MR-Neurography of the facial nerve in parotid tumors: intra-parotid nerve visualization and surgical correlation

PURPOSE

One of the most severe complications in surgery of parotid tumors is facial palsy. Imaging of the intra-parotid facial nerve is challenging due to small dimensions. Our aim was to assess, in patients with parotid tumors, the ability of high-resolution 3D double-echo steady-state sequence with water excitation (DE3D-WE) (1) to visualize the extracranial facial nerve and its tracts, (2) to evaluate their relationship to the parotid lesion and (3) to compare MRI and surgical findings.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted including all patients with parotid tumors, who underwent MRI from April 2022 to December 2023. Two radiologists independently reviewed DE3D-WE images, assessing quality of visualization of the facial nerve bilaterally and localizing the nerve's divisions in relation to the tumor. MRI data were compared with surgical findings.

RESULTS

Forty consecutive patients were included (M:F = 22:18; mean age 56.3 ± 17.4 years). DE3D-WE could excellently visualize the nerve main trunk and the temporofacial division in all cases. The cervicofacial branch was visible in 99% of cases and visibility was good. Distal divisions were displayed in 34% of cases with a higher visibility on the tumor side (p < 0.05). Interrater agreement was high (weighted kappa 0.94 ± 0.01 [95% CI 0.92-0.97]). Compared to surgery accuracy of MRI in localizing the nerve was 100% for the main trunk, 96% for the temporofacial and 89% for the cervicofacial branches.

CONCLUSIONS

Facial nerve MR-neurography represents a reliable tool. DE3D-WE can play an important role in surgical planning of patients with parotid tumors, reducing the risk of nerve injury.

Transoral versus transfacial surgical approach to maxillary tumors: evaluation of outcomes and perspectives

Neoplasms of the maxilla have multiple different origins and histology, and often extend towards the infratemporal fossa, orbit, or skull base. Extensive resection may be required, often leading to poor esthetic and functional results. Usually, these lesions are removed via a transfacial approach. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of the transoral versus transfacial approach for maxillary tumors. A single-institution retrospective study was conducted on patients with maxillary-midface tumors, treated between January 2009 and December 2019. The patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical approach, transfacial or transoral, and the following outcomes were assessed: extent of the resection based on Brown's classification; postoperative pathology margin assessment; reconstruction technique; esthetic/functional results. A total of 178 patients were included. A satisfactory resection was obtained in both groups, with the transoral cohort achieving a higher rate of clear oncological margins (positive margins: transoral group 3.7% versus transfacial group 6.8%, P = 0.389) and a significantly higher University of Washington Quality of Life score (mean 72.2 versus 67.8, P < 0.001). Even large and invasive tumors can be treated successfully with the transoral approach, avoiding unesthetic facial scars while still providing complete resection of the tumor.

Long-Term Aesthetic Cicatrization Analysis of Lower Eyelid Incision for Orbital Floor Fracture Approach

Orbital fractures are among the most frequent facial injuries. Of the 3 most widely described approaches in the literature, the lower eyelid approach is the authors' preference. This study retrospectively analyzed the patients treated at the Trauma Center of the Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome from January 2010 to December 2020. Inclusion criteria were as follows: diagnosis of pure/impure orbital bone fracture, complete clinical and radiological documentation, and a minimum of 12 months follow-up. Sex, age, etiology, treatment, and associated complications were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics. Two internationally validated scales were used for the functional and esthetic long-term evaluation: the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and the Vancouver one. The scales were compiled by the patient himself and by 3 independent expert observers. Of the 543 patients who underwent surgery in the specified period, 208 fully met the inclusion criteria. One hundred forty-two (68.2%) were males and 66 (31.8%) were females, with a mean age of 40.68 years. The main cause was represented by assaults (33.1%). One hundred seventy-nine patients had a pure orbital fracture (83.8%) and 29 an impure one (16.2%). The most frequent symptoms at the time of diagnosis were diplopia (31.2%), followed by anesthesia of the second trigeminal branch (24.3%). Open reduction with internal fixation was the preferred treatment and proved to be effective in reducing the main signs and symptoms of the fracture in a statistically significant way ( P < 0.05). Long-term esthetic results of the lower eyelid, using the Vancouver and POSASs, were respectively as follows: Vancouver Scar Scale mean total score was 2.41 (range: 0-8), observer POSAS mean total score was 1.83 (range: 1.2-3.9), observer general opinion mean score was 1.66, patient POSAS mean total score was 2.23 (range: 1.33-3.7), and patient general opinion mean score was 2.87. The lower eyelid approach has proven to be reproducible, with a fast-learning curve and a low complication rate. The analysis conducted highlighted an excellent long-term esthetic-functional result. Further studies will be needed to statistically compare the results obtained with other orbital floor surgical approaches.

Risk of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma in One Hundred Patients with Oral Lichen Planus: A Follow-Up Study of Umberto I University Hospital of Rome

This study aims to retrospectively assess the potential risk of malignant transformation in patients with diagnosed oral lichen planus (OLP) between 2015 and 2022, and to evaluate the influence of different risk factors. The department's database and medical records from 2015 to 2022 were searched for patients with a confirmed diagnosis of OLP based on both clinical and histological parameters. A total of 100 patients (59 females and 41 males) were found with a mean age of 64.03 years. In the considered period, the percentage of diagnosed OLP patients was 1.6%, while the percentage of diagnosed OLP patients with transformation to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) was 0.18%. A statistically significant difference was found with age (p = 0.038), tobacco status (p = 0.022), and radiotherapy (p = 0.041). The analysis revealed the presence of significant risk in ex-smokers (>20 pack-years), with an odds ratio (OR) of 10.0000 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.5793-63.3186); in alcohol-drinker patients, with an OR of 4.0519 (95% CI 1.0182-16.1253); in ex-smoker and alcohol-drinker patients, with OR of 17.6250 (95% CI 2.2464-138.2808); and in patients who had undergone radiotherapy, with OR of 6.3000 (95% CI 1.2661-31.3484). The malignant transformation of oral lichen planus was slightly higher than thought, and the results revealed a possible association with age, tobacco and alcohol status, and history of radiotherapy. An elevated risk of malignant transformation was observed in heavy ex-smoker patients, alcohol-drinker patients, and alcohol-drinker patients with a history of smoking (ex-smokers). Persuading the patient to quit tobacco and alcohol consumption and periodic follow-ups are recommended in general, but particularly in the presence of these risk factors.

Dermal Regeneration Template: Reconstruction in Oral Cancer Defects

Background

Post ablative oral mucosal defect resulting from the removal of tumors can be treated with various techniques.

Purpose

In this paper, we are showing what, in our experience, are the advantages and disadvantages given using biosynthetic skin substitutes when dealing with this kind of lesions.

Materials and methods

Patients included in the sample came to our attention with both neoplastic lesions (11 subjects) and important scar retraction after previous oncologic surgery (1 subject). All patients underwent trans-oral resection surgery following the same surgical protocol and post ablative oral mucosal defect were treated using the dermal regeneration template. The surgical defect location, size, and time of removal of the silicone layer varied from one subject to the other.

Results

Most patients showed good healing with reduced scarring and adequate remucosalisation of the defect. The main complications were shown in a palatal lesion treated with concomitant osteal resection, which developed an oroantral fistula at follow up, and tongue lesions which showed some scarring.

Conclusions

Given our experience, we would advise using dermal substitutes when reconstructing oral defects only after a cautious evaluation of the area of the lesion, the gap size, the possible adherence of the membrane to the gap, and the presence of tissue supporting the overlying membrane.

The 'Maxillary Pull-through' Technique: A Minimally Invasive Endoscopic-Assisted Approach to Nasal Septum Neoformations with Maxillary Bone Infiltration

Study Design

Description and validation of a surgical technique.

Objective

En-bloc maxillectomy with removal of the nasal septum is a rare procedure; preservation of the nasal bones and integrity of the alveolar ridge is even rarer. These procedures traditionally required a combined transfacial-transoral approach based on lateral rhinotomy. We describe a combined endoscopic transnasal-transoral approach for treatment of nasal septal malignancies that involve the hard palate.

Methods

Excision of malignant tumours arising from the nasal septum was achieved in 4 patients using a transnasal-transoral endoscopic approach. Using 4-mm optics angled at 0° and 30°, the septum was freed from the ethmoid and removed en-bloc with the hard palate, by pulling the septum down through the hard palate.

Results

Of the 4 patients, 2 underwent complete removal of septal chondrosarcomas, one removal of a sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma and one removal of a mucoepidermoid carcinoma. In two cases, the palatal mucosa was spared and repositioned to restore separation between the nose and oral cavity. The remaining two cases underwent complete resection of the hard palate; one palate was reconstructed using a pedicled temporalis muscle flap and the other by employing an obturator. No infection was encountered. Partial ethmoidectomy was performed in all four cases. The mean hospital stay was 5 days. All patients are free of disease after a mean follow-up of 4 years (range: 2-7 years).

Conclusions

Our new approach allows for minimally invasive resection of nasal septal malignancies that extend to the palate. Our maxillary pull-through technique is a valuable new surgical procedure for malignant pathologies of the nasal septum; the only drawback is that endoscopic surgery has a steep learning curve.

Odontogenic-Related Head and Neck Infections: From Abscess to Mediastinitis: Our Experience, Limits, and Perspectives-A 5-Year Survey

BACKGROUND

Head and neck infections are commonly caused by affections with an odontogenic origin. Untreated or non-responsive to treatment odontogenic infections can cause severe consequences such as localized abscesses, deep neck infections (DNI), and mediastinitis, conditions where emergency procedures such as tracheostomy or cervicotomy could be needed.

METHODS

An epidemiological retrospective observational study was performed, and the objective of the investigation was to present a single-center 5-years retrospective analysis of all patients admitted to the emergency department of the hospital Policlinico Umberto I "Sapienza" with a diagnosis of odontogenic related head and neck infection, observing the epidemiological patterns, the management and the type of surgical procedure adopted to treat the affections.

RESULTS

Over a 5-year period, 376,940 patients entered the emergency room of Policlinico Umberto I, "Sapienza" University of Rome, for a total of 63,632 hospitalizations. A total of 6607 patients were registered with a diagnosis of odontogenic abscess (10.38%), 151 of the patients were hospitalized, 116 of them were surgically treated (76.8%), and 6 of them (3.9%) manifested critical conditions such as sepsis and mediastinitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Even today, despite the improvement of dental health education, dental affections can certainly lead to acute conditions, necessitating immediate surgical intervention.

Effectiveness of Resective Surgery in Complex Ameloblastoma of the Jaws: A Retrospective Multicenter Observational Study

Ameloblastoma is a rare, benign, odontogenic tumor of epithelial origin, characterized by locally aggressive, expansive growth. Treatment is controversial due to the risk of relapse. The aim of this multicenter retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness of complete resection in cases of complex ameloblastoma, which is considered at a higher risk of recurrence. Patients who met at least one of these criteria were included: recurrence, soft-tissue involvement, complete erosion of internal/external cortical walls with involvement of the inferior margin of the mandible, and invasion of the maxillary sinus or nasal cavity. Demographic data, tumor site, type of surgery, histological features, and follow-up information were collected for each patient. The cohort included 55 patients with a mean follow-up of 108 ± 66 months. A multivariate logistic model was used to evaluate variables independently associated with relapse. There were six soft-tissue or maxillary sinus relapses, with a recurrence rate of 10.9%. Most of them arose in patients previously treated. The statistical analysis identified the maxillary location as a fundamental relapse risk factor. En bloc resection with large surgical safety margins seemed to be effective in preventing the relapses. However, complete resection was less effective in preventing recurrences in the soft tissues or maxillary sinus.

Three-Dimensional Comparison of the Maxillary Surfaces through ICP-Type Algorithm: Accuracy Evaluation of CAD/CAM Technologies in Orthognathic Surgery

PURPOSE

This retrospective study aims to compare the accuracy of two different CAD/CAM systems in orthognathic surgery. The novelty of this work lies in the method of evaluating the accuracy, i.e., using an Iterative Closest Point (ICP) algorithm, which matches a pair of 2D or 3D point clouds with unknown dependencies of the transition from scan s_(k) to scan s_(k+1).

METHODS

The study population was composed of ten patients who presented to the Maxillofacial Surgery Department of the University "Sapienza" of Rome for the evaluation and management of skeletal malocclusions. The patients were divided into two groups, depending on the technique used: group 1: splintless group (custom-made cutting guide and plates); group 2: splint group (using a 3D-printed splint). STL files were imported into Geomagic^® Control X™ software, which allows for comparison and analysis using an ICP algorithm. The RMSE parameter (3D error) was used to calculate the accuracy. In addition, data were compared in two different patient subgroups. The first subgroup only underwent a monobloc Le Fort I osteotomy (p-value = 0.02), and the second subgroup underwent a Le Fort I osteotomy associated with a segmental osteotomy of the maxilla (p-value = 0.23).

RESULTS

Group 1 showed a 3D error of 1.22 mm ± SD 0.456, while group 2 showed a 3D error of 1.63 mm ± SD 0.303. These results have allowed us to compare the accuracy of the two CAD/CAM systems (p-value = 0.09).

CONCLUSIONS

The ICP algorithm provided a reproducible method of comparison. The splintless method would seem more accurate (p-value = 0.02) in transferring the surgical programming into the operating room when only a Le Fort I osteotomy is to be performed.

Dental Implant Failure Risk in Post Oncological Patients, a Retrospective Study and Sapienza Head and Neck Unit Decisional Protocol- 7 Years of Follow-Up

(1) Background: Patients with head and neck cancer are treated by ablative surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. The side effects of cancer therapies can compromise conventional prosthesis rehabilitation; therefore, dental implants can result in a more effective solution. The aim of the study is to explain how to rehabilitate a patient that underwent head and neck cancer therapy. (2) Methods: This retrospective study conducted from 2015 to 2021 included 223 postoncological patients, aged between 32 and 80 years old. Eighteen patients did not proceed with any treatment, and two died. Therefore, 203 patients have been analyzed and rehabilitated following our decisional protocol, with a mean period of follow-up of 4 years. The implant placement was considered successful when a mean bone loss of 1.6 mm for the first year and a mean of 0.13 mm in subsequent years occurred (3) Results: A total of 161 patients were rehabilitated with a conventional prosthesis, 42 patients (F:M ratio 19:23) with an implant-supported prosthesis and a total of 200 implants were placed; 9 implants were lost (4.5% of 200 implants). Conclusions: The results confirmed that by following our protocol it is possible to obtain an acceptable rate of implant survival, considering the delicacy and complexity of post-oncological patients.

Contrasting opioid use for pain management in microvascular head and neck reconstruction: an international study

Opioids are often the mainstay of postoperative pain management, despite strong evidence of their ill effects and potential for long-term addiction. The goal of this study was to quantify opioid use and contrast pain management strategies of multiple international institutions performing fibula free flap reconstruction. A retrospective multicenter cohort study was designed, including five international centers. For inclusion, the patients had to have undergone a primary fibula free flap reconstruction of the mandible. A total of 185 patients were included. The median opioid use across all centers at 72 hours was 133 oral morphine equivalents. The highest utilization was in the USA (P < 0.001), which was approximately six times that of Italy, four times that of Argentina, and twice that of India, despite all centers performing a similar procedure. Based on this study there are clear differences in prescribing practices and ideologies among surgeons from different countries.

HPV Vaccination after Primary Treatment of HPV-Related Disease across Different Organ Sites: A Multidisciplinary Comprehensive Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective: To assess evidence on the efficacy of adjuvant human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in patients treated for HPV-related disease across different susceptible organ sites. Methods: A systematic review was conducted to identify studies addressing the efficacy of adjuvant HPV vaccination on reducing the risk of recurrence of HPV-related preinvasive diseases. Results were reported as mean differences or pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results: Sixteen studies were identified for the final analysis. Overall, 21,472 patients with cervical dysplasia were included: 4132 (19.2%) received the peri-operative HPV vaccine, while 17,340 (80.8%) underwent surgical treatment alone. The recurrences of CIN 1+ (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.73; p = 0.001), CIN 2+ (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.52; p < 0.0001), and CIN 3 (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.59; p = 0.0009) were lower in the vaccinated than in unvaccinated group. Similarly, adjuvant vaccination reduced the risk of developing anal intraepithelial neoplasia (p = 0.005) and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (p = 0.004). No differences in anogenital warts and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia recurrence rate were observed comparing vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. Conclusions: Adjuvant HPV vaccination is associated with a reduced risk of CIN recurrence, although there are limited data regarding its role in other HPV-related diseases. Further research is warranted to shed more light on the role of HPV vaccination as adjuvant therapy after primary treatment.

Orbital lesions, an interdisciplinary pathology. The experience of the maxillo-facial surgeons

AIM

The main focus of this paper was to describe our experience in the management of primary lesions involving the orbit, analyzing signs and symptoms and illustrating surgical management.

MATERIAL OF STUDY

We describe our experience managing 62 consecutive patients diagnosed with orbital tumors confined to the orbital content (not involving skin or bone, with no intracranial invasion) and treated between January 2013 and December 2016. Demographic characteristics, symptoms, clinical findings, histological types and approaches have been recorded.

RESULTS

We found that the most common clinical manifestations were exophthalmos/proptosis and ocular movement impairment; the most common histological types were vascular malformation and ocular adnexal lymphomas.

DISCUSSION

Primary neoplasms involving orbital contents include a broad spectrum of pathologies difficult to manage without a firm diagnosis, usually histological. Different surgical accesses are described in order to perform incisional biopsy or resection of the mass.

CONSCLUSION

In every case, accurate surgical planning is mandatory, in order to prevent functional and/or aesthetic complications.

KEY WORDS

Blepharoplasty incision, Intraorbital neoplasia, Lateral orbital tumor, Orbitotomy, Surgical treatment, Transconjunctival approach.

Management of benign parotid tumors. What can we learn from our experience?

AIM

Parotid gland is the most common location for salivary gland tumors, more commonly pleomorphic adenoma and Warthin's tumor. Types of parotid surgery include superficial parotidectomy (SP), partial superficial parotidectomy (PSP), total conservative parotidectomy (TCP), enucleation (E), extracapsular dissection (ECD), and are related to different incidence of complications. The choice depends on tumors localization, dimension and histology. The aim was to compare complications rate such as facial and great auricular nerve impairment and Frey syndrome according to type of surgery performed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively review the management of 116 benign tumors of the parotid gland treated between January 2004 and January 2020 at our Department.

RESULTS

Most frequent complication observed was a GAN deficiency (22.41%), permanent in 13% of cases. Post-operative facial nerve impairment was observed in 19 patients (persistent only in 1 case). Only Frey syndrome (4,31% of cases) seemed to be related to type of surgery (p<0.05) resulting more frequent in the group of patients that underwent "classical" parotidectomy, while facial nerve impairment, even if more frequent in this cases, did not statistically correlated with operative technique (p=0.054).

CONCLUSIONS

Once experience is gained, in order to reduce post-operative morbidity extracapsular dissection is a reliable technique in the management of these neoplasms, even if attention has to be paid particularly in the removal of superficial masses "emerging" from the parenchyma. PSP is an alternative to SP, while CTP has to be reserved to selected cases ot tumors arising in the deep lobe.

KEY WORDS

Benign tumor, Extracapsular dissection, Enucleation, Facial nerve Parotid gland, Parotidectomy, Superficial parotidectomy.

Reconstruction of the mandibular symphysis: pilot study compares three different flaps

BACKGROUND

Restoration of mandibular continuity, functionality and attempting to return patients to their premorbid state is the ultimate goal of reconstruction. Some studies compare different flaps but the reconstructed portions vary and there is little consensus on the best option for a particular defect.

METHODS

This pilot study compares three different reconstructive options with free flap. We will analyze the accuracy of the reconstruction, the post-operative complications related to the reconstruction, the morbidity of the donor site. This pilot study compares three different reconstructive options with free flap in the reconstruction of the mandibular symphysis: iliac crest, scapula and fibula.

RESULTS

In our sample the morbidity of the donor site was overlapping, as for all three choices free from complications. In post resection edentulous patients, the fibula seems to guarantee better positioning, while in patients with residual occlusion the iliac crest (figure n.4 and n.5) seems to allow a more congruous repositioning. The fibula seems to have a superiority over the other flaps in terms of accuracy in all types of patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Contrary to the most recent work on the accuracy of CAD / CAM, we have analyzed the error in the reconstruction of a specific segment and in the repositioning of the residual mandibular component without the use of guided computer programming.

Preoperative Multiparametric Ultrasound and Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology evaluation of parotid gland tumors: which is the best technique?

AIMS

To evaluate the pre-surgical diagnostic value of Multiparametric Ultrasound (MPUS) and Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) in differentiating parotid gland tumors, comparing the results with histology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study enrolled 84 patients with parotid gland lesions surgically treated in a single tertiary center and evaluated by MPUS. Each patient underwent FNAC. Histological examination was considered the gold standard.

RESULTS

Histology identified 62 benign tumors and 22 malignancies. In the differential diagnosis between malignant and benign lesions, B-mode Ultrasound (US), Color-Doppler US, Contrast-Enhanced US (CEUS), Elastography (USE) and FNAC showed the following values of sensitivity: 82%, 81%, 86%, 77%, 73% respectively; specificity: 97%, 61%, 95%, 71%, 97% respectively; PPV: 90%, 43%, 86%, 50%, 89% respectively; NPV: 93%, 90%, 95%, 88%, 91% respectively; and accuracy: 89%, 71%, 90%, 78%, 84% re-spectively.

CONCLUSIONS

CEUS proved to be a valid and accurate method for identifying malignant tumors of parotid gland; the combination of B-mode US with CEUS showed similar diagnostic accuracy, but better sensitivity than CEUS taken alone. USE did not improve the diagnostic performance of the B-mode US, alone or in association with CEUS; however, it revealed the highest diagnostic accuracy in the differentiation between benign lesions. FNAC demonstrated lower values in comparison with CEUS and with USE. Therefore, according to our study, MPUS could be proposed as a valid alternative to FNAC.

Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks After Anterior Skull Base Trauma: A Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Anterior skull base (ASB) fractures are reported in 4% of head injuries and represent 21% of all skull fractures. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks may follow, severely exacerbating outcomes. We systematically reviewed the literature to analyze and compare the roles of endoscopic surgery, open surgery, and combined approaches in the management of CSF leak repair after posttraumatic ASB fractures.

METHODS

PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Studies reporting clinical data of patients with CSF leaks after ASB fracture were reviewed, focusing on management strategies and posttreatment outcomes.

RESULTS

We included 29 articles comprising 888 patients. The average age at diagnosis was 34 years (range, 18-91 years), with a male predominance (54%) and a male/female ratio of 2.9:1 (647:241). Clinical data were available for 888 patients with CSF leaks after ASB fracture, reporting a median follow-up time of 33.5 months (standard deviation, ±29; range, 0.5-330.0 months). Open surgical repair was the most common approach (67.9%), followed by endoscopic surgical repair (32.1%). The endoscopy cohort showed lower rates of complications (0.7% vs. 11.1%) and fistula recurrence (2.8% vs. 5.3%) compared with open surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

ASB fractures are frequently treated as late surgery, 24 hours from injury or later, especially for endoscopic surgery. Overall, the endoscopic approach is preferred, mostly because of its safety and effectiveness, offering lower failure rates than does open surgery.

Severe Odontogenic Infections during Pregnancy and Related Adverse Outcomes. Case Report and Systematic Literature Review

Odontogenic infections have the potential to develop into deep-space infections and may cause severe diseases with possible life-threatening complications. Dental infections during pregnancy require special attention in terms of possible complications and treatments due to the potential to affect the lives of two individuals. A case of a 36-year-old pregnant patient with a submandibular abscess caused by an odontogenic infection is reported, followed by a comprehensive systematic review of the literature in order to retrieve information regarding severe odontogenic infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. A total of 69 cases were included in the qualitative analysis. The mean age was 27.72 years. Patients were managed with surgery in combination with antibiotics. Nine infectious-related cesarean sections were detected, and preterm birth was associated in 3 cases, low birth weight in 2 cases, death of the fetus in 9 cases (13%), and maternal death in 4 cases (5.8%). The possible compromise of oral health during pregnancy is well known; however, severe odontogenic infections are rarely considered in the literature, and they may be associated with severe and life-threatening complications for both mother and the fetus.

A New Medical Record Proposal to the Prognostic Risk Assessment for MRONJ in Oncologic Patients: "Sapienza Head and Neck Unit" Proposal

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is an adverse event associated with antiresorptive and antiangiogenic drugs. The use of these drugs in the treatment of cancer patients with bone metastasis is necessary and standardized in the literature. A multidisciplinary approach for the patient’s management is strongly recommended. Therefore, it should be necessary to integrate the path of these subjects with a dedicated dental screening in order to first assess the individual risk of developing a MRONJ, and then to plan dental treatments and oral hygiene sessions, and finally to schedule a follow-up to intercept and treat early osteonecrosis. The aim of this manuscript is to propose a new simple medical report to evaluate patients affected by metastatic bone cancer in order to reduce the risk of developing MRONJ.

Head and Neck Cancer Treatment during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Central Experience in Rome. Emergency Management, Infection Prevention and Control

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the surgical units, especially those operating on the airways. This study evaluates the series of patients with tumors of the head and neck treated by our unit during Phase-1 of the pandemic and the efficacy of the preventive measures implemented for protecting both the patients and staff. A screening program was administered to all the patients who had to undergo surgery. None of the patients tested and operated during Phase 1, between 10 March and 18 May 2020, were positive for COVID-19. A significant portion of the patients was suffering from tumors in advanced stages (T3 and T4). Two patients developed respiratory symptoms during their stay at the unit, so they were put in precautionary isolation and tested, but resulted negative for COVID-19. All the surgical department staff followed the Italian Ministry of Health's prevention protocol and underwent serological testing. IgG and IgM were negative in everyone, thus confirming that nobody had been exposed to the virus. This study highlights the commitment to efficiently treating patients suffering from tumors of the head and neck region and confirms the effectiveness of the safety measures used to protect our patients and staff's health.

Narrative review of multiparametric ultrasound in parotid gland evaluation

Disorders affecting parotid gland represent a heterogeneous group comprising congenital, inflammatory and neoplastic diseases which show a focal or diffuse pattern of appearance. The differentiation of neoplastic from non-neoplastic conditions of parotid glands is pivotal for the diagnostic imaging. Frequently there is evidence of overlapping between the clinical and the imaging appearance of the various pathologies. The parotid gland is also often object of study with the combination of different techniques [ultrasound-computed tomography-magnetic resonance imaging (US-CT-MRI), ex.]. Compared to other dominant methods of medical imaging, US has several advantages providing images in real-time at lower cost, and without harmful use of ionizing radiation and of contrast enhancement. B-mode US, and the microvascular pattern color Doppler are usually used as first step evaluation of parotid lesions. Elastography and contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) has opened further possible perspectives to improve the differentiation between benign and malignant parotid lesions. The characterization of the parotid tumors plays a crucial role for their treatment planning and for the prediction of possible surgical complications. We present, here an updated review of the most recurrent pathologies of parotid gland focusing on the diagnostic power of multiparametric US including CEUS and ultrasound elastography (USE); limitations, advantages and the main key-points will be presented.

Genetically driven CD39 expression shapes human tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T-cell functions

In our study, we investigated the role of CD39 on tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T lymphocytes (CD8+ TILs) in colorectal, head and neck and pancreatic cancers. Partially confirming recent observations correlating the CD39 expression with T-cell exhaustion, we demonstrated a divergent functional activity in CD39+ CD8+ TILs. On the one hand, CD39+ CD8+ TILs (as compared to their CD39- counterparts) produced significantly lower IFN-γ and IL-2 amounts, expressed higher PD-1, and inversely correlated with perforin and granzyme B expression. On the other, they displayed a significantly higher proliferative capacity ex vivo that was inversely correlated with the PD-1 expression. Therefore, CD39+ CD8+ TILs, including those co-expressing the CD103 (a marker of T resident memory [TRM] cells), were defined as partially dysfunctional T cells that correlate with tumor patients with initial progression stages. Interestingly, our results identified for the first time a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP rs10748643 A>G), as a genetic factor associated with CD39 expression in CD8+ TILs. Finally, we demonstrated that compounds inhibiting CD39-related ATPases improved CD39+ CD8+ T-cell effector function ex vivo, and that CD39+ CD8+ TILs displayed effective suppression function in vitro. Overall these data suggest that the SNP analysis may represent a suitable predictor of CD39+ CD8+ T-cell expression in cancer patients, and propose the modulation of CD39 as a new strategy to restore partially exhausted CD8+ TILs.

Head and Neck Osteosarcoma-The Ongoing Challenge about Reconstruction and Dental Rehabilitation

Head and Neck osteosarcoma is an uncommon disease. Hitherto, the treatment is surgical resection and survival is influenced by the presence of free margins. However, the dimension of the resection may represent a hurdle for an adequate Quality of Life (QOL). Maxillofacial district is a narrow space where the function, esthetics and patient’s relational skills fit together like the gears of a clock. The functional results depend on the type of reconstruction and prosthetic rehabilitation that are both important to guarantee a good aesthetic result and finally increase the patient’s self-esteem. This study aims to report our experience about head and neck (HN) osteosarcoma focusing the attention on reconstructive and dental-rehabilitative problems. It is a retrospective study all patients were surgically treated in our department. Subjects with histological diagnosis of HN osteosarcoma, treated between 2005 and 2017 were included. The demographic characteristics, surgical treatment, eventually secondary reconstruction and prosthetic rehabilitation, performed in the same department, have been collected. The QOL was assessed through the EORTC QLQ-H&N35 (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Head and Neck 35) questionnaire. Fifteen patients were enrolled, eight received a free flap microsurgical reconstruction. Dental rehabilitation was performed in five cases and a mobile prosthesis was always delivered. Eighteen implants were inserted in fibula bones for three patients; highly porous implants were used.

Preoperative evaluation of tumor depth of invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma with intraoral ultrasonography: a retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative intraoral ultrasonography (US) in the assessment of tumor depth of invasion (DOI) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

STUDY DESIGN

Records of 32 patients with biopsy-proven OSCC who underwent preoperative intraoral US were retrospectively reviewed. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy as indicated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were measured for US in the assessment of the infiltration of the tumor beyond the lamina propria into the submucosa. The correlations between US and histologic DOI, and between US DOI and US diameter of the lesion, were assessed.

RESULTS

US sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV in the assessment of the infiltration of the tumor beyond the lamina propria into the submucosa were 93.1%, 100%, 100%, and 60%, respectively. The area under the ROC curve was 0.96. A significant correlation was found between the measurements of US DOI and histological DOI (r = 0.907). A moderate correlation was found between US DOI and US diameter (r = 0.591).

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoral US has potential in preoperatively determining tumor DOI and may provide additional guidance for optimal planning of therapy for OSCC patients .

Implant placement in oral squamous cells carcinoma patients treated with chemoradiotherapy: "Sapienza Head and Neck Unit" clinical recommendations

OBJECTIVE

To date, the treatment of patients affected by head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is highly challenging for clinicians. Possible therapies are surgical resection of the tumor mass, radiotherapy, chemotherapy or, more often, a combined treatment that inevitably affects both normal and tumor cells. Consequently, patients' anatomy and functions become reduced or altered. Nowadays the functional restoration is significantly improved thanks to the innovation in prosthetic rehabilitation and in radiotherapy. The current IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy) allows planning adequate treatments evaluating different tissues' involvement and radiation dosage. It is possible to define the most suitable sites for implant insertion, using data provided by dose-volume histogram (DVH). This study aims to illustrate the idea of obtaining a unique CT image by blending radiation-planning CT and Cone Beam CT.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Five patients among 54 candidates were selected for this study. Selection criteria were: good general health (PS0-1), age between 18 and 72 years, absence of metastatic disease or local recurrence, disease-free interval of at least 18 months. Radiation planning CT scan and maxillo-facial CT Cone Beam of every patient were overlapped and merged. Only one CT for every evaluated patient was obtained in order to plan the most suitable areas for implant placement.

RESULTS

The placement of 10 implants in 5 patients was programmed using the explained method. Patients (all male) were aged between 48 and 72 years old, with a median age of 64.4 years. In every case of this study, a modification of the initial program of implant placement was necessary. The new imaging method we are proposing was able to provide information about radiation isodoses received in the planned osseointegrated implants' positions.

CONCLUSIONS

This new method allows operators to correct their own therapy plans and choices, customizing the treatment plan on the actual condition of the patient. Moreover, it makes all the rehabilitation process safer and can reduce the risk of failure, side effects and inconveniences for the patients.

Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma in a Patient Previously Treated for an Intestinal-Type Adenocarcinoma: Metachronous Neoplasms or Recurrence of a Different Tumor Type?

A case of a sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma occurring 2 years after a successfully surgically treated intestinal-type adenocarcinoma has never been reported. Treatment modality of paranasal sinus cancer strictly depends on histology so it is important to recognize a different tumor type in the follow-up of these patients.

Laparoscopic Ovarian Transposition and Ovariopexy for Fertility Preservation in Patients Treated with Pelvic Radiotherapy with or without Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Preservation of fertility in cancer patients of reproductive age is a concern for both the patient and the clinician. In this study, we aimed to study the effectiveness of laparoscopic ovarian transposition or ovariopexy in preserving ovarian function in women undergoing pelvic radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy for pelvic tumours.

METHODS

The records of patients who underwent laparoscopic ovarian transposition or ovariopexy prior to pelvic radiation therapy between 2002 and 2018 were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine women or adolescent girls with a diagnosis of cervical cancer (n=15), Hodgkin's lymphoma (n=6) or other types of pelvic tumours (n=18) were included in the study. The majority of patients had bilateral (n=25) or unilateral (n=8) ovarian transposition prior to radiotherapy. Nine out of 10 (90%) patients with soft tissue tumors, Ewing sarcoma or ependymoma, five out of seven (71.4%) patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma, two patients (100%) with rectal and anal cancer, and six out of 15 (40%) with cervical cancer retained ovarian function. Patients with cervical cancer, those who received concomitant chemotherapy and those older than 30 years were more likely to experience ovarian failure. Five patients conceived spontaneously and two women had four live births.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic repositioning of the ovaries out of the radiation field in order to protect ovarian function in patients receiving radiotherapy appears to be effective in the majority of patients. The procedure seems safe and should be considered either as a sole procedure or in association with other fertility preservation methods prior to pelvic radiotherapy.

Our experience in the surgical management of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia: what has changed in the last 10 years?

The mainstay of treatment of craniofacial dysplasia (CFD) remains surgery once clinical observation has been excluded. Nevertheless, disagreement remains about the type of surgical intervention (remodelling versus radical resection). The aim of this paper is to present our experience until 2013 comparing CFD management between 1980 and 2002 and between 2003 and 2013 and to propose our surgical algorithm. From January 2003 to December 2013, 41 new patients (18 males and 23 females) with histologically demonstrated CFD presented to our Department. Data were compared with those of 95 patients observed and/or treated between 1980 and 2002. Considering the last period, we noted that observation (26/41 patients) was the most used method; radical resection was performed in most cases (8/15 patients), but in proportion the numbers of patients undergoing bone shaving has increased (6% between 1980 and 2002 vs 15% between 2003 and 2013), while a decrease in the number of patients undergoing excision was seen (63% between 1980 and 2002 vs. 19% between 2003 and 2013). On this basis, we believe that radical resection is the only technique to obtain resolution of fibrous dysplasia. Wait-and-see is indicated in case of stable lesions. Reconstructive techniques allow obtaining adequate aesthetical and functional results; nevertheless, in most cases adjunctive surgical refinements are required and recovery time is higher than with surgical shaving, so that most patients prefer to perform remodelling. Nevertheless, in case of aggressive lesions radical resection is mandatory, except in paediatric patients with residual large defects in which it can be acceptable to try to resolve symptoms via bone shaving, reserving more aggressive treatments in case of relapse or after skeletal maturity.

Metastasis from pancreatic adenocarcinoma to the cheekbone

Skeletal metastasis by pancreatic adenocarcinoma are infrequent, and those located in the craniofacial region are very rare. We report the case of a 63-year-old Caucasian woman with a metastatic adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head previously treated with surgery and chemotherapy presenting a skeletal metastasis in the left cheekbone 5 years after primary treatment. No other similar cases have been previously described. The therapeutic decision was not simple because of the uncommon site of pancreatic metastasis. Surgical resection was the only possibility after the radiotherapy failure.

KEY WORDS

Cheekbone mass, Cheekbone metastasis, Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, Pancreatic adenocarcinoma metastasis.

Effect of Different Adhesive Systems Used for Immediate Dentin Sealing on Bond Strength of a Self-Adhesive Resin Cement to Dentin

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate and three-month water storage behavior of adhesives when used for immediate dentin sealing (IDS).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Four adhesive systems were used to perform IDS: a one-step self-etch (Xeno V), a two-step self-etch (Clearfil SE Bond), a two-step etch-and-rinse (XP Bond), and a three-step etch-and-rinse (Optibond FL). For the control group, IDS was not performed. The self-adhesive resin cement RelyX Unicem was used for the luting procedures. After seven days of water storage, specimens (n=6) were sectioned into beams (n=5) with an approximately 1-mm² cross-sectional area. Half of the specimens were tested in tension after seven days of water storage at 37°C, while the other half was stored for three months prior to testing in tension using a universal testing machine (1 mm/min). The failure pattern was determined using a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopy. Microtensile bond strength (μTBS) data were statistically analyzed by two-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

After seven days, the control group presented the lowest μTBS but did not differ from XP Bond and Clearfil SE Bond. After three months, there was no μTBS difference between the IDS groups and the control.

CONCLUSIONS

After seven days of water storage, the groups with IDS presented higher μTBS values than the control group, although XP Bond and Clearfil SE Bond did not present significant differences. However, after three months of storage in water, IDS groups did not differ significantly from control group, which did not receive IDS.

Radiotherapy Controversies and Prospective in Head and Neck Cancer: A Literature-Based Critical Review

In treating head and neck cancer (HNC), the objectives are provided for best functional results and minimal risk of serious complications. The choice of appropriate management depends primarily on specific site and stage of primary tumor at diagnosis. Radiation therapy (RT) with or without concomitant chemotherapy represents a classical treatment option. In this review, we provide an update of recent research strategies to counteract the existing damage caused by RT and highlight clinical trials currently in progress. We discuss the challenges in the evaluation of new stage system and RT-related toxicity onset. We mainly address the deficiencies and the advantages noted in the current treatment era.

Resistência de União de Zircônia Aderida a Cerâmica Baseada em Vidro com Diferentes Liners

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a resistência de união ao microcisalhamento (uSBS) da interface de zircônia e cerâmica baseada em vidro tratada com diferentes liners após envelhecimento. Foram preparadas 20 barras (10x6x4 mm3) de zircônia para cada grupo, divididas em 3 grupos conforme o tratamento de superfície, totalizando 60 barras de zircônia (IPS emax.ZirCAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) utilizadas para o processamento de infraestrutura do sistema CAD-CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided design manufacturing). As amostras foram sinterizadas e submetidas a aplicação de liner (HeraCeram, Heraus Kulzer ou ZirLiner, Ivoclar Vivadent) de acordo com os seguintes grupos (n20): G1 - sem tratamento (controle) G2 – Liner HeraCeram G3 - Liner ZirLiner. As amostras de zircônia foram aderidas à cerâmica baseada em vidro (IPS e.max ZirPres, Ivoclar Vivadent) por meio da injeção pela técnica da cera perdida (conduto cilíndrico de 0,8mm de diâmetro). As amostras foram submetidas a 100.000 ciclos termo- mecânicos e, avaliadas por meio do teste uSBS. O modo de fratura e os aspectos morfológicos dos espécimes mais significativos foram analisados através de microscopia eletrônica de varredura. A análise estatística dos valores obtidos foi realizada por one-way ANOVA e teste de Tukey (a0,05). As médias da uSB (MPa) foram: G1-12,1B G2-9,7B G3-14,4A (médias seguidas por diferentes letras indicam diferença estatística). A aplicação do liner ZirLiner previamente à injeção, aumentou a resistência de união entre a zircônia e a cerâmica baseada em vidro.Palavras-chave: Cerâmica. Microcisalhamento. Resistência de União.

Squamous cell carcinoma arising on a forearm free flap 21 years after hemiglossectomy

AIM

Free and pedicled flap are methods of choice for reconstruction of post-surgical defects consequent to oral squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), and missing intraoral mucosa is commonly reconstructed by the cutaneous component of the flap to guarantee an epithelial lining. Even if rare, cases of second tumors arising in the skin flap have been described. We present our experience reporting a clinical case.

CASE REPORT

A squamous cell carcinoma arose on a forearm free flap 21 years after hemiglossectomy in a 72 years old woman. No smoking or alcohol habits were referred, and it was decided to perform surgical resection of the flap.

RESULTS

Resection in free margins of a moderate differentiated (G2) SCC staged as pT2 was achieved and reconstruction with anterolateral thigh free flap was performed.

DISCUSSION

Even if rare, secondary tumors arising in the skin flap in case of oral cavity defects reconstruction are described. It is important to recognize them early in order to perform surgical resection.

CONCLUSION

We think that it is fundamental to perform a prolonged follow-up of skin flap if a white patch or erythema raising clinical suspicion are present. Incisional biopsy has to be performed in order to identify those lesions potentially inclined to a malignant transformation, such as p53 expression and Ki67 index.

KEY WORDS

Free flap, Oral cancer, Squamous cell carcinoma.

Contralateral botulinum injections in patients with residual facial asymmetry and contralateral hyperkinesis after primary facial palsy surgery

AIM

In patient with facial paralysis, facial appearance and muscular ability are impaired, and the psychological integrity is affected. Botulinum toxin A may be used to improve facial symmetry in patients suffering with facial palsy reducing the progressive contralateral hyperkinesis and facial asymmetry after primary surgery for facial paralysis.

MATERIAL OF STUDY

Six patients, whom have been suffering unilateral facial palsy with an House-Brackmann score grade from III to VI, were included in this study for a residual facial asymmetry and contralateral hyperkinesis after previous facial reanimation. They were treated with 50 units of botulinum toxin type A injected in muscles of the unaffected side of face to improve muscular ability and facial symmetry.

RESULTS

This study demonstrated reduction in contralateral hyperkinesis and facial asymmetry that lasted approximately 120 days. All patients reported satisfactory results with the treatment.

COMMENTS

Botulinum toxin type A injections improved facial asymmetry and muscular function in all patients.

DISCUSSION AND COMMENTS

Botulinum toxin type A injections may be an indispensable technique as a nonsurgical treatment or as a complementary measure in postsurgical treatments and should be certainly considered for temporary or permanent asymmetries in patients who suffer from facial palsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Contralateral botulinum toxin type A injection was useful in reducing muscular hyperkinesis in patients with residual facial asymmetry after primary surgery for facial palsy, improving aesthetic and functional facial recovery with not widely common adverse events.