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In contrast to previous studies in other countries presenting a food allergy incidence of ∼75% in patients with nasal polyposis, we could not show such a high incidence. In the group with chronic polyposis 14% of the patients were positive for milk allergy compared with none of the tested healthy subjects, resulting in a strong statistical significance. Therefore, we conclude that cow's milk but not wheat allergy might be a relevant pathogenetic entity in chronic nasal polyps.

BackgroundThe surface of polymeric tracheotomy tubes is a favourable environment for biofilm formation and therefore represents a potential risk factor for the development of pneumonia after tracheotomy. The aim of this in-vitro study was to develop octenidine-dihydrochloride (OCT) coated polymer tracheotomy tubes and investigate any effects on Staphylococcus (S.) aureus and Pseudomonas (P.) aeruginosa colonization. Additionally the resistance of the OCT coating was tested using reprocessing procedures like brushing, rinsing and disinfection with glutaraldehydeResultsContamination with S. aureus: Before any reprocessing, OCT coated tracheotomy tubes were colonized with 103 cfu/ml and uncoated tracheotomy tubes with 105 cfu/ml (P = 0.045). After reprocessing, no differences in bacterial concentration between modified and conventional tubes were observed.Contamination with P. aeruginosa: Before reprocessing, OCT coated tubes were colonized with 106 cfu/ml and uncoated tubes with 107 cfu/ml (P = 0.006). After reprocessing, no significant differences were observed.ConclusionOCT coating initially inhibits S. aureus and P. aeruginosa colonisation on tracheotomy tubes. This effect, however, vanishes quickly after reprocessing of the tubes due to poor adhesive properties of the antimicrobial compound. Despite the known antimicrobial effect of OCT, its use for antimicrobial coating of tracheotomy tubes is limited unless methods are developed to allow sustained attachment to the tube.

RLNP following thoracic surgery requires immediate diagnosis and therapeutic strategy to minimize postoperative complications and to overcome impairments in the voice, swallowing, and coughing. The interdisciplinary concept presented in this study is especially advisable in high-risk RLNP procedures.

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