Otolaryngology Research Programs
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Sinus & Skull Base Research
The Rhinology and Skull Base unit at Thomas Jefferson is a powerhouse of research productivity. COVID 19 has impacted most lives around the world this year and we have been in the forefront of finding ways to evaluate its spread and prevent transmission. Our cadaveric proof of concept negative airway pressure respirator (NAPR) study published in the Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery journal at the beginning of the COVID 19 pandemic provided much needed direction in addressing safety concerns with restarting surgery.
Faculty PubMed Bibliography
- Marc Rosen, MD
- Gurston Nyquist, MD
- Mindy Rabinowitz, MD
- Christopher Farrell, MD
- Elina Toskala, MD, MBA, PhD
- James Evans, MD
- Aykut Unsal, DO
- David Kennedy, MD
Smell & Taste Research
The recipient of several NIH P50 grants, the Jefferson-Monell Smell and Taste Center has epitomized a successful multi-institutional research center. The center’s successes include the world’s first validated pediatric smell identification test, the characterization of signaling changes in the aging olfactory system, the identification of peak mucosal cooling as the chief determinant of the sensation of nasal patency, and the elucidation of olfactory neuropathology in chronic rhinosinusitis. Now, through a private endowment, researchers at Monell-Jefferson will seek to develop a treatment for anosmia by culturing human nasal stem cells.
Clinical Outcomes in Skull Base Surgery
Drs. Rosen, Evans and Bilyk have focused on validating novel endoscopic approaches to skull base diseases by documenting improved patient outcomes. Their research leverages TJU’s extensive clinical volume to explore the potential benefits of innovative surgical techniques. For example, a bilayer button technique has markedly decreased cerebrospinal fluid leaks following surgery and image guided technologies have improved access to remove “hidden” skull base malignancies through endoscopic approaches.