Key Points Most immune deficiencies are acquired and affect the adaptive immune system, resulting in dysfunction of T cells and B cells. Patients with immunodeficiency are at risk for fungal, bacterial, and viral infections, and they have higher rates of…
Key Points Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is currently the most common isolate in community-acquired deep neck infections in children under 2 years. Up to 10% of MRSA isolates are clindamycin resistant. Conservative management without drainage is more likely to succeed…
Key Points The choice of imaging modality varies and depends on the location and nature of the disease process. Computed tomography (CT) is fast and widely available and can be used as the first and often the only imaging modality…
Key Points Although described in numerous historic texts, tracheotomy did not become a routine surgical procedure until the late 19th to early 20th century. Indications for tracheotomy include relief of airway obstruction, access for head and neck surgery, pulmonary toilet,…
Key Points The difficult airway involves a difficult mask ventilation and/or a difficult tracheal intubation. Identification of a difficult airway, whenever possible, is vital prior to manipulation. An essential member of the difficult airway response team is an otolaryngologist with…
Key Points Knowledge of basic anesthetic techniques and of the advantages and disadvantages of various anesthetic agents used for sedation and general anesthesia in the operating room during airway management should be incorporated into the practice of otolaryngology–head and neck…
Key Points A careful history and detailed physical examination are the cornerstone of excellent patient care. The operating microscope and rigid and flexible endoscopes are useful adjuncts to the basic head and neck examination. Establishing rapport with the patient prior…
Key Points All physicians have a moral and ethical obligation to act professionally as agents for the health of their patients by engaging in quality improvement. Physician performance measurement can be used for research, medical error reduction, patient safety, certification,…
Key Points Learning how to interpret medical data will make you a better clinician, researcher, and teacher. Interpreting data begins by assessing the investigation that produced it; low-quality data with a high risk of bias are of limited value, regardless…
Key Points Outcomes research, or clinical epidemiology, is the study of treatment effectiveness or the success of treatment in the nonrandomized, real-world setting. It allows researchers to gain knowledge from observational data. Bias and confounding can affect researchers’ interpretation of…