In this study, an animal model for inducing and studying laryngotracheal injuries due to endotracheal intubation has been established. This study has the potential applications in research on etiopathogenesis and management of post-intubation laryngotracheal injuries.

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Facial palsy poses a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to the doctor. Definite treatment modalities, medical, surgical and physical have evolved and can be used either singly or in combination to treat this condition successfully. 25 cases of facial palsy of varied aetiology managed over 2 year period in the Neurotology clinic of Armed Forces Medical College are presented. 10 cases underwent medical management only. 15 cases underwent surgical management, consisting of facial nerve decompression (10), nerve approximation (2), nerve grafting (1) and hypoglossal facial anastamosis [2]. All patients underwent physiotherapy to the paralysed face. Patients with Bell's palsy had 83.5% recovery (5 out of 6 cases), CSOM cases after surgical decompression of facial nerve had a 100% recovery (3 out of 3 cases), iatrogenic facial palsy 80% (8 out of 10 cases) and patients after tumour excision 68% (4 out of 6 cases) recovery. The diagnostic approach, method of evaluation of degree of facial palsy based on clinical, electrodiagnostic tests and the various treatment modalities are discussed.

Surgery of the skull base has evolved over the past 100 years. This anatomical area has been approached by neurosurgeons, otologists, maxillofacial surgeons and plastic surgeons from different angles. Presently, the com bined skills of these surgeons are utilized in treating lesions of this area once considered a 'bony no man-s land'. Modern microsurgical techniques are based on the principle that removal of adequate bone from the cranial base could provide sufficient access without the necessity to retract dura. Accurate preoperative assess› ment by imaging, the use of microsurgical techniques, preservation of vital structures such as nerves by intraoperative monitoring, and modern anaesthetic and postoperative management have all contributed to the reduction in mortality and morbidity to acceptable levels. In the future, with refinements in imaging, stereotac› tic radiosurgery and chemotherapy, the above management protocol would be tailored to suit each individual patient and decided by a team of experts. MJAF11996; 52 : 251-253

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