. Using live cell imaging of intracellular calcium, we also demonstrate that clusters of cells on primary sinonasal ALI cultures initiated calcium-mediated signaling in response to succinate stimulation. Furthermore, we present evidence that primary sinonasal ALI cultures treated with succinate had increased levels of apical beta-defensin 2, an antimicrobial peptide, compared to treatment with a control solution.

CONCLUSION

Overall, these findings demonstrate the need for further investigation into the activation of the sinonasal epithelium by succinate in the pathogenesis of CRS.

Image guided dilation of sinus ostium in revision sinus surgery

PURPOSE

Assess if a rigid, image-guided balloon could be used effectively and safely in revision sinus surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective, non-randomized, single-arm, multicenter study to assess the safety and device performance of the NuVent™ EM Balloon Sinus Dilation System. Adults with CRS in need of revision sinus surgery were enrolled for balloon sinus dilation of a frontal, sphenoid, or maxillary sinus. The primary device performance endpoint was the ability of the device to (1) navigate to; and (2) dilate tissue in subjects with scarred, granulated, or previously surgically-altered tissue (revision). Safety outcomes included the assessment of any operative adverse events (AEs) directly attributable to the device or for which direct cause could not be determined. A follow-up endoscopy was conducted at 14 days post-treatment for assessment of any AEs. Performance outcomes included the surgeon's ability to reach the target sinus (es) and dilate the ostia. Endoscopic photos were captured for each treated sinus pre- and post-dilation.

RESULTS

At 6 US clinical sites, 51 subjects were enrolled; 1 subject withdrew before treatment due to a cardiac complication from anesthesia. 121 sinuses were treated in 50 subjects. The device performed as expected in 100 % of the 121 treated sinuses, with investigators able to navigate to the treatment area and dilate the sinus ostium without difficulty. Ten AEs were seen in 9 subjects, with 0 related to the device.

CONCLUSION

The targeted frontal, maxillary or sphenoid sinus ostium were safely dilated in every revision subject treated, with no AEs directly attributed to the device.

Implementation of a Streamlined Care Pathway to Reduce Cost and Length of Stay for Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery

BACKGROUND

We implemented a streamlined care pathway for patients undergoing endoscopic transsphenoidal (TSA) pituitary surgery. Select patients are recovered in the postanesthesia care unit and transferred to a step-down unit for intermediate neurologic care (INCU), with clinicians trained to manage cerebrospinal fluid leak, diabetes insipidus (DI), and other complications.

METHODS

We evaluated all TSA surgeries performed at 1 academic medical center from 7^th January, 2017 to 30^th March, 2020, collecting patient factors, tumor characteristics, cost variables, and outcomes. The INCU pathway was implemented on 7^th January 2018. Pathway patients were compared with nonpathway patients across the study period. Outcomes were assessed using multivariate regression, adjusting for patient and surgical characteristics, including intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak, postoperative DI, and tumor dimensions.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-seven patients were identified. Seventy-nine were on the INCU pathway. Mean age was 53.5 years. Most patients were male (66%), privately insured (62%), and white (66%). Mean total cost of admission was $27,276. Mean length of stay (LOS) was 3.97 days. Use of the INCU pathway was associated with total cost reduction of $6376.33 (P < 0.001, 95% confidence interval [CI]: $3698.21-$9054.45) and LOS reduction by 1.27 days (P = 0.008, 95% CI: 0.33-2.20). In-hospital costs were reduced across all domains, including $1964.87 in variable direct labor costs (P < 0.001, 95% CI: $1142.08-$2787.64) and $1206.52 in variable direct supply costs (P < 0.001, 95% CI: $762.54-$1650.51). Pathway patients were discharged earlier despite a higher rate of postoperative DI (25% vs. 11%, P = 0.011), with fewer readmissions (0% vs. 6%, P = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

A streamlined care pathway following TSA surgery can reduce in-hospital costs and LOS without compromising patient outcomes.

Postoperative protocols following endoscopic skull base surgery: An evidence-based review with recommendations

BACKGROUND

Postoperative management strategies for endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) vary widely because of limited evidence-based guidance.

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from January 1990 through February 2022 to examine 18 postoperative considerations for ESBS. Nonhuman studies, articles written in a language other than English, and case reports were excluded. Studies were assessed for levels of evidence, and each topic's aggregate grade of evidence was evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 74 studies reporting on 18 postoperative practices were reviewed. Postoperative pain management, prophylactic antibiotics, and lumbar drain use had the highest grades of evidence (B). The literature currently lacks high quality evidence for a majority of the reviewed ESBS precautions. There were no relevant studies to address postoperative urinary catheter use and medical intracranial pressure reduction.

CONCLUSION

The evidence for postoperative ESBS precautions is heterogeneous, scarce, and generally of low quality. Although this review identified the best evidence available in the literature, it suggests the urgent need for more robust evidence. Therefore, additional high-quality studies are needed in order to devise optimal postoperative ESBS protocols.

Loss of CFTR function is associated with reduced bitter taste receptor-stimulated nitric oxide innate immune responses in nasal epithelial cells and macrophages

Introduction

Bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) are G protein-coupled receptors identified on the tongue but expressed all over the body, including in airway cilia and macrophages, where T2Rs serve an immune role. T2R isoforms detect bitter metabolites (quinolones and acyl-homoserine lactones) secreted by gram negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a major pathogen in cystic fibrosis (CF). T2R activation by bitter bacterial products triggers calcium-dependent nitric oxide (NO) production. In airway cells, the NO increases mucociliary clearance and has direct antibacterial properties. In macrophages, the same pathway enhances phagocytosis. Because prior studies linked CF with reduced NO, we hypothesized that CF cells may have reduced T2R/NO responses, possibly contributing to reduced innate immunity in CF.

Methods

Immunofluorescence, qPCR, and live cell imaging were used to measure T2R localization, calcium and NO signaling, ciliary beating, and antimicrobial responses in air-liquid interface cultures of primary human nasal epithelial cells and immortalized bronchial cell lines. Immunofluorescence and live cell imaging was used to measure T2R signaling and phagocytosis in primary human monocyte-derived macrophages.

Results

Primary nasal epithelial cells from both CF and non-CF patients exhibited similar T2R expression, localization, and calcium signals. However, CF cells exhibited reduced NO production also observed in immortalized CFBE41o- CF cells and non-CF 16HBE cells CRISPR modified with CF-causing mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). NO was restored by VX-770/VX-809 corrector/potentiator pre-treatment, suggesting reduced NO in CF cells is due to loss of CFTR function. In nasal cells, reduced NO correlated with reduced ciliary and antibacterial responses. In primary human macrophages, inhibition of CFTR reduced NO production and phagocytosis during T2R stimulation.

Conclusions

Together, these data suggest an intrinsic deficiency in T2R/NO signaling caused by loss of CFTR function that may contribute to intrinsic susceptibilities of CF patients to P. aeruginosa and other gram-negative bacteria that activate T2Rs.

In-Hospital Costs for Open versus Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Craniopharyngioma Resection

OBJECTIVE

To determine the in-hospital cost implications of an expanded endoscopic endonasal approach (EEEA) for craniopharyngioma resection relative to the traditional open transcranial approach.

METHODS

All craniopharyngioma surgeries performed at a single institution over a period from January 1st 2001 to October 31th 2017 were evaluated. The electronic medical record was reviewed for patient factors, tumor characteristics, and cost variables associated with each hospital stay and univariate regression analysis was performed using R software.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients met study criteria, including 22 undergoing an open approach and 14 undergoing an EEEA. There was a significantly longer average length of stay among patients undergoing open resection (21.5 vs. 10.6 days, p = 0.024). The average total in-hospital cost of a patient undergoing an EEEA was $58979.3 compared to $89142.3 for an open approach (p = 0.127). On univariate regression analysis, the total in-hospital cost for a patient undergoing an open approach relative to an EEEA was $30163.0 (p = 0.127). The open approach was exclusively performed from study onset until April 2010 (16 patients). From April 2010 to August 2013, 6 open approaches and 5 EEEA were performed. The EEEA has been exclusively performed from August 2013 until the conclusion of our study period (9 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

There has been a shift toward surgical resection of craniopharyngioma via an EEEA approach for amenable tumors. Our study demonstrates that the EEEA has become the preferred surgical approach at our institution, and shows that the EEEA is associated with shorter postoperative length of stay and lower total in-hospital cost. Laryngoscope, 133:83-87, 2023.

SNOT-22 scores after 6 months of aspirin therapy are predictive of long-term quality of life in AERD

Background: Aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is an inflammatory condition that consists of eosinophilic asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and respiratory reactions to cyclooxygenase-1 inhibitors. Aspirin therapy after aspirin desensitization (ATAD) is the most extensively studied treatment paradigm for AERD. Objective: The objective was to identify which time point of ATAD was most predictive of long-term outcomes as measured by the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22). Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients at a single institution who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery, followed by ATAD, and had remained on ATAD for 2 consecutive years. SNOT-22 scores were recorded at predesensitization as well as at the 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month postdesensitization time points. The patients were separated into two cohorts at each of the data collection time points based on whether their SNOT-22 scores were < 20 (responders) or ≥ 20 (nonresponders). Responder status was compared between each time point and at 24-month postdesensitization. The odds ratios (OR) were then calculated between the two groups at each of the following time points: postsurgery/predesensitization, and 3-, 6-, and 12-month postdesensitization. Results: There were 70 patients who met the inclusion criteria of having 24-month postdesensitization SNOT-22 scores available. Responder status at 6 months after surgery had the most predictive OR 16.5 (95% confidence interval, 3.71-73.44) for long-term outcomes at 24 months. Conclusion: The SNOT-22 scores after 6 months of ATAD showed the greatest predictive value for long-term quality-of-life outcomes and, therefore, poor 6-month SNOT-22 scores could serve as a basis for consideration of alternative therapies.

In-Hospital Cost Comparison for Open Versus Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Meningioma Resection

Objective

To determine the in-hospital cost implications of an endoscopic expanded endonasal approach (EEEA) for meningioma resection relative to the open transcranial approach.

Methods

All anterior skull base meningioma surgeries performed over a period from January 1st, 2015 to October 31th, 2017 were evaluated. The electronic medical record was reviewed for patient factors, tumor characteristics, and cost variables associated with each hospital stay and univariate analysis was performed using R software. All cost data were converted into August 2021-equivalent dollar amounts using the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer price index.

Results

Thirty-five patients met study criteria, including 27 patients undergoing an open transcranial approach and 8 undergoing an EEEA. Average length of stay for patients undergoing an open approach was 9.3 days compared to 5.6 within the EEEA group ( P = .126). The average total in-hospital cost of patient undergoing an EEEA was $35417.1 compared to $46406.9 among patients undergoing an open transcranial approach ( P = .168). On univariate analysis, the cost of an open transcranial approach relative to the EEEA was $10989.8 ( P = .411).

Conclusions

The open transcranial approach remained the dominant surgical approach to anterior skull base meningiomas over our study time period. However, despite limited patient numbers the EEEA was associated with decreased total in-hospital costs.

Dupilumab Adverse Events in Nasal Polyp Treatment: Analysis of FDA Adverse Event Reporting System

OBJECTIVES

Dupilumab was the first biologic approved to treat chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). While the risk of adverse events in phase-III clinical trials was low, dupilumab-associated adverse reactions (DAR) with real-world use is unknown and potentially under-reported. We aimed to evaluate DAR for CRSwNP treatment (CRSwNP-tx) using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective database study.

METHODS

FAERS was queried for DAR from 2019Q1 to 2021Q2. Individual DAR (iDAR) were categorized and quantitatively compared between treatment groups (CRSwNP, asthma, atopic dermatitis). Zero-truncated Poisson regression was modeled to predict the number of iDAR, and logistic regression was modeled to predict serious DARs.

RESULTS

There were 15,411 DAR observations; 911 for CRSwNP-tx, of which 121 (13.3%) had serious reactions and 3 died. Common CRSwNP-tx iDAR were dermatologic (13.9%), generalized (13.3%), and injection-site (10.8%) symptoms. The number of CRSwNP-tx iDAR was 2.99 [2.81, 3.17], compared to 3.44 [3.32, 3.56] for asthma and 3.18 [3.13, 3.24] for atopic dermatitis (Kruskal-Wallis test, P < .001). For CRSwNP-tx, iDAR reported-risk-ratio was 0.84 [0.77, 0.92] among men and 1.12 [1.04, 1.22] among older adults (>50). Serious DAR reported-odds-ratio was 1.37 [0.91, 2.04] among men and 1.39 [0.93, 2.08] among older adults.

CONCLUSIONS

While there are limitations with FAERS, this analysis suggests CRSwNP-tx is associated with fewer iDAR compared with other treatment indications. More iDAR are experienced among women and older adults, but men tend to have more serious DAR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 132:2307-2313, 2022.

Primary sinonasal lymphoma: A multi‐institutional experience of clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Sinonasal lymphoma (SL) is a heterogeneous, underrecognized neoplastic disorder with limited outcomes data. We sought to better define outcomes by subtype and treatment at 2 referral centers over the past 2 decades.

METHODS

Demographics, clinicopathologic data, and treatment outcomes for patients treated for SL were queried from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2021 at 2 tertiary academic medical centers.

RESULTS

Eighty-four patients were included, with an average age at diagnosis of 63.4 ± 15 years. There were 34 females (40.5%). The majority of patients had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score of <2 (76.2%) and the most common presenting symptom was facial swelling/pain (26.2%). The most common primary site was the nasal cavity (36.9%). Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was the most common subtype (46.4%), followed by extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma (17.9%). Chemotherapy was the most common treatment strategy (n = 59, 70.2%), followed by radiation therapy (n = 35, 41.7%) and immunotherapy (n = 24, 28.6%). Disease-specific survival rates at 1, 5, and 10 years were 85.7%, 73.6%, and 58.6%, respectively. Eighteen patients (21.4%) developed recurrence. On multivariate analysis, higher ECOG score (p < 0.0001) and history of head and neck radiation (p = 0.048) were associated with worse survival. Younger age was associated with greater risk of recurrence (p = 0.022) and male sex was associated with more treatment side effects (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

This is the largest multi-institutional analysis of SL characteristics and outcomes. Our work suggests that, although disease control in the first 5 years is reasonable, 10-year outcomes remain challenging. Further studies are needed to investigate new treatment paradigms and risk stratification.

Reconstruction with Mucosal Graft Reduces Recurrence After Endoscopic Surgery of Rathke Cleft Cyst

OBJECTIVES

Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) arise from the development of the Rathke pouch. Recurrence is common after either drainage or cyst removal. The endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is increasingly utilized for the management of RCC. Various techniques have been described to try to reduce the rates of recurrence. We studied the effect of fenestration with a nasoseptal flap (NSF) on recurrence rates by comparing a cohort of patients undergoing this technique to a cohort of patients undergoing conventional drainage.

METHODS

Patients who underwent EEA for RCC between 2011 and 2020 were identified and divided into 2 cohorts: conventional fenestration versus fenestration with NSF. Surgical approach, reconstructive method, and recurrences were recorded. Primary end point was symptomatic or radiographic recurrence.

RESULTS

21 patients were identified undergoing EEA. An NSF was used to line the cyst cavity in 11 cases. Conventional fenestration without mucosal reconstruction was performed in the remaining 10 cases. In the cases without NSF, 5 (50%) developed recurrence requiring revision surgery, while there was only one recurrence in the NSF group (P < 0.05). In patients requiring revision, all had an NSF placed and none had a second recurrence of their RCC.

CONCLUSIONS

NSF placement into a fenestrated RCC is useful to prevent cyst reaccumulation and reoperation. Typical fenestration carries an unacceptably high rate of recurrence.

Incidence of Sinus Inflammation After Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery in the Pediatric Population

BACKGROUND

The extended endonasal approach has been utilized in the resection of anterior skull base lesions in the pediatric population. There are unique challenges to these patients in the post-operative setting, including patient compliance with medical therapy and post-operative debridements, and a smaller nasal airway that may increase propensity toward scarring. Our objective for this study is to evaluate the incidence of post-operative radiographic inflammation in this patient population using the Lund-Mackay (LM) score.

METHODS

A single-center, retrospective review of pediatric patients undergoing endoscopic approach to the skull base between 2009 and 2021 was performed. Demographic and clinicopathologic data and pre- and post-operative imaging were analyzed. One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey multiple pairwise comparisons statistical tests were used to compare mean LM scores between groups.

RESULTS

Seventy-two patients (52 males, 20 females) were identified with a median follow-up of 27 months. All patients underwent an extended endonasal approach for resection of skull base lesions. The mean LM scores were compared between pre-operative MRI, first post-operative MRI > 30 days after surgery, and most recent post-operative MRI. One-way ANOVA was performed with significant differences noted between the groups (p < 0.001). Tukey multiple pairwise comparisons test was then performed and noted significant differences between the pre-operative and first post-operative LM (p < 0.0001) and the first post-operative and most recent LM (p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference noted between the pre-operative LM score and most recent LM score (p = 0.14).

CONCLUSION

Despite concerns regarding possible subsequent development of chronic rhinosinusitis following endoscopic skull base surgery in pediatric patients, the current study suggests that transient radiographic evidence of sinus inflammation can be seen up to six months postoperatively, which appears to resolve by approximately two years after surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 2022.

Multi-institutional review of sinonasal and skull base chondrosarcoma: A 20-year experience

BACKGROUND

Chondrosarcomas of the sinonasal cavity and skull base are uncommon malignancies. We sought to provide long-term outcomes at two tertiary care centers.

METHODS

Patients with chondrosarcoma treated between 2000 and 2021 were included. The primary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS).

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients met inclusion criteria. Fourteen patients had sinonasal (36.8%), 7 petroclival (18.4%), and 17 other primary skull base lesions (44.7%). Twenty-eight patients (73.7%) underwent radiation with an average dose of 67.3 ± 15.1 Gy. Eighteen patients (47.4%) required revision surgery for recurrence. 1, 5, and 10-year OS were 97.3%, 93.1%, and 74.7%. DSS at 5- and 10-year survival was 95.7%. Adjuvant radiation was associated with improved OS (HR: 0.12; 95% CI: 0.02-0.75, p = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

We present our experience over the last 20 years treating chondrosarcomas. Favorable survival outcomes can be achieved but recurrence requiring repeat resection is common.

The management of cystic fibrosis chronic rhinosinusitis: An evidenced-based review with recommendations

BACKGROUND

Cystic fibrosis (CF) chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has emerged as a distinct diagnostic entity, unique from other endotypes of CRS in its presentation, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. As the sinonasal health of this patient population may have broad effects on pulmonary health and quality of life, a comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to CF CRS is essential. In recognizing recent scientific advances and unique treatment modalities specific to this challenging patient population, in this review we systematically evaluate the scientific literature and provide an evidenced-based review with recommendations (EBRR) for fundamental management principles of CF CRS.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed. Studies evaluating interventions for the management of CF CRS were included. An iterative review process was implemented in accordance with EBRR guidelines. A treatment recommendation was generated based on an assessment of the benefits, harms, and the overall grade of evidence.

RESULTS

We evaluated the published literature on 5 unique topics. Each of the following therapeutic categories was investigated explicitly for treatment outcomes in patients with CF CRS: (1) nasal saline; (2) intranasal corticosteroids (INCS); (3) topical antibiotics; (4) cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulator therapy; and (5) endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

CONCLUSION

Based on the currently available evidence, nasal saline, ESS, and CFTR modulators are recommended in the management of CF CRS when appropriate. INCS and topical antibiotics are options. Clinical judgment and experience are essential in caring for patients with this uniquely challenging disorder.

A National Cancer Database Analysis of Sinonasal Malignant Myoepithelial Carcinoma Outcomes

OBJECTIVES

Myoepithelial carcinoma (MECA) is a rare salivary gland tumor that can occur in the sinonasal cavity with poor outcomes. There are limited data on sinonasal outcomes to guide management. We sought to use the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to better define treatment outcomes in MECA.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of the NCDB from 2004 to 2016 for patients with MECA of the sinonasal cavity. Patient demographic, treatment, and survival information were extracted from the database. Unadjusted Kaplan-Meier estimates, log-rank tests, and a multivariable Cox proportional hazard model were used to assess overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

A total of 38 patients were included. The average age was 60.7 ± 18.2 years and male patients represented 47.4% of the cohort. Most patients were White (n = 26, 68.4%) and the majority of patients had either private insurance (n = 20, 52.6%) or Medicare (n = 15, 39.5%). The primary site of most tumors was nasal cavity (n = 19, 50%), followed by maxillary sinus (n = 16, 42.1%). Most tumors were >4 cm (n = 17, 44.7%). The 1-, 5-, and 10-year OS was 89.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 80.7%-99.8%), 63.6% (95% CI: 49.4%-82%), and 46.4% (95% CI: 31%-69.5%), respectively. The median survival for the overall cohort was 85.8 months. Medicare insurance was associated with a decreased OS (hazard ratio [HR]: 8.2; 95% CI: 2.88-23.4, P < .001). Patients who underwent surgery had a significant survival benefit (HR: 0.04, 95% CI: 0.01-0.21, P < .001).

DISCUSSION

MECA of the sinonasal cavity is a rare tumor with poorly understood behavior. Data from the NCDB suggests that it is a relatively aggressive tumor with surgical management associated with better outcomes. This analysis is limited by the small sample size and further research into optimal treatment regimens is needed.

Odontogenic Sinusitis is a Common Cause of Operative Extra-Sinus Infectious Complications

BACKGROUND

Orbital, intracranial, and osseous extra-sinus complications can arise from bacterial or fungal sinusitis. Odontogenic sinusitis (ODS) can cause extra-sinus complications, but its prevalence remains poorly characterized.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency of ODS as a cause of operative extra-sinus infectious complications and describe clinical features of all complicated sinusitis cases.

METHODS

A multi-institutional retrospective review was performed on all operative sinusitis-related extra-sinus complications from 2011 to 2020. ODS was diagnosed by sinus computed tomography (CT) and dental evaluations when available. Demographics, complication types, sinusitis etiologies, and various clinical features were analyzed.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients were included (mean age 55.5 years, 56% male). Of the extra-sinus complications, 40% were orbital only, 22% intracranial only, 13% osseous only, and 25% involved combined complications. The 2 most common causes of extra-sinus complications were ODS (40%) and mucopyocele (27%). When invasive fungal etiologies were excluded, and only unilateral maxillary opacification on CT was considered, nearly 60% of extra-sinus complications were due to ODS. Unilateral maxillary sinus opacification on CT was present in 100% of complicated ODS compared to 44% of nonodontogenic cases, and oral anaerobes were only identified in ODS cases. No complicated ODS patients underwent dental interventions during hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

ODS was the most common cause of operative extra-sinus infectious complications. Clinicians should consider ODS high on the differential diagnosis of all patients presenting with complicated sinusitis, especially when sinusitis is unilateral and invasive fungal infection is not suspected.

Image-Guided Surgical Device Failures in Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A MAUDE Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Image-guided surgery (IGS) devices have become widely used for anatomic localization during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). However, there are no studies that analyze the post-market complications associated with IGS device use during FESS. The objective of this study was to better characterize post-market complications associated with the use of IGS devices during sinus surgery.

METHODS

The US Food and Drug Administration's Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database was queried for event reports associated with neurological stereotaxic devices utilized in IGS between the dates of January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2020. Medical device reports that were analyzed for this study pertained strictly to FESS.

RESULTS

There were 1873 reports involving IGS devices for FESS included in this study. Fifty-five reports involved adverse events to patients (2.9%) and 1818 (97.1%) involved device malfunctions. Of the adverse events to patients, the most common included cerebrospinal fluid leakage (45.6%), tissue damage (12.7%), and nervous system injury (3.6%). The most commonly reported device malfunction was imprecision (21.1%).

CONCLUSION

IGS devices are widely utilized in FESS. Of the medical device reports between 2016 and 2020, less than 3% resulted in adverse events. Further studies of the infrequent post-market complications of IGS devices used in FESS can help guide surgeons on the risks of their clinical use.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4-Retrospective database survey without controls Laryngoscope, 2022.

Sinonasal Acinic Cell Carcinoma: A Review of the National Cancer Database

BACKGROUND

Acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) is a salivary gland malignancy that rarely can involve the sinonasal cavity. There are limited outcomes data available to guide management.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to use the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to characterize treatment outcomes in sinonasal ACC.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the NCDB from 2004 to 2016 for patients with ACC involving the sinonasal cavity was conducted. Demographic, treatment, and survival information were obtained. Unadjusted Kaplan-Meier estimates, log-rank tests, and a multivariable Cox proportional hazard model were used to assess overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

A total of 28 patients were included in the analysis with an average age of 58.6 ± 15.5 years. Half the patients (n = 14, 50%) were male, mostly white (n = 23, 82.1%), and with private insurance (n = 16, 57.1%). The nasal cavity was the most common subsite (n = 18, 64.3%), followed by the maxillary sinus (n = 5, 17.9%). Most patient received surgery alone (n = 17, 60.7%), with the remaining patients undergoing surgery followed by radiation (n = 8, 28.6%), radiation alone (n = 1, 3.6%), and no treatment (n = 2, 7.1%). The 1-, 5-, and 10-year survival in this cohort was 100% (95% CI: 100%-100%), 84.3% (95% CI: 71.2%-99.7%), and 72.2% (95% CI: 55%-94.8%), respectively. On multivariate analysis, older age was associated with worse OS (hazard ratio (HR): 1.27; 95% CI: 1.11-1.46, P < .001). Disease of the sphenoid sinus correlated with worse survival (HR: 198, 95% CI: 10.4-3,739, P < .001) and large tumor size was associated with worse OS on log-rank test, but not on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Sinonasal ACC is a rare entity with relatively good long-term outcomes. Older age and primary disease of the sphenoid sinus are associated with worse outcomes. Most patients are treated with surgical resection. Future research is needed to assess the optimal timing and indications for radiation therapy.

Outcomes of endoscopic endonasal resection of pediatric craniopharyngiomas

BACKGROUND

Craniopharyngiomas have traditionally been treated via open transcranial approaches. More recent, endoscopic endonasal approaches have been increasingly used; however, there has been limited evaluation of long-term outcomes for this approach.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed to analyze patients with pediatric craniopharyngioma undergoing endonasal endoscopic resection from 2012 to 2020. Demographic information, clinicopathologic factors, and outcomes including follow-up and recurrences were analyzed.

RESULTS

All 42 patients, with a mean age of 8.0 years, were included. The median follow-up time was 49 months. Mean tumor diameter was 3.6 cm. All of the tumors had sellar and suprasellar components. The most common presenting symptoms were headaches (64.3%), visual changes (59.5%), and nausea/vomiting (38.1%). Most patients (73.3%) had resolution of their presenting symptoms by their first postoperative visit. Vision improved or remained normal in 69.0% of patients. Postoperatively, incidence of panhypopituitarism or diabetes insipidus developed in 89.7% and 77.8% of patients, respectively. The postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak rate was 7.1%. The recurrence rate was 9.5%.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic endonasal resection for pediatric craniopharyngiomas can achieve high rates of resection with low rates of disease recurrence when compared with the outcomes of open transcranial resection reported in the literature. However, hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction remains a significant postoperative morbidity in both approaches.

Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Contemporary Management and Patient Outcomes

Simple Summary

Inverted papillomas are benign sinonasal tumors that can recur or become cancerous. The mainstay of treatment is surgical resection. We summarize the biology of inverted papillomas and review surgical outcomes in an effort to define the current treatment strategy.

Abstract

Inverted papillomas (IP) are the most common sinonasal tumor with a tendency for recurrence, potential attachment to the orbit and skull base, and risk of malignant degeneration into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). While the overall rate of recurrence has decreased with the widespread adoption of high-definition endoscopic optics and advanced surgical tools, there remain challenges in managing tumors that are multiply recurrent or involve vital neurovascular structures. Here, we review the state-of-the-art diagnostic tools for IP and IP-degenerated SCC, contemporary surgical management, and propose a surveillance protocol.