Aesthetic assessment instrument for breasts reconstruction.

INTRODUCTION: Few validated aesthetic assessment instruments in breast reconstruction use discrete scales to facilitate studies with multiple evaluators. OBJECTIVE: This research aimed to propose an aesthetic assessment scale for reconstructed breasts. METHODOLOGY: A scale was suggested using discrete variables, with responses ranging from 1 to 10, and the responses for each category could be summed to obtain an average that could be used in studies with multiple evaluators. To test the instrument suggested in this study, 5 experienced plastic surgeons assessed 46 patients. For all the analyses, a rejection level for the null hypothesis of 5% (p < 0.05) was adopted. RESULTS: The suggested scale obtained valid intraclass correlation coefficients, with 0.9 for the overall aesthetic evaluation of the breast and the lowest being 0.77 for defining the inframammary fold. We observed good diagnostic accuracy in all comparisons, with the area under the curve ranging from 0.85 to 0.97. Regarding convergent validity, we observed correlations of 0.77 (p < 0.001) between breast volume and volume symmetry, 0.66 (p < 0.001) between breast shape and contour naturalness. The test-retest reliability was 0.708, which is considered good. CONCLUSION: The results of this study support the effectiveness of the proposed new aesthetic evaluation scale, revealing consistency among different evaluators and over time. Convergent validation strengthens the relationship between the variables of the new scale and those of the Garbay scale. Furthermore, the robust diagnostic accuracy highlights the clinical utility of the new scale in assessing aesthetic outcomes in breast reconstructions.

Cost-effective Solution for Maxillofacial Reconstruction Surgery with Virtual Surgical Planning and 3D Printed Cutting Guides Reduces Operative Time.

Background: This study aimed to explore a low-cost solution for virtual surgical planning/3D printed surgical guides in a training hospital, assessing the impact on intraoperative time and bleeding. Material and Methods: We included a total of 13 patients. 8 who underwent maxillofacial reconstruction surgery with fibula-free flap utilizing virtual surgical planning/3D printed guides (VP/SG), and 5 using conventional surgery (CS) from 2017 to 2020. The surgical time, bleeding, length of hospital stay, and comorbidities were collected and compared in two groups. We recorded the average cost for the complete surgical planning and 3D printed guides. We applied a qualitative survey to the surgeons involved in the surgical procedures. Results The mean surgical time in the VP/SG group was 8.16 ± 2.7, compared to the CS group 12.5 ± 3.8, showing a 4.34 hours difference with statistical significance (p = 0.033). Patients from the CS group had a higher bleeding volume of 921 ± 467.6 mL VS 760 ± 633.8 mL in the VP/SG group. The average cost for the complete surgical planning and 3D printed guides was 914.44 ± 46.39 USD. All the surgeons who answered the survey preferred to perform the procedure utilizing the virtual planning/3D printed guides. Conclusions Virtual planning and 3D printed surgical guides have the potential to reduce operation time in maxillofacial reconstruction.

Contexte : Cette étude visait à explorer une solution peu coûteuse pour la planification chirurgicale virtuelle/l'impression 3D de guides chirurgicaux dans un hôpital d'enseignement, en évaluant leur impact sur le temps peropératoire et le saignement. Matériel et méthodes : Nous avons inclus un total de 13 patients; 8 patients ont subi une chirurgie de reconstruction faciale avec lambeau libre de péroné (fibula) utilisant une planification chirurgicale virtuelle/des guides imprimés en 3D (VP/SG) et 5 patients ont subi une chirurgie conventionnelle (CS) entre 2017 et 2020. Le temps opératoire, le saignement, la durée de l'hospitalisation et les comorbidités ont été consignés et comparés entre les deux groupes. Nous avons enregistré le coût moyen pour la planification chirurgicale complète et les guides imprimés en 3D. Nous avons appliqué une enquête qualitative aux chirurgiens impliqués dans les procédures chirurgicales. Résultats : Le temps opératoire moyen dans le groupe VP/SG a été de 8,16 ± 2,7, comparativement à 12,5 ± 3,8 dans le groupe CS, soit une différence de 4,4 heures avec une signification statistique (P = 0033). Des patients du groupe CS ont perdu un plus grand volume de sang que les patients du groupe VP/SG (respectivement, 921 ± 467.6 mL contre 760 ± 633.8 mL). Le coût moyen de la planification chirurgicale complète et des guides imprimés en 3D a été de 914,44 ± 46,39 US$. Tous les chirurgiens ayant répondu à l'enquête ont préféré utiliser la planification virtuelle/les guides imprimés en 3D pour la réalisation de la procédure. Conclusions : La planification virtuelle et les guides chirurgicaux imprimés en 3D ont le potentiel de réduire les temps opératoires pour la reconstruction maxillo-faciale.

Advancing Intraoperative Assessment of Urethral Stricture Anatomic Variation: A Prospective Proof-of-Concept Study.

INTRODUCTION: Urethral strictures, particularly those refractory to endoscopic interventions, are commonly treated through open urethroplasty. However, predicting recurrence in homogeneous patient populations remains challenging. METHODS: To address this, we developed an intraoperative urethral stricture assessment tool aiming to identify comprehensive risk predictors. The assessment includes detailed parameters on stricture location, length, urethral bed width, spongiosum thickness, obliteration grade, and spongiofibrosis extension. The tool was prospectively implemented in 106 men with anterior one-stage augmentation urethroplasty from April 2020 to October 2021. RESULTS: An intraoperative granular assessment of intricate stricture characteristics is feasible. Comparative analyses revealed significant differences between bulbar and penile strictures. Bulbar strictures exhibited wider urethral beds and thicker spongiosum compared to penile strictures (all p < 0.001). The assessment showed marked variations in the degree of obliteration and spongiofibrosis extension. CONCLUSION: Our tool aligns with efforts to standardize urethral surgery, providing insights into subtle disease intricacies and enabling comparisons between institutions. Notably, intraoperative assessment may surpass the limitations of preoperative imaging, emphasizing the necessity of intraoperative evaluation. While limitations include a single-institution study and limited sample size, future research aims to refine this tool and determine its impact on treatment strategies, potentially improving long-term outcomes for urethral strictures.

Curativo a vácuo simplificado: estudo de viabilidade operacional e financeira no tratamento de feridas / Simplified vacuum dressing system: operational and financial feasibility study in the management of wounds

Introdução: O alto custo da terapia de pressão negativa (TPN) torna o procedimento menos acessível em instituições com recursos limitados. Para resolver o problema, têm sido propostos os curativos a vácuo simplificados, mas a utilidade desses equipamentos ainda é pouco estudada. O objetivo desse trabalho é avaliar a viabilidade (operacional e financeira) de um modelo de curativo a vácuo simplificado (MCVS). Método: A viabilidade operacional foi avaliada por meio de estudo de tempo de instalação e quantidade de curativos realizados; a financeira, por análise de custos econômicos de trocas de curativos. Resultados: Foram tratadas 50 feridas (25 em cada grupo: MCVS x hidrofibra prata). Para o MCVS, o número de curativos por paciente foi menor, enquanto o tempo de instalação, maior. MCVS apresentou custos maiores. O aumento de custo associado a MCVS foi relacionado ao preço médio de comercialização do produto e quantidade de trocas de curativos; tempo de tratamento e tempo de instalação do MCVS não interferiram em custos. Em contraste, os custos do MCVS se mostraram bem inferiores aos custos anunciados para a TPN convencional. Conclusão: MCVS foi considerado viável desde que seja feito por equipes qualificadas e resulte em poucas trocas de curativos (< 3).

Introduction: The high cost of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) makes the procedure less accessible in institutions with limited resources. To solve the problem, streamlined vacuum dressings have been proposed, but the usefulness of these devices has been poorly studied. The objective of this work is to evaluate the feasibility (operational and financial) of a simplified vacuum dressing system model (SVDM). Methods: Operational viability was assessed by studying application time and quantity of dressings performed; financial viability, by analyzing the economic costs of dressing changes. Results: Fifty wounds were treated (25 in each group: SVDM x silver hydrofiber). For SVDM, the number of dressings per patient was lower, while the application time was higher. The SVDM showed higher costs. The increase in the expenses associated with the SVDM was related to the average selling price of the product and the number of dressing changes; treatment time and application time of the SVDM did not interfere with costs. In contrast, SVDM costs proved to be below the announced expenses for conventional NPWT. Conclusion: SVDM was considered viable as long as qualified teams perform it and results in few dressing changes (< 3).

Periodontal regeneration risk assessment in the treatment of intrabony defects.

BACKGROUND: Regenerative approaches performed in periodontics seems to be efficient in treating intrabony defects. There are, however, many factors that may affect the predictability of the regenerative procedures. The present article aimed to propose a new risk assessment tool for treating periodontal intrabony defects by regenerative therapy. METHODS: Different variables that could affect the success of a regenerative procedure were considered based on their impact on (i) the wound healing potential, promoting wound stability, cells, and angiogenesis, or (ii) the ability to clean the root surface and maintain an optimal plaque control or (iii) aesthetics (risk for gingival recession). RESULTS: The risk assessment variables were divided into a patient, tooth, defect, and operator level. Patient-related factors included medical conditions such as diabetes, smoking habit, plaque control, compliance with supportive care, and expectations. Tooth-related factors included prognosis, traumatic occlusal forces or mobility, endodontic status, root surface topography, soft tissue anatomy, and gingival phenotype. Defect-associated factors included local anatomy (number of residual bone walls, width, and depth), furcation involvement, cleansability, and number of sides of the root involved. Operator-related factors should not be neglected and included the clinician's level of experience, the presence of environmental stress factors, and the use of checklists in the daily routine. CONCLUSIONS: Using a risk assessment comprised of patient-, tooth-, defect- and operator-level factors can aid the clinician in identifying challenging characteristics and in the treatment decision process.

[Solidarity with children and people with disabilities? : An economic analysis of reconstructive hip interventions in pediatric orthopedics]. / Solidarität mit Kindern und Menschen mit Behinderung? : Eine Wirtschaftlichkeitsanalyse hüftrekonstruierender Eingriffe in der Kinderorthopädie.

BACKGROUND: Brain damage in childhood can be caused cerebral palsy (CP) or be due to other diseases. Disturbance of muscle tone results in consecutive development of hip subluxation. Hip reconstructive surgery can significantly improve the mobility and quality of care of children. However, the DRG for surgical care of these conditions has been increasingly devalued. In Germany, this has already led to a reduction of pediatric orthopedics departments, accompanied by an important risk of insufficient treatment options for children and people with disabilities. METHOD: The aim of this retrospective study was an economic analysis of pediatric orthopedic interventions using the example of neurogenic hip decentration. For this purpose, the revenue-cost situation in patients with CP or other causes of brain damage was evaluated at a maximum care hospital in the period of 2019-2021. RESULTS: The entire analysis period showed a deficit. The non-CP-group showed the most important deficit. In CP-patients, however, the plus decreased each year and resulted in a deficit in 2021. CONCLUSION: While the distinction between cerebral palsy and other forms of brain damage in children is usually not relevant for treatment, it is evident that the non-CP group is massively underfinanced. Overall, the negative economic balance of pediatric orthopedics in the field of neurogenic hip reconstruction is clearly revealed. In the current interpretation of the DRG system, children with disabilities cannot be offered cost-effective care at a maximum-care university center.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder and the influence of the media in demand for plastic surgery: the importance of proper evaluation / O Transtorno Dismórfico Corporal e a influência da mídia na procura por cirurgia plástica: a importância da avaliação adequada

Introduction: Since the beginning, plastic surgery has improved self-esteem and acceptance in a society that idealizes the cult of the body. The pressure of consumption and the ease of undergoing plastic surgery becomes an obsession in these patients' lives. Method: Female patients who underwent psychological evaluation and follow-up throughout the surgical and plastic surgery procedure, aged between 19 and 57, answered the Sociocultural Attitudes Questionnaire concerning appearance and the Body Dysmorphophobia Symptom Scale. Results: Of the 38 patients evaluated, 17 have the media as an influence concerning their body image and have symptoms of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), 13 patients have the media as an influence on their body image, but they do not have BDD symptoms, and in eight patients the media does not influence their body image, and they do not have BDD symptoms. Conclusion: The importance of a multidisciplinary team, with a psychologist, is highlighted to evaluate and monitor the patient throughout the surgical process, as the early diagnosis of BDD will avoid dissatisfaction with the result of the plastic surgery and, mainly, future court lawsuits.

Introdução: Desde os primórdios, a cirurgia plástica melhora a autoestima e a aceitação em uma sociedade que idealiza o culto ao corpo. A pressão do consumo e a facilidade de se submeter a um procedimento de cirurgia plástica acabam tornando-se obsessão na vida desses pacientes. Método: Pacientes do sexo feminino que passaram por avaliação e acompanhamento psicológico em todo o processo cirúrgico, e procedimento de cirurgia plástica, com a idade entre 19 e 57 anos, responderam ao questionário de Atitudes Socioculturais em relação a aparência e a Escala de Sintomas de Dismorfobia Corporal - Body Dysmorphic Scale. Resultados: Dos 38 pacientes avaliados, 17 têm a mídia como influência em relação a sua imagem corporal e apresentam sintomas do Transtorno Dismórfico Corporal (TDC), 13 pacientes têm a mídia como influência em relação a sua imagem corporal, mas não apresentam sintomas do TDC, e em oito pacientes a mídia não influencia em relação a sua imagem corporal e não apresentam sintomas do TDC. Conclusão: Destaca-se a importância de uma equipe multidisciplinar, com a presença de um psicólogo, para avaliar e acompanhar o paciente em todo processo cirúrgico, pois o diagnóstico precoce do TDC evitará uma insatisfação com o resultado da cirurgia plástica e, principalmente, futuros processos judiciais.

Tradução, adaptação e validação linguística do FACE-Q Câncer de Cabeça e Pescoço para o português do Brasil / FACE-Q Head and Neck Cancer Questionnaire for Brazilian Portuguese: Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Linguistic Validation

Introdução: As neoplasias de cabeça e pescoço costumam afetar funções fundamentais, como engolir, falar, comer e se socializar. A avaliação do seu tratamento deve, portanto, levar em consideração a opinião do médico e a perspectiva do paciente. Essa dificuldade em avaliar o sucesso do tratamento levou ao desenvolvimento do FACE-Q - Módulo de Câncer de Cabeça e Pescoço, um questionário de resultados relatados pelo paciente que mede a aparência, função facial, qualidade de vida e experiência de cuidado para neoplasias de cabeça e pescoço. O objetivo é a tradução, adaptação cultural e validação linguística do questionário FACE- Q Câncer de Cabeça e Pescoço para o português brasileiro. Métodos: A tradução, adaptação cultural e validação linguística do questionário completo ocorreram em quatro etapas, usando as diretrizes oficiais da Organização Mundial da Saúde e da Sociedade Internacional de Farmacoeconomia e Pesquisa de Resultados. Resultados: Uma versão em português brasileiro semântica, idiomática e conceitualmente equivalente foi obtida por meio de uma tradução validada linguisticamente do módulo FACE-Q Head and Neck Cancer em inglês. Conclusão: A versão em português brasileiro apresenta uma versão com equivalente ao instrumento original em inglês, que pode ser utilizada como avaliação crítica de resultados relatados pelo paciente.

Introduction: Head and neck neoplasms often affect fundamental functions, such as swallowing, speech, eating, and socializing. Evaluating their treatment should consider the physician's opinion and the patient's perspective. This difficulty in assessing the success of treatment led to the development of the FACE-Q Head and Neck Cancer Module, a questionnaire of patient-reported outcomes that measure the appearance, facial function, quality of life, and experience of care to head and neck neoplasms. The objective is to translation, cultural adaptation, and linguistic validation of the FACE-Q Head and Neck Cancer questionnaire for Brazilian Portuguese. Methods: The translation, cultural adaptation, and linguistic validation of the full questionnaire took place in four stages, using official guidelines from the World Health Organization and the International Society of Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research. Results: A semantic, idiomatic, and conceptually equivalent Brazilian Portuguese version was achieved through a linguistically validated translation of the English FACE-Q Head and Neck Cancer module. Conclusion: The Brazilian Portuguese version presents a version equivalent to the original English instrument, which can be used as a critical patient-reported outcome assessment.

A plastic and reconstructive surgery landscape assessment of Malawi: a scoping review of Malawian literature.

BACKGROUND: Plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) remains highly relevant to the unmet need for surgery in Malawi. Better understanding the current PRS landscape and its barriers may help address some of these challenges. This scoping review aimed to describe: (1) the scope and focus of the PRS literature being produced in Malawi and (2) the challenges, deficits, and barriers to providing accessible, high-quality PRS in Malawi. METHODS: This scoping review was conducted on four databases (SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE) from inception through September 1, 2020 following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. RESULTS: The database search retrieved 3852 articles, of which 31 were included that examined the burden of PRS-related conditions in Malawi. Of these 31 articles, 25 primarily discussed burn-related care. Burns injuries have a high mortality rate; between 27 and 75% in the studies. The literature revealed that there are only two burn units nationally with one PRS specialist in each unit, compounded by a lack of interest in PRS specialization by Malawian medical students. Congenital anomalies were the only other PRS-related condition examined and reported in the literature, accounting for 23% of all pediatric surgeries in tertiary facilities. CONCLUSIONS: There is a need to increase the country's capacity to handle burn reconstruction and other PRS-related conditions to reduce overall morbidity and mortality. Additional publicly funded research at the district and community level is warranted to determine the true burden of PRS disease in Malawi to derive health system strengthening and workforce capacity building strategies.

Aesthetic assessment of breast reconstruction in the eyes of plastic surgeons versus nonplastic physicians

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the perception of the aesthetic result of breast reconstruction surgery from the perspective of plastic surgeons compared with physicians who are not specialists in plastic surgery. METHODS: Twenty patients who underwent breast reconstruction after mastectomy had their aesthetic results evaluated by 16 plastic surgeons and 16 nonplastic physicians, yielding a total of 620 ratings (320 ratings from plastic surgeons and 320 ratings from other specialists). For all analyses, the level of rejection adopted for the null hypothesis was 5% (p-value <0.05). RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between the two groups. On average, medical professionals who specialized in plastic surgery always obtained higher scores than other physicians. However, no significant differences were found in the assessment of the aesthetic outcome of breast reconstruction according to the sex of the rating medical professional for any of the assessments considered in this study. A strong positive linear correlation between the time since training in the medical specialty of plastic surgery (r=0.750, p=0.001) and the mean aesthetic outcome score was observed in this study. CONCLUSION: Plastic surgeons assessed the aesthetic results of breast reconstruction more positively than nonplastic physicians.

Modelo sintético e de baixo custo para treinamento de retalho cutâneo / Low-cost synthetic model for skin flap training

Introdução: A busca pela aprendizagem de técnicas cirúrgicas dentro da sala de operação está vinculada a dificuldades, como a redução do tempo de ensino pelos cirurgiões e problemas éticos. Já foram elaborados modelos para facilitar a prática de técnicas cirúrgicas, contudo de custo elevado, difícil acesso e com complicações éticas e morais. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar um modelo sintético, inédito e prático para o treinamento das técnicas de retalho cutâneo, formulado para ser de fácil reprodução e de baixo custo, permitindo sua exequibilidade. Métodos: No modelo foi utilizado malha, esponja para lavagem de carro, elástico de látex, pincel de ponta fina, bisturi e instrumentos cirúrgicos de sutura. A malha é fixada pelo elástico sobre a superfície da esponja, simulando pele e subcutâneo. Desenha-se, então, o retalho a ser feito na superfície do tecido. Resultados: O modelo criado mostrou-se satisfatório, visto que aprimora o manuseio de instrumentos cirúrgicos e o aprendizado da técnica de retalho proposta, além de ter demonstrado boa elasticidade e resistência a tração. Nas faculdades de medicina percebe-se uma carência na abordagem de temas importantes da cirurgia plástica. Ressalta-se a importância de modelos de baixo custo e de fácil execução, como o supracitado, para facilitar a aprendizagem de estudantes interessados no assunto, buscando cumprir a função educacional sem romper princípios éticos. Conclusão: O modelo proposto é uma excelente forma de treinamento por apresentar benefícios logísticos e instrutivos, facilitando a aprendizagem, sem causar prejuízo aos animais.

Introduction: The search for learning surgical techniques within the operating room is linked to difficulties, such as reducing teaching time by surgeons and ethical problems. Models have already been developed to facilitate the practice of surgical techniques, however, with high cost, difficult access, and ethical and moral complications. The present work aims to present a synthetic model, unpublished and practical for the training of skin flap techniques, formulated to be easy to reproduce and low cost, allowing its feasibility. Methods: In the model, fabric, sponge for car washing, latex elastic, fine-tipped brush, scalpel, and surgical suture instruments were used. The fabric is fixed by the elastic on the surface of the sponge, simulating skin and subcutaneous. The flap to be made on the surface of the fabric is then drawn. Results: The model created was satisfactory, since it improves the handling of surgical instruments and the learning of the proposed flap technique, besides having demonstrated good elasticity and tensile strength. In medical schools, there is a lack of approach to essential topics in plastic surgery. The importance of low-cost and easy-to-execute models, such as the above, is emphasized to facilitate the learning of students interested in the subject, seeking to fulfill the educational function without breaking ethical principles. Conclusion: The proposed model is an excellent form of training because it presents logistical and instructive benefits, facilitating learning, without causing harm to animals.

Pediatric burn contractures in low- and lower middle-income countries: A systematic review of causes and factors affecting outcome.

In low- and lower middle-income countries (LMICs), timely access to primary care following thermal injury is challenging. Children with deep burns often fail to receive specialized burn care until months or years post-injury, thus suffering impairments from hypertrophic scarring or joint and soft tissue contractures. We aimed to examine the correlation between limited access to care following burn injury and long-term disability in children in LMICs and to identify specific factors affecting the occurrence of late burn complications. A systematic literature search was conducted to retrieve articles on pediatric burns in LMICs using Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, LILACS, Global Health, African Index Medicus, and others. Articles were assessed by two reviewers and reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Of 2896 articles initially identified, 103 underwent full-text review and 14 met inclusion criteria. A total of 991 children who developed long-term burn sequelae were included. Time from injury to consultation ranged from a few months to 17 years. Factors associated with late complications included total body surface area burned, burn depth, low socio-economic status, limited infrastructure, perceived inability to pay, lack of awareness of surgical treatment, low level of maternal education, and time elapsed between burn injury and reconstructive surgery.

Avaliação pré-operatória por imagem da hidradenite supurativa / Preoperative imaging assessment of hidradenitis suppurativa

A hidradenite supurativa (HS) é uma doença inflamatória crônica da pele caracterizada por apresentar nodulações subcutâneas, dolorosas e com sinais flogísticos, inicialmente enrijecidas e que evoluem para consistência amolecida. Ocorre em 1 a 4% da população mundial. A sua etiologia ainda é pouco conhecida, sugere-se que aconteça devido à oclusão do ducto apócrino dos folículos pilosos por fatores precipitantes como fricção de tecido adiposo, higiene precária, entre outras. Seu diagnóstico é eminentemente clínico, pela identificação de lesões típicas recorrentes em forma de nodularidades, abcessos, tratos fistulosos ou cicatrizes. Não há testes patognomônicos. Sua evolução é variável e de difícil manejo, o qual pode ser feito com terapia tópica, sistêmica ou por exérese cirúrgica. Este trabalho revisa a avaliação por imagem da hidroadenite supurativa e demonstra imagens de um caso avaliado por ressonância magnética. A avaliação por exames de imagem, apesar de pouco específica para firmar diagnóstico, é muito útil na determinação da extensão da doença, assim como na exclusão de diagnósticos diferenciais, destacando-se o papel da ressonância magnética na avaliação das lesões anogenitais, com potencial de reduzir recorrências.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by painful deep-seated skin nodules with phlogistic signs, which are initially hard and progress to have a soft consistency. It occurs in 1­4% of the world population. Etiology of HS is still poorly understood and is suggested to occur due to occlusion of the apocrine duct of the hair follicles by triggering factors such as friction of the adipose tissue and poor hygiene, among others. Diagnosis is eminently clinical, through the identification of typical recurrent lesions that include nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, or scars. There are no pathognomonic tests used to confirm its presence. Progression is variable and difficult to manage, which can be done with topical or systemic therapy or surgical excision. This work reviews the imaging assessment of HS and shows images of a case assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. Imaging assessment, although not specific enough for a diagnosis, is useful to determine the extent of the disease and to exclude differential diagnoses. Moreover, magnetic resonance imaging has an important role in the assessment of anogenital lesions and a potential to reduce recurrences.

Tratamento das ptoses mamárias com implantes submusculares e pontos de fixação do tecido mamário ao muscular: aspectos técnicos e avaliação de resultado / Treatment of breast ptosis with submuscular implants and points of attachment of the breast to the pectoralis muscle: technical considerations and outcome assessment

Introdução: Mastopexia associada à inclusão de implante é uma situação desafiadora para o cirurgião plástico. O objetivo é descrever a colocação de implante submuscular com descolamento anatômico mais pexia firme do tecido glandular usando pontos de fixação do tecido mamário ao muscular e analisar os resultados estéticos das pacientes operadas. Método: Foram realizadas 23 mastopexias com implantes no período entre abril de 2015 e julho de 2017, pelo mesmo cirurgião, sendo as mamas das pacientes marcadas previamente, na posição sentada. Realizou-se incisão no sulco mamário e descolamento até o polo superior da mama no plano subfascial, fixação da glândula ao músculo peitoral maior com 9 a 12 pontos. A seguir, iniciou-se a dissecção do músculo peitoral maior através de sua origem costal e transição com os músculos reto abdominal e serrátil, liberando amplamente na porção inferior. Introduziu-se o implante e completou-se a mastopexia. Os tamanhos dos implantes variaram de 255ml a 355ml. Fotos das mamas de 12 pacientes foram avaliadas por dois cirurgiões plásticos e dois leigos, nos seguintes parâmetros: resultado estético, simetria das aréolas e grau de ptose mamária. As avaliações podiam ser Ruim, Razoável ou Bom. Resultados: A técnica cirúrgica mostrou-se reprodutível, apenas 1 caso de hematoma unilateral, nenhuma infecção, queixas de dor discretas. Apenas um caso foi considerado, por um único avaliador, como Razoável; as demais avaliações consideradas como Bom. Conclusão: O tratamento de ptoses mamárias com colocação de implante submuscular acrescido de pexia da glândula ao músculo peitoral é uma técnica reprodutível e com bons resultados estéticos.

Introduction: Mastopexy associated with implant placement is challenging for plastic surgeons. The objective is to describe the placement of a submuscular implant with anatomical detachment in combination with stable fixation of the breast tissue to the pectoralis muscle and analyze the aesthetic results. Method: Twenty-three mastopexy procedures with implants were performed from April 2015 to July 2017 by the same surgeon, and surgical markings were made in the breasts of the patients in a seated position. An incision was made in the inframammary fold, and the breast tissue was elevated to the upper pole in the subfascial plane and attached to the pectoralis major muscle using 9-12 stitches. Subsequently, the inferior margin of the pectoralis major muscle and the transition from the rectus abdominis muscle to the serratus muscle were dissected to expose the muscle. The implant was introduced and mastopexy was completed. Implant size ranged from 255 mL to 355 mL. Photographs of the breasts of 12 patients were evaluated by two plastic surgeons and two non-medical subjects, who considered the aesthetic results, symmetry of the nipple-areola complex, and degree of breast ptosis. The results were scored as unsatisfactory, satisfactory, or good. Results: The surgical technique was reproducible; there was only one case of unilateral hematoma, no implant infections, and only complaints of mild pain. Only one case was scored as satisfactory by one evaluator, whereas the results of the other cases were considered good. Conclusion: The treatment of breast ptosis with the placement of a submuscular implant in combination with fixation of the breast to the pectoralis major muscle is reproducible and yields good aesthetic results.

[Assessment of the quality of life of tongue base cancer patients after reconstruction with anterolateral thigh perforator flap].

Objective: To evaluate the quality of life (QOL) of patients who underwent resection of tongue base cancer and reconstruction by anterolateral thigh perforator free flap(ALTFF). Methods: A total of 77 patients with tongue cancer who underwent glossectomy and reconstruction by ALTFF were retrospectively analyzed in this work. At intervals of 3-month before operation, as well as both 3-month and 12-month post-operation, the QOL of these patients was assessed by using the 14-item Oral Health Impact Profile questionnaires(OHIP-14) and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Head and Neck Module(EORTC-QLQ-H&N35). Results: The OHIP-14 questionnaire showed the physiological pain can be significantly alleviated at 3 months postoperatively. The highest score were psychological discomfort and psychological disorders at 3 months postoperatively. Functional limitations cannot be restored to preoperative level at 12 months postoperatively, although lower than that in 3 months postoperatively(40.6±10.3 vs 39.2±10.6, t=-0.812, P=0.948). The EORTC-QLQ-H & N35 survey showed that swallowing, language and diet were higher at 3 months postoperatively, and improved significantly at 12 months postoperatively. Teeth and mouth opening was lower before and after surgery, and no significant difference was observed. Conclusion: The use of ALTFF to repair tongue base cancer, can restore the patient's appearance, language and chewing function of the basic needs and improve the quality of life of patients.

Uso de digitalizador e impressora doméstica em 3 dimensões em rinoplastia / Domestic three-dimensional scanner and printer in patients undergoing rhinoplasty

Os princípios para uma rinoplastia bem-sucedida incluem consulta e planejamento pré-operatório e uma análise clínica abrangente que defina as metas da cirurgia. Mais recentemente, a digitalização e a impressão doméstica em 3 dimensões tornaram-se disponíveis. O objetivo deste estudo é descrever um método de digitalização em 3 dimensões e de impressão doméstica da anatomia real do paciente para ser usada como ajuda intraoperatória. Nós apresentamos uma forma de uso desta tecnologia no transoperatório, auxiliando o cirurgião a comparar os resultados obtidos após suas manobras, verificar a sua adesão ao plano cirúrgico previamente estabelecido e melhorar a sua tomada de decisão durante a cirurgia. Em conclusão, a aplicação da impressão doméstica em 3 dimensões demonstra um efeito positivo sobre o tratamento de alterações estéticas do nariz.

The principles for a successful rhinoplasty include preoperative consultation and planning, as well as a comprehensive clinical analysis and defining rhinoplasty goals. Three-dimensional domestic scanning and printing have recently become available. We sought to objectively describe this method as an intraoperative aid in patients' anatomy. This method can be used trans-operatively to help surgeons compare the results of his or her technique, check adherence to the surgical plan, and improve his or her surgical decision-making. We found that the application of 3-dimensional printing had a positive effect on the treatment of patients with aesthetic nose disorders.

Influence of advanced age on postoperative outcomes and total loss following breast reconstruction: a critical assessment of 560 cases / Influência da idade avançada sobre a evolução pós-operatória e a perda total da reconstrução mamária: análise crítica de 560 reconstruções

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the role of age in the risk of postoperative complications in patients submitted to unilateral breast reconstruction after mastectomy, with emphasis on total reconstruction loss. Methods: we conducted a retrospective study of patients submitted to breast reconstruction, whose variables included: oncological and reconstruction data, postoperative complications, including loss of reconstruction and complications of surgical wound. We divided the patients into two groups, according to the classification of the Brazilian National Elderly Policy and the Statute of the Elderly: young (age <60 years) and elderly (60 years or more). We also grouped them according to the World Health Organization classification: young people (age <44 years), middle age (45-59 years); elderly (age 60-89 years) and extreme advanced age (90 years or older). We applied the surgical risk classification of the American Society of Anesthesiologists to investigate the role of the preoperative physical state as a possible predictor of complications. Results: of the 560 patients operated on, 94 (16.8%) were 60 years of age or older. We observed a local complication rate of 49.8%, the majority being self-limited. The incidences of necrosis, infection and dehiscence were 15.5%, 10.9% and 9.3%, respectively. Patients older than 60 years presented a chance of complication 1.606 times greater than the younger ones. Forty-five (8%) patients had loss of the reconstruction; there was no statistically significant difference in the mean age of the patients who presented this result or not (p=0.321). Conclusion: in selected patients, breast reconstruction can be considered safe; most documented complications were limited and could be treated conservatively.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar o papel da idade no risco de complicações pós-operatórias de pacientes submetidas à reconstrução mamária unilateral pós-mastectomia, com ênfase na perda total da reconstrução. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo de pacientes submetidas à reconstrução mamária, cujas variáveis incluídas foram: dados oncológicos e da técnica de reconstrução, complicações pós-operatórias, incluindo perda da reconstrução e complicações da ferida operatória. As pacientes foram divididas de acordo com a classificação da Política Nacional do Idoso e Estatuto do Idoso em dois grupos: jovens (idade <60 anos) e idosas (60 anos ou mais). Também foram agrupadas de acordo com a classificação da Organização Mundial da Saúde: jovens (idade <44 anos); meia-idade (idade 45-59 anos); idosas (idade 60-89 anos) e velhice extrema (90 anos ou mais). A classificação do risco cirúrgico da Sociedade Americana de Anestesiologistas foi aplicada para investigar o papel do estado físico pré-operatório como possível preditor de complicações. Resultados: das 560 pacientes operadas, 94 (16,8%) apresentavam 60 anos ou mais. Observou-se taxa de complicações locais de 49,8%, a maioria, limitadas. As incidências de necrose, infecção e deiscência foram de 15,5%, 10,9% e 9,3%, respectivamente. Pacientes com 60 anos ou mais apresentaram chance de complicação 1,606 vezes maior do que as jovens. Quarenta e cinco (8%) pacientes apresentaram perda da reconstrução e não houve diferença estatisticamente significante na média de idade das pacientes que apresentaram ou não esse desfecho (p=0,321). Conclusão: em pacientes selecionadas, a reconstrução mamária pode ser considerada segura; a maioria das complicações documentadas foi limitada e pode ser tratada conservadoramente.

Comparison among the levels of patients' satisfaction according to the surgical technique used in breast reconstruction after mastectomy. / Valoración de la satisfacción en pacientes mastectomizadas con reconstrucción mamaria según la técnica quirúrgica empleada.

BACKGROUND: It has been proved that a breast reconstruction after a mastectomy has a great psycho-social impact on patients. For this reason, it is increasingly done in a greater percentage of cases. There are two major groups of reconstructive techniques: a reconstruction with implants and a reconstruction with autologous tissue of the patient. In order to make a more objective assessment of the results, it is important to know how satisfied these patients are with the results. Therefore, we performed a study using Q-BREAST, the aim of which is to analyze the satisfaction of mastectomized patients according to the different surgical reconstruction techniques. METHODS: A retrospective, descriptive and observational study of patients reconstructed in our service from 2008 to 2011 was carried out. Patient satisfaction levels were compared according to the surgical technique used in breast reconstruction using the Q-BREAST test, which was mailed to them. RESULTS: There are no statistical differences in the levels of satisfaction in terms of age, type of mastectomy done, coadjutant treatment or existence of complications. Higher levels of satisfaction are observed in patients reconstructed with autologous tissue versus implants (P=.028). CONCLUSIONS: Patients reconstructed with autologous tissue have higher levels of satisfaction than those reconstructed with implants.

An Automated, Gravity-driven CSF Drainage System Decreases Complications and Lowers Costs.

BACKGROUND: FlowSafeTM (BeckerSmith Medical, Irvine, CA, USA) is a novel, robotic, external lumbar drainage (ELD) system, which was designed to control cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage, reduce complications, and decrease treatment costs. METHODS:  Forty-seven consecutive neurosurgical patients requiring ELD were treated using the FlowSafe system. RESULTS: In 39 of 40 patients with traumatic and surgical dural openings, potential CSF leaks were avoided. In seven patients with suspected normal pressure hydrocephalus, post-infectious ventriculomegaly, or pseudotumor cerebrum, we were able to assess the likelihood of improvement with shunting. The system, therefore, produced what we considered to be the "desired result" in 46 of 47 patients (98%). Our one treatment failure (2%) involved a patient with unrecognized hydrocephalus who, following a Chiari repair with a dural patch graft, was drained for six days. A persistent CSF leak eventually required a reoperation. Two patients (4%) described low-pressure headaches during treatment. Both responded to temporarily suspending or reducing the drainage rate. We saw no complications. Required nursing interventions were minimal.  Conclusions: The FlowSafe system was safe and effective. In our experience, there were fewer complications compared to currently available ELD systems. The FlowSafe was well tolerated by our patients. The near elimination of nursing interventions should allow lumbar drainage to be delivered in less costly, non-intensive care unit settings. Larger trials will be needed.

Functional assessment of endoprosthesis in the treatment of bone tumors.

OBJECTIVES: Evaluate the functional grade of these patients and to identify the types of complications found that influenced the average life span of endoprostheses the functions of the operated limb. METHODS: We analyzed 14 post-operative cases of endoprosthesis, patients with malignant bone tumors and aggressive benign bone tumors submitted to surgery between 2004 and 2014. The evaluation system used was proposed by Enneking, recommended by the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS), in addition to the radiologic evaluation. RESULTS: Endoprosthesis are excellent choices for the treatment of bone tumors with limb preservation in relation to pain, strength, and patient's emotional acceptance. Another factor for good results is the immediate weight-bearing capacity, generating a greater independence. CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that all patients classified the therapy as excellent/good, regardless of the type of prosthesis used, extent of injury, and/or type of tumor resection performed.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o grau funcional desses pacientes e identificar os tipos de complicações encontradas e que influenciaram na sobrevida das endopróteses e na função do membro operado. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados 14 pós-operatórios de endopróteses em pacientes portadores de tumores ósseos malignos e benignos agressivos com cirurgia entre 2004 e 2014. O sistema de avaliação foi o proposto por Enneking, preconizado pela Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS), além da avaliação radiográfica. RESULTADOS: As endopróteses são ótimas opções no tratamento de tumores ósseos com preservação do membro, em relação à dor, força e aceitação emocional do paciente. Outro fator para bons resultados é a capacidade de suporte de peso imediato, que gera uma independência maior. CONCLUSÃO: Todos os pacientes classificaram a terapia como excelente/boa, indiferentemente do tipo de prótese, extensão da lesão, tipo de tumor e ressecção feita.