Motohiro Moriyama

Resistance to apoptosis-inducing stimuli in CD44+ head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells.

CD44 was identified previously as a surface marker in cancer stem cells (CSCs) of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Most cancer treatments have been linked to the activation of the apoptosis‐signaling pathway; however, the resistance mechanisms to apoptosis in CSCs have not yet been fully elucidated.

Five adult laryngeal venous malformation cases treated effectively with sclerotherapy

Laryngeal venous malformation is a comparatively rare condition in adults. It presents as a livid or bluish mass that may cause bleeding, hoarseness, stridor, and even difficulty in breathing. So far, treatment has largely consisted of laser therapy and surgical removal. Five cases of adult laryngeal venous malformations that were treated by sclerotherapy (local injection of monoethanolamine oleate solution) are reported. All lesions disappeared after one or two treatment sessions, and two of the five cases that presented recently were cured in the outpatient clinic setting with no sequelae. Sclerotherapy with monoethanolamine oleate is a safe, easy, and effective treatment for laryngeal venous malformations.

Attempt of camera systems introduction in tonsillectomy

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures for otolaryngologists. The most serious complication is post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage. In recent years, we have introduced camera systems into tonsillectomy with the objective of improving technique. We conducted a questionnaire survey of operating surgeons, supervisory doctors and nurses about tonsillectomy when supported by camera systems. The results suggested that the best advantage of tonsillectomy supported by camera systems was that the view of the operative field could be shared with all surgical staff. In addition, we examined the frequency of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage in the 71 cases whose surgery was supported by camera systems and the 227 cases whose surgery was not supported by camera systems. The proportion with bleeding after operation in the supported group was slightly lower than that in the unsupported group. We will evaluate the advantages in terms of safety and benefits to patients who receive tonsillectomy supported by camera systems in the future.