Successful Surgical Resection and Reconstruction of a Giant Facial Vascular Malformation in an Elderly Patient.

Venous vascular malformations can be challenging, especially in an elderly patient. As these lesions can present with ulceration, deformity, pain, and swelling resulting from thrombi formed due to low flow (palpable phleboliths), removing them can be important for the well-being of the patient. A 79-year-old patient presented with a giant venous malformations occupying the left hemiface and a deprivation amblyopia in his left eye. Successful surgical resection and reconstruction was achieved and the patient was very pleased with his new appearance. Despite his age and surgical risks, we consider that never is late to improve a disfigured face.

A Ruler for Abdominoplasty Preoperative Markings: The Potential of Best Scar Symmetry.

Background. Scar appearance is an important outcome in abdominoplasty surgery, and its asymmetry can have a significant impact on patient and surgeon satisfaction. Here, we compared the scar symmetry reached with a ruler specially designed for the preoperative marking in abdominoplasty to the classic preoperative incision marking. Methods. In this randomized, uni-blind study, 42 patients were allocated to 2 different groups. Group 1 patients had their preoperative marking made by a group of surgeons that used the classic technique as described by Baroudi (n = 21), and Group 2 patients received their preoperative marking by another group of surgeons, using a ruler specially designed to fit the abdominal contour (n = 21). Patients were evaluated using a standard questionnaire that collected information about general patient's characteristics. On the follow-up period, we evaluated the presence of late surgical complications, need for revision surgery, patient's satisfaction concerning the postoperative scar, and 4 distances were measured in both groups to assess symmetry. Statistical analysis was made. Results. A total of 42 patients underwent abdominoplasty and were evaluated on the follow-up period (mean time: 4 months). The mean difference of corresponding measures on each side (A-B vs. A-B' and A-C vs. A-C') was higher in Group 1 comparing to Group 2. The level of correlation between corresponding measurements was higher in Group 2. Better satisfaction regarding the scar symmetry was achieved in Group 2, being this result statistically significant (P = .004). Conclusions. The use of the specialized ruler may help surgeons achieve a better scar symmetry with higher patient satisfaction.

Dynamic Facial Reanimation in an Overweight Patient and with Significant Comorbidities: An Objective Analysis of Labbè Technique.

Gracilis free muscle transfer is considered the gold standard technique for facial reanimation in cases of facial palsy. However, it is limited by its long operative and recovery times, the need for a second surgical site, and its outcomes that can sometimes show midfacial bulk and oral commissure malposition. Facial reanimation with lengthening temporalis myoplasty (LTM)-Labbé technique- carries the advantage of having a shorter surgical time, a faster recovery, and being a less invasive surgery. Almost all patients included in studies of LTM were evaluated by subjective methods, and very little quantifiable data was available. A 64-year-old woman presented with long-standing incomplete right facial palsy secondary to acoustic neuroma surgery. Since she was overweight (body mass index [BMI]: 43.9) and had several cardiovascular comorbidities (hypertension, dyslipidemia), she was not a good candidate for gracilis free muscle transfer. She was submitted to facial reanimation with LTM. Fourteen months after surgery, she presented excellent facial symmetry, both at rest and in contraction, while smiling. She was evaluated with the Facegram-3D, a technology that we have developed for dynamic evaluation of facial muscle contraction. The analysis showed symmetry at rest and contraction, according to Terzis and Noah. Regarding vertical and horizontal displacement, the postoperative movement was synchronized and with less fluctuations when compared with the preoperative period. Notably, the anatomical pair's trajectories were smoother. Similar velocity profiles were found between anatomical pairs, with less abrupt changes in velocity values, further supporting improved movement control. Comparing the symmetry index, which takes a theoretical maximum of 1.0 for perfect 3D symmetry, its value was 0.56 for the commissures and 0.5 for the midpoints in the preoperative period, having improved to 0.91 and 0.82, respectively, 3 months postoperatively. Good aesthetic and functional results were achieved using the Labbè technique. LTM is a good option in cases of long-standing facial paralysis, if the patient desires a single-stage procedure with almost immediate dynamic function. Moreover, this technique assumes extreme importance in facial reanimation of patients of advanced age, overweight, or those who have several comorbidities.

Salvage of a Near-Total Penile Amputation following Urinary Fistulization and Carbapenemase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Infection with a Composite ALT Flap and Vascularized Fascia Lata.

Reconstruction of complex penile defects is always challenging, as some defects are not possible to reconstruct with skin or mucosa grafts, and even local flaps may be precluded in complex wounds. We present a case of a 63-year-old otherwise healthy man, who underwent transurethral resection of the prostate for benign prostatic hyperplasia. After the procedure, he developed panurethral necrosis with consequent stricture. Three urethroplasties for reconstruction of the bulbar and distal urethra using buccal mucosa grafts, a preputial flap, and penile skin were performed by urology team in different institutions, but serious urinary fistulization and carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC) infection translated in a chronic wound, urethra necrosis, and near-total penile amputation. A composite anterolateral thigh flap and vascularized fascia lata were used with success together with a perineal urethroplasty in different stages, improving the ischemic wound condition. The extended segment of fascia lata was used for Buck's fascia replacement and circumferential reinforcement to cover the erectile bodies of the penis. The postoperative period was uneventful and after 12 months, there were no signs of recurrence or wound dehiscence. He was able and easily adapted to void in a seated position through the perineal urethrostomy that was made. To the best of our knowledge, this procedure has not been reported previously as a salvage procedure in a fistulizated and KPC infected penis, but it may be considered to avoid penile amputation in chronic infected and intractable wounds.

Epidemiological Profile in Portugal of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: A Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare T-cell neoplasm that is predominantly associated with the use of textured implants. Recently, several countries have tried to clarify their epidemiological profile of BIA-ALCL. This study aims to estimate the number of cases of BIA-ALCL in Portugal and to describe the pattern of use of breast implants at a national level. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study including 57 healthcare institutions - 29 public hospitals and 28 private institutions. Each department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery was asked to provide information concerning the main manufacturer(s) and respective device texture of the breast implants used, and to report the number of registered cases of BIA-ALCL. RESULTS: In our study sample, the response rate was 58%. In our sample, most hospitals reported using textured breast implants from Mentor (45.45%), Allergan (42.42%) and Polytech (39.39%). Only one private institution referred using smooth-coated implants from Mentor and Motiva. Despite several hospitals reporting late-onset seromas, there was only one confirmed case of BIA-ALCL after proper investigation with immunohistochemistry and histological procedures. DISCUSSION: BIA-ALCL may represent a shift for surgeons regarding selection of implant type. Smooth-coated implants or autologous tissue represent adequate alternatives that could surpass the risks associated with textured devices. CONCLUSION: In the future, the creation of a national patient registry and proper recognition of BIA-ALCL by plastic surgeons could be useful tools to clarify the impact of the disease nationally and to mitigate potential risk factors.

Introdução: O linfoma anaplásico de grandes células associado a implantes mamários (BIA-ALCL) é uma neoplasia rara de células T predominantemente associada ao uso de próteses texturizadas. Recentemente, vários países procuraram clarificar o seu perfil epidemiológico. Este estudo pretende estimar o número de casos de BIA-ALCL em Portugal e descrever o padrão de utilização de próteses mamárias a nível nacional. Material e Métodos: Este é um estudo transversal realizado em 57 serviços de saúde - 29 hospitais públicos e 28 instituições privadas. A cada departamento de Cirurgia Plástica, Reconstrutiva e Estética foi solicitada informação sobre os principais fabricantes e respetiva textura dos implantes mamários utilizados, bem como número de casos registados de BIA-ALCL. Resultados: Na nossa amostra, a taxa de resposta foi 58%. Considerando o universo de respostas obtidas, a maioria dos hospitais referiu usar implantes mamários texturizados da Mentor (45,45%), Allergan (42,42%) e Polytech (39,39%). Apenas uma instituição privada mencionou utilizar implantes lisos da Mentor e Motiva. Vários hospitais reportaram a ocorrência de seromas tardios. Contudo, apenas um caso de BIA-ALCL se veio a confirmar após investigação imunohistoquímica e histológica adequada. Discussão: O BIA-ALCL poderá determinar uma alteração do paradigma de seleção do tipo de implante mamário, onde alternativas como os implantes lisos e tecido autólogo poderão superar os riscos inerentes aos dispositivos texturizados. Conclusão: De futuro, a criação de um registo nacional de doentes e reconhecimento do BIA-ALCL pelos cirurgiões plásticos poderão ser importantes ferramentas para clarificar o seu impacto no território nacional e mitigar potenciais fatores de risco.

Fournier's gangrene: a review of reconstructive options.

INTRODUCTION: Fournier's gangrene is a rapidly progressive necrotizing fasciitis of the genital and perineal tissues with a high mortality rate. Early diagnosis and treatment with fluid resuscitation, surgical debridement and wide-spectrum antibiotics are essential in the management of Fournier's gangrene. After primary treatment, reconstructive surgery is often necessary for coverage of soft-tissue defects. This review article aims to provide an overview of the main reconstructive procedures used in Fournier's gangrene. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A literature search was performed on the subject of reconstructive surgery in Fournier's gangrene. RESULTS: Techniques of reconstructive surgery for soft-tissue defects following Fournier's gangrene include skin grafts, local advancement flaps, scrotal flaps, multiple fasciocutaneous and myocutaneous flaps, and testicular transposition. The surgical goal is to achieve the best functional and cosmetic result possible with minimal morbidity. Advantages and disadvantages of each technique and potential indications are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: Characteristics of the defect, patient preference and surgeon experience should guide the choice of reconstructive procedure. Further comparative studies are needed to optimize results.

Necrotic Loxoscelism of the Scalp.

A 15 month old boy was referred to our department after he and his mother moved to our country. He had been bitten by a brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) at the age of 7 months, in Brazil. Initially, he presented to the emergency department of his local hospital with rash in the scalp, near the bite. After a few days, he developed systemic disease with multiorgan failure and was admitted on intensive care unit, where he has been treated for 2 months. During this hospital stay he developed skin necrosis of the scalp, right preauricular, mandibular, and neck regions. He also developed right foot ischemia, which resulted in amputation. At the discharge time, he was under topical treatment with silver sulfadiazine, which was maintained until our observation, 8 months after being bitten. The child was successfully treated, and is now stable and awaiting lower limb prosthetic replacement.Loxoscelism (bites by spiders of the genus Loxosceles) is the only proven arachnological cause of dermonecrosis. The brown recluse spider, Loxosceles reclusa, is the best known and can cause necrotic dermatologic injury throw an enzyme, sphingomyelinase D, that has been shown to be cytotoxic to endothelial and red blood cells. Although the majority of persons bitten by a brown recluse spider probably will not seek medical attention, some patients may develop systemic loxoscelism, especially children.

The Facial Artery Perforator Flap as a New Option for Reconstruction of Intraoral Defects: Surgical Tips and Clinical Series.

BACKGROUND: The authors have recently 1st described the use of the facial artery perforator flap (FAP) for intraoral reconstruction. In this study, they discuss technical notes and surgical tips associated with the procedure and the application of this flap in 4 patients with intraoral defects resulting from cancer or osteoradionecrosis. METHODS: A retrospective study of 4 consecutive patients was performed on all patients who underwent reconstruction of an intraoral defect with a FAP flap, over a 12-month period from March 2017 to March 2018.The flap was designed according to the size of the defect centered on the perforator and was tunneled intraorally by means of a 90° rotation or advanced medially. The most constantly encountered perforator 1.5 cm lateral to the oral commissure was used in 3 cases; a cranial perforator was selected in 1 patient. RESULTS: Four FAP flaps were used in 4 patients with intraoral defects. Follow-up was 6 to 12 months. Median defect size was 9.15 cm (range, 3.4-21.5 cm). All reconstructions were successful, without major flap loss or infections. One patient with severe osteoradionecrosis and fungal infection developed minor flap loss and dehiscence, which was treated conservatively. There were no signs of local recurrence and functional outcomes were satisfactory. CONCLUSIONS: The FAP flap is an effective and versatile solution for reconstruction of intraoral defects until 5 cm × 4 cm (20 cm) without significant donor-site morbidity. It may be considered a new reconstructive option for intraoral defects, which warrants further study in a larger series or patients.