SEPTEMBER 2025

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. AI-Enhanced Endoscopic Training Programme (Clinical Training Application Study)

An AI-assisted endoscopy training module improves procedural accuracy and reduces trainee error rates compared with conventional supervision alone.

• 2. Natural Language Processing in Otolaryngology (Clinical Application Review)

NLP tools can reliably extract clinical ENT data from records to support diagnosis and workflow, but require validation before routine use.

• 3. Topical Dexamethasone in Stapedotomy (Randomized Controlled Trial – second centre data published September)

Perioperative topical dexamethasone during stapes surgery enhances early postoperative hearing thresholds slightly without adding significant complications.

• 4. Practice Patterns in Low–Intermediate-Grade Salivary Disease (Non-oncology, glandular function + benign cases included)

Multicentre analysis shows wide variability in how benign/intermediate salivary gland lesions are treated, highlighting the need for more standardized indications for surgery versus observation.

• 5. Otologic Skull-Base & Middle-Ear Imaging Optimization Study

Refined HRCT protocols improve visualization of ossicular chain and sinus tympani anatomy, supporting more precise preoperative surgical planning.

• 6. Acute Otitis Media Management Outcomes Study

Real-world outcomes confirm that watchful waiting remains safe for selected AOM cases, with low rates of treatment failure or progression to complications.

• 7. Rhinitis/Allergic Nasal Disease Treatment Comparison Study

Combination intranasal steroid + antihistamine therapy produces faster symptom relief than monotherapy, especially in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis.

• 8. CRS–Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Predictors of Improvement Study

Lower preoperative olfactory scores and higher polyp burden predict larger postoperative gains in quality-of-life after sinus surgery.

• 9. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Balloon Dilation (Prospective Cohort)

Balloon dilation yields sustained improvement in ETD symptoms at 6–12 months with low complication rates in appropriately selected adult patients.

• 10. Myringoplasty Technique Outcome Comparison

Underlay cartilage myringoplasty maintains higher graft-take rates in high-risk perforations (post-infectious or anterior) while achieving hearing results similar to fascia grafting.