Documentation Of Anatomy Research Articles

Characteristics and considerations for children with ankyloglossia undergoing frenulectomy for dysphagia and aspiration.

The purpose of this study is to analyze the basic demographics of patients who underwent frenulectomy at our institution as well as additional considerations regarding age, location of procedure, and possible effects on aspiration. A retrospective chart review was performed based on CPT codes for frenulectomy and basic demographic data was collected. Other information such as presenting symptoms, type of ankyloglossia, location of the procedure, and modified barium swallow study (MBSS) information were also obtained. A total of 226 (66.4% male) patients underwent frenulectomy in the study time frame. Younger patients underwent frenulectomy for feeding symptoms (average age 6.5months) and older children typically presented with speech related symptoms (average age 3.8years). Of patients who had MBSS before and after the procedure, 5/11 (43%) had improvement of their aspiration after frenulectomy. Symptomatic ankyloglossia is more common in boys. Two age groups typically present for frenulectomy, infants for feeding difficulties and toddlers/preschoolers for speech related difficulties. Children with aspiration may benefit from frenulectomy, though aspiration is unlikely to resolve if other comorbidities are present. Proper evaluation and documentation of anatomy and functional tongue movement is important for future studies and decision-making regarding frenulectomy.

The Use of Video in ENT Endoscopy: Its Value in Teaching

Videography is the most practical and effective method of documenting and teaching ENT endoscopy. Videography allows: (1) documentation of anatomy, physiology and pathology of deep structures of the ear, nose and throat; (2) teaching of delicate surgical procedures such as functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), laryngeal surgery, and other endoscopic procedures; (3) instantaneous production of high quality hard copies of video images for teaching and patient records; (4) instant replay and repeated viewing by a slow motion or frame-by-frame analysis; (5) simultaneous viewing by a small or large audience; and (6) image digitalization for storage in the computer for later analysis. The author describes the value of videography in ENT endoscopy, namely video-otoscopy, video rhinoscopy and videolaryngoscopy. The use of video in endoscopy will continue to play a vital role in Continuing Medical Education (CME).