Impact of personality traits on choice and perceptions of autologous breast reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: There is little data examining the psychosocial characteristics of women who choose a type of autologous postmastectomy reconstruction. This study sought to investigate the role of personality on decision making and postoperative satisfaction in autologous breast reconstruction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective survey of 120 consecutive patients who had undergone transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) or perforator flap (PF) reconstruction over a 4-year period by a single surgeon at a single academic institution. All patients underwent similar preoperative consultations and were categorized into one of four groups based on surgical procedure they chose and their PF candidacy as determined by body mass index, age, and laterality. The survey packet included three validated measures of personality indices and a quality-of-life questionnaire. Intergroup analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. RESULTS: The overall survey response rate was 52.5%. PF patients were younger (p = 0.007) and more likely to undergo bilateral reconstruction (p = 0.0009) relative to TRAM patients. Comparisons between the two most clinically extreme groups showed significant results with regard to personality testing. Patients who were deemed not ideal PF candidates but nevertheless chose PF reconstruction were shown to be more narcissistic (p = 0.033), extroverted (p = 0.024), and having a higher postoperative quality of life (p = 0.021) than those who were deemed ideal PF candidates but ended up choosing pedicled TRAM reconstruction. CONCLUSION: Specific personality traits play a role in the patients' choice of a reconstructive option and their overall postoperative satisfaction. Clinicians should be aware of the possible influence of personality type on surgery selection.

A strategic approach for DIEP flap breast reconstruction in patients with a vertical midline abdominal scar.

BACKGROUND: Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps have become broadly accepted for autologous breast reconstruction. Our aim was to analyze outcomes and describe technical strategies to improve survival when harvesting the entire DIEP flap with a midline scar. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed charts from March of 2000 to November of 2007; 186 DIEP flaps in 183 patients were used for breast reconstruction, including 18 flaps (9.68%) in 17 patients with previous lower midline abdomen scars. The patients were classified into 3 groups. Group 1: hemi-DIEP flaps (n=5);. group 2: DIEP flaps that included tissue crossing the midline (n=10); and group 3: entire-DIEP flaps (with zone IV) (n=3). RESULTS: Reexploration for venous congestion and partial flap loss were encountered in 1 patient in group 1. Average flap-used ratio was 68.75±8.95% in group 2. Three flaps developed partial loss and underwent subsequent debridement. In group 3, entire DIEP flaps were designed with higher, bilateral superficial inferior epigastric venous drainages and intraflap pedicle-to-pedicle anastomosis. The first 2 cases underwent partial flap loss and debridement. The third case of bipedicle anastomosis achieved complete flap survival. CONCLUSIONS: The hemi-DIEP flap is a safer method for the patient with a lower abdominal midline scar but limits the reconstructive volume. Carefully evaluating the perfusion across midline scar intraoperatively is crucial for deciding how much contralateral tissue should be discarded. Double pedicles anastomosis is an assurance for using entire DIEP flap with lower midline scar.

Evidence-based protocol for infection control in immediate implant-based breast reconstruction.

Immediate breast implant reconstruction has among the highest incidence of infections in plastic surgery. A literature search returned key articles that showed a significant decrease in surgical-site infections by performing nasal swab evaluation to treat methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus before surgery with mupirocin nasal ointment and 5 days of chlorhexidine scrub to the surgical area. Additional Level 1 data supported the use of chlorhexidine-alcohol over povidone-iodine solutions for skin preparation. Intraoperative data on breast pocket irrigation showed the benefits of povidone-iodine as well as a triple antibiotic solution. Nasal swabs from 120 patients showed no methicillin-resistant S. aureus but did identify 10 patients with methicillin-sensitive S. aureus, 1 with streptococcus, and 3 with gram-negative rods, which changed perioperative antibiotic management. On the basis of the previously mentioned data, an evidence-based protocol for infection control was developed to potentially decrease infection rates. Further cost and efficacy data are warranted.

Safety and efficacy of perforator flap breast reconstruction with combined intraabdominal procedures.

Genetic testing for BRCA mutations has led to greater needs for breast reconstruction and prophylactic gynecologic procedures. A retrospective review of all perforator flap breast reconstructions was performed over 5 years. A total of 316 flaps were performed on 232 patients. Nineteen patients had an intraabdominal procedure at the time of their breast reconstruction, including 8 unilateral and 11 bilateral reconstructions (22 flaps). The concomitant procedures incurred an additional mean operative time of 61 minutes. One arterial thrombosis occurred leading to a single flap failure (1/30, 3.3%). No significant differences were noted in complication rates between the combined group and those who did not have a simultaneous procedure (anastomotic complications 3.3% vs. 7.7%; failure rate 3.3% vs. 3.1%; abdominal wound 10.5% vs. 15%; fat necrosis 10% vs. 12.2%). The coordinated effort allowing simultaneous intraabdominal procedures and perforator flap breast reconstruction affords effective reconstruction for those requiring additional procedures without an increase in postoperative complication rates.

Outcomes of minimally invasive myotomy for the treatment of achalasia in the elderly.

BACKGROUND: An increasing number of elderly patients diagnosed with achalasia are being referred for minimally invasive myotomy. Little data are available about the operative outcomes in this population. The objective of this study was to review our experience with this procedure in an elderly population. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of 51 consecutive patients, 65 years of age or older, diagnosed with achalasia who underwent a minimally invasive myotomy at our institution. Prior therapies, perioperative outcomes, and postoperative interventions were also analyzed. RESULTS: Of the 51 patients, 28 (55%) had undergone prior endoscopic therapy, and 2 patients (7%) had a prior myotomy. Mean duration of symptoms was 10.9 years (range, 0.5 to 50). No perioperative mortality occurred, and the median hospital stay was 3 days. Two patients (3.8%) had complications, including a gastric mucosal injury and one atelectasia. Eleven patients (21%) required additional therapy postoperatively. Symptom improvement was described in all patients. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic Heller myotomy can safely be performed in elderly patients, providing significant symptom relief. No evidence suggests that surgery should not be considered a first-line treatment. Advanced age does not appear to adversely affect outcomes of laparoscopic Heller myotomy.

Recurrent synovial chondromatosis of the distal interphalangeal joint: case report.

A 59-year-old woman presented with recurrent synovial chondromatosis of the distal interphalangeal joint at the site of removal of what was thought to be a ganglion cyst in 2003 and the subsequent excision of a recurrent synovial chondromatosis in 2005. Although synovial chondromatosis is typically described as a benign, self-limiting process, recurrent disease and local erosion of the joint of this patient required wide excision with bone grafting and arthrodesis for definitive treatment.

Safety of laparoscopic ventral hernia repair in octogenarians.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The recurrence rate after laparoscopic ventral hernia repair is lower than the rate of recurrence via the open approach in many series. Studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of this procedure but have had relatively young patient populations. We present our experience in a significantly older population. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of all patients 80 to 89 years of age undergoing a laparoscopic ventral hernia repair at our institution from May 2000 to June 2007 was performed. Data collected included demographics, number and type of previous abdominal operations, number of previous hernia repairs, defect and mesh size, postoperative complications, and follow-up. RESULTS: Twenty octogenarian patients underwent laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. Nine were men and 11 were women. The mean age was 82 years. Thirteen patients (65%) had one or more associated comorbidities at the time of surgery. Eighteen patients (90%) had undergone a mean of 1.7 prior abdominal operations. Six (30%) patients had undergone a mean of 1.1 previous open hernia repairs; 5 (83%) with mesh. Eight patients (40%) had an additional operative procedure at the time of laparoscopic hernia repair. Ten minor complications occurred in 10 patients (50%). Four major complications occurred in 4 patients (20%). One patient required reoperation for evacuation of hematoma at a trocar site. No patients complained of pain at a transabdominal suture site or persistent seromas by 6 weeks of follow-up. At mean follow-up of 3.1 months, no recurrences occurred and no patients required mesh removal in this series. No deaths occurred. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair is becoming an accepted technique for hernia repair in the United States, with a well-documented low recurrence rate. Our series demonstrates that this approach is equally safe and effective for a significantly older segment of the population.

A laparoscopic technique for retrieval and prevention of migration of ventriculoperitoneal shunt tubing.

A 31-year-old female with a history of pseudotumor cerebri presented with headache and abdominal discomfort after placement of a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. The VP shunt was placed after prior failure and revision of a lumbar peritoneal shunt. Computed tomography demonstrated shunt migration into the subcutaneous tissue. Laparoscopy was used to reposition the VP shunt, directing the shunt toward the pelvis. The patient presented for further evaluation one month later, at which point the shunt was shown to have migrated into the subcutaneous tissue once again. Laparoscopy was again used to reposition the shunt and affix it to the abdominal wall by using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) mesh.

Impact of advanced age on weight loss and health benefits after laparoscopic gastric bypass.

BACKGROUND: Advanced age is considered a relative contraindication to primary bariatric surgery at some institutions. As life expectancy is steadily increasing and quality of life is improving in our elderly population, we may need to reconsider the health benefits that obese elderly patients can obtain from bariatric surgery. Therefore, we examine the operative outcomes, weight loss, reduction of comorbidities, and medication requirements in patients older than 60 years compared with those younger than 60 years undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. HYPOTHESIS: The null hypothesis tested in this study is that patients older than 60 years who undergo laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass experience a medical benefit not significantly different from that experienced by younger patients in terms of the number of medications and comorbid conditions. METHODS: The number of preoperative and postoperative comorbid conditions and the medications required for those conditions were compared between consecutive patients older than 60 years and those younger than 60 years who underwent Roux-en-Y laparoscopic gastric bypass. Early operative outcomes were also assessed. RESULTS: Analysis of 110 patients younger than 60 years compared with 20 patients older than 60 years revealed no difference in complication rate or length of hospital stay. Younger patients lost more weight and had a significantly greater reduction in body mass index. Younger patients also demonstrated more complete resolution of comorbid conditions, although this difference was not significant. Older patients, who had more comorbid conditions requiring more medication at the time of surgery, experienced a greater medication reduction during follow-up, although this was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Patients of advanced age can safely undergo laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Younger patients can be expected to demonstrate greater weight loss and experience more complete resolution of their comorbid conditions. Older patients demonstrated greater overall reduction in medication requirements. Therefore, patients older than 60 years can be considered good candidates for obesity surgery and can be expected to enjoy substantial health benefits similar to those experienced by younger patients.

The adipogenic potential of various extracellular matrices under the influence of an angiogenic growth factor combination in a mouse tissue engineering chamber.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) Matrigel™ has frequently and successfully been used to generate new adipose tissue experimentally, but is unsuitable for human application. This study sought to compare the adipogenic potential of a number of alternative, biologically derived or synthetic ECMs with potential for human application, with and without growth factors and a small fat autograft. Eight groups, with six severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice per group, were created with bilateral chambers (silicone tubes) implanted around the epigastric vascular pedicle, with one chamber/animal containing a 5mg fat autograft. Two animal groups were created for each of four ECMs (Matrigel™, Myogel, Cymetra® and PuraMatrix™) which filled the bilateral chambers. One group/ECM had no growth factors added to chambers whilst the other group had growth factors (GFs) (vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) plus fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) plus platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB)) added to both chambers. At 6weeks, chamber tissue was morphometrically assessed for percent and absolute adipose tissue volume. Overall, the triple GF regime significantly increased percent(∗) and absolute(#) adipose tissue volume (p<0.0005(∗#)) compared to chambers without triple GF treatment. The fat autograft also significantly increased percent (p<0.0005) and absolute (p<0.011) adipose tissue volume. Cymetra® (human collagen) constructs yielded the largest total tissue and absolute adipose tissue volume. We found that the pro-angiogenic FGF-2, VEGF-A and PDGF-BB combination in ECMs of synthetic and biological origin produced an overall significantly increased adipose tissue volume at 6weeks and may have clinical application, particularly with Cymetra.

Parastomal hernia repair.

Occurrence of parastomal hernia is considered a near inevitable consequence of stoma formation, making their management a common clinical dilemma. This article reviews the outcomes of different surgical approaches for hernia repair and describes in detail the laparoscopic Sugarbaker technique, which has been shown to have lower recurrence rates than other methods. Also reviewed is the current literature on the impact of prophylactic mesh placement during ostomy formation.

Near-infrared spectroscopy in autologous breast reconstruction.

Autologous breast reconstruction is commonly performed after mastectomy and provides a natural replacement that mimics the native breast. Although current free flap success rates exceed 95%, total flap loss can be devastating for patients. As a result, new technologies have emerged to provide an objective means for flap monitoring, with the hope that vaso-occlusive events can be detected before the clinical manifestation of a microvascular complication and the no-reflow phenomenon. This article focuses on the available data for one new technology, near-infrared spectroscopy, and its current use in clinical practice.

Management of extensive maxillofacial trauma with bony foreign body within the orbit from a chainsaw injury.

OBJECTIVE: The goal of this case report is to characterize injury patterns typical for chainsaw injuries to the face. We describe our approach to the soft tissue and skeletal injury patterns seen in these injuries. METHODS: We present a case report of a traumatic chainsaw injury to the face. RESULTS: A literature review of the typical injury patterns seen in chainsaw injuries to the face is discussed. Fractures to the bony orbit are on of the most common findings. Traumatic orbital fractures are often associated with other facial fractures, including those of the maxillary sinus and naso-orbital-ethmoid (NOE) region. There is a reported 47% incidence of lacrimal obstruction after NOE fractures, most caused by bone malposition or damage to the lacrimal sac or duct. Misdiagnosis of this injury pattern can lead to chronic patient morbidity. CONCLUSION: We present a case of traumatic orbital fracture with subsequent bony intrusion into the orbit, necessitating urgent exploration. The compound soft tissue and skeletal injury in this patient is typical for patients with associated lacrimal injury. Awareness of the injury patterns and treatment algorithms of these cases allows for appropriate assessment and intervention.

Patient satisfaction in unilateral and bilateral breast reconstruction [outcomes article].

BACKGROUND: The goal of reconstruction after mastectomy is to provide a long-term and symmetric reconstruction. Providing symmetry entails different decision making when faced with a unilateral or bilateral reconstruction. In unilateral reconstruction, the goal is to match the contralateral breast; however, in bilateral reconstruction, symmetry between the reconstructed breasts is more important. The purpose of this study was to examine patient satisfaction between unilateral and bilateral reconstruction. METHODS: All women at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center undergoing breast reconstruction between 1999 and 2006 were identified. Patient demographics and complications were collected. A survey was administered examining general and aesthetic satisfaction. Patients with unilateral reconstruction were identified and compared with patients with bilateral reconstruction. Additional analysis was performed based on the type of reconstruction, including autologous, autologous with implant, and tissue expander/implant-based reconstruction. RESULTS: Overall, 702 women underwent 910 breast reconstructions (494 unilateral, 416 bilateral). Patients in the bilateral reconstruction group were more likely to have prophylactic mastectomy and immediate reconstruction. Complication rates were similar between unilateral and bilateral reconstruction. Patient satisfaction was highest in unilateral patients with autologous compared with implant reconstruction (general satisfaction, 73.9 versus 40.9 percent, p < 0.0001; aesthetic satisfaction, 72.3 versus 43.2 percent, p < 0.0001). Bilateral reconstruction had similar general and aesthetic satisfaction scores across autologous, autologous with implant, and implant-based reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: Patients undergoing unilateral reconstruction have the highest satisfaction with autologous reconstruction. As symmetry between reconstructed breasts is essential for patient satisfaction in bilateral reconstruction, it is important to use the same type of reconstruction, whether autologous or implant-based.

Tissue-engineered breast reconstruction: bridging the gap toward large-volume tissue engineering in humans.

BACKGROUND: Use of autologous tissue is ideal in breast reconstruction; however, insufficient donor tissue and surgical and donor-site morbidity all limit its use. Tissue engineering could provide replacement tissue, but only if vascularization of large tissue volumes is achievable. The authors sought to upscale their small-animal adipose tissue-engineering models to produce large volumes of tissue in a large animal (i.e., pig). METHODS: Bilateral large-volume (78.5 ml) chambers were inserted subcutaneously in the groin enclosing a fat flap (5 ml) based on the superficial circumflex iliac pedicle for 6 (n = 4), 12 (n = 1), and 22 weeks (n = 2). Right chambers included a poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) sponge. Other pedicle configurations, including a vascular pedicle alone (n = 2) or in combination with muscle (n = 2) or a free fat graft (n = 2), were investigated in preliminary studies. Serial assessment of tissue growth and vascularization by magnetic resonance imaging was undertaken during growth and correlated with quantitative histomorphometry at chamber removal. RESULTS: All chambers filled with new tissue by 6 weeks, vascularized by the arteriovenous pedicle. In the fat flap chambers, the initial 5 ml of fat expanded to 25.9 ± 2.4, 39.4 ± 3.9, and 56.5 ml (by magnetic resonance imaging) at 6, 12, and 22 weeks, respectively. Adipose tissue volume was maintained up to 22 weeks after chamber removal (n = 2), including one where the specimen was transferred on its pedicle to an adjacent submammary pocket. CONCLUSION: The first clinically relevant volumes of tissue for in situ and remote breast reconstruction have been formed with implications for scaling of existing tissue-engineering models into human trials.

Does size matter? Technical considerations of a regenerative tissue matrix for use in reconstructive surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Acellular dermal matrices have been used with increasing frequency in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. While many studies have described the safety and morbidity profiles of these materials, little is known about the relative mechanical properties of individual sheets of allograft harvested from distinct donors. METHODS: Sixty-two individual sheets of an acellular dermal matrix from distinct lot numbers (signifying different donors of the dermis) were prospectively analyzed before use. Distribution of thickness according to manufacturer specifications in the dry state were as follows: 0.009 inches to 0.013 inches (1 [1.6%]); 0.79 mm to 1.78 mm (3 [4.8%]); 0.79 mm to 2.03 mm (5 [8%]); 0.8 mm to 3.3 mm (1 [1.6%]); 1.8 mm to 3.3 mm (10 [16.1%]) and 28 mm (6 [9.7%]). The size of the matrix was recorded while dry, after hydration and following stretch. The percentage change in surface area was recorded for each lot. RESULTS: The 62 reconstructive cases included breast implant reconstruction (2 [3.2%]); ventral hernia repair (11 [17.7%]); abdominal closure following autologous tissue harvest (6 [9.6%]); autologous breast reconstruction (37 [59.6%]); extremity wound closures (3 [4.8%]) and reinforcement of vertical rectus abdominis muscle closure (3 [4.8%]). The mean percentage change in the size of the acellular dermal matrix to the hydrated state was 58% (36 of 62; thickness 0.06 mm to 3.30 mm); the mean percentage change in size from dry state was 7.14% (range 0% to 18.7%). The mean percentage change in the size of the hydrated matrix to the stretched state was 25.7% (range 0.25% to 70.6%). The variability in elasticity among the individual sheets was significant (P<0.0005). CONCLUSION: The acellular dermal matrix displayed highly variable elastic properties among distinct donors. This may be significant in procedures in which symmetry is critical.

Preliminary soft-tissue distraction versus checkrein ligament release after fasciectomy in the treatment of dupuytren proximal interphalangeal joint contractures.

BACKGROUND: Checkrein ligament release for treatment of proximal interphalangeal joint Dupuytren contractures does not address the shortened arteries or deficient skin. The Digit Widget uses soft-tissue distraction to overcome these issues. This study compares checkrein ligament release after fasciectomy versus preliminary soft-tissue distraction, followed by operative release, for treatment of proximal interphalangeal joint Dupuytren contractures. METHODS: The authors compared operative and postoperative characteristics of patients treated with either fasciectomy plus checkrein ligament release or Digit Widget distraction between 2001 and 2008. Seventeen patients (20 digits) underwent ligament release (mean contracture, 55.9 degrees); six of these 20 were reoperations. Thirteen patients (17 digits) underwent distraction (mean contracture, 67.6 degrees); 10 of 17 were reoperations. RESULTS: The 20 digits treated with fasciectomy plus ligament release had an average extension improvement of 31.4 degrees (range, -4 to 70 degrees). Digits treated with distraction had an average extension improvement of 53.4 degrees (range, 30 to 75 degrees) (p<0.001 versus ligament release). Three digits treated with distraction improved to full proximal interphalangeal extension. Initial contractures of 60 degrees or less treated by ligament release (n=12) or distraction (n=7) improved by means of 28.8 degrees and 47.7 degrees, respectively (p=0.048). Contractures greater than 60 degrees treated by ligament release (n=8) or distraction (n=10) improved by means of 35.3 degrees and 57.3 degrees, respectively (p=0.02). CONCLUSION: Soft-tissue distraction followed by operative release showed greater correction than Dupuytren fasciectomy plus checkrein ligament release. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, III.

Laparoscopic repair of incisional and other complex abdominal wall hernias.

Incisional hernia is one of the most common complications of abdominal surgery, with a reported occurrence rate of up to 20% after laparotomy. The high incidence of hernia formation significantly contributes to both patient morbidity and health care costs. Although a variety of approaches have been described to repair these defects, historically the results have been disappointing. Recurrence rates after primary repair have been reported to range from 24% to 54%. The recent advent of laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (LVHR) has offered promising outcomes by combining tension-free repair using a prosthesis with minimally invasive techniques, lowering reported recurrence rates to <10%. This review discusses standardized, well-researched techniques that have contributed to the success of LVHR. We also discuss how these techniques have been modified for laparoscopic repair of suprapubic lumbar hernias, hernias near the iliac crest, and parastomal hernias. In addition, we review our own experience with LVHR in the context of the principles discussed.

Minimally invasive repair of a congenital right-sided diaphragmatic hernia in an adult.

A 75-year-old woman who presented with a cough was found on investigation to have a large right-sided diaphragmatic hernia with intrathoracic herniation of the colon, small bowel, and right kidney. The patient denied any history of trauma and therefore the hernia was felt to be congenital in nature. The patient underwent a combined laparoscopic repair with polytetrafluoroethylene mesh and a thoracoscopic lysis of adhesions of the posterior right-sided diaphragmatic hernia. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a combined laparoscopic and thoracoscopic repair of a congential diahphragmatic hernia. Although successful repair can be accomplished laparoscopically, the addition of a thoracoscopic lysis of adhesions facilitated the early reexpansion of our patient's chronically scarred lung.

Laparoscopic Repair of a Chronic Iatrogenic Diaphragmatic Hernia.

We report the diagnosis and repair of a chronic, iatrogenic diaphragmatic hernia using minimally-invasive techniques. A 69-year-old man presented with intermittent abdominal and shoulder pain. He had previously undergone laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication in which a grasper-induced puncture injury to the left hemidiaphragm was noted but not repaired. Radiographs and CT imaging diagnosed a left diaphragmatic hernia, with stomach herniated into the left thoracic cavity. This was repaired successfully via an intra-abdominal laparoscopic approach. This case represents the potential importance of repairing post-traumatic diaphragmatic hernia at the time that they occur, as well as a minimally invasive means for their repair.