International Consensus Recommendations on the Aesthetic Usage of Ready-to-Use AbobotulinumtoxinA (Alluzience).

Alluzience (abobotulinumtoxinA RTU; Ipsen, Paris, France and Galderma SA, Lausanne, Switzerland) is the first ready-to-use (RTU) botulinum toxin type A liquid solution approved for the treatment of glabellar lines in Europe. In this article, the authors provide consensus recommendations on the aesthetic usage of abobotulinumtoxinA RTU. Members of the International Board on Alluzience convened to develop consensus on the treatment of glabellar lines as well as other facial wrinkles based on their own extensive experience. Consensus recommendations were developed to provide practical guidelines for injection of abobotulinumtoxinA RTU. General guidance on proper assessment, treatment planning, and patient education is provided, as well as specific injection guidelines per indication. Indications covered include glabellar lines, crow's feet, horizontal forehead lines, lateral eyebrow lift, lower eyelid wrinkles, bunny lines, drooping nasal tip, perioral wrinkles, drooping mouth corners, masseter hypertrophy, hollow cheek lines, dimpled chin, and platysmal bands. These guidelines provide a practical framework to support routine injection of facial muscles with Alluzience.

Visualizing the Individual Arterial Anatomy of the Face Through Augmented Reality- A Useful and Accurate Tool During Dermal Filler Injections.

Background: The arterial anatomy of the face is extremely variable. Despite numerous cadaver dissections and anatomical descriptions, the exact location of the superficial facial arteries remains unpredictable. This ignorance is a determining factor in the pathophysiology of intravascular filler injections, potentially causing skin necrosis and blindness. Objectives: The main objective of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of an augmented reality (AR) application that visualizes the individual arterial anatomy of the face. Methods: A workflow was developed during which a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) mapped the superficial arteries of the face. The images were further processed into an AR image that was visualized on the patient's face using a specifically designed smartphone application. The accuracy of the AR image and the position of each individual artery were analyzed using duplex ultrasound (US). Results: A total of 216 facial arteries were visualized in 20 patients. The superficial temporal (100%), supratrochlear (92.5%), facial (75%), and angular (82.5%) arteries were visualized the most. The inferior labial (17.5%), dorsal nasal (22.5%), and supraorbital (42.5%) arteries were the most difficult to visualize through MRA. The average deviation between the artery visible on the AR image and the location assessed by US was 0.30 mm (standard deviation = +/- 0.66 mm). There were no complications reported. Conclusions: The combination of a risk-free MRA to map the individual arteries of the face and the processing into an AR image may be considered as a useful and accurate tool during dermal filler injections to potentially minimize the risk of intravascular filler injections.

Safety and efficacy of a carboxymethyl chitosan dermal injection device for the treatment of skin defects: a first-in-man, pilot, comparative, split-body study.

Injectable soft-tissue devices are increasingly used for improving skin defects and deficiencies related to ageing. To assess the safety and efficacy of KIO015, a new injectable soft-tissue device formulated with carboxymethyl chitosan for the intradermal treatment of skin defects associated with ageing. Twenty-two subjects (40-65 years) were randomized to receive injections in the neckline of KIO015 and a non-cross-linked HA-based device, and were followed for up to 10 months. Injection site reactions (ISRs) and adverse events (AEs) were documented. Skin improvement was assessed instrumentally and clinically. Skin biopsies at injection zones in the lower back were taken at Day 28 for histopathology and immunohistochemistry analyses, to further assess product performance. Histomorphometric analyses on rabbits and in vitro assessment of KIO015 antioxidant capacity were also conducted. KIO015 was very well tolerated. Only expected and transient ISRs were observed; mainly erythema and hematoma. No adverse local effects or foreign body granuloma were observed histologically. Both clinical and instrumental evaluations confirmed the performance of KIO015. The skin was firmer and more elastic. Skin hydration showed significant improvement three days after injection. KIO015 exhibited superior overall maintenance of skin hydration after 10 months as compared to HA. These clinical results were supported by in vitro trials and implantation tests in the rabbit. The results from this pilot study support the use of KIO015 as an innovative alternative to HA-based devices for intradermal treatment of skin disorders.

The Usefulness of Magnetic Resonance Angiography to Analyze the Variable Arterial Facial Anatomy in an Effort to Reduce Filler-Associated Blindness: Anatomical Study and Visualization Through an Augmented Reality Application.

BACKGROUND: The use of soft tissue fillers for facial rejuvenation is increasing rapidly and the complications, unfortunately, follow the same path. Blindness caused by intravascular filler injections is a rare but devastating complication. Knowledge of the individual arterial anatomy may aid the injector in avoiding injecting into an artery and thus to prevent blindness. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate if the use of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) may visualize the arterial facial anatomy in a contrast- and radiation-free way and study the individual arterial variations using an augmented reality (AR) image. METHODS: The individual arterial anatomy of the 3 terminal branches of the ophthalmic artery (supraorbital [SO]; supratrochlear [STr]; and dorsal nasal [DN] arteries) of 20 volunteers was studied by a 3-Tesla MRI, combining infrared (IR) facial warming and 3-dimensional time-of-flight multiple overlapping thin slab acquisition MRA. The resulting visualization of the facial arteries was shown on the patient's face through AR technology. RESULTS: The MRA was able to visualize the SO in 90.0%, STr in 92.5%, and DN arteries in 75% of the examined patients, as well as numerous variations in both vessel localization and path. Furthermore, a proof-of-concept of the AR visualization of the individual arterial anatomy was successfully implemented. CONCLUSIONS: Dermal filler injectors should be aware of the risk of filler-induced blindness and familiarize themselves with the visualization of the variable facial vascular anatomy. The implementation of a one-time MRA and subsequent AR visualization may be useful in the accurate planning of minimally invasive facial rejuvenation procedures.

The 10-Year Experience with Volume Distribution Mastopexy: A Novel, Safe, and Efficient Method for Breast Rejuvenation.

BACKGROUND: Recurrent ptosis may occur after mastopexy procedures over time. The volume distribution mastopexy technique provides breast lifting with projection enhancement and maintains breast suspension. METHOD: Since 2010, 50 patients underwent volume distribution mastopexy procedures. The technique consists of a superior or superomedial pedicle, dissection of a Würinger-septum-based chest wall flap, suspension of the flap to the pectoralis major muscle using a prosthetic mesh, gland suture to the mesh, and fat grafting if required. A prospective study was conducted. Nipple position and length of the lower pole distance of the breast were noted. Patient satisfaction and results evaluation were reported using a Likert scale. RESULTS: A Vicryl mesh was used in the first 23 patients and a mixed polyester/Vicryl mesh was used in the following 27 patients. Wound dehiscence occurred in one patient. At an average follow-up of 3 years, nipple position remained stable in position, but lower pole distance elongation was observed in five patients (20 percent) and in one patient (3 percent) who had Vicryl mesh and mixed mesh respectively (p < 0.05). Only four breasts (4.7 percent) demonstrated significant lower pole elongation over time (>15 percent), all in the Vicryl mesh group. Worth noting, both the patients and the independent evaluators provided high ratings of the result of 4.7 and 4.6, respectively, on a Likert scale. CONCLUSIONS: The volume distribution mastopexy technique repositions the ptotic gland with a mesh to suspend the breast gland and to maintain the lifting effect. However, the synthetic mixed mesh proved to be significantly more effective in achieving this goal. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Visualization techniques of the facial arteries.

BACKGROUND: As the face is known for its extreme variation in vascular anatomy and the number of filler-associated complications due to intra-arterial injection is increasing, we are in need of a method to visualize anyone's individual arterial anatomy of the face in a completely harmless way. AIMS: The different medical imaging methods and a recently developed MRA protocol are reviewed. METHODS: The literature of the last twenty years-with special attention for the last five years-concerning the different medical imaging modalities of the facial arteries was reviewed. RESULTS: A harmless visualisation of the facial arteries is currently only possible with US or MRA. US may identify single vessels but never the complete arterial network. A combination of IR "heat enhancement" and a MRA 3D-TOF sequence might make it feasible to visualize a large number of facial arteries in a risk-free, radiation-free, contrast-free and non-invasive way. CONCLUSION: Currently, a new combination of IR "heat enhancement" and a MRA 3D-TOF sequence might be the only method to visualize a large number of facial arteries.

The "ART" of facial filler injections: Avoid, recognize, and treat hyaluronic acid-induced complications.

BACKGROUND: Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are frequently used for cosmetic purposes as volumizers or as wrinkle fillers. One of the major advantages of hyaluronic acid use is the possibility to neutralize it by using hyaluronidase should complications occur. PATIENT: A case of a 21-year-old female patient is presented, in whom a hyaluronic acid injection-induced vascular occlusion was seen four days after the initial injection, with increasing pain and severe signs of ischemia. METHOD: Treatment consisted of an immediate hyaluronidase injection, supplemented with administration of acetylsalicylic acid, piracetam, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), corticosteroids, analgesics, prophylactic antibiotics, application of topical nitroglycerin and warmth, smoking cessation, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. RESULTS: The initial progress and evolution of the deformity with possible therapeutic options are being discussed. CONCLUSION: The "ART" (avoid, recognize, and treat) in handling filler complications is presented, as a new universal guideline for clinical aesthetic practitioners and injectors.

Infrared Thermally Enhanced 3-Dimensional Time of Flight Magnetic Resonance Angiography Imaging for the Visualization of the Arteries of the Face.

BACKGROUND: The face is known for its extreme variation in vascular anatomy. Furthermore, the rapidly increasing number of filler treatments leads to an increase in severe filler-associated complications (such as skin necrosis and blindness) due to intra-arterial injection. Visualizing a patient's individual complete facial arterial anatomy in a contrast- and radiation-free way has not been published before. This innovative imaging technique could, therefore, enhance the safety of minimally invasive surgical procedures as it provides a harmless way to map the arteries of the face. OBJECTIVES: Evaluate a newly developed imaging technique to visualize the arteries of the face in a noninvasive and radiation-free manner. METHODS: The individual arterial facial anatomy of 20 volunteers was studied by an imaging technique, combining infrared (IR) facial warming and 3-dimensional (3D) time of flight (TOF) magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). The source and maximum intensity projection images were assessed by 2 investigators, familiar with the anatomy of the face. RESULTS: The MRA technique visualized most of the main facial arteries, albeit in a variable way. The main facial branches of the external carotid artery (facial, angular, supralabial, and superficial temporal arteries) were illustrated well, whereas the visualization of the internal carotid branches (supratrochlear and supraorbital arteries) and nasal branches (dorsal nasal and lateral nasal arteries) was less consistent. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of IR "heat-induced enhancement" and a 3D-TOF MRA sequence may actually be an important step toward the visualization of the variable facial vascular anatomy in a noninvasive, radiation-free, and contrast-free manner.

A Rare Case of KID Syndrome: The Use of Hydrosurgery and Strategies for Antiseptic Wound Care.

A 14-year-old girl with a history of keratitis-ichthyosis-deafness (KID) syndrome, a rare autosomal dominant condition, was referred to the Department of Plastic Surgery at Brussels University Hospital in June 2016 for progressively worsening inguinoperineal ulceration exacerbated by overapplication of combination drug treclinax (tretinoin and erythromycin). On assessment, a large area of purulent papillomatous hyperkeratosis with follicular plugging, likely superimposed bacterial colonization, and deep ulceration were noted requiring thorough debridement.A first procedure was performed in June 2016 with hydrosurgical debridement (Versajet IITM; Smith & Nephew, Forth Worth, Texas). During the procedure, significant blood loss was noted, and topical adrenaline, blood transfusion, and a short ICU stay were required for monitoring during which the patient remained hemodynamically stable. The wound was primarily dressed with an antimicrobial barrier silver dressing; meropenem, ceftazidime, and fluconazole were started to treat for Gram-negative, Gram-positive, and anaerobic bacilli, as well as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and fungal infections in situ. A further three debridements were required 6, 12, and 26 days after the initial procedure. The patient was discharged 36 days after admission without any antibiotics and with an outpatient wound care plan.Not only was this case rare, but it also reflected the importance of a careful approach when tackling KID syndrome's cutaneous manifestations. Multiple debridements, thorough wound care, and appropriate antibiotic therapy may be required to achieve local healing and a satisfactory result. Hydrosurgical debridement offered a precise and well-controlled method for treating a large ulcerating hyperkeratotic urogenital lesion in this pediatric patient.

Deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap harvest after full abdominoplasty.

Abdominal scars are no longer a contra-indication for abdominal perforator flap harvesting. Few research data exists about the regeneration potential of the abdominal wall's perforator system. Therefore, previous abdominoplasty with umbilical transposition is an absolute contra-indication for a DIEaP-flap (deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap). A 50-year-old patient required a breast reconstruction of the right breast, 10 years after an abdominoplasty with undermining of the superior abdomen and umbilical transposition. The patient was scheduled for a free lumbar artery perforator (LaP) flap. The preoperative computed tomography-angiography mapping showed nice lumbar perforators and to our surprise a good-sized DIEa perforator in the peri-umbilical region. The DIEa perforator on the right hemi-abdomen, consisting of two veins and one artery, was pulsatile and found suitable in size. A classical flap harvest and transfer was further performed. This case report is the first in which a dominant perforator is found in the area of undermining after a full abdominoplasty with umbilical repositioning. Further investigations regarding the nature and timing of re-permeation or regeneration of perforators after abdominoplasty are to be done. Nevertheless, we are convinced that with appropriate perforator mapping and a suitable plan B, previous abdominoplasty is no longer an absolute but a relative contra-indication for performing DIEaP-flap.

MR lymphography in patients with upper limb lymphedema: The GPS for feasibility and surgical planning for lympho-venous bypass.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Lymphedema is caused by insufficient lymphatic drainage leading to abnormal accumulation of interstitial fluid within soft tissues. Lympho-venous anastomosis (LVA), as a surgical option for selected patients, is widely applied. Through preoperative localization of functional lymphatics with indocyanine green, real time visualization of functioning lymphatic vessels is possible. This examination is time consuming and operator dependant and is not suitable to differentiate the ratio of fat hypertrophy to liquid edema. We investigated whether MR lymphangiography is accurate for imaging functional lymphatics and adjacent veins in arms. Furthermore, we investigated the accuracy and predictability of preoperative mapping for the feasibility of performing LVA and the preoperative decision making in lymphedema surgery. METHODS: A prospective study was performed in which 25 patients suffering from lymphedema of the upper extremity were examined. MR lymphography with contrast agent injection in a deep dermal plane was performed. RESULTS: Precise localization of lymphatic vessels crossing a vein was achieved in 18 of 25 arms. In 16 of the 18 patients in whom functional lymphatics were localized with an adjacent vein on MRI an LVA was performed successfully. CONCLUSIONS: MR lymphangiography is an accurate and reproducible method for imaging and mapping of lymphatic channels in the lymphedemateous limb.

Multipotent Adult Progenitor Cells Support Lymphatic Regeneration at Multiple Anatomical Levels during Wound Healing and Lymphedema.

Lymphatic capillary growth is an integral part of wound healing, yet, the combined effectiveness of stem/progenitor cells on lymphatic and blood vascular regeneration in wounds needs further exploration. Stem/progenitor cell transplantation also emerged as an approach to cure lymphedema, a condition caused by lymphatic system deficiency. While lymphedema treatment requires lymphatic system restoration from the capillary to the collector level, it remains undetermined whether stem/progenitor cells support a complex regenerative response across the entire anatomical spectrum of the system. Here, we demonstrate that, although multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs) showed potential to differentiate down the lymphatic endothelial lineage, they mainly trophically supported lymphatic endothelial cell behaviour in vitro. In vivo, MAPC transplantation supported blood vessel and lymphatic capillary growth in wounds and restored lymph drainage across skin flaps by stimulating capillary and pre-collector vessel regeneration. Finally, human MAPCs mediated survival and functional reconnection of transplanted lymph nodes to the host lymphatic network by improving their (lymph)vascular supply and restoring collector vessels. Thus, MAPC transplantation represents a promising remedy for lymphatic system restoration at different anatomical levels and hence an appealing treatment for lymphedema. Furthermore, its combined efficacy on lymphatic and blood vascular growth is an important asset for wound healing.

The 'WiFi' otoplasty : Combined concentric posterior microchondrectomies and sutures for correction of prominent ears.

BACKGROUND: Prominent ears are by far the most common congenital ear deformity. Many techniques have been described using one or a combination of 3 basic methods: cartilage cutting, cartilage weakening and pure cartilage shaping techniques. The ideal otoplasty technique should yield a natural correction of the deformity, with low recurrence rates and with little risk of complications. METHODS: A new cartilage shaping technique using closing wedge concentric microchondrectomies through an entirely posterior approach is presented. Between 2006 and 2017, 200 bilateral otoplasties using this 'WiFi' pattern technique were performed. This technique combined with Mustarde sutures is based on the excision of concentric partial thickness cartilage wedges designed in the pattern of the WiFi symbol. RESULTS: There were no major complications such as anterior skin necrosis and no returns to theatre for infections or haematomas. 3 patients (1.5%) had complete recurrence of the deformity and 10 patients (5%) had to undergo a minor revision for recurrence at the upper pole. 5 patients have had exposure of the end of the permanent upper pole scapho-temporal suture more than 3 months after surgery requiring simple outpatient suture trimming/removal without any recurrence of results. Palpable or bridging sutures were present upon clinical examination in 10 patients (5%) but did not require revision surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Here, we describe a fast, safe and reliable technique for otoplasty with no need for extensive dissection, which is applicable to the full range of deformity.

Percutaneous Purse-String Suture: An Innovative Percutaneous Technique for Inframammary Fold Creation and Improved Breast Projection in Reconstructive Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Lipofilling for breast reconstruction has become increasingly common. Creation of a well-defined inframammary fold (IMF) is integral to achieving symmetrical aesthetic results. This has traditionally been done under direct vision through an open incision. OBJECTIVES: The authors present their experience in reconstructive breast surgery with a novel percutaneous technique for IMF creation and improvement of projection without the need for large incisions. METHODS: From June 2011 to January 2015, 180 patients underwent a percutaneous purse-string suture (PPSS) to enhance their IMF and improve breast projection. After completion of lipofilling, a curved cannula is tunneled subcutaneously. The suture is placed into the cannula and passed around the circumference of the breast footprint. After the completion of two passes in different anatomic levels around the footprint, the suture is tightened at the breast's tail zone to achieve the desired IMF definition and breast projection. Surgical technique, results, and follow up are presented. RESULTS: The PPSS technique was combined either with lipofilling only or as part of flap breast reconstruction in 30 and 150 patients, respectively. The average follow-up time was 34 months (range, 11-48 months). PPSS was redone in 25 patients to further improve breast projection. One patient complained of postoperative pain. No other PPSS-related complication was reported. CONCLUSIONS: PPSS is an innovative technique designed to complement the emerging field of lipofilling for breast reconstruction. The technique is safe, easily reproduced, and provides excellent results. Breast IMF and projection are immediately improved without the need for open incisions.

The vascularized groin lymph node flap (VGLN): Anatomical study and flap planning using multi-detector CT scanner. The golden triangle for flap harvesting.

INTRODUCTION: A growing number of surgeons perform lymph node transfers for the treatment of lymphedema. When harvesting a vascularized lymph node groin flap (VGLNF) one of the major concerns is the potential risk of iatrogenic lymphedema of the donor-site. This article helps understanding of the lymph node distribution of the groin in order to minimize this risk. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty consecutive patients undergoing abdominal mapping by multi-detector CT scanner were included and 100 groins analyzed. The groin was divided in three zones (of which zone II is the safe zone) and lymph nodes were counted and mapped with their distances to anatomic landmarks. Further node units were plotted and counted. RESULTS: The average age was 48 years. A mean number of nodes of 6.5/groin was found. In zone II, which is our zone of interest a mean of 3.1 nodes were counted with a mean size of 7.8 mm. In three patients no nodes were found in zone II. In five patients nodes were seen in zone II but were not sufficient in size or number to be considered a lymph node unit. On average the lymph node unit in zone II was found to be 48.3 mm from the pubic tubercle when projected on a line from the pubic tubercle to the anterior superior iliac spine, 16.0 mm caudal to this line, and 20.4 mm above the groin crease. On average the lymph node unit was a mean of 41.7 mm lateral to the SCIV-SIEV confluence. CONCLUSION: This study provides increased understanding of the lymphatic anatomy in zone II of the groin flap and suggests a refined technique for designing the VGLNF. As with any flap there is a degree of individual patient variability. However, having information on the most common anatomy and flap design is of great value.

Lumbar Artery Perforator Flap: An Anatomical Study Using Multidetector Computed Tomographic Scan and Surgical Pearls for Breast Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Breast reconstruction with the lumbar artery perforator flap is indicated in patients with unfavorable abdominal donor site. In addition to their clinical experience with lumbar artery perforator free flap breast reconstruction, the authors present an anatomical study of the origin and course of the perforators. METHODS: Images of multidetector computerized tomography scans were used to visualize the location of the dominant lumbar artery perforator in 20 patients. The medical files of the authors' patients who underwent lumbar artery perforator flap breast reconstruction were also analyzed. RESULTS: Multidetector computed tomographic imaging in 20 female patients with a mean age of 47 years revealed an equal number of dominant perforators (10 left and 10 right); 60 percent were third lumbar artery perforators, 30 percent were fourth, and the remaining were second. The dominant perforators were mainly located 42.6 mm from the y axis at their origin at the transverse process, and 69.5 mm when emerging in the subcutaneous tissue. Six patients had nine successful lumbar artery perforator flaps for breast reconstruction. Average operative time was 270 minutes. Due to shortness of pedicle and mismatching between diameter of lumbar artery and internal mammary artery, vascular bypass (harvested from the deep inferior epigastric vessels) was required in 50 percent of the cases. The major complication at the donor site was seroma (80 percent). CONCLUSIONS: The lumbar artery perforator has a constant anatomical location. The free lumbar artery perforator flap provides an ample amount of tissue for breast reconstruction; however, its major disadvantages are the small artery diameter, shortness of the pedicle, and high seroma rate at the donor site. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: Quality of Life after Lymph Node Transfer.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer-related lymphedema affects multiple aspects of patients' daily lives. The main aim of this study was to assess the impact of vascularized lymph node transfer on the quality of life in patients with lymphedema. METHODS: Between 2007 and 2012, 25 female patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema underwent vascularized lymph node transfer. In 22 cases, the patients underwent a simultaneous deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap breast reconstruction based on the superficial circumflex iliac artery. The influence on quality of life was evaluated using the Upper Limb Lymphedema-27 questionnaire, which includes physical, psychological, and social dimensions. The authors also investigated risk factors for lymphedema, such as body mass index, smoking, age, and time between start of lymphedema and vascularized lymph node transfer, and their impact on quality of life. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients (84 percent) had an improvement of quality of life after vascularized lymph node transfer. The mean physical, psychological, and social scores were significantly improved postoperatively (p < 0.001). Risk factors for the development of lymphedema did not influence quality of life among patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema. Skin infections disappeared in 50 percent of the cases. Eleven patients (44 percent) discontinued compression therapy at a mean postoperative time interval of 29 months (range, 8 to 64 months). In the other patients (56 percent), the average frequency of compression therapy decreased from three sessions to one session per week. CONCLUSION: Vascularized lymph node transfer significantly improves quality of life among patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

In vitro Dermal Absorption of Hydroquinone: Protocol Validation and Applicability on Illegal Skin-Whitening Cosmetics.

In Europe, hydroquinone is a forbidden cosmetic ingredient. It is, however, still abundantly used because of its effective skin-whitening properties. The question arises as to whether the quantities of hydroquinone used become systemically available and may cause damage to human health. Dermal absorption studies can provide this information. In the EU, dermal absorption has to be assessed in vitro since the Cosmetic Regulation 1223/2009/EC forbids the use of animals. To obtain human-relevant data, a Franz diffusion cell protocol was validated using human skin. The results obtained were comparable to those from a multicentre validation study. The protocol was applied to hydroquinone and the dermal absorption ranged between 31 and 44%, which is within the range of published in vivo human values. This shows that a well-validated in vitro dermal absorption study using human skin provides relevant human data. The validated protocol was used to determine the dermal absorption of illegal skin-whitening cosmetics containing hydroquinone. All samples gave high dermal absorption values, rendering them all unsafe for human health. These results add to our knowledge of illegal cosmetics on the EU market, namely that they exhibit a negative toxicological profile and are likely to induce health problems.

Superior epigastric artery perforator flap: anatomy, clinical applications, and review of literature.

INTRODUCTION: To reduce donor site morbidity in anterior chest wall reconstruction, a flap based on perforators of the superior epigastric artery (SEA) was developed and successfully applied in a pedicled fashion for locoregional soft-tissue reconstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We combined our anatomical and clinical experience with superior epigastric artery perforator (SEAP) flap with a PubMed search of the English language literature for articles published on "SEAP flap". Reference lists of the articles found were then checked for other related articles of interest. Articles were compared looking at flap indication, preoperative imaging, perforator morphology, SEA integument area, surgical approach, and outcome of the flaps. RESULTS: The four best perforators were most frequently encountered in an area 2 to 6 cm from the midline and 0 to 10 cm below the xiphoid process. The territory of the SEAPs depends on the location of the perforator. Controversy exists in the current literature concerning preferable SEAP flap orientation. Although tip necrosis is the major complication, this can often be treated conservatively without affecting outcomes or can even be avoided by limiting flap length to the anterior axillary line and the zone below the midpoint between the xiphisternum and the umbilicus. CONCLUSION: The SEAP flap provides a useful approach for reconstruction of defects of the anterior chest, or of the abdominal wall. As a perforator or adipocutaneous flap, the flap is reliable and easy to raise, and spares donor site morbidity.