Research
The otolaryngology laboratories currently comprise a general otolaryngology area (340 sq. ft.), a temporal bone and soft tissue histology area (200 sq. ft.), a vestibular area (600 sq. ft.), and a general area (90 sq. ft.). Ongoing funded studies in these laboratories include the association of sensorineural hearing loss and perilymphatic fistulae, the value of tracer methods for detecting perilymphatic fistulae, the effects of intermittent acid and pepsin exposure on post-burn esophageal strictures, and the significance of p53 mutagenesis in oral cavity carcinoma.
Two research studies from these laboratories were awarded special honors over the last three years: a study on the effect of tracheotomy and pneumothorax on pulmonary surfactant, which was awarded the Broyles-Maloney Thesis Award; and a study on the effects of lipid angiogenic factor on local skin flaps and skin wound healing, which was awarded the Nations’ Distinguished Award from the American Society of Head and Neck Surgery.
Areas of clinical research include the mechanism of the spread of skull-base tumors, variations and applications of cochlear implants, pathogenesis of disorders of hearing and balance, ambulatory 24-hour pH monitoring of gastroesophageal reflux, functional voice disorders in singers and actors, jet ventilation using the Bullard laryngoscope, the influence of irradiation on carotid arteriosclerosis, P.E.T. scanning in the diagnosis of head and neck carcinoma, indications for and methods of endoscopic sinus surgery, medical and surgical management of perilymphatic fistulae, and the characteristics and treatment of corrosive esophageal burns.