S olitary fibrous tumors are rare spindle cell neoplasms that are most commonly within the thorax, especially the pleura. The first case of this tumor arose in 1931 involving the pleura, 1 and it has since been recognized to occur in a large variety of sites. In the past 15 years, solitary fibrous tumors have been recognized in many new sites in the body. Relevant to the field of otolaryngology, this includes the epiglottis, larynx, parapharyngeal space, paranasal sinus, thyroid, and nasopharynx. Once thought to be of mesothelial origin (they still are described as mesotheliomas at times), most experts have agreed that solitary fibrous tumors are instead mesenchymal neoplasma, not just limited to mesothelial surfaces. This explains their presence in the head and neck and their ubiquitous status in the human body. Although by no means a common occurrence, solitary fibrous tumors are becoming increasingly recognized as more physicians become aware of their presentation.

The Hum Test is comparable to the Weber Test with regards to its sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy in assessing new onset unilateral CHL in previously normal hearing subjects.

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Objectives/HypothesisPrevious studies on complication rates of thyroid and parathyroid surgery focus on cases performed by general surgeons and fellowship trained head and neck or endocrine surgeons. This study examines the complication rate of thyroid and parathyroid surgery performed by a non-fellowship trained general otolaryngologist and compares it to rates reported by general surgeons and fellowship trained endocrine surgeons.Study Design Retrospective chart review. MethodsWe reviewed 96 cases of thyroidectomy and/or parathyroidectomy performed between 2002 and 2010 by a general otolaryngologist. Data collected included patient age, sex, ultrasound scans, fine needle aspiration results, surgical time, nerve monitor use, drain use, estimated blood loss, pathology, calcium levels, recurrence, vocal cord paresis, complications and mortality.

The anterior approach to the cervical spine is an optimal procedure for access in surgery for cervical spine disease. First described in 1950, this procedure has proven to be reliable and continues to gain popularity in both neurosurgical and orthopedic practice. In recent years, otolaryngologists are increasingly called upon to perform or assist in exposure of the cervical spine, especially for cases involving revision procedures. A comprehensive Medline search and review of otolaryngology surgical references, however, revealed that little has been published in the otolaryngology literature to describe a safe and effective technique for performing this increasingly important surgical procedure. We report our experience with patients requiring spine exposure by this approach and describe a reliable technique for exposure of the anterior cervical spine.Methods: We present our experience in 30 consecutive patients who underwent an anterior approach to the cervical spine for primary neurosurgical and orthopedic procedures. Furthermore, we review the literature regarding this approach with special consideration of the anatomy and potential complications reported in literature.Results: Our results reveal no permanent complications attributable to this procedure, without any instances of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury or hematoma. Immediate complaints of incisional pain resolve, and long-lasting cutaneous numbness is ultimately well tolerated. Conclusion:The anterior approach to the cervical spine is a safe and effective technique for exposure of the cervical spine and is the procedure of choice for surgical manipulation in the treatment of anterior cervical spine disease.