Abdominoplasty-derived dermal-fat graft augmentation gluteoplasty.

BACKGROUND: Plastic surgeons are exploring novel techniques for augmentation gluteoplasty as the demand for this procedure increases annually in the United States. OBJECTIVES: The authors retrospectively reviewed a series of lower abdominal dermal-fat graft augmentation gluteoplasties to validate the procedure. METHODS: Nine consecutive patients underwent abdominoplasty or torsoplasty in which 2 oval dermal-fat grafts were excised, de-epithelialized, and then implanted into subfascial gluteal pockets for augmentation. All operations were independently conducted by 1 of 2 surgeons at facilities in Maryland and New Jersey. RESULTS: The mean age of the 9 female patients was 46 years. The mean dermal-graft size was 188 cm(2), and the mean graft weight was 288 g. One graft became infected and required excision 39 days after the procedure. There were no other complications. All surviving grafts provided a substantial increase in posterior projection and long-lasting gluteal volume. CONCLUSIONS: Dermal-fat graft augmentation gluteoplasty provides a voluminous, natural-feeling, and durable aesthetic result. The procedure should be considered a viable option for patients undergoing abdominoplasty or torsoplasty, especially as more experience is gained. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

A reappraisal of the free groin flap in aesthetic craniofacial reconstruction.

Craniofacial defects are often associated with 3-dimensional volumetric contour deficiencies. The free groin flap was historically popular though technical limitations subsequently caused its use to fall from favor. We sought to determine if a role remained for the free groin flap in aesthetic craniofacial reconstruction. From May 2005 to July 2010, 15 patients had 18 consecutive free groin flaps performed by the senior surgeon at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center and the Johns Hopkins Medical Institute. Data collected included age, sex, operative date, etiology, defect size, recipient vessels, complications, donor-site closure, and follow-up time. Eighteen groin flaps were used for the patient cohort consisting of 10 males and 5 females (mean age, 26 years; range, 18-40 years) who underwent reconstruction necessitated by various oncologic, traumatic, infectious, and congenital etiologies. The average defect size was 7.3 × 6.3 cm (range, 3-10 × 1-10 cm). Seventeen flaps were based on the superficial circumflex iliac vessels and 1 on the superficial inferior epigastric vessels. Seventeen flaps used the superficial temporal artery and vein as the recipient vessels, and the remaining flap used the superior thyroid artery and retromandibular vein. Of the 18 flaps, 17 survived (94% survival rate). All donor sites were closed primarily. Follow-up time ranged from 6 to 60 months. The free groin flap is generally underused in the reconstruction of complex craniofacial facial defects. Its unique characteristics and minimal donor-site morbidity should prompt the reconstructive surgeon to retain the free groin flap in his or her armamentarium.

Forehead reconstruction with microvascular flaps: utility of aesthetic subunits.

BACKGROUND: Current literature describes the forehead as one aesthetic subunit of the face. We argue for the usefulness of aesthetic forehead subunits when microvascular flap reconstruction is required. Key to utilization of microvascular flaps for restoration of forehead subunits is an understanding of the patient population and defect characteristics most amiable to treatment. METHODS: We conducted an International Review Board-approved retrospective chart review of nine consecutive patients who had undergone free flap reconstruction for large forehead defects. RESULTS: The patients' foreheads included one paramedian defect; one central and paramedian defect; four central, paramedian, and lateral defects; and three lateral defects. Seven patients had ulnar forearm flaps and two had anterolateral thigh flaps. The success rate was 100%. CONCLUSION: A forehead subunit classification system has been devised that provides a suitable option for cases that benefit from distant tissue replacement in a single stage, while preserving the principles of aesthetic replacement.

Effect of Oblique Tendon Laceration on Core Suture Strength: A Biomechanical Evaluation.

BACKGROUND: The effect of obliquity of tendon laceration on repair strength is not well studied. The overwhelming majority of biomechanical studies assess repair strength following a laceration that is perpendicular to the long axis of the tendon. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the angle of tendon laceration affects the core suture strength. METHODS: In all, 110 fresh human cadaveric flexor tendons were cut at varying angles of 15°, 30°, 45°, and 60° and the control group at 90°. All tendons were repaired with 6-strand modified Tang technique. The repair strength was tested using a custom-made tensioning machine, and the initial static gap force and the ultimate breaking force were measured. RESULTS: The mean gap force and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° groups were 15.2 N (11.4-19.0 N), 15.8 N (13.6-18.1 N), 15.6 N (13.1-18.4 N), 16.6 N (13.7-19.5 N), and 22.3 N (16.6-27.9 N), respectively. In the same respective order, the break force and 95% CI were 25.9 N (21.9-29.8 N), 26.5 N (23.2-29.7 N), 31.1 N (26.1-36.1 N), 35.6 N (28.2-43.1 N), and 51.8 N (62.5-41.0), respectively. The Fisher least significant difference demonstrated significant differences between the control group and all experimental groups for both gap force and break force. CONCLUSIONS: Obliquity of tendon laceration affects the core suture strength when compared with a transverse cut. Flexor tendons cut at 90° demonstrated a higher overall gap force and breaking strength that were statistically significant when compared with all obliquely cut groups. These findings should be considered when repairing and starting postoperative therapy for obliquely cut tendons.

Posterior Interosseous Nerve Graft: Utilizing External Landmarks and Anthropometric Ratios to Predict Available Length for Digital Nerve Reconstruction in a Cadaveric Study.

Objective: In digital nerve defects that require grafting, autografts remain the efficacious option. The sensory posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) is an ideal choice as it is of similar caliber to digital nerves and leaves no donor morbidity upon resection. However, a finite length of harvestable PIN exists, and considerable variations of this length have been reported in the literature. There exists no predictive model to estimate this length. We sought to determine a method to accurately predict the available length of PIN based on individual patient anthropometry. Methods: A cadaveric dissection study was performed in a fresh tissue laboratory. The length of the sensory branch of the PIN and various anthropometric measurements were made in respect to surface anatomy of the ulna to develop a predictable ratio for available PIN donor graft. Results: A total of 16 specimens were obtained. On average the length of the PIN was 5.7 cm (range: 3.3-9. cm) and the length of the ulna was 25.7 cm (range: 23.5-30.6 cm). The ratio of PIN to ulnar length was 0.222 (r = 0.4651). Using one-fifth the length of the ulna, the mean predicted length of the PIN was 5.14 cm (range: 4.7-6.1 cm). On univariate analysis, there was no significant difference between the measured and predicted PIN length (P = .249). Conclusion: An anthropometric ratio predicated on reproducible surface anatomy of the ulna is a useful tool in predicting the sensory PIN length. Such a prediction may be a useful in guiding patient discussions concerning surgical options for digital nerve reconstruction.

Objectif: Dans les cas d'anomalies des nerfs digitaux qui exigent une greffe, les autogreffes sont les plus efficaces. Le nerf interosseux postérieur (NIP) sensitif est le choix idéal, car son calibre est semblable à celui des nerfs digitaux et qu'il ne provoque aucun problème de santé au site de résection. Cependant, la longueur du NIP pouvant être récolté est limitée, et d'énormes variations sont présentées dans les publications. Aucun modèle prédictif ne permet d'évaluer cette longueur. Les chercheurs ont entrepris d'établir une méthode pour prédire avec fiabilité la longueur disponible du NIP d'après les caractéristiques anthropométriques de chaque patient. Méthodologie: Les chercheurs ont procédé à une étude de dissection cadavérique dans un laboratoire de tissus frais. Ils ont mesuré le rameau sensitif du NIP et diverses dimensions anthropométriques d'après l'anatomie de surface de l'ulna pour établir un ratio prévisible de greffe du NIP disponible chez le donneur. Résultats: Les chercheurs ont obtenu 16 prélèvements et calculé une longueur moyenne du NIP de 5,7 cm (plage de 3,3 cm à 9,6 cm) et une longueur moyenne de l'ulna de 25,7 cm (plage de 23,5 cm à 30,6 cm). Ils ont calculé un ratio de 0,222 (r = 0,4651) entre la longueur du NIP et de l'ulna. D'après le cinquième de la longueur de l'ulna, ils ont prédit une longueur moyenne du NIP de 5,14 cm (plage de 4,7 cm à 6,1 cm). À l'analyse univariée, ils n'ont constaté aucune différence significative entre la longueur mesurée et prédite du NIP (P = 0,249). Conclusion: Le ratio anthropométrique établi d'après l'anatomie de la surface reproductive de l'ulna est un outil utile pour prédire la longueur du NIP sensitif. Une telle prédiction peut être utile pour orienter les échanges avec le patient au sujet des possibilités chirurgicales de la reconstruction du nerf digital.

In Vitro Comparison between the Pulvertaft Weave and the Modified Core Suture Pulvertaft Weave.

Background: The Pulvertaft weave was described more than 50 years ago and is still used in tendon transfers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the strength of a modified core suture Pulvertaft weave technique and compare it to the original Pulvertaft weave traditionally used in tendon transfer surgery. Methods: 12 extensor pollicis longus tendons and extensor indices proprius tendons were harvested from fresh frozen cadavers. Six Pulvertaft weaves were performed using FiberWire 4.0 and six core suture tendon weave were performed using FiberLoop 4.0. Biomechanical analysis was performed and stifness, first failure load and ultimate failure load were measured for both set of repairs. Results: The stiffness of the core suture tendon repair (9.5 N/mm) was greater than that of the Pulvertaft repair (2.5 N/mm) The first failure load of the core suture tendon repairs (68.9 N) was greater than the Pulvertaft repairs (19.2 N) and the ultimate failure load of the core suture tendon repairs (101.8 N) was greater than the Pulvertaft repairs (21.9 N). All of these differences were statistically significant. Conclusions: The core suture Pulvertaft weave is a modification to the Pulvertaft weave used in tendon transfers. The results of this cadaveric study suggest it is 5 times stronger than the traditional Pulvertaft repair, potentially allowing it to be used with early active motion protocols after tendon transfers.

Anatomic surface landmarks to guide injection for posterior interosseous nerve block.

Proper injection of the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) is important for both the therapeutic and diagnostic management of wrist pain. However, no anatomical study exists describing the site of injection based on individual wrist width. We sought to develop a reproducible anthropometric ratio utilizing external wrist surface anatomy to predict a safe and accurate injection site for the PIN. Fresh frozen cadaver forearms were dissected at the University of Louisville tissue lab. Several anthropometric measurements were obtained in order to develop a reproducible ratio to calculate location of injection. A total of 16 cadaver forearms of equal male to female ratio were obtained. On average, the male forearm had a greater mean wrist circumference obtained at the level of Lister's tubercle compared to female forearms, 17.1 cm vs. 13.5 cm. An injection given ulnar to proximal edge of Lister's tubercle at a length of one-fourth the distance between Lister's tubercle and radial aspect of ulnar styloid resulted in 100% accurate perineural injection without intraneural injection. An anthropometric ratio of one-fourth the distance from Lister's tubercle to the ulnar styloid was able to predict accurate injection sites for the distal PIN in cadaveric specimens of varying anatomical proportions.

Surface Landmarks to Provide a Safe Ulnar Nerve Block in the Wrist: Anatomical Study and Literature Review.

Introduction: Use of local anesthesia in awake patients undergoing hand surgery has become increasingly popular. A thorough understanding of local anatomy, such as the distal wrist for ulnar nerve block, is required to provide safe blockade. We sought to conduct an anatomic study of the distal wrist and review cadaveric studies describing various techniques for ulnar nerve block. Methods: Dissection of fresh-frozen cadaver forearms at the University of Louisville Robert Acland Fresh Tissue Lab assessing relationships between the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon and the ulnar nerve and the ulnar artery was performed. Three cadaveric studies on ulnar nerve blockade using the ulnar, volar, and/or transtendinous technique were identified and reviewed. Results: A total of 16 cadaver forearms of equal male to female ratio were obtained. The ulnar nerve was noted to be directly posterior to the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon in 15 (93.8%) forearms, with 1 (6.3%) specimen having the nerve extend along the ulnar border of the flexor carpi ulnaris. The ulnar artery was radial to the ulnar nerve 1 cm proximal to the pisiform in all specimens. In all 3 cadaveric studies, only the ulnar technique was associated with no ulnar artery and/or ulnar nerve injury. Conclusion: Knowledge of distal wrist anatomy can help minimize risk of iatrogenic injury during local blockade. On review, the ulnar approach provides the safest method for ulnar nerve block.

Optimal Inframammary Fold Incision Length Based on Implant Volume for Breast Enlargement: A Cadaveric Study.

Purpose: Breast augmentation is the most commonly performed aesthetic operation in the Unites States annually. With the increasing popularity of gel implants, optimal incisional length for specific implant volumes becomes a factor to consider. Our study is the first, to date, to measure optimal incisional length for increasing Mentor smooth, round, moderate plus silicone implant volumes. Method: Three cadaver breasts were dissected in our anatomy laboratory. After dissection of a subpectoral pocket via an inframammary fold incision, time of implant insertion was measured for increasing volumes with the use of increasing incisional site lengths. Results: Values for increased incisions are as follows: 2.5-cm incision facilitated 100-cm3 implant (average time [AvgT] 76 seconds); 3-cm incision 100-cm3 implant (AvgT 32 seconds), 200 cm3 (AvgT 84.33 seconds); 3.5-cm incision 100-cm3 implant (AvgT 13.00 seconds), 200 cm3 (AvgT 22.00 seconds), 300 cm3 (AvgT 33.67 seconds); 4-cm incision 100-cm3 implant (AvgT 5.67 seconds), 200 cm3 (AvgT 11.33 seconds), 300 cm3 (AvgT 21.33 seconds), 400 cm3 (AvgT 26 seconds); 4.5-cm incision 100-cm3 implant (AvgT 5 seconds), 200 cm3 (AvgT 15.17 seconds), 300 cm3 (AvgT 19.67 seconds), 400 cm3 (AvgT 26 seconds), 500 cm3 (AvgT 39.67 seconds), 600 cm3 (AvgT 59.33 seconds), 700 cm3 (AvgT 78.67 seconds); 5-cm incision 100-cm3 implant (AvgT 1 second), 200 cm3 (AvgT 3.67 seconds), 300 cm3 (AvgT 8 seconds), 400 cm3 (AvgT 13 seconds), 500 cm3 (AvgT 19.33 seconds), 600 cm3 (AvgT 23.33 seconds), 700 cm3 (AvgT 28 seconds), 800 cm3 (AvgT 33 seconds). Conclusion: Based on our results, the optimal incision size for increasing Mentor smooth, round, moderate plus volumes is as follows: 2.5 cm for 100-cm3 implant, 3 cm for 200-cm3 implant, 3.5 cm for 300-cm3 implant, 4 cm for 400-cm3 implant, 4.5 cm for 500- to 700-cm3 implant, and 5 cm for 800-cm3 implant. This guideline can be used to provide the most aesthetic results without tissue compromise.

The Safe Gluteoplasty: Anatomic Landmarks to Predict the Superior and Inferior Gluteal Veins.

Objective: The increase in demand for gluteal fat grafting seen in recent years in the United States has not been met with an equal gain in knowledge of the perils of this anatomic territory. The purpose of this study was to identify anatomic landmarks that can be readily used by surgeons to identify the takeoff of the superior and inferior gluteal veins. Method: Six fresh cadaveric gluteal specimens were dissected at the University of Louisville anatomy laboratory. A question mark incision was made for exposure, followed by identification of the sciatic nerve in the proximal thigh. This was traced retrograde to the sciatic forearm. The piriformis muscle was identified dividing the foreman into superior and inferior portions, which corresponded to the takeoff of the superior and inferior gluteal vessels, respectively. The distance of the gluteal vessels from the one-third point of a line from the mid-sacrum to the greater trochanter was measured. Result: Our cadaveric dissection series demonstrated that the superior and inferior gluteal veins were on average 3.28 cm (2-5.9 cm) and 1.25 cm (0-3.5 cm) away from the point one third the distance from the mid-sacral border to the greater trochanter. Conclusion: The mid-sacrum and the trochanter of the femur are the anatomic landmarks used to identify the large gluteal vein trunks. Understanding the location and trajectory of these deep gluteal structures with use of readily identifiable landmarks may assist surgeons in avoiding inadvertent injection of fat to these veins during fat grafting.

Transfer of training in the development of intracorporeal suturing skill in medical student novices: a prospective randomized trial.

BACKGROUND: To help optimize the use of limited resources in trainee education, we developed a prospective randomized trial to determine the most effective means of teaching laparoscopic suturing to novices. METHODS: Forty-one medical students received rudimentary instruction in intracorporeal suturing, then were pretested on a pig enterotomy model. They then were posttested after completion of 1 of 4 training arms: laparoscopic suturing, laparoscopic drills, open suturing, and virtual reality (VR) drills. Tests were scored for speed, accuracy, knot quality, and mental workload (National Aeronautics and Space Administration [NASA] Task Load Index). RESULTS: Paired t tests were used. Task time was improved in all groups except the VR group. Knot quality improved only in the open or laparoscopic suturing groups. Mental workload improved only for those practicing on a physical laparoscopic trainer. CONCLUSIONS: For novice trainees, the efficacy of VR training is questionable. In contrast, the other training methods had benefits in terms of time, quality, and perceived workload.