Valentina Santomauro - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Valentina Santomauro

Research paper thumbnail of Computerized voice therapy in hypofunctional dysphonia

Journal of otolaryngology - head & neck surgery = Le Journal d'oto-rhino-laryngologie et de chirurgie cervico-faciale, 2010

The aim of this study was to analyze the efficiency and applicability of the Kay CSL 4500 system ... more The aim of this study was to analyze the efficiency and applicability of the Kay CSL 4500 system with the Sona-Speech II software model 3650 (Kay Pentax, Lincoln Park, NJ) in the voice therapy of patients affected by hypofunctional dysphonia. The study evaluated the effect of visual biofeedback, obtained with the Sona-Speech II software, on dysphonia associated with hypofunction dysphonia. The study was conducted with 40 male adults affected by hypofunctional dysphonia in the Otolaryngology Department of the University of Genoa (Italy) between April 2008 and April 2009. Before, at the end of, and 3 months after voice therapy, all subjects underwent an otolaryngology visit, videostroboscopy, and voice analysis through the Multi-Dimensional Voice Program (Kay Elemetrics, Lincoln Park, NJ) as an evaluation of nasal resonance and the Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Each cycle of rehabilitation was characterized by 30 daily consecutive sessions, each for 25 minutes. During each session, the ...

Research paper thumbnail of Water-Soluble Coenzyme Q10 in Chronic Hearing Loss

Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery, 2011

ABSTRACT Objective: Q-TER is a multicomposite water-soluble formulation of CoQ10; in particular, ... more ABSTRACT Objective: Q-TER is a multicomposite water-soluble formulation of CoQ10; in particular, Q-TER consists of a mixture of maltodextrin, acting as a carrier, of CoQ10 molecules of sucrester, which serves as bioactivator. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of Q-TER in subjects with chronic sensorineural hearing loss.

Research paper thumbnail of Harmonic Scalpel in the Treatment of Snoring

Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery, 2011

Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a well-known gastric pathogen. Recently it was also found in the orop... more Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a well-known gastric pathogen. Recently it was also found in the oropharyngeal tissue. The direct impact of HP on oropharyngeal pathogenesis was not satisfactorily proven. HP strains differ according to the virulence factor genes carried. The presented study focused on detection and genotyping of oropharyngeal HP. Method: A total of 104 patients were enrolled. The blood and tissue specimens from patients with tonsillar cancer (n = 41), chronic tonsillitis (n = 38), and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) (n = 25) were collected. Anti-HP antibody levels were detected. Detection of HP strains and genotyping for establishment of cagA and vacA genes status was performed by real-time PCR. Results: Serum antibodies were positive in 32 (78.05%) cancer patients, 13 (34.21%) chronic tonsillitis patients, and 18 (72%) OSAS patients. Statistically significant differences were found between tumor and tonsillitis groups and between OSAS and tonsillitis groups (Chi-square, P = .0001, P = .0049). 56 specimens (23 carcinoma, 20 chronic tonsillitis, and 13 OSAS) were investigated using real-time PCR. Tissue specimens were positive in 17 (73.91%) tumors, 14 (70.0%) tonsillitis, and 9 (69.23%) OSAS. No statistically significant differences were found among all groups. PCR genotyping of oropharyngeal HP strains showed the majority of s1b (56.7%) and m2 (59.5%) alleles of vacA and low presence of cagA gene (13.5%). Conclusion: Oropharyngeal HP was found in a high number of cases. Its distribution among different pathologies does not support the hypothesis of its direct carcinogenic potential. Presence of less virulent strains confirms this finding. The possibility of influencing local immune response leading to chronic inflammation or idiopathic hypertrophy of tonsillar tissue was not excluded.

Research paper thumbnail of Water-Soluble Coenzime Q10 Formulation in Presbycusis

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 2010

Research paper thumbnail of Acoustic Features of Voice in Patients with Hearing Loss

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 2010

OBJECTIVE: 1) Better appreciate the perioperative concerns affecting patients considering thyroid... more OBJECTIVE: 1) Better appreciate the perioperative concerns affecting patients considering thyroidectomy. 2) Understand that concerns may vary depending on the population, and age. 3) Ensure that perioperative counseling is directed towards the areas of greatest concerns experienced by patients considering thyroidectomy. METHOD: Patients scheduled for thyroid surgery at the McGill University Thyroid Cancer Center in Montreal, Canada were recruited. To date, 30 individuals completed the 18-item questionnaire adapted from the Western Surgical Concern Inventory (WSCI). The WSCI is used to elucidate the different perioperative areas of concern of these individuals. Outcomes included descriptive statistics as well as sub-analyses pertaining to age and the type of surgery (total vs. hemi-thyroidectomy). RESULTS: Top areas of concern included: the nodule being cancerous (highest), needing a second operation (2nd highest), and having a change in voice (3rd highest). Areas of minor concern included: being judged, embarrassed, and not being able to participate in social activities post-operatively. The younger the patients, the more concerned they were about: resuming work following surgery(rϭ-0.54, p Ͻ 0.01); being judged (rϭ-0.48, p Ͻ 0.01); and participating in social activities post-surgery (rϭ-0.48, p Ͻ 0.01). There were no significant differences or trends in the overall level of pre-surgical concerns between total and hemi-thyroidectomy patients (t(28)ϭ0.21, pϭ0.83), except for a higher degree of concern for pain in total thyroidectomy patients compared to hemithyroidectomy patients (t(28)ϭ1.72, pϭ0.097). CONCLUSION: This study establishes a mean which will permit adequate physician counseling and a better management of patients' perioperative worries.

Research paper thumbnail of Sulphurous Inhalation in Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of sulfurous thermal water in the treatment ... more The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of sulfurous thermal water in the treatment of recurrent upper respiratory tract (RURT) infections. METHOD: 100 patients with RURT were included and randomly assigned into two groups. Patients underwent a 12-day course of warm vapor inhalations and nasal irrigations with sulfurous thermal water in group A, and a physiological solution in group B. At the beginning, at the end and 3 months after start, all patients underwent medical history, ENT examination, plasma levels of immunoglobulins class E, G, A, M (IgE, IgG, IgA, IgM), subjective assessment of symptoms (VAS), nasal mucociliary transport time (NMTT) determination, and evaluation of frequency, duration and severity of RURT episodes. RESULTS: Three months after the beginning of the treatment, compared with group B, in group A the results were as follows: serum concentration of IgE was significantly lower (p Ͻ 0.05) (75.18 25.9 mg/dl vs. 98.31 41.3); IgA titers were not significantly higher (235.41 118.3 mg/dl vs. 214.49 111.7 mg/dl); serum concentrations of IgG and IgM unchanged; VAS scores were significantly (p Ͻ 0.05) improved (1.9 0.20 vs. 7.2 0.52); NMTT was normal (11.36 1.57 min vs. 17.87 2.22 min); frequency, duration, severity of RURT episodes were significantly (p Ͻ 0.05) lower. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate the efficiency and applicability of sulfurous thermal water in the treatment of RURT and show, in addition to their known effects, an immunomodulant activity that contributes to their therapeutic effects.

Research paper thumbnail of Piezosurgery® versus microdrill in intact canal wall mastoidectomy

European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, 2010

Piezosurgery ® is a recently developed system for cutting bone with microvibrations. The objectiv... more Piezosurgery ® is a recently developed system for cutting bone with microvibrations. The objectives of the present study were to report our experience with the piezoelectric device in the intact canal mastoidectomy, and to compare the results with traditional method by means of microdrill. A non-randomized controlled trial was undertaken on 60 intact canal wall mastoidectomy performed using the piezoelectric device (30 patients) or the microdrill (30 patients). Before 1 month and 1 year after surgery, all the patients underwent the following instrumental examinations: otomicroscopic evaluation of the tympanic membrane and external auditory duct, bone conduction threshold audiometry, tympanometry, transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions with linear click emission, distortion product otoacoustic emissions, auditory brainstem response (ABR) by MK 12-ABR screener with natus-ALGO2e (Amplifon, Milan, Italy), and electronystamographic recording. The piezoelectric device is proved to be eVective in sclerotic and pneumatic mastoid, with an excellent control and without side eVects on the adjacent structures of the middle and inner ear (lateral sinus, facial nerve, and/or dura mater). The operation time has been the same as compared with microdrill, and the average hospital stay was signiWcantly (p < 0.05) shorter. Postoperatively, all patients had uneventful recovery with no evidence of audiovestibular deWcit or side eVects. Our experience highlights the safety of the piezoelectric device on the anatomic structures of the middle and inner ear, and demonstrates its eYciency in terms of cutting precision and healing process.

Research paper thumbnail of Ribosomal therapy in the treatment of recurrent acute adenoiditis

European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an oral ribosomal immunotherapy in the mana... more The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an oral ribosomal immunotherapy in the management of children with recurrent acute adenoiditis (RAA). 60 children with RAA were included and randomly assigned into two groups (group A and B). Group A children underwent ribosomal prophylaxis, while group B received a placebo. Before, at the end and 6 months after start of the therapy, children underwent medical history, ENT examination, plasma levels of immunoglobulins class E, A, G, M (IgE, IgA, IgG, IgM), tympanometry, active anterior rhinomanometry and VAS scores by children' parents. After the treatment and at the end of the study, in the group A, the serum concentration of IgE was significantly (P \ 0.05) lower than in group B (77.34 ± 6.23 vs. 95.49 ± 7.07 mg/dl; 74.82 ± 6.26 vs. 94.44 ± 7.44 mg/dl), IgA titers were significantly (P \ 0.05) higher than in

Research paper thumbnail of Water-soluble coenzyme Q10 formulation (Q-TER ® ) in the treatment of presbycusis

Acta Oto-laryngologica, 2010

These preliminary data are encouraging for a larger clinical trial to collect additional evidence... more These preliminary data are encouraging for a larger clinical trial to collect additional evidence on the effect of Q-TER(®) in preventing the development of hearing loss in subjects with presbycusis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and applicability of a water-soluble formulation of CoQ10 (Q-TER(®)) in subjects with presbycusis. A total of 60 patients with presbycusis were included and divided into three numerically equal groups. Group A underwent therapy with Q-TER(®), 160 mg, once a day for 30 days; group B underwent therapy with vitamin E (50 mg), once a day for 30 days; group C received placebo, once a day for 30 days. Before and at the end of the treatment, all patients underwent pure tone audiometry, transient evoked otoacoustic emissions, otoacoustic products of distortion, auditory brainstem response, and speech audiometry. Compared with group B, at the end of the treatment in group A the liminar tonal audiometry showed a significant improvement of the air and bone thresholds at the 1000 (14/20 vs 9/20), 2000 (14/20 vs 7/20), 4000 (15/20 vs 6/20), and 8000 Hz (13/20 vs 5/20). We found no significant differences in the other parameters and in group C.

Research paper thumbnail of Water-soluble coenzyme Q10 formulation in presbycusis: Long-term effects

Acta Oto-laryngologica, 2011

These findings provide the basis for understanding the duration of the effect after the last use ... more These findings provide the basis for understanding the duration of the effect after the last use of the drug and encourage a larger clinical trial to collect additional evidence on the effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in preventing the development of hearing loss in subjects with presbycusis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term effects of a water-soluble formulation of CoQ10 (Q-TER) in subjects with presbycusis. Sixty patients with presbycusis were included and divided at random into three numerically equal groups. For 30 days, group A underwent therapy with Q-TER, group B underwent therapy with vitamin E, and group C received placebo. Before, at the end, and 6 months after the end of the treatment, all patients underwent evaluation of pure tone audiometry, transient evoked otoacoustic emissions and otoacoustic products of distortion, auditory brainstem response, and speech audiometry. Compared with group B, at the end of the treatment in group A the pure tone audiometry showed a significant (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) improvement of the audiometric thresholds at 1000, 2000, 4000, and 8000 Hz. This improvement was confirmed by the speech audiometry and last check. We found no significant differences in the other parameters and in group C.

Research paper thumbnail of Ribosomal therapy in patients with pharyngolaryngeal reflux

Acta Oto-laryngologica, 2012

Our data confirm the induction of specific and nonspecific immune responses of the upper respirat... more Our data confirm the induction of specific and nonspecific immune responses of the upper respiratory tract mucosa and the consequent improvement of its physiology, through an oral ribosomal therapy in patients with pharyngolaryngeal reflux disease (PLRD). The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency and applicability of oral ribosomal immunotherapy in adult patients with PLRD. One hundred adult patients with PLRD were enrolled. The patients were equally divided, at random, into two groups (A and B): group A patients underwent ribosomal prophylaxis with Immucytal® (one tablet daily, 8 days a month for 3 months), while group B received a placebo (same dosage for the same period). At the beginning, at the end, and 6 months after the beginning of the therapy, all patients underwent medical history, ENT examination, nasal-pharynx-laryngoscopy with optic fiber, plasma levels of immunoglobulins class E, A, G, M, subjective assessment of symptoms on a 10 cm visual analog scale (VAS), reflux symptoms index, and reflux finding score. At the end and 6 months after the beginning of the treatment, all the patients in group A presented a significant (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) improvement of almost all the different items analyzed.

Research paper thumbnail of Nasal tactile sensitivity in elderly

Acta Oto-laryngologica, 2010

Although older people varied widely in tactile sensitivity, our results show that tactile thresho... more Although older people varied widely in tactile sensitivity, our results show that tactile thresholds increased with age. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aging on nasal tactile sensitivity. A total of 160 healthy patients aged between 50 and 90 years were included. According to their age, patients were divided into groups (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H). From the age of 50, each group included subjects with an age range of 5 years (i.e. group A, 50-55 years; group B, 56-60 years, etc.). Each patient&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s outcome was assessed through the nasal monofilament test: a set of 20 Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments was used to detect nasal sensitivity for both nasal cavities. The sensitivity threshold was recorded as the minimum monofilament size from which patients could detect at least two of three stimuli. In groups D (66-70 years), E (71-75 years), F (76-80 years), G (81-85 years), and H (86-90 years) a significantly (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) higher stimulus (171.1 ± 0.34 mg vs 67.7 mg, 167.01 ± 0.31 mg 67.7 mg, 166.54 ± 0.28 mg 67.7 mg, 201.24 ± 0.43 mg 67.7 mg, 165,87 ± 0.27 mg 67.7 mg) was required to trigger a touch response in the monofilament test.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of an automated auditory brainstem response infant hearing screening method in at risk neonates

European Journal of Pediatrics, 1996

Ann automated auditory brainstem response (ABR) method-the ALGO-1 Plus-has been developedd for he... more Ann automated auditory brainstem response (ABR) method-the ALGO-1 Plus-has been developedd for hearing screening in healthy neonates. The aim of this study was to test thee validity of this automated ABR screening method in at-risk neonates in a neonatal intensivee care unit. Two hundred and fifty at-risk neonates were selected for screening accordingg to the criteria of the American Joint Committee on Infant Hearing. All 250 neonatess were screened with the ALGO-1 Plus for bilateral hearing loss. When two consecutivee screenings pointed to bilateral hearing loss ("refer") further audiological investigationss were performed and where necessary therapeutic measures were taken. Alll children who "passed" the screening unilateral or bilateral enrolled in a nationwide behaviourall screening programme at the age of 9 months as well as in a 6-monthly followw up programme documenting speech and language development. AA total of 245 (98%) neonates passed the ALGO-1 screening, 230 (92%) at the first attemptt and 15 (6%) at the second attempt. Five (2%) were referred with bilateral hearingg loss. One of these died of congenital rubella shortly after screening and bilateral congenitall hearing loss of >35 dB was confirmed in the other 4. None of the infants who passedd the screening were discovered to have moderate to severe bilateral hearing loss (>400 dB) with behavioural screening (n-183/233) or at follow up (n=233/233). In this 600 study, all at-risk neonates with bilateral congenital hearing loss were detected with ALGO-11 Plus screening. No false-negatives were discovered. Conclusion:: The ALGO-1 Plus infant hearing screener can be used as a valid automated ABR-screenerr to detect hearing loss in at-risk neonates in a neonatal intensive care setting. .

Research paper thumbnail of Computerized voice therapy in hypofunctional dysphonia

Journal of otolaryngology - head & neck surgery = Le Journal d'oto-rhino-laryngologie et de chirurgie cervico-faciale, 2010

The aim of this study was to analyze the efficiency and applicability of the Kay CSL 4500 system ... more The aim of this study was to analyze the efficiency and applicability of the Kay CSL 4500 system with the Sona-Speech II software model 3650 (Kay Pentax, Lincoln Park, NJ) in the voice therapy of patients affected by hypofunctional dysphonia. The study evaluated the effect of visual biofeedback, obtained with the Sona-Speech II software, on dysphonia associated with hypofunction dysphonia. The study was conducted with 40 male adults affected by hypofunctional dysphonia in the Otolaryngology Department of the University of Genoa (Italy) between April 2008 and April 2009. Before, at the end of, and 3 months after voice therapy, all subjects underwent an otolaryngology visit, videostroboscopy, and voice analysis through the Multi-Dimensional Voice Program (Kay Elemetrics, Lincoln Park, NJ) as an evaluation of nasal resonance and the Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Each cycle of rehabilitation was characterized by 30 daily consecutive sessions, each for 25 minutes. During each session, the ...

Research paper thumbnail of Water-Soluble Coenzyme Q10 in Chronic Hearing Loss

Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery, 2011

ABSTRACT Objective: Q-TER is a multicomposite water-soluble formulation of CoQ10; in particular, ... more ABSTRACT Objective: Q-TER is a multicomposite water-soluble formulation of CoQ10; in particular, Q-TER consists of a mixture of maltodextrin, acting as a carrier, of CoQ10 molecules of sucrester, which serves as bioactivator. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of Q-TER in subjects with chronic sensorineural hearing loss.

Research paper thumbnail of Harmonic Scalpel in the Treatment of Snoring

Otolaryngology -- Head and Neck Surgery, 2011

Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a well-known gastric pathogen. Recently it was also found in the orop... more Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a well-known gastric pathogen. Recently it was also found in the oropharyngeal tissue. The direct impact of HP on oropharyngeal pathogenesis was not satisfactorily proven. HP strains differ according to the virulence factor genes carried. The presented study focused on detection and genotyping of oropharyngeal HP. Method: A total of 104 patients were enrolled. The blood and tissue specimens from patients with tonsillar cancer (n = 41), chronic tonsillitis (n = 38), and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) (n = 25) were collected. Anti-HP antibody levels were detected. Detection of HP strains and genotyping for establishment of cagA and vacA genes status was performed by real-time PCR. Results: Serum antibodies were positive in 32 (78.05%) cancer patients, 13 (34.21%) chronic tonsillitis patients, and 18 (72%) OSAS patients. Statistically significant differences were found between tumor and tonsillitis groups and between OSAS and tonsillitis groups (Chi-square, P = .0001, P = .0049). 56 specimens (23 carcinoma, 20 chronic tonsillitis, and 13 OSAS) were investigated using real-time PCR. Tissue specimens were positive in 17 (73.91%) tumors, 14 (70.0%) tonsillitis, and 9 (69.23%) OSAS. No statistically significant differences were found among all groups. PCR genotyping of oropharyngeal HP strains showed the majority of s1b (56.7%) and m2 (59.5%) alleles of vacA and low presence of cagA gene (13.5%). Conclusion: Oropharyngeal HP was found in a high number of cases. Its distribution among different pathologies does not support the hypothesis of its direct carcinogenic potential. Presence of less virulent strains confirms this finding. The possibility of influencing local immune response leading to chronic inflammation or idiopathic hypertrophy of tonsillar tissue was not excluded.

Research paper thumbnail of Water-Soluble Coenzime Q10 Formulation in Presbycusis

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 2010

Research paper thumbnail of Acoustic Features of Voice in Patients with Hearing Loss

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 2010

OBJECTIVE: 1) Better appreciate the perioperative concerns affecting patients considering thyroid... more OBJECTIVE: 1) Better appreciate the perioperative concerns affecting patients considering thyroidectomy. 2) Understand that concerns may vary depending on the population, and age. 3) Ensure that perioperative counseling is directed towards the areas of greatest concerns experienced by patients considering thyroidectomy. METHOD: Patients scheduled for thyroid surgery at the McGill University Thyroid Cancer Center in Montreal, Canada were recruited. To date, 30 individuals completed the 18-item questionnaire adapted from the Western Surgical Concern Inventory (WSCI). The WSCI is used to elucidate the different perioperative areas of concern of these individuals. Outcomes included descriptive statistics as well as sub-analyses pertaining to age and the type of surgery (total vs. hemi-thyroidectomy). RESULTS: Top areas of concern included: the nodule being cancerous (highest), needing a second operation (2nd highest), and having a change in voice (3rd highest). Areas of minor concern included: being judged, embarrassed, and not being able to participate in social activities post-operatively. The younger the patients, the more concerned they were about: resuming work following surgery(rϭ-0.54, p Ͻ 0.01); being judged (rϭ-0.48, p Ͻ 0.01); and participating in social activities post-surgery (rϭ-0.48, p Ͻ 0.01). There were no significant differences or trends in the overall level of pre-surgical concerns between total and hemi-thyroidectomy patients (t(28)ϭ0.21, pϭ0.83), except for a higher degree of concern for pain in total thyroidectomy patients compared to hemithyroidectomy patients (t(28)ϭ1.72, pϭ0.097). CONCLUSION: This study establishes a mean which will permit adequate physician counseling and a better management of patients' perioperative worries.

Research paper thumbnail of Sulphurous Inhalation in Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of sulfurous thermal water in the treatment ... more The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of sulfurous thermal water in the treatment of recurrent upper respiratory tract (RURT) infections. METHOD: 100 patients with RURT were included and randomly assigned into two groups. Patients underwent a 12-day course of warm vapor inhalations and nasal irrigations with sulfurous thermal water in group A, and a physiological solution in group B. At the beginning, at the end and 3 months after start, all patients underwent medical history, ENT examination, plasma levels of immunoglobulins class E, G, A, M (IgE, IgG, IgA, IgM), subjective assessment of symptoms (VAS), nasal mucociliary transport time (NMTT) determination, and evaluation of frequency, duration and severity of RURT episodes. RESULTS: Three months after the beginning of the treatment, compared with group B, in group A the results were as follows: serum concentration of IgE was significantly lower (p Ͻ 0.05) (75.18 25.9 mg/dl vs. 98.31 41.3); IgA titers were not significantly higher (235.41 118.3 mg/dl vs. 214.49 111.7 mg/dl); serum concentrations of IgG and IgM unchanged; VAS scores were significantly (p Ͻ 0.05) improved (1.9 0.20 vs. 7.2 0.52); NMTT was normal (11.36 1.57 min vs. 17.87 2.22 min); frequency, duration, severity of RURT episodes were significantly (p Ͻ 0.05) lower. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate the efficiency and applicability of sulfurous thermal water in the treatment of RURT and show, in addition to their known effects, an immunomodulant activity that contributes to their therapeutic effects.

Research paper thumbnail of Piezosurgery® versus microdrill in intact canal wall mastoidectomy

European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, 2010

Piezosurgery ® is a recently developed system for cutting bone with microvibrations. The objectiv... more Piezosurgery ® is a recently developed system for cutting bone with microvibrations. The objectives of the present study were to report our experience with the piezoelectric device in the intact canal mastoidectomy, and to compare the results with traditional method by means of microdrill. A non-randomized controlled trial was undertaken on 60 intact canal wall mastoidectomy performed using the piezoelectric device (30 patients) or the microdrill (30 patients). Before 1 month and 1 year after surgery, all the patients underwent the following instrumental examinations: otomicroscopic evaluation of the tympanic membrane and external auditory duct, bone conduction threshold audiometry, tympanometry, transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions with linear click emission, distortion product otoacoustic emissions, auditory brainstem response (ABR) by MK 12-ABR screener with natus-ALGO2e (Amplifon, Milan, Italy), and electronystamographic recording. The piezoelectric device is proved to be eVective in sclerotic and pneumatic mastoid, with an excellent control and without side eVects on the adjacent structures of the middle and inner ear (lateral sinus, facial nerve, and/or dura mater). The operation time has been the same as compared with microdrill, and the average hospital stay was signiWcantly (p < 0.05) shorter. Postoperatively, all patients had uneventful recovery with no evidence of audiovestibular deWcit or side eVects. Our experience highlights the safety of the piezoelectric device on the anatomic structures of the middle and inner ear, and demonstrates its eYciency in terms of cutting precision and healing process.

Research paper thumbnail of Ribosomal therapy in the treatment of recurrent acute adenoiditis

European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an oral ribosomal immunotherapy in the mana... more The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an oral ribosomal immunotherapy in the management of children with recurrent acute adenoiditis (RAA). 60 children with RAA were included and randomly assigned into two groups (group A and B). Group A children underwent ribosomal prophylaxis, while group B received a placebo. Before, at the end and 6 months after start of the therapy, children underwent medical history, ENT examination, plasma levels of immunoglobulins class E, A, G, M (IgE, IgA, IgG, IgM), tympanometry, active anterior rhinomanometry and VAS scores by children' parents. After the treatment and at the end of the study, in the group A, the serum concentration of IgE was significantly (P \ 0.05) lower than in group B (77.34 ± 6.23 vs. 95.49 ± 7.07 mg/dl; 74.82 ± 6.26 vs. 94.44 ± 7.44 mg/dl), IgA titers were significantly (P \ 0.05) higher than in

Research paper thumbnail of Water-soluble coenzyme Q10 formulation (Q-TER ® ) in the treatment of presbycusis

Acta Oto-laryngologica, 2010

These preliminary data are encouraging for a larger clinical trial to collect additional evidence... more These preliminary data are encouraging for a larger clinical trial to collect additional evidence on the effect of Q-TER(®) in preventing the development of hearing loss in subjects with presbycusis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and applicability of a water-soluble formulation of CoQ10 (Q-TER(®)) in subjects with presbycusis. A total of 60 patients with presbycusis were included and divided into three numerically equal groups. Group A underwent therapy with Q-TER(®), 160 mg, once a day for 30 days; group B underwent therapy with vitamin E (50 mg), once a day for 30 days; group C received placebo, once a day for 30 days. Before and at the end of the treatment, all patients underwent pure tone audiometry, transient evoked otoacoustic emissions, otoacoustic products of distortion, auditory brainstem response, and speech audiometry. Compared with group B, at the end of the treatment in group A the liminar tonal audiometry showed a significant improvement of the air and bone thresholds at the 1000 (14/20 vs 9/20), 2000 (14/20 vs 7/20), 4000 (15/20 vs 6/20), and 8000 Hz (13/20 vs 5/20). We found no significant differences in the other parameters and in group C.

Research paper thumbnail of Water-soluble coenzyme Q10 formulation in presbycusis: Long-term effects

Acta Oto-laryngologica, 2011

These findings provide the basis for understanding the duration of the effect after the last use ... more These findings provide the basis for understanding the duration of the effect after the last use of the drug and encourage a larger clinical trial to collect additional evidence on the effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in preventing the development of hearing loss in subjects with presbycusis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term effects of a water-soluble formulation of CoQ10 (Q-TER) in subjects with presbycusis. Sixty patients with presbycusis were included and divided at random into three numerically equal groups. For 30 days, group A underwent therapy with Q-TER, group B underwent therapy with vitamin E, and group C received placebo. Before, at the end, and 6 months after the end of the treatment, all patients underwent evaluation of pure tone audiometry, transient evoked otoacoustic emissions and otoacoustic products of distortion, auditory brainstem response, and speech audiometry. Compared with group B, at the end of the treatment in group A the pure tone audiometry showed a significant (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) improvement of the audiometric thresholds at 1000, 2000, 4000, and 8000 Hz. This improvement was confirmed by the speech audiometry and last check. We found no significant differences in the other parameters and in group C.

Research paper thumbnail of Ribosomal therapy in patients with pharyngolaryngeal reflux

Acta Oto-laryngologica, 2012

Our data confirm the induction of specific and nonspecific immune responses of the upper respirat... more Our data confirm the induction of specific and nonspecific immune responses of the upper respiratory tract mucosa and the consequent improvement of its physiology, through an oral ribosomal therapy in patients with pharyngolaryngeal reflux disease (PLRD). The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency and applicability of oral ribosomal immunotherapy in adult patients with PLRD. One hundred adult patients with PLRD were enrolled. The patients were equally divided, at random, into two groups (A and B): group A patients underwent ribosomal prophylaxis with Immucytal® (one tablet daily, 8 days a month for 3 months), while group B received a placebo (same dosage for the same period). At the beginning, at the end, and 6 months after the beginning of the therapy, all patients underwent medical history, ENT examination, nasal-pharynx-laryngoscopy with optic fiber, plasma levels of immunoglobulins class E, A, G, M, subjective assessment of symptoms on a 10 cm visual analog scale (VAS), reflux symptoms index, and reflux finding score. At the end and 6 months after the beginning of the treatment, all the patients in group A presented a significant (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) improvement of almost all the different items analyzed.

Research paper thumbnail of Nasal tactile sensitivity in elderly

Acta Oto-laryngologica, 2010

Although older people varied widely in tactile sensitivity, our results show that tactile thresho... more Although older people varied widely in tactile sensitivity, our results show that tactile thresholds increased with age. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aging on nasal tactile sensitivity. A total of 160 healthy patients aged between 50 and 90 years were included. According to their age, patients were divided into groups (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H). From the age of 50, each group included subjects with an age range of 5 years (i.e. group A, 50-55 years; group B, 56-60 years, etc.). Each patient&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s outcome was assessed through the nasal monofilament test: a set of 20 Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments was used to detect nasal sensitivity for both nasal cavities. The sensitivity threshold was recorded as the minimum monofilament size from which patients could detect at least two of three stimuli. In groups D (66-70 years), E (71-75 years), F (76-80 years), G (81-85 years), and H (86-90 years) a significantly (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) higher stimulus (171.1 ± 0.34 mg vs 67.7 mg, 167.01 ± 0.31 mg 67.7 mg, 166.54 ± 0.28 mg 67.7 mg, 201.24 ± 0.43 mg 67.7 mg, 165,87 ± 0.27 mg 67.7 mg) was required to trigger a touch response in the monofilament test.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of an automated auditory brainstem response infant hearing screening method in at risk neonates

European Journal of Pediatrics, 1996

Ann automated auditory brainstem response (ABR) method-the ALGO-1 Plus-has been developedd for he... more Ann automated auditory brainstem response (ABR) method-the ALGO-1 Plus-has been developedd for hearing screening in healthy neonates. The aim of this study was to test thee validity of this automated ABR screening method in at-risk neonates in a neonatal intensivee care unit. Two hundred and fifty at-risk neonates were selected for screening accordingg to the criteria of the American Joint Committee on Infant Hearing. All 250 neonatess were screened with the ALGO-1 Plus for bilateral hearing loss. When two consecutivee screenings pointed to bilateral hearing loss ("refer") further audiological investigationss were performed and where necessary therapeutic measures were taken. Alll children who "passed" the screening unilateral or bilateral enrolled in a nationwide behaviourall screening programme at the age of 9 months as well as in a 6-monthly followw up programme documenting speech and language development. AA total of 245 (98%) neonates passed the ALGO-1 screening, 230 (92%) at the first attemptt and 15 (6%) at the second attempt. Five (2%) were referred with bilateral hearingg loss. One of these died of congenital rubella shortly after screening and bilateral congenitall hearing loss of >35 dB was confirmed in the other 4. None of the infants who passedd the screening were discovered to have moderate to severe bilateral hearing loss (>400 dB) with behavioural screening (n-183/233) or at follow up (n=233/233). In this 600 study, all at-risk neonates with bilateral congenital hearing loss were detected with ALGO-11 Plus screening. No false-negatives were discovered. Conclusion:: The ALGO-1 Plus infant hearing screener can be used as a valid automated ABR-screenerr to detect hearing loss in at-risk neonates in a neonatal intensive care setting. .