This paper applies the technique of finite element analysis to the tympanic membrane. A Two-dimensional cross-sectional model of the tympanic membrane and malleus is described. A variety of experiments have been performed on this model, and displacements under a uniform load are analysed. The shape of the displaced membrane and the movement of the umbo were found tobe sensitive to a number of factors. These include the elastic modulus of the membrane, the presence and position of the axis or rotation of the malleus, and the size of the pars flaccida. Some implications of these results are discussed.

A technique for producing frozen sections from the non-decalcified guinea pig cochlea is described. The sections can be utilised or various immunofluorescent studies, including the detection of humoral anti-bodies against different cellular elements in patients with cochleo-vestibular disorders. The technique assures the preservation of the cochlear architecture and the tissue antigenicity, and it avoids damage to the fine cochlear structural details.

Cushing's syndrome due to the abuse of Betamethasone nasal drops has not been described before. This report presents such a case and emphasises the care which oe must take in prescribing topical sterioids.

This study was undertaken to determine the incidence of unidagnosed apical disease in acute unilateral sinusitis and to evaluate the role of Orthopantomograms (OPGs).

Our results, with an incidence of 10 per cent, are in agreement with the findings of Formby (1960) and we conclude that OPGs are not justified in the routine investigation of acute sinusities.

The site of origin of maxillary sinus carcinoma will not infrequently predetermine the varied neurological signs at presentation. Modifying Ohngren's division, the maxillary sinus can be divided into for quadrants based on anantomical nerve correlates, thus facilitating identification of the primary site. An inclusive classification of maxillary sinus caricinoma based on Broder's grading, site of origin, the TNM classification and the patient's general condition, serves as the basic for a correlative therapeutic regimen.

In a double-blind study, 22 patients with typical globus symptoms were investigated by both otolaryngological and odontological methods. All the patients underwent thorough hematological, endoscopic and radiological examinations. They were randomly divided into a treatment group and a placebo group and underwent either simple occlusal adjust or mock adjustment, respectivity. The result of occlusal adjustment was assessed immediately after completion of treatment. The effect of treatment on globus symptoms was assessed 2 to 3 months later in a double-blind study. Binomial tests showed that there was a significant association between the success of occlusal adjustment and disappearance of the globus symptom. A new name for this disease is proposed: the globus syndrome.

A series of 87 salivary glands was examined using an immunogold-silver technique for salivary gland amylase (SGA) and epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and an indirect immunoperoxidase technique for both antigens. The specimens comprised 21 pleomorphic adednomas, 3 monomorphic adenomas, 25 adenolymphomas, 5 mucoepidermoid carcinomas, 3 acinic cell tumours, 8 adenoid cystic carcinomas, 2 adenocarcinomas and 8 undifferentiated carcinomas. In addition 5 normal salivary glands and 6 salivary glands showing benign lymphoepithelial lesions were included.

Epistaxis following maxillofacial trauma or maxillofacial surgery is uncommon. It usually occurs within 24 hours of the injury and can usually be controlled by packing. Rarely internal maxillary artery ligation is necessary and embolization has been used in some cases of severe trauma.

We present a case of severe late-onset epistaxis following Le Fort I osteotomy. The diagnostic approach and treatment are discussed.

A case of giant cementoblastoma of the maxilla in young female is reported. An unusual painful swelling of the gingivolabial area led to an initial misdiagnosis of a peridental infection and consequently to inappropriate trcatment.

A 70-year-old patient with bilateral vocal cord paralysis, accompanied by inspiratory stridor and increased snoring, is presented. Respiratory dysfunction, deteriorating over 18 months, necessitated permanent tracheostomy. Only two and a half years after the onset of symptoms the patient developed extrapyramidal signs combined with severe autonomic failure, duggesting a diagnosis of Shy-Drager syndrome. Vocal cord palsy preceding any other neurological or autonomic manifestations of that syndrome has been infrequently described. This diagnosis should be considered in cases of vocal cord palsy of undetermined etiology, especially when associated with increased snoring or episodes of sleep apnea.