december 2024

This monthly review presents curated summaries of noteworthy ENT research and clinically relevant publications, compiled by Dr. Rohan S. Navelkar to support evidence-based, structured and exam-oriented ENT learning. 

• 1. Endoscopic Stapes Surgery — Learning Curve Study

Endoscopic stapes surgery demonstrates a predictable, safe learning curve with audiological outcomes equivalent to the microscopic approach after early cases.

• 2. Chronic Rhinosinusitis — Extended Steroid Irrigation vs. Short Course Study

Extended high-volume steroid irrigation provides greater reduction in inflammation and polyp size than short-course topical therapy in severe CRS patients.

• 3. Pediatric Adenotonsillectomy — Quality-of-Life Improvement Analysis

Adenotonsillectomy produces rapid and sustained improvements in sleep, behavior, and daytime functioning in children with sleep-disordered breathing.

• 4. Allergic Rhinitis — Saline Irrigations vs. Spray-Only Treatment Trial

Daily large-volume saline irrigation significantly improves congestion and rhinorrhea more than standard nasal spray therapy alone.

• 5. Tympanoplasty — Overlay vs. Underlay Technique Comparison

Underlay tympanoplasty yields higher graft stability and fewer lateralization complications than overlay techniques in most perforation types.

• 6. Otitis Externa — Acetic Acid vs. Antibiotic Drops Study

Acetic acid provides clinical resolution comparable to antibiotic drops for mild-to-moderate otitis externa, reducing unnecessary antibiotic use.

• 7. Deviated Nasal Septum — Combined Septoplasty–Turbinate Surgery Outcomes

Septoplasty combined with turbinate reduction provides significantly better airflow improvement than septoplasty alone, especially in patients with inferior turbinate hypertrophy.

• 8. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux — Behavioral Therapy vs. PPI Comparison

Behavioral and dietary modification improves throat symptoms nearly as effectively as PPI therapy in mild-to-moderate LPR.

• 9. Sleep-Disordered Breathing — Nasal EPAP Device Trial

Nasal EPAP devices reduce snoring and improve mild OSA indices in appropriately selected adults, though comfort and adherence vary.

• 10. Pediatric Otitis Media With Effusion — Adenoid Size Influence Study

Adenoid hypertrophy is the strongest predictor of persistent OME, supporting early adenoidectomy in recurrent or chronic cases.