American Society Of Pediatric Otolaryngology Research Articles

Postoperative management of pediatric patients undergoing single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction in the United States: A survey of ASPO members

IntroductionThe postoperative management of single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (ssLTR) plays a significant role in the surgery's outcomes. The relatively prolonged period in which the child remains intubated and sedated to allow graft healing may be complicated by pulmonary sequelae, airway obstruction, withdrawal symptoms, and eventually failed extubation. This study aims to assess post-ssLTR practices among pediatric otolaryngologists. MethodAn electronic cross-sectional survey was distributed to the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members to elucidate current protocols in post-ssLTR practice in the United States. ResultsEighty-six responses were recorded. A majority (60 %; n = 50) reported performing fewer than five ssLTRs per year. The mean time to bronchoscopy following ssLTR was postoperative day 8±3 for ssLTR with a posterior graft and postoperative day 7±3 without a posterior graft. Most practitioners reported avoiding paralytics (61 %, n = 44) unless the desired level of sedation could not be achieved. Most providers utilized pre-pyloric feeding via a nasogastric or gastrostomy tube (n = 50, 72 %). A total of 70 % (n = 49) of respondents use a single medication for acid suppression, whereas 21 % (n = 15) reported dual-acid suppression whether the patient was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux prior to surgery or not, regardless of feeding route. Nebulized agents were routinely used, with normal saline (43 %; n = 36) being the most reported agent. ConclusionThe postoperative management after ssLTR varies greatly among pediatric otolaryngologists due to a lack of evidence-based data to support one protocol over the other. Multi-institutional studies should be considered to evaluate current protocols and improve postoperative care.

A qualitative analysis of pediatric otolaryngology fellowship websites

ObjectiveTo evaluate the availability and breadth of information provided by program-created pediatric otolaryngology fellowship websites as well as the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) program directory. MethodsProgram-created pediatric otolaryngology fellowship websites and the ASPO directory were evaluated for 16 key criteria deemed to be relevant to fellowship applicants. ResultsAll 36 ACGME-accredited pediatric otolaryngology fellowship programs had websites that were readily available by Google search, and the ASPO program directory contained direct links to 17 (47.2 %) program-created websites. On average, program-created websites fulfilled 6.9 (43.1 %, range 1–11) and the ASPO directory fulfilled 6.9 (43.1 %, range 3–11) of the 16 key criteria. When utilizing both resources, the average increased to 8.3 (51.2 %) - criteria included program description (94.4 %), location description (30.4 %), fellowship director contact information (94.4 %), program coordinator contact information (72.2 %), teaching responsibilities (68.6 %), call responsibilities/schedule (41.7 %), operative volume (80 %), breadth of surgical exposure (94.4 %), research opportunities (72.2 %), research expectations (63.9 %), current fellow(s) (42.9 %), post-fellowship placement (28.6 %), fellow clinic (28.6 %), medical missions/outreach (20 %), and resident coverage (36.1 %). ConclusionPediatric otolaryngology fellowship websites as well as program-specific data sheets from ASPO lack many key criteria that would otherwise be valuable to applicants. Inclusion of these criteria could help applicants make a more well-informed decision when applying into pediatric otolaryngology fellowship.

Perspectives on the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Research: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Pediatric Otolaryngologists.

To investigate the perspectives of pediatric otolaryngologists on the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on their research. Two surveys were sent to members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) in 2019 and 2021 to assess research perspectives before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The surveys contained questions about research engagement, barriers, time allocation, and shifts in research focus. The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped research within pediatric otolaryngology, with a mixed impact on the amount of time allocated to research endeavors. Almost half of respondents reported a change in research focus to COVID-19-related studies. Protected time and funding were significant pre-pandemic barriers, whereas reduced staff, collaboration opportunities, and enrollment limitations emerged as key pandemic-related obstacles. A personal commitment to research was most strongly correlated with time spent on this endeavor. During the pandemic, women were less likely to report an increase in research activity when compared to men, possibly due to a disproportionate burden of caregiving on women during school closures and stay-at-home orders. Overall, the pandemic prompted both increases and decreases in research time allocation, depending on individual circumstances and priorities. Despite new challenges, pediatric otolaryngologists remain committed to research and have continued to remain productive.

Assessment of musculoskeletal pain and surgical ergonomic parameters among members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology

ObjectivesTo assess rates of self-reported work-related pain and knowledge of ergonomic principles among fellowship trained pediatric otolaryngologists within the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO). We hypothesized that pediatric otolaryngologists experience rates of musculoskeletal pain and injury similar to what has been reported among adult otolaryngologists and other surgical subspecialties. MethodsAn IRB-approved survey was distributed to members of ASPO through email listserv. Collected variables included surgeon demographic information, practice settings, surgical volume, procedure types, work-related musculoskeletal pain-related metrics, modifying factors, and knowledge/attitudes on surgical ergonomics. ResultsA total of 685 ASPO members were approached via email, of which 435 opened the survey email and 118 attending pediatric otolaryngologists completed the survey (response rate 27%). In all, 78% of respondents reported current or prior pain and/or injury attributed to performing surgery, 20% higher than that reported in the previous ergonomics survey of ASPO members in 2012. The most affected areas were neck/cervical spine (63%), shoulders/arms (44%), lower back/lumbar spine (36%), and hands/wrist (31%). Half of the respondents were diagnosed with musculoskeletal condition(s) attributed to performing surgery. Two-thirds required treatment (62% pharmacologic only, 9% pharmacologic and surgical intervention) for their work-related pain. Leveraging intermittent pauses during surgical procedures to adjust body position was the most reported method of addressing pain in the operating room. Only 21% report ever having received ergonomic training during their training or career. ConclusionMusculoskeletal pain associated with performing pediatric otolaryngology procedures is highly prevalent and has not attenuated despite increased awareness of surgical ergonomics. Results from this study underscore the need to develop standardized surgical ergonomics curricula for pediatric otolaryngologists and trainees.

Physician experiences of workplace racial and gender microaggressions.

To investigate racial and gender-specific microaggressions that are experienced by pediatric otolaryngologists at work. An anonymous web-based survey consisting of 18 questions was sent to American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members via an email link. The survey included questions from the Workplace and School Microaggressions component of the Racial and Ethnic Microaggressions (REM) Scale. 125 out of 610 ASPO members completed the survey for a response rate of 20.5%. 28% of respondents reported experiencing a racial/ethnic microaggression in the last six months. Respondents who identified as Asian American Pacific Islander had significantly higher REM scores when compared with Caucasian respondents (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in scores when comparing the other Race categories. Female respondents reported significantly higher gendered-microaggression scores compared to those identifying as male (p<0.001). 66% of female respondents experienced some form of gender-based microaggression in the last six months. By providing evidence that pediatric otolaryngologists continue to report experiences of discrimination in the form of microaggressions, this study aims to increase awareness and inspire a more inclusive work environment.

Practice trends in pediatric sudden sensorineural hearing loss management: An unresolved diagnosis

PurposeAssess practice patterns amongst pediatric otolaryngologist for the management of children with SSNHL. Materials and methodsA cross-sectional online survey of members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) was performed; 135 responded. Patterns in treatment modalities, ancillary tests, and timing of treatment and follow-up were evaluated. These patterns were compared between respondents with different characteristics (number of years in practice, clinic location, and number of pediatric SSNHL cases within the last year) using ordered logistic regression, Kruskal-Wallis, Wilcoxon rank-sum, and Fisher's exact tests. ResultsMean time from onset of hearing loss to presentation to a pediatric otolaryngologist was 10 days (range 1–60 days). The most cited reasons for delay in care were ‘patient not seeking any healthcare evaluation’ (65 %) and ‘lack of access to obtain an audiogram’ (54 %). The most ordered blood work was complete blood count (14 %) and herpes simplex testing (15 %). Complete blood count was ordered more frequently by physicians in practice for >10 years compared with those in practice 1–10 years, P = 0.03. Most respondents reported treating with systemic steroids (86/92, 93 %), including intratympanic steroids (32/92, 35 %). Treatment with systemic steroids was more common in academic compared with private practice, P = 0.03. Antivirals were the most common additional agent prescribed (14/89, 16 %). Most patients were seen in follow-up 1–4 weeks after diagnosis (63/85, 74 %). ConclusionsMost pediatric otolaryngologists treat SSNHL with systemic steroids. The remainder of the diagnostic and management paradigm varies significantly, highlighting the need to systematically define which treatment optimizes outcomes in this population.

Pediatric obesity education and counseling in otolaryngology clinics: A survey of ASPO members

BackgroundAdenotonsillectomy can cure pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in 80% of children without obesity but only 20–30% of children with obesity. Despite this, there is a current lack of consistent guidelines and practices around pediatric obesity management in otolaryngology. This study evaluated the extent of counseling, referrals, confidence, and barriers in addressing childhood obesity in pediatric otolaryngology. MethodsA 20-question electronic survey assessing pediatric obesity practice patterns regarding sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and OSA was distributed to all American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members. Descriptive statistics were performed. Pediatric otolaryngologists were compared using logistic regression models based on their practice type and frequency of counseling and referral. ResultsOf all ASPO members, 19.6% (114/583) completed the survey. Half (50.0%) of physicians counsel and 14.0% refer to obesity management >75% of the time. Only 8.8% of physicians are confident their counseling helps reduce their patient's obesity, and 35.9% of physicians are satisfied with their services available for referral. Most physicians cite time/clinical workload (81.6%) and parent/rearing habits (50.0%) as barriers to obesity counseling. Non-academic physicians had lower odds of counseling and referring their patients >50% of the time (aOR 0.23 [95%CI 0.06–0.81], aOR 0.23 [95%CI 0.06–0.83]). Almost all (92.1%) physicians counsel on residual SDB or OSA after adenotonsillectomy >75% of the time if the child is obese. ConclusionsMost pediatric otolaryngologists do not regularly counsel or refer patients to available obesity management programs, with differences seen between academic and non-academic surgeons. Confidence is low in currently available measures to reduce pediatric obesity. These results highlight the challenges of pediatric obesity and provide context for guideline implementation and additional resource development for pediatric otolaryngologists.

Pediatric otolaryngology trends in patient care volume during covid-19: A survey study

PurposeTo assess changes in outpatient clinic, inpatient consult, and operative volumes among pediatric otolaryngologists in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methodsAn online questionnaire was distributed to 535 active members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology from April 21, 2020, to May 4, 2020. The questionnaire assessed operative and clinical volumes during a two-week period between April 6, 2020, to April 20, 2020, while restrictions on elective surgery were in place, as compared to an average two-week period before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. ResultsBoth outpatient clinic and inpatient consult visit volume decreased significantly during the Covid-19 period. Academic practitioners typically reported seeing fewer outpatient visits than their private practice counterparts. Operative case volume decreased significantly across all procedures and surgeries common to pediatric otolaryngology. One-third of surveyed surgeons reported no operative cases during the assessed period. ConclusionsPediatric otolaryngologists reported a severe reduction in operative volume, in-office visits, and inpatient consults during a time period at the peak of the 2020 Covid-19 outbreak. Many respondents saw no patients, nor operated in any capacity. This time period could have lasting effects on practitioner finances and trainee education.

Admission practices following pediatric tonsillectomy: A survey of ASPO members.

Although evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) have specified postoperative admission criteria for pediatric tonsillectomy, there is substantial variation in guideline implementation and adherence among otolaryngologists in practice. We aimed to assess pediatric otolaryngologists' post-tonsillectomy admission practices and to examine patient and surgeon factors associated with differences in admission practices. An electronic cross-sectional survey was distributed to members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) to determine current practices regarding admission practices following pediatric tonsillectomy. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were performed to compare differences in adherence to tonsillectomy CPGs by respondent characteristics. The survey was sent to 644 pediatric otolaryngologists with a response rate of 19.1%. 37% of respondents reported "always" and 60% "often" using the Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) CPG to guide decision for admission. Years in practice was the factor most strongly associated with admission practices, with 10 or fewer years in practice significantly correlated with stricter adherence to the AAO-HNS CPG of overnight observation when Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) ≥10, age <3 years, or O2 nadir <80%) (OR 4.2, p<0.001), as well as specific individual criteria such as an AHI ≥10 (OR 4.1, p=0.03). Respondents in an academic practice setting were more likely to admit children <3 years of age than those in private practice (OR 5.0, p=0.01). Admission practices varied among pediatric otolaryngologist survey respondents, and strict AAO-HNS CPG adherence was associated with fewer years in practice and academic practice setting. These results suggest that further study investigating factors influencing guideline adherence and post-tonsillectomy admission practices is warranted.

Telehealth Adoption and Perspectives Among Pediatric Otolaryngologists Following the COVID-19 Pandemic.

To assess use of and physician experiences with pediatric otolaryngology telehealth visits as impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross sectional survey. A 15-question survey was electronically distributed to 656 members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology in August 2021, addressing member demographics, experiential practice elements, and use pre-pandemic, during the initial shutdown period of March-May 2020, and current use at the time of survey inquiry. There were 124 respondents (response rate = 18.9%). Incident use pre-pandemic and during the shutdown were 21.0% (n = 26), and 92.7% (n = 115), respectively. Current use was 83.9% (n = 104) and the percentage of new current users (79.5%, n = 78) was significant (P < .0001,95% CI = 70.6%-86.4%). Estimated median telehealth visit rates pre-pandemic, during shutdown, and currently were 0 to 1, 4 to 5, and 2 to 3 per week, respectively (P < .0001). A difference in post-covid adoption rates was noted only for location (P = .008), with no differences for years out of training or practice type. Compared to in-person visits, physician satisfaction with telehealth visits was rated equivalent (49.0%) or worse/much worse (48.1%). The most common telehealth uses were follow-up visits (83.7%), pre-operative counseling (76.9%), and post-operative evaluation (69.2%). The need for a detailed exam (89.4%) and initial visits (32.7%) were reasons a telehealth visit was not offered. The COVID-19 pandemic appears to have precipitated a rapid increase in telehealth adoption among surveyed pediatric otolaryngologists, regardless of age or practice type. The most significant limitations remain the need for a detailed exam, perceived low patient technological literacy, and limitations to interpretive services. Technology-based optimization of these barriers could lead to increased use and physician satisfaction.

Surgeon Preference on Sending Routine Tonsillectomy Specimens for Pathological Evaluation.

Despite the presence of a growing body of literature suggesting cost-ineffectiveness of routine pathologic analysis of tonsillectomy specimens, little is known about common institutional policies and practice patterns of pediatric otolaryngologists. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of routine pathological evaluation of tonsillectomy specimens for uncomplicated pediatric adenotonsillectomy procedures and to evaluate opinions regarding this controversy among board-certified pediatric otolaryngologists. This was a cross-sectional survey study sent to board-certified pediatric otolaryngologists currently practicing and registered with the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) assessing their institutions' or practices' current policies on sending routine tonsillectomy specimens for pathology, their experience with this practice, and their opinions on whether routine pathologic analysis should be employed. Basic statistical analysis was then conducted. Respondents mostly practiced in an academic setting (68.4%), with the next most common being academically affiliated private practice (21.8%), and private practice was the least common (9.8%). Most respondents (85.1%) did not agree with routine pathologic analysis of otherwise uncomplicated pediatric tonsillectomy specimens. Most pediatric otolaryngologists who responded to this survey do not support routine pathological analysis of otherwise uncomplicated pediatric tonsillectomy specimens. However, the results are likely biased and should be interpreted carefully, since only a small percentage of pediatric otolaryngologists responded to the survey. Potential cost savings could be seen by patients, payers, and hospital systems with judicious use of surgical pathology, specifically in cases with concurrent signs or symptoms suspicious for malignancy.

Management of Intracranial Sinusitis Complications in Children and Adolescents: Similarities and Differences Among Otolaryngology Subspecialists.

The purpose of this study was to compare the management of intracranial sinusitis complications in pediatric patients between members of the American Rhinologic Society (ARS) and the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO). A cross-sectional web-based survey was distributed twice to the ASPO and ARS membership over an 8-month period. The overall survey response rate was 12.1% (7.5% of ARS members and 17.3% of ASPO members). Recommended management was similar with respect to the use of intravenous antibiotics, nasal saline irrigations, topical decongestants, and nasal steroid sprays. Recommendations diverged with regards to systemic steroid use and urgent/emergent endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). ARS members were more likely to recommend systemic corticosteroids. ASPO members were more likely to recommend immediate ESS. Based on survey responses, we found differences in practice patterns among subspecialists, which indicates additional collaborative research between societies is necessary to develop and disseminate evidence-based guidelines for these patients.Level of Evidence: 4

Chronic care handoffs in otolaryngology: Pediatric to Adult Care Providers

ObjectiveThe transfer of care from pediatric to adult otolaryngology remains unexplored. Our study investigated practice patterns among pediatric otolaryngologists. MethodsTwenty-question survey administered to otolaryngologists at the Society for Ear Nose and Throat Advancement in Children (SENTAC) and American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) in December 2020 and July 2021 respectively. Data analyzed in RedCap including demographics, frequencies, means, and standard deviations. ResultsThe survey was completed by 48 participants. The majority of respondents practiced for at least 16 years (n = 28) at a University-based practices (n = 38), serving an entirely pediatric population (n = 44). Providers’ expertise included chronic ear disease, voice disorders, and laryngeal stenosis. Few respondents (n = 12) had a transfer of care policy formalized at their practice. However, 38.8% of respondents were interested in developing one. Respondents rarely discussed topics such as drugs, tobacco, or alcohol use (mean 30.1%, SD 30.18%) with patients; and only 55.5% (SD 32.98) of providers asked patients 14 years and older to describe their condition, medications, or treatment plans. None of the providers were familiar with standardized transition of care tools. The majority of providers transferred patients between 18 and 25 years old to adult care. ConclusionThere is significant variation between otolaryngology providers’ awareness and clinical practice patterns surrounding pediatric to adult transfer of care. Further studies are needed to evaluate the implications of these biases for patient outcomes and the opportunities for a standardized approach.

Survey of Pediatric Otolaryngology Frenotomy Practice Patterns.

Assess current frenotomy practice patterns of pediatric otolaryngologists via a cross-sectional survey. Survey study. A 31-question electronic survey assessing frenotomy practice patterns was distributed to all American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize responses and demographics of respondents. Of all ASPO members, 41% (240/588) completed the survey. Most respondents, 185 (77%), reported increased frenotomy referrals over the last 5 years and 144 (60%) described the current number of referrals as "too many." The two primary lingual frenotomy indications identified in infants were: breastfeeding/nipple pain (92%) and inability to latch (83%). For older children, speech difficulty (87%) was the primary indication. Maxillary frenotomy indications in infants varied amongst respondents. For analgesia during in-office frenotomy procedures, respondents used glucose/sucrose drops (48%), topical lidocaine (29%), or no pain control measure (27%). For post-procedure care, respondents recommended continuing lactation support (45%), massaging/stretching the wound (38%), or none (40%). Most respondents, 143 (60%), reported having seen a complication from frenotomy, and the most reported frenotomy complications were frenulum re-attachment and excessive bleeding. In the last 5 years, otolaryngologists have seen an increase in referrals for frenotomy. Pediatric otolaryngologists have varying practice patterns with regards to ankyloglossia diagnosis and treatment. The reported indications for frenotomy varied amongst pediatric otolaryngologists especially with respect to maxillary frenotomy. Practice patterns also varied with respect to procedural pain control and frenotomy aftercare recommendations. More frenotomy research is needed to establish a standard of care for patients with ankyloglossia. 4 Laryngoscope, 132:2505-2512, 2022.

Otolaryngologists' Attitudes toward In-Office Pediatric Tympanostomy Tube Placement without General Anesthesia.

Our objectives were to assess attitudes regarding office-based insertion of tympanostomy tubes without general anesthesia, to identify barriers that would discourage in-office procedures, and to highlight opportunities that would potentially facilitate this approach in the future. Cross-sectional survey administered to members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) from March to April 2020 using the Research Electronic Data Capture (Redcap), internet-based data capture platform. The brief, 10-item survey required 3 minutes to complete and used a 5-point Likert scale for primary questions. Respondents included 172 fellowship trained, pediatric otolaryngologists with 14 median years of clinical practice and 25 median tympanostomy tube insertions per month (75% >40 per month). Although tubes, in any setting, were most often inserted in children under age 2 years (95% "often" or "very often") and in those aged 3 to 5 years (93%), the likelihoods of doing this in-office for these age groups were only 8% and 6% respectively. For children aged 6 to 12 years, likelihood of in-office insertion was only 15%. Frequent barriers noted were safety concerns, emotional trauma, physical pain, and inability to suction. Opportunities to facilitate this approach include improved topical anesthesia, availability of conscious sedation, conclusive research on adverse effects of general anesthesia, and availability of an automated tube insertion device. Office-based insertion of tympanostomy tubes in children without general anesthesia is performed by a small minority of respondents, but there are discernible barriers and opportunities to promote future uptake. Our results should facilitate ongoing discussion and innovation to better accommodate the preferences of families whose children are candidates for tympanostomy tubes.

Online Ratings and Perceptions of Pediatric Otolaryngologists.

To assess and characterize online ratings and comments on pediatric otolaryngologists and determine factors that correlate with higher ratings. Online database analysis. All American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members were queried on Healthgrades, Vitals, RateMDs, and Yelp for their online ratings and comments as of June 2020. Ratings were normalized for comparison on a five-point Likert scale. All comments were categorized based on context and positive or negative quality. Of the 561 ASPO members, 489 (87%) were rated on at least one online platform. Of those rated, 410 (84%) were on Healthgrades, 429 (88%) on Vitals, 236 (48%) on RateMDs, and 72 (15%) on Yelp. Across all platforms, the average overall rating was 4.13± 0.03 (range, 1.00-5.00). We found significant positive correlations between overall ratings and specific ratings (P < .001) on all individual topics. In addition, the majority of all narrative comments were related to perceived physician bedside manner and clinical outcome, with negative comments correlating negatively with overall score (P < .05). Time spent with the physician was the only category in which both positive and negative comments showed significant correlation with the overall physician rating (P=.016 and P=.017, respectively). Attending a top-ranked medical school or residency program did not correlate with higher or lower ratings. Online ratings and comments for pediatric otolaryngologists are largely influenced by patient and parent perceptions of physician competence, comforting bedside manner, and office and time management. NA Laryngoscope, 131:2356-2360, 2021.

Current Status and Future Trends: Pediatric Intracapsular Tonsillectomy in the United States.

1) To assess the current status of pediatric intracapsular tonsillectomy in the United States, and 2) To apply lessons from the scientific literature and adoption of surgical innovation to predict future trends in pediatric intracapsular tonsillectomy. This was a cross-sectional survey study and literature review. An anonymous survey was sent to all members of the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) to determine current practices in pediatric tonsillectomy. Statistical analysis was performed to compare differences in individuals who perform intracapsular tonsillectomy as opposed to extracapsular tonsillectomy. A literature analysis of the adoption of new technological advancements and innovative surgical techniques was then performed. The survey was sent to 540 pediatric otolaryngologists with a response rate of 42%. Of all respondents, 20% currently perform intracapsular tonsillectomy. The primary reason cited for not performing the procedure was concern for tonsillar regrowth. Time in practice, practice setting, and fellowship status was not associated with an increased incidence of intracapsular tonsillectomy. Only 20% of pediatric otolaryngologist respondents in the United States perform intracapsular tonsillectomy. Based on the documented advantages of intracapsular tonsillectomy over extracapsular tonsillectomy and an analysis of adoption of novel surgical techniques, we predict a paradigm shift in the specialty toward intracapsular tonsillectomy. 3 Laryngoscope, 131:S1-S9, 2021.

Proton pump inhibitor administration in neonates and infants. Lack of consensus – An ASPO survey

ObjectiveLaryngopharyngeal and Gastroesophageal reflux (LPR and GER) are distinct clinical entities that present with a range of non-specific symptoms. The exact prevalence in the pediatric population is unknown. While there has been an increase in the use of PPIs, lack of clear guidelines, conflicting evidence regarding efficacy and safety concerns with long-term use require physicians to use their own anecdotal experience and clinical judgement when treating patients. The goal of this study was to evaluate practice patterns among pediatric otolaryngologists regarding the use of proton-pump inhibitors for reflux-related conditions. MethodsA survey was submitted to American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members to determine practice patterns regarding use of PPIs for reflux-related conditions in the newborn and infant population. Statistical analysis using Fisher's exact test was performed. Results37% of respondents would not prescribe PO PPIs in neonates, with 50% not prescribing IV PPIs. 60% would prescribe a PPI as second or third-line treatment for infants (10 weeks to 1-year). Only 10% would prescribe as first-line in this age group. 48% would prescribe PPIs once daily and 19% as BID. No significant practice differences exist based on years of experience, number of relevant patients seen, and setting of practice. ConclusionThere was no agreement regarding dosage, frequency and duration of PPI treatment for reflux disease in neonates and infants. There was also no correlation with experience or practice setting. This emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach and consensus statement to guide management of GER and LPR in this population.

Injection laryngoplasty in infants with unilateral vocal cord paralysis: A survey of ASPO members

IntroductionUnilateral vocal cord paralysis (UVCP) in infants may be managed medically or surgically, with the latter including injection laryngoplasty (IL). However, there is limited information regarding injection laryngoplasty in infants. We therefore proposed a survey of American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members to elucidate current practices, outcomes, and complications. MethodsAn online survey was distributed to all 548 ASPO members via email. The survey was closed for data analysis 2 months after initial distribution. Statistical analysis was deferred due to the primarily descriptive nature of the data and lack of comparative studies. ResultsWe received 113 responses for a response rate of 20.6%. Only 31% of the respondents (n = 36) reported performing IL in infants 12 months old or younger. The most commonly cited reasons for not injecting in this age group were preference for non-surgical management and concern for increased risk of airway obstruction. IL was most commonly performed to treat persistent aspiration despite attempts at medical management. The majority (66%) reported no complications, while the remainder noted stridor requiring intensive care unit observation. Re-intubation due to airway obstruction occurred in 6% (n = 2 of 33). Carboxymethylcellulose gel (Prolaryn Gel) was the most commonly used injectable material, but a variety of other materials were used as well. Two respondents noted they perform reinnervation procedures in children, but not in infants, as they require at least a 12 month period of observation for possible spontaneous recovery before considering the option. DiscussionThere is limited data regarding management of UVCP in infants with IL, and considerable variation among those who do perform the procedure. While adverse events are rare, multi-institutional studies should be considered to help determine best practices.

Pediatric Obstructive Sleep-Disordered Breathing: Updated Polysomnography Practice Patterns.

To assess the current practice patterns of pediatric otolaryngologists in managing obstructive sleep-disordered breathing 6 years following the 2011 publication of the clinical practice guideline "Polysomnography for Sleep-Disordered Breathing prior to Tonsillectomy in Children." Cross-sectional survey. American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members. An electronic survey to assess ASPO members' adherence to polysomnography guidelines prior to tonsillectomy. Forty percent (170 of 427) of ASPO members completed the survey, with 73% in academic practice and 27% in private practice. Snoring represented, on average, 48% of the respondents' practices. The percentage of respondents who requested a polysomnogram prior to tonsillectomy ≥90% of the time was 55% (n = 94) for Down syndrome, 41% (n = 69) for a child <2 years old, and 29% (n = 49) for obese children. A total of 109 (73%) and 112 (75%) respondents admit at least 90% of the time for a child with Down syndrome and for a child <3 years of age, respectively, but only 52 (35%) have a similar practice for an obese child. Only 37% adhere to the inpatient admission recommendation for children with documented obstructive sleep apnea on polysomnogram. The current polysomnogram practice patterns for responding pediatric otolaryngologists are not aligned with the clinical practice guideline of the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. The threshold for overnight observation when a preoperative polysomnogram has not been performed may be too low. A campaign is necessary to educate clinicians who take care of children with obstructive sleep-disordered breathing and to obtain more evidence to further define best practice.