Editorial for the Special Issue "Vasorum Lymphaticorum: From the Discovery of the Lymphatic System to the New Perspectives in Microsurgical Reconstruction and Patient Rehabilitation".

Lymphedema is a complex clinical condition that appears as a result of the failure of the lymphatic system function, and it is characterized by edema, fibrosis, and adipose deposition [...].

Mind the Gap: A Questionnaire on the Distance between Diagnostic Advances and Clinical Practice in Skin Cancer Treatment.

Background and Objectives: Significant progress has been made in skin cancer diagnosis, with a surge in available technologies in recent years. Despite this, the practical application and integration of these technologies in dermatology and plastic surgery remain uneven. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive 20-question survey was designed and distributed using online survey administration software (Google Forms, 2018, Google, Mountain View, CA, USA) from June 2023 to September 2023. The survey aimed to assess the knowledge and utilization of dermatologic diagnostic advancements among plastic surgeons in various European countries. Results: Data were obtained from 29 plastic surgeons across nine European countries, revealing a notable gap between diagnostic technologies and their routine use in surgical practice. The gap for some technologies was both cognitive and applicative; for electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and multispectral imaging, only 6.9% of the sample knew of the technologies and no surgeons in the sample used them. In the case of other technologies, such as high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS), 72.4% of the sample knew about them but only 34.5% used them, highlighting a more significant application problem. Conclusions: Spotlighting this discrepancy provides a valuable foundation for initiating collaborative efforts between units and facilitating knowledge exchange among diverse specialists. This, in turn, contributes to advancing clinical practice by integrating the innovative opportunities presented by ongoing research.

Orthoplastic limb reconstruction using free fibula flap after trauma: Outcomes from a retrospective European multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: Free vascularized fibula flap represents the gold standard vascularized bone graft for the management of segmental long bone defects after traumatic injury. The current study represents the largest retrospective multicenter data collection on the use of free fibula flap (FFF) for extremities' orthoplastic reconstruction after trauma aiming to highlight current surgical practice and to set the basis for updating current surgical indications. METHODS: The study is designed as a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data between 2009 and 2021 from six European University hospitals. Patients who underwent fibula flap reconstruction after acute traumatic injury (AF) or as a late reconstruction (LF) after post-traumatic non-union of upper or lower limb were included. Only extra-articular, diaphyseal fracture were included in the study. Surgical data were collected. Time to bone healing and complications were reported as clinical outcomes. RESULTS: Sixty-two patients were included in the study (27 in the AF group and 35 in the LF group). The average patients' age at the time of the traumatic event was 45.3 ± 2.9 years in the AF group and 41.1 ± 2.1 years in the LF group. Mean bone defect size was 7.7 ± 0.6 cm for upper limb and 11.2 ± 1.1 cm (p = .32) for lower limb. Bone healing was uneventful in 69% of treated patients, reaching 92% after complementary procedures. Bone healing time was 7.6 ± 1.2 months in the acute group and 9.6 ± 1.5 months in the late group. An overall complication rate of 30.6% was observed, with a higher percentage of late bone complications in the LF group (34%), mostly non-union cases. CONCLUSIONS: FFF reconstruction represents a reliable and definitive solution for long bone defects with bone healing reached in 92% cases with a 8.4 months of average bone healing time.

Medial fascia lata perforator flap: Anatomical basis and clinical application as a pedicled or free flap.

Adipofascial flaps have proven to be an excellent tool for multipurpose reconstruction as free or pedicled flaps. The anatomical studies in this field are now focused on improving esthetics in reconstruction while maintaining a minimal donor site morbidity. An anatomical cadaver study has been carried out to investigate the medial thigh region as a potential donor site for adipofascial flaps. Eighteen thighs from fresh cadavers were dissected and a new territory with autonomous vascular supply was defined through vascular injection, anatomical dissection, transillumination, and angiography. Cutaneous access was made in a "T" shape. The fascia harvests had to be centered on the adductor longus and gracilis muscles bearing in mind the position of the flap pedicle. The fascial flap was isolated from adductor longus and gracilis muscles and isolated on his pedicle (medial circumflex femoral artery). After our anatomical study, we used the flap in 2 clinical cases. The results of our anatomical study and clinical cases confirmed the suitability and reliability of a new flap: the "Medial Fascia Lata Flap." Flap size ranged from 20 to 25 cm and has the advantage of preserving the functionality of the thigh muscles. The study showed that the "Medial Fascia Lata Flap" is easy to harvest, and the resulting scar is concealed. In consideration of its suitability, reliability and aesthetical advantages, it could be proposed as a good option in selected cases.

The medial sural artery perforator flap for retromolar trigone reconstruction: A multicenter case series.

BACKGROUND: Retromolar trigone (RMT) cancer is a rare malignancy, which develops in a narrow area of the oral cavity. Surgical intervention requires wide excision and appropriate reconstruction usually with a free tissue transfer. Little has been published regarding the ideal microvascular reconstruction, mainly focusing on radial forearm and anterolateral thigh free flap. The medial sural artery perforator flap (MSAP) is not new for head and neck reconstruction but its use for RMT reconstruction has not been previously explored. The purpose of the study is to present a multicentric case series investigating the reliability of MSAP flap for RMT reconstruction. METHODS: The study is designed as a retrospective case series. All patients diagnosed with RMT cancer and undergone surgical resection and immediate reconstruction with a MSAP flap between February 2016 and March 2020 were identified. Patients' demographics and surgical details were collected. Functional results were evaluated using the Head and Neck Module of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer at 12 months of follow-up. A total of 34 patients with a mean age of 58 years were included in the study. An average defect size of 31.5 cm2 was observed after RMT tumor resection. RESULTS: The MSAP flaps' average dimensions were 11 ± 3.1 cm in length and 4.7 ± 1.6 cm in width with a mean thickness of 1.4 ± 0.8 cm. No flap complications were observed in 28 cases; four patients developed an orocutaneous fistula. One patient needed surgical revision for venous congestion while only one case of flap failure was observed. At 12 months of follow-up, 87% of the patient cohort had normal, understandable speech. No patient experienced complete loss of swallowing. Results of the H&N35 module showed a significative postoperative improvement in mouth soreness, mouth opening and social (p < .05*). No patient complained difficulty in motility at the donor site. CONCLUSIONS: The MSAP flap appears to be appropriate for RMT reconstruction and could be considered the workhorse for small to medium size defect of RTM region. It has a long pedicle of matching caliber and provides adequate tissue volume with minimal donor site morbidity.

The breast cancer-related lymphedema multidisciplinary approach: Algorithm for conservative and multimodal surgical treatment.

BACKGROUND: Multiple surgical alternatives are available to treat breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) providing a variable spectrum of outcomes. This study aimed to present the breast cancer-related lymphedema multidisciplinary approach (B-LYMA) to systematically treat BCRL. METHODS: Seventy-eight patients presenting with BCRL between 2017 and 2021 were included. The average age and BMI were 49.4 ± 7.8 years and 28.1 ± 3.5 kg/m2 , respectively. Forty patients had lymphedema ISL stage II (51.3%) and 38 had stage III (48.7%). The mean follow-up was 26.4 months. Treatment was selected according to the B-LYMA algorithm, which aims to combine physiologic and excisional procedures according to the preoperative evaluation of patients. All patients had pre- and postoperative complex decongestive therapy (CDT). RESULTS: Stage II patients were treated with lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) (n = 18), vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) (n = 12), and combined DIEP flap and VLNT (n = 10). Stage III patients underwent combined suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) and LVA (n = 36) or combined SAL and VLNT (n = 2). Circumferential reduction rates (CRR) were comparable between patients treated with LVA (56.5 ± 8.4%), VLNT (54.4 ± 10.2%), and combined VLNT-DIEP flap (56.5 ± 3.9%) (p > .05). In comparison to LVA, VLNT, and combined VLNT-DIEP flap, combined SAL-LVA exhibited higher CRRs (85 ± 10.5%, p < .001). The CRR for combined SAL-VLNT was 75 ± 8.5%. One VLNT failed and minor complications occurred in the combined DIEP-VLNT group. CONCLUSION: The B-LYMA protocol directs the treatment of BCRL according to the lymphatic system's condition. In advanced stages where a single physiologic procedure is not sufficient, additional excisional surgery is implemented. Preoperative and postoperative CDT is mandatory to improve the outcomes.

Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Strategies for Upper and Lower Extremity Lymphedema: A Comprehensive Review.

Lymphedema is a chronic disabling condition affecting a growing number of patients worldwide. Although lymphedema is not life-threatening, several reports underlined detrimental consequences in terms of distress, pain, functional impairment, and infections with a relevant decrease in quality of life. Currently, there is no cure, and the therapeutic management of this condition aims at slowing down the disease progression and preventing secondary complications. Early diagnosis is paramount to enhance the effects of rehabilitation or surgical treatments. On the other hand, a multidisciplinary treatment should be truly integrated, the combination of microsurgical and reductive procedures should be considered a valid strategy to manage extremity lymphedema, and rehabilitation should be considered the cornerstone of the multidisciplinary treatment not only for patients not suitable for surgical interventions but also before and after surgical procedures. Therefore, a specialized management of Plastic Reconstructive Surgeons and Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine physicians should be mandatory to address patients' needs and optimize the treatment of this disabling and detrimental condition. Therefore, the aim of this review was to characterize the comprehensive management of lymphedema, providing a broad overview of the potential therapy available in the current literature to optimize the comprehensive management of lymphedema and minimize complications.

Perforator-based Adipofascial Flaps and ADM: A Novel Combined Approach to Distal Lower Extremity Defects.

Due to the wide spectrum of lower extremity defect presentation, various reconstructive techniques are available. Classic adipofascial flaps are still a second choice. The authors described a new multistage reconstructive approach with perforator-based pedicled adipofascial flap. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed data of 23 patients undergoing adipofascial flap reconstruction after distal leg trauma between June 2017 and January 2020. A reconstructive approach with an adipofascial flap followed by a skin graft was used in all patients. Patients were divided into two treatment groups, and in only one treatment group, an acellular dermal matrix was placed above the adipofascial flap during the first stage of the reconstruction. Negative pressure wound therapy was applied to both groups. Surgical technique, outcomes, and complications were discussed. RESULTS: All patients achieved complete healing, and no flap loss was reported. Minor complications occurred in four patients; all were treated conservatively on outpatient basis. The surgical and aesthetic results were evaluated as satisfactory from both patients and professionals. However, the group treated with acellular dermal matrix showed a lower complication rate, and resulted significantly more satisfied with the overall results and in several domains of the questionnaire administered postoperatively (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The adipofascial flap is a safe and effective approach for the reconstruction of small-to-medium-sized defects of the distal lower extremity. Our two-stage reconstructive approach maximizes the pearls offered by the established technique; the dermal matrix guarantees a layered reconstruction optimizing the surgical and aesthetic outcomes of the skin graft with minimal donor site morbidity.

The Combination of Lymph Node Transfer and Excisional Procedures in Bilateral Lower Extremity Lymphedema: Clinical Outcomes and Quality of Life Assessment with Long-Term Follow-Up.

BACKGROUND: Bilateral lower extremity lymphedema is a rare and invalidating condition that poses a great challenge to the scientific community, and deeply affects the quality of life (QoL) of affected patients. A combined protocol consisting of lymph node transfer and a reductive method have never been reported for the treatment of this condition, except for small case series with brief follow-up periods. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed data of 29 patients, mean age 51 ± 17.1 years, who had been diagnosed with bilateral lower extremity lymphedema. Gastroepiploic vascularized lymph node transfer was performed in all the patients, and an excisional procedure was associated according to the clinical stage. Clinical history, circumferential limb measurements, complications, episodes of cellulitis, and responses to the Lymphedema Quality of Life Questionnaire were analyzed. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 38.4 ± 11.8 months. A significant reduction in the episodes of cellulitis per year was observed (p < 0.001). In our series, BMI and duration of symptoms were significantly related to the development of cellulitis during the postoperative period, p = 0.006 and p = 0.020, respectively. The LYMQoL questionnaire showed a significant quality of life improvement from 3.4 ± 0.9 to 6.2 ± 0.8 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: An integrated approach is essential for the treatment of bilateral lower extremity lymphedema: reductive and reconstructive methods are complementary to achieve a successful outcome. Timely treatment and BMI reduction are relevant in order to decrease the number of episodes of cellulitis. An attentive follow-up is necessary to identify recurrence and treat affected patients in time.

A Retrospective Study on Single-Stage Reconstruction of the Ear following Skin Cancer Excision in Elderly Patients.

Ear reconstructive surgery aims to solve the deformities caused by cancer excision. Despite the numerous surgical procedures described, recreating the complex anatomy of the ear still represents a challenge, particularly for young surgeons. The purpose of this exploratory pilot study is to review our experience with single stage reconstruction of the partial defects of the auricle, and propose an algorithm based on defect size, location, and characteristics. We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent ear reconstruction after cancer excision at our institution between February 2018 and November 2020. The data collected included patients' demographics, defect characteristics, reconstructive technique used, complications, and outcomes. The patients were evaluated at a minimum follow-up time of 12 months. Forty-six patients were included in the study. The most common cause for ear reconstruction was basal cell carcinoma. The mean area of defect was 4.3 cm2 and the helix was the most frequent location of defect. Two patients experienced post-operative complications. At the one-year follow-up, difference in skin pigmentation was reported in 10 cases, a depressed contour of the ear was found in 4 cases, and moderate ear asymmetry was found in 11 cases. No patient needed a secondary procedure. In conclusion, the proposed reconstructive algorithm represents a reconstructive indication that is simple and characterized by low complication rates and good outcomes for both the patient and the surgeon.

Combined lymph node transfer and suction-assisted lipectomy in lymphedema treatment: A prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies have analyzed the combination of suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) in lymphedema treatment, reporting positive outcomes. However, it is difficult to draw conclusions due to the heterogeneity of the studies. Aim of this prospective study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the combination of VLNT and SAL in lymphedema treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between January 2016 and May 2019, 94 patients with upper or lower limb stage IIb-III lymphedema were enrolled and treated with the gastroepiploic VLNT followed by SAL. Patients were prospectively evaluated through circumference measurement and clinical examination, including number of episodes of cellulitis. RESULTS: Among patients enrolled in the study 83 were affected by lower limb lymphedema (LLL) and 11 were affected by upper limb lymphedema (ULL). Average follow-up was 3 ± 0.8 years. In the LLL group, the mean circumference reduction rates (CRR) were 60.4, 56.9, 29.6, and 55.4% above and below the knee, above the ankle, and at the foot level, respectively. A statistically significant difference was noted at all the levels (p < .05), but above the ankle (p = .059). Regarding the ULL group, the mean CRR were 80.7, 60.7, 65.0 and 49.6% above and below the elbow, at wrist and at mid-hand, respectively. CRR were reported at all the levels but no statistical difference was noted. The number of episodes of cellulitis dropped significantly (p < .05). CONCLUSION: This study supports the use of VLNT+SAL in lymphedema grades IIb-III, with important implications for the clinical practice.

Extensor Pollicis Brevis Transosseous Tenodesis Technique for Treatment of Acquired Metacarpophalangeal Hyperextension Deformity of the Thumb: A Preliminary Report.

SUMMARY: Hyperextension deformity of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb causes pain and loss of function. Although many treatments have been proposed, none of them are universally accepted as ideal. The authors report a study of 12 symptomatic hyperextension deformities of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint in 10 patients who underwent surgical correction. The purpose of this study was to describe a new technique of tenodesis of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint using the extensor pollicis brevis tendon. The technique consists of extensor pollicis brevis tenotomy at the wrist and tendon transfer through two bone tunnels to the palmar aspect of the metacarpophalangeal joint before metacarpal fixation with a flexor tenodesis effect. Correction of hyperextension and range of motion were assessed. Functional changes were evaluated by Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, pain visual analogue scale, Kapandji opposition scheme, and pinch strength. The Wilcoxon test was used for statistical analysis. Mean preoperative and postoperative metacarpophalangeal joint hyperextension deformities were +50.83 ± 5.57 degrees and -17.91 ± 7.82 degrees, respectively. Thumb opposition improved by one point on Kapandji's scheme. Mean perceived pain decreased from 7.66 to 1.16. On average, the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was reduced by 34.4 points and pinch strength increased by 50.42 percent. The authors found that extensor pollicis brevis transosseous tenodesis is a safe and minimally invasive method for successfully correcting the functionality and cosmetic appearance of metacarpophalangeal joint hyperextension deformities in posttraumatic and trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis cases. The patients retained functional active flexion, even in deformities greater than 40 degrees. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Muscle-Sparing Skin-Reducing Breast Reconstruction with Pre-Pectoral Implants in Breast Cancer Patients: Long-Term Assessment of Patients' Satisfaction and Quality of Life.

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed tumor in women; globally, it accounts 23% of all cancer deaths. Breast reconstruction after oncologic surgery has become crucial to enhance patients' quality of life and alleviate the psychological distress related to the disease. The aim of this study was to assess quality of life and esthetic satisfaction of breast cancer patients undergoing muscle-sparing skin-reducing breast reconstruction (MS-SR) with pre-pectoral implants. METHODS: Sixty-three patients who met definite oncological and reconstructive criteria were enrolled in the study. Specific questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30, QLQ-BR23) were administered preoperatively, 1, and 12 months after MS-SR breast reconstruction to evaluate patients' QoL. Satisfaction with procedure and related Quality of Life were assessed through BREAST-Q questionnaire preoperatively and 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: Sixty-three breast cancer patients underwent MS-SR. Seventy-eight procedures were carried out; in 15 patients a bilateral reconstruction was performed. One month after surgery, both EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23 average scores demonstrated a slight drop since preoperative values, but a significant improvement in QoL was documented 12 months after BR (p < 0.05). BREAST-Q test showed significant psychophysical and esthetic satisfaction 12 months postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Muscle-sparing skin-reducing breast reconstruction is an established and reliable technique. EORTC QLQ-C30, QLQ-BR23 and BREAST-Q scores showed an improvement of patients' QoL and esthetic satisfaction. Reduction of pain and other surgery-related symptoms are cornerstones of patient well-being. Both physicians and patients should build a thorough awareness of the silver lining of muscle-sparing skin-reducing breast reconstruction based on the high safety profile and highly satisfactory patient-reported results.

Helix Thigh Lift. A Novel Approach to Severe Deformities in Massive Weight Loss Patients.

BACKGROUND: After massive weight loss, the severe gynoid body contour deformities are not always faceable with optimal results. The thigh is one of the most demanding area to address; therefore, the approach should be virtually individualized. The authors describe the helix thigh lift: A novel technique that combines vertical with horizontal axis of pull. The goal of this ultimate customization is to dramatically impact physical functioning and esthetics of this patient population. METHODS: Thigh lift patients from 2016 to 2019 were assessed retrospectively; fourteen patients were selected for helix thigh lift procedure. Preoperative markings, surgical technique and outcomes were described. The mean follow-up time was 14.8 ± 3.2 months. A questionnaire was administered to evaluate the results. RESULTS: Fourteen female patients (mean age, 42 ± 4.8 years) underwent helix thigh lift after massive weight loss. The overall complication rate was 36 percent. They were all minor complications and were treated in an outpatient setting. Seroma formation was the most frequent, at 29 percent. No skin necrosis was reported. Complication development was straight related to the age of the patient (p = 0.0455). The patients were very satisfied with the overall outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Helix thigh lift effectively addresses the severe gynoid body contour deformities. The high satisfaction and the reasonable complication rate suggest that this is a safe and effective technique. The age of the patient was significantly associated to complication development. A dramatic improvement of ease in performing activities of daily living along with reduction of the skin problems leads to significant improvement of the quality of life.

The keystone flap: A multi-centric experience in elderly patients treatment.

Soft tissue reconstruction in elderly patients must be rapid and reliable. The keystone island flap (KF) offers an effective solution, with low complication rates and quick recovery. This multi-centric study aims to show authors' experience with KFs in treating soft tissue defects of trunk and limbs. Patients with soft tissue defects suitable for KF reconstruction were recruited from March 2019 to December 2019. Active inflammation and previous surgeries in the same region were considered exclusion criteria. Complications that occurred during follow-up were recorded, and their incidence pattern was assessed with the Fisher test. Seventy-two patients with mean age of 76.2 years old were selected. They presented lesions in torso (46; 63.9%) or in upper (4; 5.6%) or lower (22; 30.6%) limb regions. Fifteen (20.8%) wounds were non-oncologic lesions, and the others were oncologic lesions, mostly non-melanoma skin cancers. KF type I was carried out in 42 (58.3%) cases, KF type II-A in 13 (18%) cases, double opposed type III KF in 16 (22.2%) patients, and 1 (1.4%) case required partial flap's undermining (IV KF). Mean post-operative recovery period was 4.3 days (range, 1-9 days). Post-surgical complications occurred in 15 (20.8%) cases, 7 (9.7%) of them were considered major complications. No statistically significant difference in complications' incidence, nor among different surgical sites nor among KF types, was registered. Reconstructive surgeons have to adapt their work to elderly patients. The KF allows rapid operative times, low morbidity rates, and short post-operative recovery time, thus appearing as a feasible solution.

Quality of Life Interventions in Breast Cancer Survivors: State of the Art in Targeted Rehabilitation Strategies.

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor and the most prevalent cause of mortality in women. Advances in early diagnosis and more effective adjuvant therapies have improved the long-term survival of these patients. Pharmacotherapies and intrinsic tumor-related factors may lead to a wide spectrum of treatment-related disabling complications, such as breast cancer-related lymphedema, axillary web syndrome, persistent pain, bone loss, arthralgia, and fatigue. These conditions have a detrimental impact on the health-related quality of life of survivors. Here, we sought to provide a portrait of the role that rehabilitation plays in breast cancer survivors. Particular emphasis has been put in terms of recovering function, improving independence in activities of daily living, and reducing disability. This complex scenario requires a precision medicine approach to provide more effective decision-making and adequate treatment compliance.

Can Liquid Lenses Increase Depth of Field in Head Mounted Video See-Through Devices?

Wearable Video See-Through (VST) devices for Augmented Reality (AR) and for obtaining a Magnified View are taking hold in the medical and surgical fields. However, these devices are not yet usable in daily clinical practice, due to focusing problems and a limited depth of field. This study investigates the use of liquid-lens optics to create an autofocus system for wearable VST visors. The autofocus system is based on a Time of Flight (TOF) distance sensor and an active autofocus control system. The integrated autofocus system in the wearable VST viewers showed good potential in terms of providing rapid focus at various distances and a magnified view.