Browsing by Author "Pokharel, M"
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Publication A study of Deep Neck Space Infections at Kathmandu University Dhulikhel Hospital(Kathmandu University, 2021) Pokharel, M; Dhakal, A; Rajbhandari, P; Madhup, SK; Khadka, LABSTRACT Background Deep neck infections are severe infections in potential spaces and fascial planes of the neck. Despite antibiotic therapy, these infections continue to cause significant morbidity and mortality. Objective To determine the clinical features, predisposing factors, socio demographic factors and complications associated with deep neck infections. Method Prospective study conducted in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Kathmandu University Dhulikhel Hospital between March 2018 and June 2020. Seventy-five patients with deep neck infections were enrolled. Result Submandibular abscess was most frequently observed (41.3%), followed by submental abscess (25.3%), parotid abscess(9.3%), ludwig’s angina (6.7%), posterior triangle of neck abscess (4%), retropharyngeal abscess (2.7%), parapharyngeal space abscess (2.7%), and multiple space infections (8%). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism (53.3%), followed by Beta hemolytic Streptococcus (12%) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (12%). A negative culture was seen in 22.7%. Sixty-eight percent of patients underwent incision and drainage. Incision and drainage with dental extraction was done in 26.7%, four percent underwent incision and drainage with debridement and dental extraction, whereas 1.3% underwent incision and drainage with tracheostomy. Eight percent patients required Intensive care unit admission. Seven patients had descending mediastinitis, four out of which developed sepsis. When age and duration of hospital stay were correlated by using Pearson correlation coefficient, a remarkable correlation was observed (p=.020). Noteworthy relationship was not observed between different locations of deep neck infections and duration of hospital stay (p=.202). Conclusion Early identification of deep neck infections is often challenging. Proper knowledge and extreme vigilance is necessary when dealing with these complex entities to avoid life-threatening complications. KEY WORDS Abscess, Complications, Deep neck infections, TracheostomyPublication Association of Allergic Biomarkers in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis With or Without Asthma(Kathmandu University, 2025) Pangeni, RP; Pokharel, M; Vaidya, N; Sapkota, P; Karki, S; Bhusal, M; Basnet, D; Dhakal, A; Sapkota, B; Madhup, SABSTRACT Background Chronic rhinosinusitis and asthma are considered under unified airway diseases which describes the shared epidemiologic and pathophysiologic relationship among the chronic inflammatory diseases of the upper and lower airways Objective To assess the asthma in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and determine the relationship of allergic biomarkers, tissue eosinophilia and radiological bone changes in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with or without asthma. Method Prospective study involving 74 adult patients attending the Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Pulmonology at the Kathmandu University Dhulikhel Hospital for treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis and / or asthma and for functional endoscopic sinus surgery between May 2023 and May 2024. Absolute eosinophil count, total serum IgE and spirometry tests were performed. Radiological evidence of osteitis and tissue eosinophilia from surgical samples was evaluated. Correlations between allergic biomarkers,spirometry values, tissue eosinophilia, and radiological bone changes were determined in patients of chronic rhinosinusitis with or without asthma using the Mann Whitney U test, Student t test and the chi square test. Result A positive association was observed between the radiological bone score with tissue eosinophilia (p=.018), and smoking (p < 0.001) in between the two groups. Chronic eosinophilic rhinosinusitis was observed in 39 (52.7%) patients. 15 patients with Chronic rhinosinusitis had asthma ,and among these asthmatic patients 11 had eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis. Mild osteitis was evident in 34 (45.9%) ,moderate osteitis in 39 (52.7%) and severe in 1 (1.4%). Among 15 asthmatic patients, 10 had moderate osteitis and 5 had mild osteitis. Conclusion A rigorous exentration of osteitic bony nidus appears necessary for successful treatment outcomes in all chronic rhinosinusitis patients and to prevent acute exacerbation in the asthmatic group of chronic rhinosinusitis patients. KEY WORDS Asthma, Chronic rhinosinusitis, OsteitisPublication Awareness and Knowledge of Oral Cancer among Medical Students in Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences(Kathmandu University, 2017) Pokharel, M; Shrestha, I; Dhakal, A; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Oral cancer is a major public health problem worldwide. It has high mortality rates and chances of survival is relatively superior when detected early. Lack of knowledge and awareness about oral cancer among medical students may contribute to delay in diagnosis and treatment. Objective To assess awareness and knowledge of oral cancer among medical students. Method A cross-sectional study conducted among 286 students by Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck surgery, Kathmandu University School of Medical sciences between July to August 2016. A questionnaire with questions on socio-demographic profile, awareness and knowledge of oral cancer was used. Independent sample t test and Pearson Chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis. Result Out of 329 students approached, 286 participated in the study yielding a response rate of 86.9%. Symptoms of oral cancer as reported were ulceration in mouth (92.3%), oral bleeding (85.0%),whitish or reddish patch (84.3%), halitosis (75.5%) and swelling in neck (74.5%), trismus (69.2%), numbness (67.1%), loosening of teeth (49.3%) and tooth sensitivity (41.6%). The perceived risk factors were smoking (97.2%), tobacco chewing (96.5%), chronic irritation (86.7%), immunodeficiency (83.9%), poor oral hygiene (88.5%), human papilloma virus infection (82.5%), dietary factors (81.1%), alcohol (79.4%), ill-fitting dentures (72.4%), hot spicy food (65.4%) and hot beverages (58.0%). Significant differences were found between pre-clinical and clinical students for knowledge of risk factors, signs and symptoms of oral cancer (p<0.001). Conclusion There is deficiency of knowledge among medical students about some aspects of oral cancer. Active involvement while examining patients and taking biopsies of malignant and premalignant lesions may help in improving students’ knowledge about oral cancer. KEY WORDS Awareness, knowledge, oral cancer, risk factorsPublication Clinical Profile and Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome using Overnight Polysomnography in a Tertiary Care Hospital(Kathmandu University, 2021) Pokharel, M; Shrestha, BL; Dhakal, A; Rajbhandari, P; Shrestha, KS; KC, AK; Bhattarai, A; Karki, DRABSTRACT Background Obstructive sleep apnea is a highly prevalent yet largely under-diagnosed disease that poses a significant burden on the healthcare system. Objective To determine the role of predictors for Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and its severity in Nepalese population. Method Prospective and analytical study conducted in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck surgery at Kathmandu University Hospital between March 2018 and June 2020. A total of 85 adult patients with Obstructive sleep apnea with an Epworth sleepiness score greater than 10 were included. Overnight polysomnography was done and scoring of sleep associated events were done according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine criteria. Participants were classified as simple snoring and mild, moderate or severe Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome groups depending on the Apnea Hypopnea Index values. Relationship of Apnea hypopnea index was analyzed with age, neck circumference, body mass index and Epworth Sleepiness score. Result Simple snoring was seen in 18(21.17%) patients, 14(16.47%) had mild Obstructive sleep apnea, 13(15.29%) had moderate Obstructive sleep apnea, whereas the severe group consisted of 40(47.05%) patients. The minimum Epworth Sleepiness Score was 10 and the maximum was 25. The Apnea hypopnea index correlated positively with Body mass index (p=.010) and Epworth sleepiness score (p<.001). However, Apnea hypopnea index had no association with age (p=.437) and neck circumference (p=.118). Conclusion Health professionals need to be extremely vigilant while examining patients presenting with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Polysomnography is the investigation of choice in the early identification of this treatable disease. KEY WORDS Apnea hypopnea index, Obstructive sleep apnea, PolysomnographyPublication Clinical Profile and Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Patients Presenting with Headache(Kathmandu University, 2023) Ghimire, MR; Thapa, M; Shrestha, AM; Bhattrai, S; Ghimire, S; Sharma, N; Soti, B; Dutta, Ashish; Shrestha, S; Pokharel, M; Poudel, R; Thapa, LJABSTRACT Background Headache disorders are among the most prevalent and disabling conditions worldwide. People, however, do not seek early advice in developing countries. Objective To study clinical profile of patients with headache and their existing knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding primary headaches. Method Descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among 196 patients. Patients were selected using purposive sampling technique fulfilling inclusion criteria. Patients were interviewed based on semi-structural headache questionnaire and data was collected from 4th October to 21st December 2021. Descriptive statistics was used for analysis and interpretation. Result Among 196 participants, 74% were females, 29.6% of patients were between (31 to 40) years of age. The majority were Hindu and belongs to province 3; 36.7% were homemakers, and 32.2% were literate. Migraine headache was the most common type with 14.3% reporting aura. Most reported headache within 1 to 5 years. The commonest triggers were sunlight 64.8%, crowd 54.7%, stress 39.8%, fasting state 31.7%, cold 26.3%. Almost 39% believed that headache could be a chronic neurologic disorder. Majority had knowledge of the causes, triggers, and the relieving factors. Fifty-five percent seek help of a doctor for first time, and the rest seek help of a pharmacist or self-medication. Only 19% tried to manage the headache triggers; 66.8% felt that lifestyle modification is the best treatment for headache comparing drugs. Conclusion Migraine headache was the commonest headache occurring at middle age group with sunlight being the most common trigger factor. Lifestyle modification was perceived to be the best for headache management. KEY WORDS Attitude, Clinical profile, Headache, Knowledge, PracticePublication Clinicoradiologic Evaluation of Eagle’s Syndrome and its Management(Kathmandu University, 2013) Pokharel, M; Karki, S; Shrestha, I; Shrestha, BL; Khanal, K; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Eagle’s syndrome (Elongated styloid process) is often misdiagnosed due to its vague symptomatology. The diagnosis relies on detail history taking, palpation of styloid process in tonsillar fossa and imaging modalities. Objective To assess the length and medial angulation of elongated styloid process with the help of three dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) scan and to describe our clinical and surgical experience with patients suffering from Eagle’s syndrome. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted from August 2011 to August 2012 among 39 patients with Eagle’s syndrome. Detailed history taking, clinical examination and 3D CT scan was performed. Length and medial angulation was calculated. Patients with styloid process length longer than 2.50 cm underwent surgical excision via intraoral approach. Medial angulation of styloid process on both sides was correlated with each other using rank correlation coefficient. Wilcoxon Signed Rank test was applied to test significant difference between pre-operative and post- operative symptoms scores. Result Significant positive correlation was found between the medial angulation of styloid process on right side and left side (ρ =0.81, p<0.001). Significant difference was also observed between pre and post-operative symptoms scores (z=-5.16, p<0.001) . Conclusion Possibility of Eagle’s syndrome should always be considered while examining patients with vague neck pain. 3D CT reconstruction is a gold standard investigation which helps in studying the relation of styloid process with surrounding structures along with accurate measurement of its length and medial angulation. KEY WORDS Eagle’s syndrome, elongated styloid process, three dimensional computed tomographyPublication Comparison of Hearing Result and Graft Uptake Rate between Temporalis Fascia and Tragal Cartilage in Endoscopic Myringoplasty(Kathmandu University, 2022) Shrestha, BL; Shakya, S; Pradhan, A; Dhakal, A; KC, AK; Shrestha, KS; Pokharel, MABSTRACT Background There are different methods to repair the perforation of the tympanic membrane. Recently cartilage has been used for the repair and results are comparable to temporalis fascia. For surgical procedure endoscope had added good assistance in middle ear surgery. Though the one hand technique the image quality and results are on par with the use of a microscope. Objective To compare the graft uptake rate and hearing results between temporalis fascia and tragal cartilage in endoscopic myringoplasty. Method This is a prospective, longitudinal study conducted among 50 patients who underwent endoscopic myringoplasty using temporalis fascia and tragal cartilage with 25 patients in each group. The hearing was assessed by comparing pre with post-operative ABG (Air bone gap) and ABG closure in speech frequencies (500Hz, 1 KHz, 2 KHz, 4 KHz). The status of graft and hearing results was evaluated on 6 months of follow up in both the groups. Result Out of total 25 patients enrolled for study in both (temporalis fascia and cartilage) groups, 23 (92%) patients in each group had graft uptaken. The audiological gain in the temporalis fascia group was 11.37±0.32 dB whereas in the tragal cartilage group it was 14.56±1.22dB. The audiological gain between the two groups did not show any statistically significant (p = 0.765). However, the pre and post-operative hearing difference was statistically significant in both temporalis fascia and tragal cartilage group. Conclusion Tragal cartilage has similar graft uptake rate and hearing gain when compared with temporalis fascia in endoscopic myringoplasty. Hence, tragal cartilage can be used for myringoplasty whenever required without any fear of deterioration in hearing. KEY WORDS Air bone gap, Endoscopic myringoplasty, Temporalis fascia, Tragal cartilagePublication Comparison of Surgical Outcome of Bipolar Scissors with Conventional Cold Dissection Tonsillectomy(Kathmandu University, 2023) Shrestha, BL; Khadka, L; KC, AK; Dhakal, A; Shrestha, KS; Pokharel, MABSTRACT Background The tonsillectomy is the most common Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) surgical procedure. Different methods have been used to improve the outcome of the surgery. One such method is tonsillectomy performed with bipolar scissors. In our scenario, the comparison of bipolar scissors tonsillectomy with conventional cold dissection has not been done. Objective To compare the surgical outcomes of bipolar scissors tonsillectomy and conventional cold dissection tonsillectomy. Method A prospective randomized study was conducted in 40 patients who underwent tonsillectomy on one side using bipolar scissors and on the other side using conventional cold dissection. Intraoperative blood loss, operation time, postoperative pain, and postoperative hemorrhage were all analyzed in both surgical techniques. Result The median operative time was 10 minutes for bipolar scissors compared with 12 minutes for conventional cold dissection, with a p-value of 0.390 which was not statistically significant. The median blood loss was 48 mL on the bipolar scissors side and 60 mL on the conventional cold dissection side, with a p-value of 0.232 which was also not statistically significant. The overall postoperative hemorrhage rate was 12.5%. Of these, 4 (10%) occurred on the bipolar scissors side (left side mainly) and 1 (2.5%) on the conventional cold dissection side (also left side), with a p-value of 0.002 which was statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference in the pain scores between the two methods in both rest and swallowing (p > 0.05). Conclusion The bipolar scissors did not show any benefit over conventional cold dissection in terms of surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, or postoperative pain. However, postoperative hemorrhage was more common with bipolar scissors. Therefore, conventional cold dissection remains a safe technique for tonsillectomy in adult patients. KEY WORDS Intraoperative blood loss, Operation time, Postoperative hemorrhage, Postoperative painPublication Correlation between Preoperative High Resolution Computed Tomography (CT) Findings with Surgical Findings in Chronic Otitis Media (COM) Squamosal Type(Kathmandu University, 2017) Karki, S; Pokharel, M; Suwal, S; Poudel, RABSTRACT Background The exact role of High resolution computed tomography (HRCT) temporal bone in preoperative assessment of Chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease still remains controversial. Objective To evaluate the role of high resolution computed tomography temporal bone in Chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease and to compare preoperative computed tomographic findings with intra-operative findings. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted among 65 patients with chronic suppurative otitis media atticoantral disease in Department of Radiodiagnosis, Kathmandu University Dhulikhel Hospital between January 2015 to July 2016. The operative findings were compared with results of imaging. The parameters of comparison were erosion of ossicles, scutum, facial canal, lateral semicircular canal, sigmoid and tegmen plate along with extension of disease to sinus tympani and facial recess. Sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive values were calculated. Result High resolution computed tomography temporal bone offered sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of 100% for visualization of sigmoid and tegmen plate erosion. The performance of HRCT in detecting malleus (Se=100%, Sp=95.23%), incus (Se=100%,Sp=80.48%) and stapes (Se=96.55%, Sp=71.42%) erosion was excellent. It offered precise information about facial canal erosion (Se=100%, Sp=75%), scutum erosion (Se=100%, Sp=96.87%) and extension of disease to facial recess and sinus tympani (Se=83.33%,Sp=100%). high resolution computed tomography showed specificity of 100% for lateral semicircular canal erosion (Sp=100%) but with low sensitivity (Se=53.84%). Conclusion The findings of high resolution computed tomography and intra-operative findings were well comparable except for lateral semicircular canal erosion. high resolution computed tomography temporal bone acts as a road map for surgeon to identify the extent of disease, plan for appropriate procedure that is required and prepare for potential complications that can be encountered during surgery. KEY WORDS Cholesteastoma, high resolution computed tomography, temporal bonePublication Correlations Between Symptoms, Nasal Endoscopy Computed Tomography and Surgical Findings in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis(Kathmandu University, 2013) Pokharel, M; Karki, S; Shrestha, BL; Shrestha, I; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Although Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is increasing in prevalence and incidence, its diagnosis and treatment still pose a challenge. The Task Force on rhinosinusitis (TFR) advocates the use of symptom based criteria. However, many otorhinolaryngologists depend on diagnostic nasal endoscopy and computed tomography(CT) of paranasal sinuses for diagnosis of CRS. Computed tomography has been extensively relied upon in confirming the presence of CRS, in assessing severity of disease, surgical planning and management decisions. Despite its widespread use, several studies have failed to correlate findings on CT with symptom severity. Objective To determine the correlations between symptoms described at presentation, radiological findings, endoscopy and extensiveness of surgery. Methods Longitudinal, prospective, analytical study conducted from August 2011 to August 2012 among 87 patients diagnosed as CRS according to the TFR criteria. Symptom, endoscopic, radiological and surgical scoring was done by using Lund and Mackay staging system. Pearson correlation coefficients between scores for symptoms, endoscopy, sinus CT and surgery was determined. Results When overall symptom score was correlated with radiological score and endoscopy score, it was found to be statistically significant (p= <0.01). However, no significant relationship was found between Lund and Mackay symptom and surgery score. Conclusion The symptom criteria used by TFR for CRS diagnosis are not very specific for sinus disease. A detail assessment of the subjective and objective criteria (CT and endoscopy) is necessary for tailoring surgical plan but should not be relied upon for determining the extensiveness of surgical intervention. KEY WORDS Chronic rhinosinusitis, lund and mackay staging system, task force on rhinosinusitisPublication Evaluation of Etiology of Epistaxis and its Management in Dhulikhel Hospital(Kathmandu University, 2015) Shrestha, I; Pokharel, M; Shrestha, BL; Dhakal, A; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Epistaxis is one of the most common and most difficult emergencies presenting in 7-14% of the general population each year. Although its lifetime incidence is about 60%, only 6% require formal medical intervention but they can be serious and even life threatening. Objective The main objectives are to study different etiology, types, modality of treatment of epistaxis. Specific objective is also to find out if the modality of treatment is associated with age, site, amount of bleeding and etiology. Method It is a prospective, cross sectional, longitudinal, analytical study done in Department of ENT, Dhulikhel hospital, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences (KUSMS) from Aug. 2010 to Aug. 2013. Data was collected. This study was cleared through institutional review committee of hospital. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 16.0. Result 487 patients were studied during the period. There was significant association between age group with type of treatment (p value 0.002); and with admission (p value < 0.001). Significance in the study was also shown in the correlation between site of bleeding and the type of treatment and also with alcohol intake with site of bleeding (p value < 0.001).However there was no significance between hypertension and the type of treatment methods chosen (p value >0.01). Conclusion Management of epistaxis is challenging. Most are managed by non surgical means whereas some by surgical treatment. Non surgical treatment is still useful, safe and cost effective. Type of treatment and need for hospital stay is related to age and site of bleeding. KEY WORDS Age group, epistaxis, modality of treatment, site of bleedingPublication Prevalence of Anatomical Variations of the Sinonasal Region and their Relationship with Chronic Rhinosinusitis(Kathmandu University, 2016) Karki, S; Pokharel, M; Suwal, S; Poudel, RABSTRACT Background Precise knowledge of anatomic variations of nose and paranasal sinus complex is essential for achieving best surgical results during endoscopic sinus surgery. Computed tomography is the gold standard investigation for evaluation of paranasal sinuses and adjacent structures. Objective To study prevalence of anatomical variations of nose, paranasal sinuses and osteomeatal complex and to identify a probable association between anatomical variations and chronic rhinosinusitis. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted in 218 patients with Chronic rhinosinusitis in Department of Radiology, Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital between January 2015 to January 2016. Volumetric axial CT scan was done in 128 slice CT scanner in 3mm thickness from frontal sinus to floor of maxillary sinus with thin multiplanar reconstruction. Radiological findings were reviewed and obtained data analyzed with SPSS version 16. Pearson chi square test and Pearson correlation coefficient were used for statistical analysis. Result The most common anatomical variation was pneumatized agger nasi cells followed by concha bullosa and deviated nasal septum respectively. Statistical significance were seen between ipsilateral agger nasi cell and frontal sinusitis (p< 0.001), ipsilateral haller cell and concha bullosa with maxillary sinusitis (p<0.001) and onodi cell with sphenoid sinusitis (p<0.001), However, no obvious statistical correlation was noted between deviated nasal septum with ipsilateral maxillary sinusitis. Conclusion Precise knowledge of anatomic variations of the paranasal sinuses is important in chronic rhinosinusitis to prevent possible complications during surgery. Computed tomography is the modality of choice in evaluation of paranasal sinuses and adjacent structures. KEY WORDS Chronic rhinosinusitis, computed tomography, osteomeatal complexPublication Prevalnace of Noise Induced Hearing Loss among Traffic Police Personnel of Kathmandu Metropolitan City(Kathmandu University, 2011) Shrestha, I; Shrestha, BL; Pokharel, M; Amatya, RCM; Karki, DRABSTRACT Background Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a major preventable occupational health hazard. Objective To measure permanent threshold shift in traffic police personnel due to noise exposure and to examine whether it was associated with duration of noise exposure, years of work and risk factors. Methods Cross sectional, descriptive study conducted at Dhulikhel hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital in 110 responding traffic police personnel. Detailed history and clinical examination of ear, impedence audiometry and pure tone audiometry was performed. Results Mean age group was 29.82 years; 82(74.5%) were males and 28 (25.5%) were females. Mean duration of service is 11.86 years. Twenty six (23.6%) had tinnitus and 39(35.5%) had blocked sensation in ear. Sixty five (59.1%) worked between 10- 19 years. Alcohol and smoking shows positive impact on NIHL (p value =0.00). Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval were 4.481 (1.925-10.432) and 6.578 (2.306- 18.764) respectively. Among 73(66.4%) noise induced hearing loss positive cases, bilateral involvement was seen in 45 (40.9%) and unilateral in 28(25.4 %) cases. Among unilateral cases most were left sided. Hearing threshold at 4 kHz increased according to age and duration of service. Conclusion Traffic police personnel are in constant risk of noise induced hearing loss. Screening for hearing loss is recommended for people exposed to noise. KEY WORDS noise induced hearing loss, traffic police personnel, occupational hazardPublication Quality of Life in Individuals with Tinnitus(Kathmandu University, 2025) Dhakal, A; Shrestha, BL; Pokharel, M; Pradhan, A; Shrestha, SABSTRACT Background Tinnitus, the perception of sound without an external acoustic stimulus, significantly impacts quality of life (QoL) and is often associated with hearing loss. Despite its prevalence, the psychosocial burden of tinnitus remains understudied in many populations. Objective This study evaluates tinnitus-related handicap and its association with emotional and social well-being in order to enhance treatment approaches. Method A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 114 patients presenting with tinnitus at Dhulikhel Hospital, Nepal. The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) was used to assess severity, categorized as slight, mild, moderate, severe, or catastrophic. Audiometric evaluations classified hearing loss as conductive or sensorineural. Pearson’s chi-square test was performed using SPSS version 21, with significance set at p < 0.05. Result The median age of participants was 40 years (IQR: 20.25), with a female predominance (60.5%). Hearing loss was present in 50% of participants, predominantly sensorineural (82.8%) and bilateral (62.1%). Tinnitus Handicap Inventory scores indicated moderate handicap in 37.5%, severe in 15.8%, and catastrophic in 5.0%. No significant association was found between Tinnitus Handicap Inventory severity and age, sex, or hearing loss type. However, participants with hearing loss had nearly three times higher likelihood of being severe-to-catastrophic handicap [COR: 2.74, 95% CI: 1.25 – 5.99] (p-value = 0.011). Conclusion Tinnitus imposes a substantial psychosocial burden, particularly in individuals with concurrent hearing loss. The findings highlight the need for early psychological intervention and multidisciplinary management to mitigate tinnitus-related distress and improve quality of life. KEY WORDS Hearing loss, Psychosocial impact, Quality of life, Tinnitus, Tinnitus handicap inventoryPublication Reflux Symptom Index and Reflux Finding Score in Diagnosis of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux(Kathmandu University, 2016) Pokharel, M; Shrestha, I; Dhakal, A; Purbey, B; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Although laryngopharyngeal reflux is a common condition encountered in otolaryngological practice, its diagnosis is not very easy because of its indistinct symptoms Objective To assess the efficacy of proton pump inhibitors versus proton pump inhibitors with lifestyle modification in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted in Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery at Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital between January 2015 to January 2016. Eighty two patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux having Reflux symptom index > 13 and Reflux finding score > 7 were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups. Group A comprised of patients treated with proton pump inhibitors alone and Group B with Proton pump inhibitors with lifestyle modification. Pre and post therapeutic reflux finding score and reflux symptom index were compared. Result The mean reflux symptom index score difference before and after treatment in group A was 16.70 and group B was 14.58. Similarly, mean reflux finding score difference before and after treatment in group A was 8.68 and group B was 9.92. Comparison of reflux finding score and reflux symptom index scores before and after treatment revealed improvement in both groups and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). However, comparison of pre and post therapeutic and scores between group A and B, showed no statistical significance. Conclusion The extent of symptomatic improvement correlated positively with both proton pump inhibitor therapy alone as well as with proton pump inhibitor therapy along with lifestyle modification. Although addition of lifestyle modification offered incremental benefit for treating laryngopharyngeal reflux, it was not found to be statistically significant. KEY WORDS Laryngopharyngeal reflux, reflux finding score, reflux symptom indexPublication Rhino-Orbital Mucormycosis in a COVID-19 Patient: A Dreadful Challenge(Kathmandu University, 2022) Dhakal, A; Pokharel, M; Madhup, S; Khadka, L; Sapkota, BABSTRACT Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2). COVID-19 infections may be associated with a wide range of bacterial and fungal co-infections. Recent studies are reporting invasive fungal infection associated with severe COVID-19. Herein, we report a case of COVID-19 rhino-orbital mucormycosis infection caused by Rhizopus sps in a 32 year old diabetic patient who was successfully managed with early aggressive debridement of infected tissue endoscopically with extended ethmoidectomy by modified Denker’s approach along with orbital decompression and antifungal therapy with Liposomal Amphotericin B and Posaconazole. Serial diagnostic nasal endoscopy showed no evidence of progression of the infection. The patient was discharged on 21st day of hospitalization still on oral Posaconazole for a total of 3 months. KEY WORDS Amphotericin B, Covid-19, Mucormycosis, Surgical debridementPublication Short duration anterior nasal packing after submucosal resection of nasal septum(Kathmandu University, 2008) Gyawali, KR; Amatya, RCM; Pokharel, MAbstract Objectives: To find out the shortest possible duration of nasal packing after submucosal resection (SMR) operation. To compare the outcome of the patients who underwent SMR operation and anterior nasal pack (ANP) removed after 24 hours with those who had ANP removed after 2 hours of operation. Materials and methods: A prospective randomized hospital based study was undertaken to compare the outcome of early removal of nasal packs after 2 hours of operation and after 48 hours. Seventy four patients undergoing SMR operation with ANP were divided in two groups. Group I: patients who underwent SMR and ANP removed after 24 hours to 48 hours (n= 37 patients). Group II: patients who underwent SMR and ANP removed after 2 hours (n= 37 patients). Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age distribution (p = 0.244), sex (p = 0.76), synaechia formation (p = 0.615) and bruise in the upper lip (p = 1.000). There were no complications following early (2 hours) removal of ANP except synaechia, no significant post-operative bleeding occurred and no post operative septal hematoma were noted. In addition, patients reported less post-operative discomfort when the packs were removed early in Group II. This practice reduced the length of hospital stay and therefore reduced costs. Conclusion: Our study shows that there is no significant difference in the post operative events and recovery between removal of ANP after 48 hours and after 2 hours of operation. This supports that ANP removal can safely be done after two hours of operation. Key words: Sub mucosal resection of the nasal septum (SMR), anterior nasal packing (ANP)Publication Socio Demographic Predictors in Delayed Presentation of Head and Neck Cancer(Kathmandu University, 2016) Pokharel, M; Shrestha, I; Dhakal, A; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Head and neck cancer is a major public health problem worldwide. In spite of the increase in incidence, there has been paucity of research on socio demographic factors influencing head and neck cancer. Objective To study the influence of various socio demographic factors on late presentation of head and neck cancer. Method Prospective, analytical study conducted in 69 patients with Head and neck malignancies in Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck surgery, Kathmandu University School of Medical sciences between January 2015 to January 2016. Collected data were entered and analyzed using IBM SPSS statistical software 21.0. All the socio demographic variables were compared between the early and late presentation groups of patient using Chi-square test. A ‘p’ value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result Forty eight were male and 21 were female. The age of patients ranged from 34 to 70 years (mean age 52.03). Twenty patients were diagnosed in stage I, 13 in stage II, 20 in stage III and 16 in stage IV. Significant association was seen between stage of head and neck cancer and duration of illness (p=0.007), educational status of patient (p=0.003) and educational status of patient’s care taker (p=0.005). However, no statistical association was seen between stage at diagnosis of head and neck cancer and gender, type of family, previous consultation, systems of alternative medicine adopted before diagnosis, smoking habit, alcohol intake, tobacco chewing habit and occupation. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that educational status may influence the presentation of head and neck cancer. KEY WORDS Head and neck cancer, stage at diagnosisPublication Study of Microorganism Growth Pattern in Nasal Pack of Patients Visiting the Department of ENT, Head and Neck Surgery(Kathmandu University, 2015) Shrestha, I; Pokharel, M; Dhakal, A; Amatya, RCM; Madhup, S; Sherchan, JBABSTRACT Background Nasal packs are utilized nearly by otorhinolaryngologists for controlling epistaxis and post nasal procedures. Complications have been reported due to them; therefore the use of antibiotics is a common practice among otorhinolaryngologists. Objective To detect microbiological flora associated with nasal packing and find evidence to support the benefit of systemic antibiotics with it. Method A prospective, analytical study was conducted on 51 patients presenting to the Department of ENT, KUSMS from June to September 2015 who required nasal packing. Approval of the local Institutional review committee (IRC) was taken. The mid part of the pack was collected in a sterile bottle under aseptic technique and sent to microbiology department. Specimen collection, culture, identification tests were done according to the guidelines by American Society for Microbiology. Data were collected using the individual patient records and Microsoft Office Excel 2007. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 16.0. Result Among the 51 cultures; 33 (64.7%) were positive. In 18 (35.3%) cultures no organism was grown. Statistical analysis did not show significance between duration of pack kept with microbial growth (p=0.051) or the type of pack kept (p=0.212) .It showed significance with foul smell of the pack to the growth (p=<0.001). Conclusion Microbiological flora was associated with nasal pack. Antibiotic soaked nasal packs have lesser incidence of positive bacterial growth when compared with plain nasal packs. Nasal packs kept for less than 48 hours have lesser incidence of positive bacterial growth when compared with nasal packs kept for more than 48 hours. Therefore, administering systemic antibiotics in cases when we plan to keep the pack for longer duration is recommended. KEY WORDS Epistaxis, microbiology, nasal packPublication Study to Compare and Evaluate Traditional vs. Endoscopic Septoplasty(Kathmandu University, 2015) Shrestha, I; Pokharel, M; Dhakal, A; Amatya, RCMABSTRACT Background Surgery on a deviated septum has seen several modifications since its inception starting from radical septal resection to preservation of the possible septal framework. Objective To compare the efficacies of “Endoscope Septoplasty” over “Traditional Septoplasty” in treating pathological septum and turbinates, in terms of their outcome. Method Prospective descriptive study conducted on 60 patients who presented to the Department of ENT, Kathmandu University School of Medical sciences during a period of two years. The severity of the symptoms of the patients was scored using a visual analogue scale which was compared post operatively to subjectively evaluate the efficacy of either surgery. Objective assessment was done by nasal endoscopy. P value in case of subjective and objective evaluation was done by applying Z- test. Result The mean age ± SD was 29.5±1.2 .Maximum patients fell into age group of 21-30 with 31.7 % followed by 11-20 with 28.3% and then 31-40 with 25 %. There were total 35 males (58.3%) and 25 females (41.7%). Among the symptoms, nasal obstruction seems to be dominating with total of 83.3%, followed by postnasal drip with 66.6% and then headache with 60%. The types of dislocation was compared, there were 66.7% cases with DNS and Spur whereas only 10 % with isolated spur. C shaped deformity was seen in 30% and S shaped in 26.6 % cases. Significance in Z test, is seen in subjective assessment post surgery for nasal obstruction, headache and rhinorrhea and for objective assessment post surgery for persistent contact with turbinates. (p value set to 0.01) Conclusion Endoscopic surgery is an evolutionary step towards solving the problems related to deviated nasal septum. It is safe, effective and conservative alternative to conventional septal surgery. KEY WORDS Endoscopic approach, septoplasty.