May 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. Tympanoplasty — Endoscopic vs. Microscopic Closure Rates Study

Endoscopic tympanoplasty achieves similar closure rates to microscopic surgery with shorter operative times and reduced postoperative discomfort.

• 2. Chronic Rhinosinusitis — Budesonide Irrigation vs. Standard Steroid Spray Trial

Large-volume budesonide irrigations provide greater symptom relief and reduction in mucosal edema than conventional intranasal steroid sprays.

• 3. Pediatric OSA — Weight Status Influence After Adenotonsillectomy

Obese children show significantly less improvement in AHI after adenotonsillectomy compared with non-obese peers.

• 4. Allergic Rhinitis — Intranasal Antihistamine vs. Oral Antihistamine Study

Intranasal antihistamines control rhinorrhea and sneezing faster and more effectively than oral antihistamines in moderate-to-severe allergic rhinitis.

• 5. Otitis Media With Effusion — Nasal Balloon Autoinflation Study

Nasal autoinflation improves middle-ear ventilation and reduces OME persistence compared with watchful waiting.

• 6. Septoplasty — Baseline Nasal Valve Collapse as an Outcome Predictor

Patients with unrecognized nasal valve collapse experience less improvement after septoplasty unless the valve abnormality is addressed surgically.

• 7. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux — PPI vs. Diet-Only Management Comparison

A low-acid, plant-forward diet achieves symptom improvement comparable to PPI therapy in mild LPR cases.

• 8. Snoring — Soft Palate Radiofrequency vs. Uvulopalatoplasty Study

Radiofrequency palatal reduction improves snoring with fewer complications and faster recovery than traditional uvulopalatoplasty.

• 9. Tympanostomy Tubes — Predictors of Early Extrusion Study

Younger age, allergic rhinitis, and active infection at the time of surgery are strong predictors of early tube extrusion.

• 10. Voice Disorders — Vocal Function Exercises vs. Resonant Voice Therapy Comparison

Both therapies improve dysphonia, but resonant voice therapy produces quicker reductions in vocal strain and throat effort.