Abstract
This book is volume 9 in the Recent Advances in Otolaryngology series by JP Medical Ltd. The editors of this volume, Drs Sudhoff and Bhutta, have selected 10 essays most representative of recent otolaryngology advances. The volume emphasizes breakthroughs in disease pathogenesis and management as well as novel therapies and diagnostic techniques. Chapters 1 and 3 summarize emerging methods of diagnosing head and neck carcinoma: optic imaging modalities and PET-CT. Chapters 2 and 5 further our understanding of disease pathogenesis through the role of stem cells in head and neck cancer tumorigenesis and of tissue hypoxia in stimulating molecular pathways of chronic otitis media. Chapters 7 and 10 overview the diagnosis and management of superior semicircular canal syndrome and vascular malformations. The remaining chapters, 4, 6, 8, 9, and 10, discuss promising novel therapies such as middle ear implantation, Eustachian tube balloon tuboplasty, cochlear hair cell regeneration for deafness, and vestibular implantation.
The editors have chosen essays that provide an interesting overview of promising otolaryngology research. They highlight preclinical and animal model research, which will especially appeal to readers with a research background. With the exception of chapters on superior semicircular canal syndrome and vascular malformations, this volume may have limited applicability for the clinician looking to apply novel therapies to their contemporary practice. Most chapters discuss preliminary results that are untested in humans. Chapters on disease pathogenesis and novel therapeutics feature detailed technical material, with extensive discussion of optics, signaling pathways, and optimal implants technology. However, for readers interested in these particular topics, the chapters give a well-organized, comprehensive review of applicable and current research with clear illustrations.