Use of the VersaJet for pedicle deepithelialization during breast reduction surgery.

BACKGROUND: Many modern techniques of breast reduction require that a pedicle of breast tissue be deepithelialized. The process of deepithelialization is both tedious and time consuming. Many techniques have been described to facilitate the process of deepithelialization in breast reduction, but none have replaced the gold standard of using the scalpel. This series details the authors' results using the VersaJet Hydrosurgery System for pedicle deepithelialization in breast reduction surgery. METHODS: In this study, 20 patients underwent inferior pedicle breast reduction using the VersaJet for pedicle deepithelialization between September 2006 and June 2007. The overall time required for pedicle deepithelialization using the VersaJet was compared with the average overall time required for deepithelialization using the scalpel. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. RESULTS: An overall time-savings of 10 to 25 min per case was noted using the VersaJet for pedicle deepithelialization rather than the scalpel. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were encountered due to use of the VersaJet for pedicle deepithelialization. CONCLUSIONS: The VersaJet is a safe and effective tool for pedicle deepithelialization in breast reduction surgery. The VersaJet significantly facilitates the process of pedicle deepithelialization and requires less time than use of the scalpel for the procedure.

Axillary osmidrosis in Apert syndrome: management with an arthroscopic shaver technique.

Apert syndrome is a congenital condition characterized by craniosynostosis, syndactyly, and maxillary hypoplasia. Previous authors have outlined the management of craniofacial and extremity anomalies associated with this syndrome; however, there is a paucity of literature regarding the treatment of the cutaneous manifestations of Apert syndrome. Axillary osmidrosis, a chronic skin condition characterized by an excessive, axillary malodor resulting from apocrine gland dysfunction, can be particularly severe in patients with Apert syndrome. Herein, we describe a pediatric patient with Apert syndrome and severe axillary osmidrosis managed by an arthroscopic shaver technique of axillary glandular debridement and aspiration.