A radiographic and histologic evaluation of the patellar tendon after harvesting its central third.

Nineteen consecutive patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using the central third of the ipsilateral patellar tendon were included in the study. Serial magnetic resonance images revealed that the donor-site gap in the tendon decreased with time (mean follow-up, 26 months). The thickness was significantly increased compared with the intact contralateral patellar tendon, regardless of when the magnetic resonance imaging was performed. Ultrasonography showed the same findings at a mean follow-up of 26 months. Histologic evaluation of the repair tissue in the central part of the tendon, as well as the tissue in the peripheral part of the patellar tendon at the donor site, revealed a significant increase in cellularity and vascularity as compared with normal control tendons. Thus, 2 years after the harvesting procedure, the patellar tendon displayed significant radiographic and histologic abnormalities. On the basis of these findings, reharvest of the patellar tendon, at least up to 2 years after primary harvest, cannot be recommended.

Aetiological aspects of mandibular tooth agenesis--focusing on the role of nerve, oral mucosa, and supporting tissues.

The purpose of the present investigation was to consider possible aetiological aspects of mandibular tooth agenesis by comparing the pattern of mandibular molar and premolar agenesis with radiological evidence of the mandibular canal. Orthopantomograms from 33 children affected by agenesis of at least four premolar and/or molar teeth in the mandible were investigated. Three children were affected by ectodermal dysplasia. Two anthropological mandibles with absence of mandibular canals were included in the study for comparison. According to the investigation, agenesis should be divided into three groups, based on an analysis of agenesis location, the presence of nerve canals in the jaws, and finally, data on possible bone, skin and oral mucosa abnormalities. The three aetiological groups suggested are: agenesis related to nerve tissue, agenesis related to the oral epithelium, and agenesis related to the supporting tissue.

Radiology of colonic interposition and its associated complications.

A retrospective review of the medical records, pathology reports, and radiographic studies of 81 patients who had undergone colonic interposition was undertaken, with special attention to postoperative complications. Both early (within 30 days postoperatively, 81 patients) and late (later than 30 days postoperatively, 57 patients) complications were reviewed. Early findings included anastomotic narrowing (18 patients), anastomotic leak (13), aspiration (11), and ischemic necrosis of the colon (3). Late findings included aspiration (9 patients), anastomotic strictures (8), gastric stasis (6), redundancy and tortuosity of the colon (5), anastomotic ulcers (4), gastrocolic reflux (3), and gastroesophageal reflux into the residual esophagus (2).