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H D Silberman

Publications and source records attributed to H D Silberman.

11 recordsLinked to original sources

Non-inflatable sterile sheath for introduction of the flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscope.

Since the inception of the flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscope, sterility has been a primary concern. The increased incidence of hepatitis, tuberculosis, and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome has raised the fear of cross-contamination. Sterilization requires the use of ethylene oxide, which is economically disadvantageous, forcing most practitioners to disinfect rather than sterilize their nasopharyngolaryngoscopes. A presterilized, disposable sheath was designed in 1993. The system was cumbersome, because it required an air pump. Thus, it was not adopted by the majority of physicians. As a result, the manufacturer developed a new system, which I evaluated. It is cost-effective, smoother-surfaced, 70% thinner-walled, and much simpler to use. The disposable, single-use sheath is sterile, with no need for a pump or any additional device, and can be used anywhere at any time. I believe it will become the standard method for sterile introduction of the nasopharyngolaryngoscope.

Disinfection↗

New technique for the sterile introduction of flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopes.

Since the inception of flexible fiberoptic endoscopes, disinfection of these instruments has been a problem. Soaking in glutaraldehyde does not always achieve sterilization, and often damages the scopes. Ethylene oxide can sterilize endoscopes; however, it is economically impractical because of a required downtime of 24 hours. Thus, it is obvious, especially with respect to human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, and Mycobacterium, that a new technique to attain sterility is necessary. This paper discusses a new method of sterile introduction of the flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscope. The technique employs disposable sterile sheaths that are prepackaged and made from a thermoplastic elastomer with a clear optical end. The sheaths can be applied in seconds and tightly adhere to the flexible insertion portion of the scope. Results to date indicate that the performance of the endoscope is unhindered by using the sheaths. Furthermore, there has been no break in the integrity of the sheaths or damage to instruments. It is our opinion that these devices will greatly improve the level of sterility while at the same time reducing costs and downtime.

Cross Infection↗

Fenestral and cochlear otosclerosis: computed tomographic evaluation.

Computed tomography has replaced conventional multidirectional tomography in the imaging of patients with the presumed diagnosis of otosclerosis. In addition to obliterative disease, which was easily diagnosed with multidirectional tomography, anterior and posterior foci of varying sizes can now also be visualized preoperatively. Active cochlear otosclerosis (otospongiosis) is diagnosed in the presence of foci of demineralization in the otic capsule. Diagnosis of these entities has been of great interest to our referring otologic surgeons.

Adult↗

Flexible fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscope.

A new practical flexible fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscope is introduced. This instrument allows for a completeness of examination heretofore not totally possible in all cases as an office or bedside procedure. The ease of examination and patient tolerance make for a superior new clinical tool.

Endoscopes↗

Flexible neonatalscope.

Since the introduction of small flexible fiberoptic scopes for the examination of airways, efforts have been made to reduce their size to fit the smallest patients. The first practical scope of this type was the 3.9-mm nasopharyngolaryngoscope introduced in 1975. Modifications over the years have led to the development of the 1.7-mm neonatalscope, primarily designed for the examination of intubated neonates. This neonatalscope has been of great help in determining placement of endotracheal and tracheotomy tubes, as well as in localizing areas of obstruction within the tubes. By means of a special adapter the scope may be used while the patient is on a respirator. Introduction of this new generation of flexible scopes will undoubtedly lead to other valuable and interesting applications of this instrument.

Fiber Optic Technology↗