Negative pressure wound therapy on complex extremity wounds requiring coverage with a meshed bilayer wound matrix: a retrospective analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The treatment of complex extremity wounds is technically challenging. In this 5-year retrospective review, we compared the use of Integra Meshed Bilayer Wound Matrix (IMBWM; Integra LifeSciences, US) followed by a split-thickness skin graft (STSG) combined with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) versus IMBWM followed by STSG alone for the management of these wounds. METHOD: Data from patients undergoing management using IMBWM for a complex extremity wound coverage were collected. RESULTS: Among the 109 patients studied, the wounds of 62 patients were managed using IMBWM and NPWT, and 47 were managed using IMBWM alone. The most common aetiology of these injuries was trauma. Wound size and location were similar for each group, ranging in size from 2-30cm2 and being primarily on the forearm, followed by the leg and arm. There was a significantly greater take of the IMBWM+STSG with NPWT (96.8%) compared to without NPWT (85.1%, p=0.03). There were significantly fewer reapplications of the dermal matrix required in the NPWT group (3.2%) versus the non-NPWT group (14.9%, p=0.03). There were significantly fewer postoperative complications, prior to STSG, in the NPWT group (3.2%) versus the non-NPWT group (14.9%, p=0.03). CONCLUSION: The combination of IMBWM with NPWT leads to a higher success rate, and can reduce the number of dermal matrix reapplications and postoperative complications, in the setting of complex extremity wounds. The use of IMBWM in combination with NPWT has the potential to improve both surgical procedures and patient outcomes in this setting.

Lip Reconstruction After Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A Guide on Flaps.

The lips are commonly affected by skin cancer because of increased sun exposure over time. Even with early detection, many of these skin cancers require surgical removal with subsequent reconstruction. Mohs micrographic surgery is the preferred method of treatment for nonmelanoma skin cancers of the lip, as it has the lowest recurrence rates and allows for the maximum preservation of healthy tissue. After surgery, the remaining lip defect often requires reconstruction with skin grafts or a local cutaneous or myocutaneous flap. There are several local flap reconstruction options available, and some may be used in combination for more complex defects. We provide a succinct review of commonly utilized flaps and outline their indications, risks, and benefits.

Dermatologic Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Impact on Pregnancy and Breastfeeding.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that most commonly affects women of childbearing age. The symptoms of the disease are managed with a multitude of topical and systemic medications. The course of HS changes during pregnancy, and some women can experience postpartum flares. Thus, it is important to be aware of how pregnancy may alter the treatment plan for women and impact their choice to breastfeed. The following review summarizes medical management for HS and its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Management of severe rhinophyma with electrocautery dermabrasion - A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Rhinophyma is benign hypertrophic thickening of the skin and edema of the nasal pyramid. The affected tissue enlarges slowly before reaching its permanent size. The lobulated skin surface with hundreds of pores can become cosmetically embarrassing and cause significant psychosocial stress, anxiety, and depression for patients. In addition, extensive alar thickening can obstruct the external nasal valves making treatment necessary to alleviate respiratory issues. No consensus has been reached regarding management of rhinophyma and many surgeons follow the "to each his own technique" mindset. Our objective was to present a case report to support the use of electrocautery and dermabrasion as the mainstay of treatment. PRESENTATION OF CASE: Here we describe the case of a 62-year-old Caucasian male with a long-standing history of acne rosacea who developed severe rhinophyma overtime which lead to nasal obstruction and major cosmetic deformity. Electrocautery and dermabrasion in the operating room were utilized to obtain an outstanding cosmetic result and respiratory function improvement. Loop and Colorado cautery tips were used with cutting current to remove the hypertrophic skin and create a smooth contour. The patient tolerated the procedure well without any complications. The patient's skin was scab-free with normal pigmentation by four weeks post-op. He was satisfied with the cosmetic outcome and reported substantial improvement in his breathing. DISCUSSION: There have been several case reports published which describe using different surgical methods to treat rhinophyma including lasers, electrocautery dermabrasion, surgical blade, cryosurgery, and radio excision. The main limitations of laser therapy are imprecise tissue removal, risk of scarring, dyspigmentation, and bleeding. Other therapies such as surgical excision and skin grafts may require multiple procedures before obtaining a satisfactory cosmetic outcome. CONCLUSION: This case report supports electrocautery dermabrasion as the mainstay of treatment as it is a management technique which allows for smooth contouring, efficient hemostasis, more control in the operating room, and does not require multiple procedures.