Improving R0 Resection Rates With a Posterior-First, 2-Stage Approach for En Bloc Resection of Locally Advanced Primary and Recurrent Anorectal Cancers Involving the Deep Pelvic Sidewall.

BACKGROUND: Using standard anterior approaches, consistent R0 resection of locally advanced primary and recurrent rectal and anal cancer involving the deep pelvic sidewall may be unattainable. Therefore, to improve R0 resection rates, we have used a posterior-first, then anterior 2-stage approach to resection of tumors in this location. OBJECTIVE: To assess the R0 resection rate and surgical outcomes of the first 10 patients operated on using this approach. DESIGN: We conducted a retrospective case series review of our prospectively maintained surgical pathology and tumor registries. SETTING: This study was conducted at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. PATIENTS: Ten patients (6 female individuals, median age 53.5 years) with primary or recurrent anal or rectal cancer treated with a posterior-first, then anterior 2-stage approach were identified. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome measures were the R0 resection rate and surgical outcomes. RESULTS: An R0 resection was achieved in all 10 patients. Nine patients developed 1 or more 30-day Clavien-Dindo grade III complications. Nine patients developed gluteal wound complications ranging from superficial wound dehiscence to flap necrosis. During the follow-up period, 4 patients were found to have metastatic disease and 1 patient had local re-recurrence. LIMITATIONS: Small cohort with heterogeneous tumors and a short follow-up duration. CONCLUSION: A posterior-first, then anterior 2-stage approach has allowed us to achieve consistent R0 resection margins in locally advanced primary and recurrent rectal and anal cancers involving the deep pelvic sidewall. Poor wound healing of the posterior gluteal incision is a common complication. See Video Abstract. MEJORANDO LAS TASAS DE RESECCIN R CON UN ABORDAJE DE DOS ETAPAS PRIMERO POSTERIOR PARA LA RESECCIN EN BLOQUE DE CNCERES ANORRECTALES PRIMARIOS Y RECURRENTES LOCALMENTE AVANZADOS QUE AFECTAN LA PARED LATERAL PLVICA PROFUNDA: ANTECEDENTES:Utilizando abordajes anteriores estándares, la resección R0 consistente del cáncer de recto y ano primario y recurrente localmente avanzado involucrando la pared lateral pélvica profunda puede ser inalcanzable. Por lo tanto, para mejorar las tasas de resección R0, hemos empleado un abordaje de 2 etapas primero posterior y luego anterior para la resección de tumores en esta ubicación.OBJETIVO:Este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la tasa de resección R0 y los resultados quirúrgicos de los primeros 10 pacientes operados con este abordaje.DISEÑO:Realizamos una revisión retrospectiva de series de casos de nuestros registros de patología quirúrgica y tumores mantenidos prospectivamente.AJUSTE:Este estudio se realizó en la Clínica Mayo en Rochester, Minnesota, EE. UU.PACIENTES:Se identificaron diez pacientes (6 mujeres, mediana de edad 53.5 años) con cáncer anal o rectal primario o recurrente tratados con un abordaje de dos etapas, primero posterior y luego anterior.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Las medidas de resultado primarias fueron la tasa de resección R0 y los resultados quirúrgicos.RESULTADOS:Se logró una resección R0 en los 10 pacientes. Nueve pacientes desarrollaron una o más complicaciones de grado III de Clavien-Dindo a los 30 días. Nueve pacientes desarrollaron complicaciones de la herida del glúteo que variaron desde dehiscencia superficial de la herida hasta necrosis del colgajo. Durante el período de seguimiento, se encontró que 4 pacientes tenían enfermedad metastásica y un paciente tuvo recurrencia local.LIMITACIONES:Cohorte pequeño con tumores heterogéneos y corta duración de seguimiento.CONCLUSIÓN:Un abordaje en 2 etapas, primero posterior y luego anterior, nos ha permitido lograr márgenes de resección R0 consistentes en cánceres de recto y anal primarios y recurrentes localmente avanzados que afectan la pared lateral pélvica profunda. La mala cicatrización de la incisión glútea posterior es una complicación común. (Traducción-Dr. Aurian Garcia Gonzalez).

Post-mastectomy Breast Reconstruction With Gas vs Saline Tissue Expanders: Does the Fill Type Matter?

The most common reconstruction technique following mastectomy is a 2-stage technique that involves tissue expansion followed by definitive implant-based reconstruction (IBR). Tissue expanders (TEs) have classically used saline for initial fill; however, TEs with an initial gas fill (GTE)-including the CO2-based AeroForm (AirXpanders, San Francisco, CA) TE and TEs initially filled with atmospheric air-have been increasingly used in the past decade. We aimed to compare the outcomes in breast reconstruction for tissue expanders initially filled with saline vs gas. PubMed was queried for studies comparing gas- and saline-filled tissue expanders (STEs) used in IBR. A meta-analysis was performed on major postoperative outcomes and the required expansion and definitive reconstruction time. Eleven studies were selected and included in the analysis. No significant differences existed between tissue expansion with GTEs vs STEs for 11 of the 13 postoperative outcomes investigated. Out of the complications investigated, only the risk of infection/cellulitis/abscess formation was significantly lower in the GTE cohort (odds ratio 0.62; 95% CI, 0.47 to 0.82; P = .0009). The time to definitive reconstruction was also significantly lower in the GTE cohort (mean difference [MD], 45.85 days; 95% CI, -57.80 to -33.90; P < .00001). The total time to full expansion approached significance in the GTE cohort (MD, -20.33 days; 95% CI, -41.71 to 1.04; P = .06). A cost analysis considering TE cost and infection risk determined that GTE use saved a predicted $2055.34 in overall healthcare costs. Surgical outcomes for both fill types were predominantly similar; however, GTEs were associated with a significantly decreased risk of postoperative infection compared to saline-filled TEs. GTEs could also reduce healthcare expenditures and require less time until definitive reconstruction after placement.

Complication Profiles of Smooth vs Textured Tissue Expanders in Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma first linked with breast implants in 2011. The correlation between BIA-ALCL and textured devices has led to increased use of smooth devices. However, much of the data surrounding smooth and textured devices investigates breast implants specifically and not tissue expanders. OBJECTIVES: We performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis to compare surgical outcomes for smooth tissue expanders (STEs) and textured tissue expanders (TTEs). METHODS: A search was performed on PubMed, including articles from 2016 to 2023 (n = 419). Studies comparing TTEs and STEs and reported complications were included. A random-effects model was utilized for meta-analysis. RESULTS: A total of 5 articles met inclusion criteria, representing 1709 patients in the STE cohort and 1716 patients in the TTE cohort. The mean duration of tissue expansion with STEs was 221.25 days, while TTEs had a mean time of tissue expansion of 220.43 days.Our meta-analysis found no differences in all surgical outcomes except for explantation risk. STE use was associated with increased odds of explantation by over 50% compared to TTE use (odds ratio = 1.53; 95% CI = 1.15 to 2.02; P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, STEs and TTEs had similar complication profiles. However, STEs had 1.5 times higher odds of explantation. The incidence of BIA-ALCL is low, and only a single case of BIA-ALCL has been reported with TTEs. This indicates that TTEs are safe and may lower the risk of early complications requiring explantation. Further studies are warranted to further define the relationship between tissue expanders and BIA-ALCL.

Wide local excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, and reconstructive options for treatment of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the breast: A retrospective case series from Mayo Clinic.

BACKGROUND: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) of the breast is a dermal fibroblastic neoplasm requiring wide excisional margins due to recurrence rates ranging from 26 to 60%. The current literature on reconstructive options and utility of Mohs micrographic surgery for DFSP of the breast is scarce. We describe surgical management of DFSP of the breast at our institution with the largest case series reported to date. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of women who underwent surgery for DFSP of the breast at our institution between 1990 and 2019. Continuous data was summarized using mean, median, and range; categorical data was summarized with frequency count and percentage. Preoperative lesion size and postoperative defect size were evaluated using 2-sided Fisher exact test, and p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Nine patients underwent wide local excision (WLE) with reconstruction including pedicled latissimus dorsi flaps (n = 2), local flap advancement (n = 2), mastectomy with implant (n = 1), oncoplastic breast reduction (n = 1), and skin grafts (n = 3). Nine underwent Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) with complex primary closure. Mean postoperative maximum wound defect size for WLE was 10.8 cm versus 7.0 cm for MMS with no statistical significance (p = 0.77). Mean preoperative maximum lesion size for WLE was 6.4 cm versus 3.3 cm for MMS with no statistical significance (p = 0.07). Complications with WLE included wound dehiscence in three patients and seroma in one patient. No complications were reported with MMS and primary closure. Recurrence was reported in one WLE patient, which was successfully detected despite flap coverage and resected without complications. Median follow-up for the patients without recurrence was 5.0 years, with two patients in MMS cohort lost to follow-up. Five-year overall survival was 100%. CONCLUSIONS: MMS and WLE are both viable surgical options for managing DFSP of the breast. MMS could potentially minimize reconstructive needs due to smaller average defect size and result in fewer complications but may also result in asymmetry. Immediate flap reconstruction, especially in larger defects, can achieve excellent aesthetic outcomes for patients with DFSP of the breast without compromising detection of disease recurrence.

Neuroradiology in Transgender Care: Facial Feminization, Laryngeal Surgery, and Beyond.

Transgender individuals experience incongruence between their gender identity and the sex assigned to them at birth. This incongruence can cause many transgender individuals to experience distressing physical and mental discord, a diagnosis known as gender dysphoria. Craniofacial structures have distinct anthropometric characteristics that affect perceived masculinity and femininity. The face, neck, and voice are highly exposed anatomic areas that have recognizable gender-specific characteristics that may hinder a transgender individual's successful social integration and public acceptance. Reconstructive facial and laryngeal procedures are among the surgical options transgender persons may elect to undergo to better align their physical appearance with their gender identity. These include feminization surgeries such as facial feminization and reduction chondrolaryngoplasty, as well as masculinizing facial and laryngeal surgeries. Maxillofacial CT is frequently used in the preoperative evaluation of patients before facial feminization surgery (FFS). Several CT measurements guide surgeons to the optimal correction required in FFS to achieve appropriate aesthetic planes. Mapping important craniofacial landmarks to avoid untoward surgical complications is crucial. Transgender patients may encounter other neurologic complications that require neuroimaging evaluation. For example, gender-affirming hormone therapy (eg, estrogen and testosterone) may increase the risk of stroke or may influence growth of various hormone-sensitive tumors such as pituitary adenomas. Radiologists may interpret imaging examinations in transgender patients for routine care or for evaluation before and after facial and laryngeal surgeries and must be aware of the role of neuroimaging in the care of this population. An invited commentary by Callen is available online. The online slide presentation from the RSNA Annual Meeting is available for this article. ©RSNA, 2022.

Efficacy of Tranexamic Acid in Reducing Seroma and Hematoma Formation Following Reduction Mammaplasty.

BACKGROUND: Tranexamic acid (TXA) has gained increasing recognition as a valuable pharmacologic agent within plastic surgery. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the value and safety profile of both intravenous and topically administered TXA in the setting of bilateral reduction mammaplasty. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed to identify consecutive patients who underwent bilateral reduction mammaplasty for symptomatic macromastia (January 2016-July 2021). Pertinent preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative details were collected/reviewed. Primary outcome measures included hematoma requiring surgical evacuation and clinically significant/symptomatic seroma formation mandating percutaneous aspiration. Patients taking anticoagulation/antiplatelet medication or those with a history of thromboembolic diseases were excluded. Patients who had received TXA were compared to a historical control group who did not receive TXA within the same consecutive cohort. RESULTS: A total of 385 consecutive patients (770 breasts) were included. TXA was used in 514 (66.8%) cases (topical, 318 [61.9%]; intravenous, 170 [33.1%]; intravenous and topical, 26 [5.1%]). Neither seroma nor hematoma were impacted/reduced with TXA (P > 0.05). Increased age (hazards ratio, 1.06 per 1-year increase; 95% CI, 1.004-1.118) significantly increased the risk of hematoma (P = 0.032). The use of drains significantly decreased the risk of seroma (P < 0.0001). Increased BMI increased the risk of seroma (hazards ratio, 1.16 per 1-kg/m2 increase; 95% CI, 1.06-1.26; P = 0.0013). The use of TXA did not impact drain duration. CONCLUSIONS: This study, the largest to date on the use of IV and topical TXA, did not find any reduction in risk when using TXA in breast reduction surgery.

Breast Reconstruction in the Setting of Stage 4 Breast Cancer: Is It Worthwhile?

BACKGROUND: The role of reconstruction after primary tumor surgery for metastatic breast cancer remains controversial. This report describes the outcomes for patients undergoing mastectomy with and without reconstruction in the setting of de novo stage 4 breast cancer. METHODS: Using a prospectively maintained institutional breast surgery database, this study identified all patients who presented with de novo stage 4 breast cancer from January 2008 to December 2018. Patients were included if they had undergone mastectomy with or without reconstruction. Patient, surgical characteristics, and survival outcomes were abstracted and analyzed. RESULTS: The study identified 29 patients: 8 patients (28%) who underwent reconstruction (R) and 21 patients (72%) who did not (NR). Complete clinical response to induction systemic therapy was more frequent among patients in the R group than among those in the NR group for the primary disease (50% in R, 5% in NR), and to a lesser degree for distant disease (63% in R, 39% in NR). No difference in complication rates between the two groups was identified [n = 1 (13%) in R; n = 2 (10%) in NR; p = 1.0]. Overall survival from surgery was longer in the R group (100% at 2 and 5 years) than in the NR group [85%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 68-100% at 2 years vs 50%; 95% CI 27-91% at 5 years] (p = 0.046). CONCLUSION: Breast reconstruction after mastectomy may be reasonable to consider for appropriately selected patients with de novo stage 4 breast cancer who have excellent responses to systemic therapy and anticipated durable survival.

Complications after thigh sarcoma resection.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Standard treatment for extremity sarcoma is limb-sparing surgery often with radiation, but complications occur frequently. We sought to determine factors predictive of wound complications after thigh sarcoma resection and reconstruction while analyzing trends over time. METHODS: We reviewed all thigh defects requiring plastic surgeon reconstruction following sarcoma resection at our institution from 1997 to 2014. Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative characteristics, multi-modality therapies, and complications were analyzed. Wound complications were: infection, dehiscence, seroma, hematoma, or partial/total flap loss. RESULTS: There were 159 thigh reconstructions followed for 30 months on average. Eighty-seven percent of patients underwent radiation and 42% had chemotherapy. Almost half (49.1%) had a complication. The most common wound complication was surgical site infection (23.3%) followed by dehiscence (19.5%), and seroma (10.7%). Less common were partial (2.5%) or total flap loss (0.6%). Reoperation was required in 21 patients (13.2%). Tobacco use, older patient age, cardiac disease, and higher body mass index were independently associated with wound complications. Complications trended towards decreasing over time, but this was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Tobacco use, cardiac disease, and higher body mass index, but not the timing of reconstruction, appear to increase the risk of wound complications after thigh soft tissue sarcomas resection and plastic surgery reconstruction.

Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction in Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy With Immediate Mastopexy.

BACKGROUND: Nipple-areola preservation positively impacts quality of life of the patients and helps them to achieve a better psychological and sexual well-being, as well as higher satisfaction with their reconstruction. Patients with large or ptotic breasts, however, represent a technical challenge to surgeons, and nipple-areola preservation may be deferred in this clinical scenario. The aim of this study is to report our experience in patients with large or ptotic breasts who underwent nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) and prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction with immediate mastopexy. METHODS: A single-institution retrospective chart review was performed in all consecutive patients who underwent NSM and prepectoral implant-based breast reconstruction, simultaneously with mastopexy. This procedure was offered preoperatively to patients who had ptotic or large breasts, which could benefit from mastopexy to obtain a better result. Aesthetic outcomes were evaluated using a modified 5-point Likert scale, and satisfaction and quality of life were evaluated using the reconstruction module of the BREAST-Q questionnaire. RESULTS: Seventeen NSMs with simultaneous mastopexy were performed on 9 patients. All completed reconstruction successfully, and there were no cases of nipple ischemia or necrosis. Global aesthetic evaluation score was 3.77 (±0.95). The Q-scores were as follows: satisfaction with breast was 90, psychosocial well-being was 95, sexual well-being was 80, and physical well-being with chest was 86. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with large and/or ptotic breasts, NSM with prepectoral breast reconstruction and immediate mastopexy showed promising results. However, adequate preoperative planning and intraoperative flap assessment are necessary in order to minimize complications.

The American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Program Incompletely Captures Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction Complications.

BACKGROUND: Implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) accounts for 70% of postmastectomy reconstructions in the United States. Improving the quality of surgical care in IBR patients through accurate measurements of outcomes is necessary. The purpose of this study is to compare the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) data from our institution to our complete institutional health records database. METHODS: Data were collected and recorded for all patients undergoing IBR at our institution from 2015 to 2017. The data were completely identified and compared with our institutional NSQIP database for demographics and complications. RESULTS: The electronic health records data search identified 768 IBR patients in 3 years and NSQIP reported on 229 (30%) patients. Demographics were reported similarly among the 2 databases. Rates of tissue expander/implant infections (5.9% vs 1.8%; P = 0.003) and wound dehiscence (3.5% vs 0.4%; P = 0.003) were not reported similarly between our database and NSQIP. However, the rates of hematoma (2.7% vs 1.8%) and skin flap necrosis (2.5% vs 1.8%) were comparable between the two databases. In our database, 43% of all complications presented after 30 days of surgery, beyond NSQIP's capture period. CONCLUSIONS: Databases built on partial sampling, such as the NSQIP, may be useful for demographic analyses, but fall short of providing data for complications after IBR, such as infections and wound dehiscence. These results highlight the utility and importance of complete databases. National comparisons of clinical outcomes for IBR should be interpreted with caution when using partial databases.

Single-Stage Direct-to-Implant Breast Reconstruction: A Comparison Between Subpectoral Versus Prepectoral Implant Placement.

BACKGROUND: Single-stage direct-to-implant (DTI) breast reconstruction can offer several potential benefits. Subpectoral DTI reconstruction can present with animation deformity and pectoralis muscle spasm. To potentially avoid these complications, surgeons have attempted prepectoral placement for DTI; however, the benefits of this approach are mostly unknown. We evaluated the outcomes of DTI between prepectoral and subpectoral placement. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of patients who underwent immediate DTI breast reconstruction (prepectoral vs subpectoral) between 2011 and 2018. Demographics, clinical characteristics, complications, and patient-reported outcomes (BREAST-Q) were compared. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients (55 breasts) underwent prepectoral DTI, and 42 patients (69 breasts) underwent subpectoral DTI. Demographics were similar among groups. The number of breasts with preoperative ptosis lower than grade 2 was not significantly different between groups (29.1% vs 26.1%; P = 0.699). Median follow-up was 20.3 and 21 months in the prepectoral and subpectoral groups, respectively. Average mastectomy weight was 300 g (180-425 g) and 355 g (203-500 g). Average implant size was 410 cc (330-465 cc) and 425 cc (315-534 cc) in the prepectoral and subpectoral groups, respectively. Alloderm was used in all reconstructions. Total numbers of complications were 4 (7.2%) and 8 (11.6%) in the prepectoral and subpectoral groups, respectively (P = 0.227). BREAST-Q demonstrated mean patient satisfaction was high and similar among groups (75 and 73.9, P = 0.211). CONCLUSIONS: Based on these results, we believe prepectoral DTI is safe, reliable, and a promising reconstructive option for selected patients, with equivalent results to other reconstructive options. Our present treatment recommendations are for patients who wish to maintain the same breast size and have minimal or no breast ptosis.

Robotic-Assisted DIEP Flap Harvest for Autologous Breast Reconstruction: A Comparative Feasibility Study on a Cadaveric Model.

BACKGROUND: The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is the most common perforator flap for microsurgical breast reconstruction. Contrary to the conventional open approach, robotic-assisted DIEP flap harvest intends to preserve ARS integrity, thereby reducing the morbidity. We assessed the feasibility and compared performance outcomes of a robotic, cadaveric training model for DIEP flap harvest using two approaches: transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) and totally extraperitoneal (TEP). METHODS: A robotics system (da Vinci Xi) was applied in conjunction with a cadaveric training model. Ports were placed in the abdominal wall to triangulate each DIEP flap. Surgical time and technical characteristics were recorded. Values were analyzed and compared. RESULTS: Eight female cadavers (16 hemi-DIEP flaps) were dissected: 50% TAPP and 50% TEP approaches. Mean harvest time was 56 minutes (range: 48-74 minutes) and 65 minutes (range: 60-83 minutes) for TAPP versus TEP groups, respectively (p < 0.05). Mean pedicle dissection time was 36 minutes (range: 25-40 minutes) and 39 minutes (range: 30-42 minutes) for TAPP versus TEP groups, respectively (p > 0.05). Intra-abdominal contents were manipulated twice on average in the TAPP group versus 0 times in the TEP group (p < 0.05). One TAPP case had an injury to the bowel, and one TEP case was converted to conventional open due to pneumoperitoneum. CONCLUSION: Robotic-assisted DIEP flap harvest represents a technological enhancement for advanced regenerative plastic surgery. Our model demonstrated both TAPP and TEP are feasible, with TEP less invasive, preserving the posterior rectus sheath, and decreasing complication risks. However, there is a steeper and longer learning curve for TEP.

Outcomes analysis of Goldilocks mastectomy and breast reconstruction: A single institution experience of 96 cases.

BACKGROUND: The Goldilocks mastectomy procedure involves local contouring of completely autologous breast tissue created by preserving and de-epithelializing the residual mastectomy flaps. The purpose of this study was to provide outcomes data for 96-Goldilocks mastectomy procedures analyzing indications, complications, relevant comorbidities, and adjuvant cancer treatment impacting reconstructive and aesthetic outcomes. METHODS: Comprehensive review of every patient who underwent Goldilocks mastectomy from 2012 to 2018 included relevant medical and surgical comorbidities, as well as complication profiles. Aesthetic outcomes were also assessed in those with postoperative imaging available. RESULTS: A total of 53 patients (96 breasts) were included in this study. Bilateral cases consisted of 81.1% of the total cohort (n = 86 cases), and 18.9% (n = 10 cases) were unilateral procedures. Mean age at the time of reconstruction was 55.8 (33-77) years. Mean body mass index (BMI) at the time of reconstruction was 33.7 (19.2-54.6). The overall complication rate was 9.38% (seroma = 2, hematoma = 1, cellulitis = 2, wound dehiscence = 3, and operating room take back = 1). CONCLUSIONS: Goldilocks breast reconstruction is a safe, effective option in patients with higher than average BMI or excess local breast tissue, or in patients meeting these criteria preferring a single-stage reconstruction. This study qualifies its use in patients with higher than average risk factors for more extensive reconstructive modalities.

Profile of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Obese and Lean Environments.

BACKGROUND: With the demand for stem cells in regenerative medicine, new methods of isolating stem cells are highly sought. Adipose tissue is a readily available and non-controversial source of multipotent stem cells that carries a low risk for potential donors. However, elevated donor body mass index has been associated with an altered cellular microenvironment and thus has implications for stem cell efficacy in recipients. This review explored the literature on adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and the effect of donor obesity on cellular function. METHODS: A review of published articles on obesity and ASCs was conducted with the PubMed database and the following search terms: obesity, overweight, adipose-derived stem cells and ASCs. Two investigators screened and reviewed the relevant abstracts. RESULTS: There is agreement on reduced ASC function in response to obesity in terms of angiogenic differentiation, proliferation, migration, viability, and an altered and inflammatory transcriptome. Osteogenic differentiation and cell yield do not show reasonable agreement. Weight loss partially rescues some of the aforementioned features. CONCLUSIONS: Generally, obesity reduces ASC qualities and may have an effect on the therapeutic value of ASCs. Because weight loss and some biomolecules have been shown to rescue these qualities, further research should be conducted on methods to return obese-derived ASCs to baseline. LEVEL V: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors- www.springer.com/00266.

Comparison of Outcomes in Oncoplastic Pelvic Reconstruction with VRAM versus Omental Flaps: A Large Cohort Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to describe our experience and outcomes in oncoplastic pelvic reconstruction for patients who underwent either vertical rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (VRAM) or omental flap following abdominoperineal resection (APR) at a single tertiary care institution. METHODS: All patients who underwent pelvic reconstruction following APR with either VRAM or omental flaps from January 1992 to January 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics and relevant comorbidities including chemotherapy and radiation therapy data were collected and analyzed. In addition, margin status at the time of oncologic resection was analyzed. Flap-specific data were collected for each approach. Oncologic data collected included cancer type, stage at time of APR, and rate of tumor recurrence within the flap. RESULTS: A total of 562 patients were identified who underwent pelvic reconstruction with either VRAM or omental pedicle flaps. Of these, 274 (48.8%) underwent VRAM reconstruction and 288 (51.2%) underwent omental flap reconstruction. All margins were negative at time of cancer ablation surgery. Complications data included: seroma (VRAM = 2 [0.36%]; omentum = 32 [5.69%], p < 0.0001), wound dehiscence (VRAM = 31 [5.52%]; omentum = 17 [3.02%], p = 0.022), abscess (VRAM = 4 [0.71%]; omentum = 27 [4.8%], p < 0.0001), cellulitis (VRAM = 2 [0.36%]; omentum = 10 [1.78%], p = 0.025). Statistical comparison of tumor recurrence between these two reconstructive approaches showed a significantly higher recurrence rate in omental flaps compared with VRAM flaps (p = 0.000127). CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest a significantly higher tumor recurrence rate in omental flap pelvic reconstruction compared with VRAM flaps. This knowledge has the potential to influence surgical planning and flap selection in pelvic reconstruction.

Two-Staged Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: A Long-Term Outcome Study in a Young Population.

Background and objectives: Differences in patient anatomy and physiology exist between young and older patients undergoing breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Breast cancer has been described as being more aggressive, more likely to receive radiation, contralateral mastectomy, as well as bilateral reconstruction in young patients. Our purpose is to report long-term experience on two-staged implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) in young females, with complication sub-analysis based on obesity and adjuvant radiation. Materials and Methods: Retrospective chart review of all consecutive young patients who underwent two-staged IBR at our institution, between 2000 and 2016, was performed. Patients between 15 and 40 years old with least 1-year follow-up were included. Univariate logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were created. Results: Overall 594 breasts met our inclusion criteria. The mean age was 34 years, and the median follow-up was 29.6 months. Final IBR was achieved in 98% of breasts. Overall, 12% of breasts had complications, leading to explantations of 5% of the devices. Adjuvant radiation was followed by higher rates of total device explantations (p = 0.003), while obese patients had higher rates of total complications (p < 0.001). For each point increase in BMI, the odds of developing complications increased 8.1% (p < 0.001); the cutoff BMI to predict higher complications was 24.81 kg/m2. Conclusions: This population demonstrates high successful IBR completion and low explantation rates. These data suggest that obese women and those with planned adjuvant radiation deserve special counseling about their higher risk of complications.

Complications and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Male-to-Female Vaginoplasty-Where We Are Today: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: There is an increased need for evidence-based practices in male-to-female (MtF) transgender vaginoplasty. Although there are a multitude of surgical techniques, there is a paucity of data comparing these procedures. A systematic review of retrospective studies on the outcomes of MtF vaginoplasty was conducted to minimize surgical complications and improve patient outcomes for transgender patients. METHODS: Applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, a comprehensive search of several databases from 1985 to November 7, 2017, was conducted. The databases included PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE Epub Ahead of Print, Ovid Medline In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Ovid Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science. The resulting publications were screened, and those that met our specified inclusion/exclusion criteria were analyzed. The DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model was used to pool complications and patient-reported outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 471 articles were initially identified, of which 46 met our eligibility criteria. A total of 3716 cases were analyzed. Overall incidence of complications included the following: 2% (1%-6%) fistula, 14% (10%-18%) stenosis and strictures, and 1% (0%-6%) tissue necrosis, and 4% (2%-10%) prolapse (upper and lower limits of the 95% confidence interval). Patient-reported outcomes included a satisfaction rate of 93% (79%-100%) with overall results, 87% (75%-96%) with functional outcomes, and 90% (79%-98%) with esthetic outcomes. Ability to have orgasm was reported in 70% (54%-84%) of patients. The regret rate was 1% (0%-3%). The length of the vaginal cavity was 12.5 cm (6.3-4.4 cm). CONCLUSIONS: Multiple surgical techniques have demonstrated safe and reliable means of MtF vaginoplasty with low overall complication rates and with a significant improvement in the patient's quality of life. Studies using different techniques in a similar population and standardized patient-reported outcomes are required to further analyze outcomes among the different procedures and to establish best-practice guidelines.

Cadaver Study of Combined Neurovascular Sensate Flaps to Create Vaginal Erogenous Sensation During Male-to-Female Genital Confirmation Surgery: The Pedicle "O" Flap.

PURPOSE: The lack of erogenous sensitivity in the neovagina is one of the major shortcomings for patients undergoing male-to-female genital confirmation surgery. Remnant fibers of the dorsal nerve of the penis (DNP) after clitroplasty can potentially be used for a second neurovascular pedicle flap for intravaginal erogenous sensation. METHODS: An anatomic dissection of the DNP was performed in 10 male frozen pelvises to identify major trunks and their branches. Lateral branches of DNP were preserved for a sensate "O" pedicle flap for the vagina. The number of main branches in the lateral dorsal aspect of the penis was calculated to ensure sufficient erogenous innervation to the vagina. Cross sections of the penis were used for histological analysis. Optimal width and length of the new sensate flap were described. RESULTS: There were 1, 2, and 3 main branches in the lateral compartment in 2 (20%), 6 (30.7%), and 2 (42.8%) cadavers, respectively. A sensate pedicle flap from the lateral aspect of the glans penis with a mean width of 1.14 cm (range, 0.9-1.28 cm) ensured at least one main branch of the DNP for erogenous sensitivity of the vagina. This sensate vaginal flap and its neurovascular pedicle had a mean length of 9.8 cm (range, 8.7-10.3 cm) allowing its inset into the anterior vaginal canal. CONCLUSION: Lateral branches of the DNP can be preserved for a pedicle sensate flap to the vagina, which can provide patients with an erogenous vaginal "spot" during male-to-female confirmation surgery.

Lower Extremity Limb Salvage with Cross Leg Pedicle Flap, Cross Leg Free Flap, and Cross Leg Vascular Cable Bridge Flap.

BACKGROUND: Lower extremity salvage following significant soft tissue loss can be complicated by lack of recipient vessel for free tissue transfer. We describe our experience in lower limb salvage for patients with no recipient vessels with the use of pedicle, free and cable bridge flaps. METHODS: A retrospective review from 1985 to 2017 of patients undergoing lower limb salvage using a contralateral pedicle cross leg (PCL) flaps, free cross leg (FCL) flaps, or free cable bridge (FCB) flaps was conducted. Demographics, etiology of the reconstruction, type of flap used, donor-site vessels, defect size, operating time, time of pedicle division, length of hospital stay, time to ambulation, and complications were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 53 patients (48 males and 5 females) with an average age of 35 years (range, 29-38 years) were identified. The etiology for the reconstruction was trauma in 52 patients and oncological resection in 1 patient. There were 18 PCL, 25 FCL, and 10 FCB completed. The recipient vessels for all flaps were the posterior tibial artery and vein. The average operating room times for PCL, FCL, and FCB flaps were 4, 9, and 10 hours, respectively. The average length of hospital stay was 5 weeks and average time to ambulation was 4 weeks. The average follow-up time was 7.5 years (range, 3-12 years). Complications encountered were hematoma (six), prolonged pain (six), total flap loss (two), reoperation (five), and infection (four). Limb salvage rates were 96.2%. CONCLUSION: When ipsilateral limb vessels are not available, and other reconstructive options have been exhausted, cross leg flaps can be a viable option for limb salvage in the setting of extensive defects.

The impact of chest contouring aesthetics outcomes: a pilot eye tracking study.

Eye-tracking technology was used to assess aesthetic surgical outcomes in transgender and gender diverse patients who are assigned female at birth and who seek gender affirming chest surgery. Post-surgery, observers focused more on scars than on the nipple-areolar complex. Ratings for similarity to cis-male chests significantly increased. This series highlights the objective evaluation of visual perception and masculinity assessments using eye-tracking.