Randomized trial of gastric and colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection defect closure comparing a novel through-the-scope suturing system with an over-the-scope suturing system (with video).

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Mucosal closure adds time but reduces adverse events associated with endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). We aimed to assess the closure time (CT), technical success, and cost-effectiveness between a novel through-the-scope helix tack suture system (TTSS) and the over-the-scope suturing system (OTSS). METHODS: In this single-center, prospective, randomized trial, all patients undergoing ESD with anticipated closure were randomized 1:1 to TTSS (study group) or OTSS (control group). Primary outcomes were CT and overall CT (OCT; CT + setup time). Secondary outcomes were rates of technical success, adverse events, and cost-effectiveness. RESULTS: Forty patients were randomized to OTSS (n = 20) or TTSS (n = 20). OTSS and TTSS groups were similar with respect to age, gender, proportion of colorectal polyps, proximal colon polyps, and mean size of the resected specimen (40.9 mm vs 40.4 mm). The mean CT was 18.4 minutes for OTSS and 23.3 minutes for TTSS (P = .36). The mean OCT was 32 minutes for OTSS and 39.5 minutes for TTSS (P = .36). Closure with a primary device was successful in 17 cases (85%) with OTSS and 18 cases (90%) with TTSS (P = .63). No closure-related intraprocedural adverse events or delayed perforations were noted. Mean cost of closure was significantly lower in the TTSS group for lesions <35 mm (P = .008). CONCLUSIONS: TTSS was not found to be superior to OTSS with respect to CT and technical and clinical success for closure of gastric and colorectal ESD defects. TTSS is more cost-effective for closure of lesions <35 mm. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT04925271.).

A 3-Dimensional Evaluation of the Effects of Unilateral Vertical Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis on Airway Volume Among Patients With Hemifacial Microsomia.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the volumetric airway changes using three-dimensional images following unilateral vertical mandibular distraction osteogenesis (uVMD) among patients with hemifacial microsomia (HFM). DESIGN: This retrospective study analyzed cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of patients with HFM at three different timepoints; pretreatment (T0), posttreatment (T1), and at least 6 months post-distraction (T2). The individuals underwent uVMD between December 2018-Januaray 2021. The nasopharyngeal (NP) volume, oropharyngeal (OP) volume, and the area of maximum constriction (MC) were measured. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the airway volumes between T0-T1, T1-T2, and T0-T2. RESULTS: Five patients met the inclusion criteria (mean age = 10.4 years; 1 female, 4 males). Intraclass correlation analysis showed excellent interrater reliability (r > .86, P < .001). Posttreatment, the OP airway volume exhibited a significant mean increase of 56% (P = .043) from T0 to T1, but decreased from T1-T2 by 13%. Likewise, the total airway volume presented with a significant mean increase of 48% between T0-T1 (P = .044), and a decrease of 7% from T1-T2. The changes in the NP airway volume and area of MC were not statistically significant (P > .05), but an increase in the mean values were observed. CONCLUSION: Surgical intervention with uVMD may significantly increase the OP airway volume and the total airway volume among patients with HFM immediately after distraction. However, the statistical significance diminished after six months post-consolidation, but the mean percent change may remain of clinical significance. The NP volume did not seem to show significant changes in response to uVMD.

Corneal Neurotization: A Meta-analysis of Outcomes and Patient Selection Factors.

BACKGROUND: Corneal neurotization describes reinnervation of the anesthetic or severely hypoesthetic cornea with a healthy local nerve or graft. Preliminary evidence has shown corneal neurotization to improve corneal sensation, visual acuity, and ocular surface health. Factors that improve patient selection and lead to better neurotization outcomes have yet to be elucidated, limiting ability to optimize perioperative decision-making guidelines. METHODS: A systematic review with meta-analysis was performed of the MEDLINE and Embase databases using variations of "corneal," "nerve transfer," "neurotization," and "neurotization." The primary outcomes of interest were corrected visual acuity, NK Mackie stage, and central corneal sensation. Regression analyses were performed to identify the effects of surgical technique, duration of denervation, patient age, and etiology of corneal pathology on neurotization outcomes. RESULTS: Seventeen studies were included. Corneal neurotization resulted in significant improvement in NK Mackie stage (0.84 vs 2.46, P < 0.001), visual acuity (logarithm of minimum angle of resolution scale: 0.98 vs 1.36, P < 0.001), and corneal sensation (44.5 vs 0.7, P < 0.001). Nerve grafting was associated with greater corneal sensation improvement than nerve transfer (47.7 ± 16.0 vs 35.4 ± 18.76, P = 0.03). Denervation duration was predictive of preneurotization visual acuity (logarithm of minimum angle of resolution scale; R2 = 0.25, P = 0.001), and older age (ß = 0.30, P = 0.03) and acquired etiology (ß = 0.30, P = 0.03) were predictive of improved visual acuity. CONCLUSIONS: Corneal neurotization provides significant clinical improvement in visual acuity, NK Mackie staging, and corneal sensation in patients who experience NK. Both nerve grafting and nerve transfer are likely to yield similar levels of benefit and ideally should be performed early to limit denervation time.

An age-related algorithm for management of micro-orbitism from anophthalmia: a systematic review with supplemental case reports.

Management of pediatric anophthalmia and resultant micro-orbitism is challenging. The efficacy and safety of treatment methods vary with age as bony changes grow recalcitrant to implants in those at skeletal maturity and osteotomies become technically challenging following frontal sinus pneumatization. This study aims to review methods for managing micro-orbitism and develop an age-based treatment approach. A systematic literature review was conducted. Data were screened and extracted by two investigators and relevant English-language primary-literature was analyzed. Information on sample-size, number of orbits, intervention, age, complications, and prosthetic retention was obtained. Representative case reports are presented, in addition. Nineteen studies met inclusion: 294 orbits in 266 patients were treated. Two studies reported distraction-osteogenesis. Two studies utilized bone grafting. Osteotomies were performed in 41 patients from three studies. Use of solid implants was detailed in two studies. Three studies described osmotic implant. Four studies described inflatable implants. Other techniques were described by three of the included studies, two of which utilized dermis-fat grafting. All but one study were observational case reports or case series. Across all studies regardless of surgical technique, risk of bias and heterogeneity was high due to attrition bias and selective outcomes-reporting. Selection of therapy should be tailored to skeletal-age to optimize outcomes; those 0-4 yrs are managed with dermis-fat grafts, 5-7 yrs managed with implants, and 8+ yrs managed with osteotomies. For those 8+ yrs with aerated frontal sinuses or insufficient bone stock, we propose onlay camouflage prosthetics which improve projection, increase orbital volume, and avoid risk for frontal sinus injury.

Evaluating the Effects of Enhanced Recovery Pathways in Craniosynostosis: National Trends in Hospitalization Charges and Length of Stay in Craniosynostosis Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathways are multimodal approaches aimed at minimizing postoperative surgical stress, reducing hospitalization time, and lowering hospitalization charges. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery is broadly and increasingly implemented in hospitals across the country. Early reports have shown ERAS to reduce length of stay (LOS) after commonly performed pediatric surgeries. However, LOS and hospital charges after craniosynostosis have not been studied. We hypothesized that extended hospital LOS is correlated with increased hospitalization charges associated with open cranial vault surgery (CVS) and that over a multiyear timeframe, LOS and cost would decrease because of the increased adoption of ERAS in pediatric surgery. METHODS: The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's National Inpatient Sample database was analyzed from January 2007 to December 2014. All patients who were diagnosed with craniosynostosis who underwent CVS were included. Variables of interest included demographic data, hospital characteristics, hospitalization data, and total hospital charges. Univariate and generalized linear regression models were used to examine associations between selected variables and the hospitalization charges. RESULTS: There were 54,583 patients diagnosed with craniosynostosis between 2007 and 2014. Of these patients, 22,916 (41.9%) received CVS. The median total hospital charge was $66,605.77 (interquartile range, $44,095.60-$101,071.17). The median LOS was 3 days (interquartile range, 2-4 days), and there was no significant change in LOS by year (P = 0.979). However, despite a stable LOS, mean hospitalization charge increased significantly by year (P < 0.01). Regression analysis demonstrated the proportion of eligible patients who underwent CVS substantially increased over the selected timeframe (P < 0.01). Most procedures were performed in urban teaching hospitals and high-volume hospitals. There was no significant association between hospital volume and hospitalization charge (P = 0.331). CONCLUSIONS: Increasing hospital charges despite constant LOS for craniosynostosis CVS procedures was observed between 2007 and 2014. Although ERAS has reduced LOS for common pediatric surgical procedures, no decrease in LOS for CVS has been observed. The charges significantly increased over the same period including high-volume centers. Further study to safely lower LOS and hospitalization charges for this procedure may reduce the overall health care burden.

Trainee Operative Autonomy in Plastic Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Appropriate, progressive trainee autonomy is critical for training competent plastic surgeons who are adequately prepared to enter independent practice. Evaluation and reporting of meaningful operative autonomy among trainees in plastic surgery are understudied. METHODS: Parallel survey instruments were developed using the Zwisch metric for progressive operative autonomy and distributed electronically to trainees and faculties in all accredited training programs. Trainees were queried about their operative autonomy in 17 core plastic surgery procedures, associated approach to logging cases, and perceived readiness to enter practice. Faculties provided assessment of their final-year trainees using the same metrics. RESULTS: Trainees in 28 programs and faculties in 35 programs participated. Final-year trainees reported the most operative independence with breast tissue expander reconstruction and carpal tunnel release and the least with facelift and rhinoplasty. A mean of 40% of final-year trainees reached supervision only autonomy in the procedures queried; none achieved this with rhinoplasty. Faculties identified the highest final-year trainee operative autonomy with botulinum toxin injection and burn excision and grafting; the least trainee independence was reported with rhinoplasty, cleft lip repair, and facelift. Faculty perception of final-year trainee autonomy was higher than that of trainees for 82% of procedures queried. CONCLUSIONS: Although plastic surgery trainees endorse gradual operative autonomy overall, a majority of final-year trainees do not perceive supervision only independence in the majority of core procedures queried. Faculties perceive higher trainee operative autonomy than trainees for most procedures. Discordant approaches to case logging were identified both among trainees and between trainees and faculties. Standardization may improve both progression and assessment of operative autonomy in plastic surgery training.

Understanding Breast Implant Illness, Before and After Explantation: A Patient-Reported Outcomes Study.

BACKGROUND: Breast implant illness (BII) after aesthetic breast augmentation remains a poorly defined syndrome encompassing a wide spectrum of symptoms. While previously published series have observed overall symptomatic improvement after breast implant removal, there is a lack of studies evaluating changes in specific symptoms over time. The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of symptoms associated with BII, and to evaluate how these symptoms change after removal of breast implants and total capsulectomy (explantation). We hypothesized that patients presenting with BII would experience both immediate and sustained improvement in constitutional symptoms after explantation. METHODS: A retrospective study of all patients who underwent explantation by a single surgeon over 2 years was conducted. Repeated-measures analysis of variance accounting for dependency was used to compare symptoms before and after surgery. Multivariate analyses and linear regression models were used to examine the impact of patient- and implant-related factors on changes in symptoms. RESULTS: Seven hundred fifty patients met inclusion criteria. Mean preoperative survey score (26.19 ± 11.24) was significantly different from mean postoperative survey score at less than 30 days (9.49 ± 7.56) and greater than 30 days (9.46 ± 7.82, P < 0.001). Patients with a BMI greater than 30 or those with clinically detectable contracture on examination showed greater improvement on their survey scores (P = 0.039, 0.034, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Although BII encompasses a large range of symptoms, subjects in this study demonstrated significant and sustained improvement in 11 common symptom domains. This improvement was demonstrable within the first 30 days postoperatively and was maintained beyond 30 days. The study demonstrated a strong association of explantation and specific symptom improvement within the patient population studied. Future investigation will further elucidate possible biologic phenomena to better characterize the pathophysiology and mechanism of BII.

Leveling the Maxillary Occlusal Plane Without Orthodontic Appliances in Patients With Hemifacial Microsomia Using Unilateral Vertical Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis.

PURPOSE: To assess maxillary occlusal plane correction in patients with hemifacial microsomia (HFM) after vertical vector mandibular distraction osteogenesis (vMDO) without orthodontic appliances. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed on consecutive patients with HFM and Kaban-Pruzansky type-II mandibular deformities who underwent unilateral vMDO by a single surgeon over an 18-month period. Patients with 12-months minimum clinical follow-up and postero-anterior (PA) cephalograms taken preoperatively and at a minimum of 3 months post-consolidation were included. RESULTS: Five patients met inclusion criteria, 3 were female, median age was 13 years, median distraction length was 21.3 mm. Median radiographic follow-up was 5 months (range 3-38) post-consolidation. Median correction of the ramus height differential (difference between non-diseased and diseased side) was 97.3%. Median maxillary height differential correction was 72.2%. Median maxillary occlusal plane angle correction (towards zero) was 84.2%. Relative and absolute maxillary bone growth was greater on the diseased side (median 7.4%, 3.5 mm versus 2.8%, 1.4 mm). Dentoalveolar height decreased bilaterally in 4 of the 5 patients. Median chin point correction (towards midline) was 31.4%. CONCLUSION: Unilateral vMDO without orthodontic appliances effectively corrected mandibular ramus height, leveled the maxillary occlusal plane, and preferentially increased maxillary bone growth on the diseased side in patients with HFM.

Correction of Complex Neurofibromatosis Orbital and Globe Malposition Using the Orbital Box Segmentation Osteotomy With Patient-Specific Internal Orbit Reconstruction.

INTRODUCTION: Correction of severe orbital and globe malposition from neurofibromatosis remains a significant clinical challenge. Current techniques including zygoma osteotomy, bone grafting, or placement of orbital implants do not adequately address aberrant anatomy, under-correct the deformity, and are prone to relapse. The authors have developed the orbital box segmentation osteotomy to reduce vertical orbital height and translocate the orbit and use patient-specific custom internal orbital titanium implants to close the cranio-orbital communication-reestablishing both the external orbital shape and internal orbital volume. METHODS: Virtual surgical planning with contralateral mirror imaging was used to design symmetrical repositioning of the external orbit and to determine segmentation required to reduce the vertical excess and inferior rim malposition as well as for manufacturing patient-specific titanium implants. Orbital volume was measured from preoperative, virtual surgical simulation, and postoperative imaging using stereotactic software. Globe position was assessed using pre- and postoperative 3-dimensional photography software (Canfield). RESULTS: All patients (n = 3, mean age 12 years) demonstrated improved globe position and orbital contour with resolution of globe pulsatility. Virtual surgical planning predicted postoperative volumes within 0.8 cm ±â€Š0.5. Mean volume orbital change was 4.5 cm, change in conformation and distribution of orbital volume was present in all patients. Vertical globe position improved from 11.5 mm preoperatively to within 1 mm of the unaffected side postoperatively. One patient had surgical site infection, there is no evidence of relapse at mean 24-months follow-up. CONCLUSION: Segmental box osteotomy with internal orbital reconstruction redistributes orbital volume safely and accurately addresses globe malposition from neurofibromatosis.

Improving Care of Cleft-Related Velopharyngeal Incompetence on Humanitarian Missions Using a Multidisciplinary Team Approach.

BACKGROUND: Proper evaluation and analysis of speech surgery outcomes for cleft-related velopharyngeal incompetence in children and young adults performed on humanitarian missions is poorly characterized. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of using a multidisciplinary team on cleft-related humanitarian missions. The effect on patient selection, velopharyngeal mechanism imaging, and speech outcomes after surgery will be highlighted. METHODS: A review of the Medical Readiness Training Exercise database for craniofacial missions to the Dominican Republic from 2009 to 2011 was performed. A speech pathologist and a craniofacial surgeon evaluated all patients with a diagnosis of cleft palate and speech abnormalities. Patients were screened using speech analysis and selective nasal endoscopy. Data collected included sex, age, diagnosis, speech scores, date, and type of surgical procedure-that is, pharyngeal flap (PF) versus sphincter pharyngoplasty (SP), morbidity, and mortality. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-six patients with cleft palate were screened during the study period by a craniofacial surgeon and secondarily by a speech pathologist. Twenty-eight patients were identified with nasal quality speech of whom 12 patients (12/126 = 9.5% of total surgical cases) underwent PF/SP surgery after previous primary repair of a cleft palate defect. The 16 remaining patients (16/28 = 57%) with nonsurgical speech abnormalities were determined that surgery was not going to be beneficial and they were spared unnecessary surgery after speech pathology evaluation and nasal endoscopy. Eight patients were female and 4 patients were male; average age was 13.3 years (range 4-27 years). Seven pharyngeal flaps (58%) and 5 (42%) sphincter pharyngoplasty procedures were performed. The average presurgical speech score was 11.4 (range 6-24). There was a significant decrease in postsurgical speech scores with the average postsurgical speech score of 5.2 (range 0-21, P value = 0.0028). Follow-up evaluation averaged 18 months (range 6-24). Average hospital stay was 2 days for PF/SP surgery. Two patients, both with developmental delay, retained speech scores greater than 6. There were no major complications or reoperations. CONCLUSIONS: Pharyngeal flap/sphincter pharyngoplasty surgery in young adults resulted in improved speech scores and comprehensibility after speech surgery on Medical Readiness Training Exercise military humanitarian missions. Speech surgery in older patients in relatively austere environments is safe and effective. After comprehensive multidisciplinary team evaluation, 43% of the patients who were screened to have velopharyngeal incompetence were identified as surgical candidates. Fifty-seven percent of patients evaluated by speech pathologist were recommend nonsurgical solution toward improving speech scores sparing them unnecessary surgery. The incorporation of a speech pathologist to the humanitarian mission resulted in identifying surgical candidates who would benefit the most from intervention and improved speech surgery outcomes.

Craniofacial Skills: A 2-Site Validation of Assessments to Aid Plastic Surgery Resident Milestone Achievement in Technical Skills and Instrument Knowledge.

BACKGROUND: Plastic surgery evaluates residents on milestones. This study defines a model of education including pre and post-test assessments paired with didactics intended for evaluating residents in the unique technical skills of craniofacial surgery. METHODS: At the first institution, instrument identification, and time/accuracy of burr hole placement, craniotomy, and plating on Saw Bones Craniofacial Models were tested before and after a 7.5-hour craniofacial orthognathic surgery workshop. At the second institution, this was refined, removing plating, eliminating assessment of timing, and shortening didactics to standard osteotomies, instrument names, and common surgical approaches. The study population consisted of junior, mid-level, and senior residents on 2 different University craniofacial services. RESULTS: Participant performance was analyzed by level of training: junior, midlevel and senior resident. In the first iteration, resident times improved significantly for all 4 tasks (P = 0.008, 0.035, 0.035, 0.016). Resident accuracy improved significantly for instrument naming (P = 0.003). Except for instrument naming, resident year did not impact improvement (timing: P = 0.062, 0.310, 0.125, 0.334; accuracy: P = 0.029, 0.664, 0.717, 0.306). In the second iteration, resident accuracy improved for all tasks (instrument naming P = 0.00002, burr holes P = 0.0031, craniotomy P = 0.08). There was no difference in rate of improvement between resident cohorts. CONCLUSION: The task-based assessment with resident education on basic craniofacial surgery skills, standard osteotomies, and instrument names directed resident learning and assessed resident knowledge. With the removal of time as a metric, all tasks improved in accuracy. The craniofacial skills task-assessment successfully evaluated milestone attainment in a reproducible model.

Adipofascial Flaps With Acellular Dermal Matrix Compared With Myocutaneous Flap Reconstruction in Lumbar Myelomeningocele Defects.

BACKGROUND: Adipofascial flaps (AFF) with acellular dermal matrix (ADM) have the potential to reconstruct neural tube defects without sacrificing muscle that may be critical for long-term function. Comparative studies between myocutaneous flap (MF) reconstruction, the accepted standard reconstructive technique, and AFF/ADM remain under-reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of myelomeningocele reconstruction using muscle sparing AFF/ADM versus MF. METHODS: A retrospective comparison was conducted on consecutive myelomeningocele patients reconstructed with MF or AFF/ADM over an 84-month period. Data analyzed included: basic demographics, defect size, reconstructive technique, complications, and length of follow-up. A supplemental meta-analysis based on systematic review of literature was performed to compare alternative reconstructive options. RESULTS: Twelve patients were identified who met inclusion criteria. Median age, weight, and defect size at reconstruction in the AFF/ADM group (n = 6) was 37.5 weeks, 3.25 kg, and 20.0 cm, respectively, and in the MF group (n = 6) was 37 weeks, 3.6 kg, and 22.5 cm (P > 0.5). For the AFF/ADM versus MF groups, median follow-up was 33.8 versus 22.6 months, reoperation rate was 0% versus 17% (P = 1.0), and complex skin flap closure rate was 17% versus 100% (P = 0.015). No cerebrospinal fluid leaks or surgical site infections occurred in either group. Meta-analysis of the literature revealed no statistically significant difference in complications rates between muscle and nonmuscle flap reconstruction (P > 0.5); potential long-term sequelae of muscle flap harvest were not included. CONCLUSIONS: Muscle sparing AFF with ADM is a safe and effective surgical alternative to muscle flaps for lumbar myelomeningocele reconstruction.

Zika Virus: Practical Information for the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

The ongoing Zika virus outbreak in South, Central, and, most recently, North America has become a global health care emergency. Originally thought to be a benign, self-limiting viral syndrome, the newest epidemic has provided convincing evidence that maternal Zika virus infection can lead to neonatal malformations, the so-called congenital Zika syndrome. The alarming number of microcephalic neonates being born during the current outbreak is most notable, though several other anomalies, such as arthrogryposis, redundant scalp tissue, and cranial collapse, have been reported. Additionally, Zika virus represents an occupational hazard to plastic and reconstructive surgeons and their teams, as well as an infectious risk to patients receiving blood and human tissue products. In this article, we aim to provide current disease-related information to help guide the practicing plastic surgeon in the safe and effective management of patients affected by congenital Zika syndrome and to educate plastic surgeons regarding occupational and transmissivity risks of Zika virus.

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Induction of Muscle-Derived Stem Cells Enhances Vascular Phenotype While Preserving Myogenic Potential.

BACKGROUND: Previous work by our group and other laboratories have revealed that muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) may contain both myogenic and endothelial progenitors, making MDSCs a promising option for skeletal muscle regeneration. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induction on the vascular and myogenic potential of MDSCs. METHODS: Muscle-derived stem cells were isolated from 4- to 8-week-old C57BL/6J mice using a preplate technique and recombinant human VEGFa was used as the induction agent. Cellular proliferation and migration were assessed using serial imaging and wound healing assays, respectively. Myosin heavy chain staining was performed to assess MDSC myotube formation. Vascular potential of MDSCs was measured by expression of CD31 and in vitro capillary tube formation. RESULTS: Vascular endothelial growth factor stimulation led to a dose-dependent increase in MDSC proliferation (P < 0.05) and migration kinetics (P < 0.01). Control MDSCs had low levels of baseline expression of CD31, which was significantly upregulated by VEGF stimulation. Similarly, MDSCs demonstrated a basal capability for capillary tube formation, which was significantly increased after VEGF induction as evidenced by increased branches (5.91 ± 0.58 vs 9.23 ± 0.67, P < 0.01) and total tube length (11.73 ± 0.97 vs 18.62 ± 1.57 mm, P < 0.01). Additionally, the myogenic potential of MDSCs as measured by fusion index remained unchanged with increasing concentration of VEGF up to 250 ng/mL (P = 0.77). CONCLUSIONS: Vascular endothelial growth factor induction enhances MDSC proliferation, migration, and endothelial phenotypes without negatively impacting myogenic potential. These results suggest that VEGF stimulation may improve vascularization of MDSC-based strategies for skeletal muscle regeneration.

A Novel Three-Step Method for Correction of Type 1 Stahl Ear.

BACKGROUND: Stahl ear, a rare congenital auricular anomaly, occurs when a third crus crosses the scaphoid fossa. Optimal elimination of the third crus and reconstruction the superior crus in type 1 Stahl ear remain undercharacterized. We present a novel 3-step technique to reliably correct a type 1 Stahl ear as a case report. METHODS: A 10-year-old male with bilateral prominent type 1 Stahl ears is presented. An anterior curvilinear helical fold incision and posterior V wedge excision was used for exposure. Step 1, the third crus cartilage was excised as a full-thickness wedge and the gap approximated with posteriorly everting horizontal mattress sutures to create a flattened scaphoid fossa. Step 2, the superior crus was created using anteriorly placed horizontal mattress sutures for direct shaping. Step 3, the skin was redraped without excess trimming to minimize the visible scar. RESULTS: The 3-step approach effectively eliminated the third crura and recreated the superior crura of the type 1 Stahl ears, and resulted in minimal visible anterior scarring. DISCUSSION: The anterior approach provided excellent visualization and permitted tactical suture placement. The wedge excisions successfully removed the third crura. The horizontal mattress sutures to flatten the scaphoid fossa, enhance the natural antihelical curves, and form the superior crura were simple and effective.

Is Canine Eruption Velocity Affected by the Presence of Allograft Within a Repaired Alveolar Cleft?

PURPOSE: To assess the rate of canine eruption in alveolar clefts repaired with cancellous autograft versus cancellous autograft mixed with allograft. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients in mixed dentition who underwent primary repair of uni- or bilateral alveolar cleft defects. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the method of bony reconstruction (group 1, iliac crest autograft; group 2, iliac crest autograft harvested through a minimal access approach and mixed 1:2 with demineralized bone allograft). Secondary predictor variables were demographic and anatomic factors potentially related to canine eruption. The outcome variable was the velocity of canine eruption, measured as the change in vertical distance from the incisal edge to the maxillary occlusal plane (millimeters per month). Descriptive, bivariate, and linear regression statistics were computed. RESULTS: The study sample included 57 alveolar cleft defects; 19 were repaired with autograft alone and 38 were repaired with autograft plus allograft. The sample's mean age was 9.9 ± 2.3 years at the time of repair. Thirty-one clefts (54.4%) were part of a bilateral deformity. Canine root formation was 50% complete at the time of surgery in most patients (59.6%). Mean duration of follow-up was 23.7 ± 13.2 months. Mean canine eruption velocity was 0.20 ± 0.18 mm per month and was not associated with the method of bony repair (P = .58). CONCLUSION: The use of allograft bone to augment bone graft volume results in similar rates of canine eruption compared with autograft bone alone.

A comparison of speech outcomes using radical intravelar veloplasty or furlow palatoplasty for the treatment of velopharyngeal insufficiency associated with occult submucous cleft palate.

BACKGROUND: The safety, efficacy, and direct comparison of various surgical treatments for velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) associated with occult submucous cleft palate (OSMCP) are poorly characterized. The aim of this study was to report and analyze the safety and efficacy of Furlow palatoplasty (FP) versus radical intravelar veloplasty (IVV) for treatment of VPI associated with OSMCP. METHODS: A retrospective review of one institution's experience treating VPI associated with OSMCP using IVV (group 1) or FP (group 2) during 24 months was performed. Statistical significance was determined by Wilcoxon matched-pair, Independent-Samples Mann-Whitney U, and analysis of variance (SPSS 20.0.0). RESULTS: In group 1 (IVV), 18 patients were identified from August 2010 to 2011 (12 male and 6 female patients; average age, 5.39 years). Seven patients were syndromic and 11 were nonsyndromic. In group 2 (FP), 17 patients were identified from August 2009 to 2011 (8 male and 9 female patients; average age, 8.37 years). Three patients were syndromic and 14 patients were nonsyndromic. There was statistical significance between the average pretreatment Pittsburgh Weighted Speech Score (PWSS) of the 2 groups (group 1 and 2 averages 19.06 and 11.05, respectively, P=0.002), but there was no statistical significance postoperatively (group 1 and 2 averages 4.50 and 4.69, respectively, P=0.405). One patient from each group required secondary speech surgery. Average operative time was greater for FP (140 minutes; range, 93-177 minutes) compared to IVV (95 minutes; range, 58-135 minutes), P<0.001. Average hospital stay was 3.9 days for IVV (range, 2-9 days) and 3.2 days for FP (range, 2-6 days), with no significant difference (P=0.116). There were no postsurgical wound infections, oral-nasal fistulas, postoperative bleeding complications, or mortalities. CONCLUSIONS: Nonsyndromic patients with hypernasal speech are treated effectively and safely with either IVV or FP. Intravelar veloplasty trended toward lower speech scores than FP (76% IVV, 58% FP PWSS absolute reduction). Syndromic patients with OSMCP may be more effectively treated with FP (72% IVV vs 79% FP PWSS absolute reduction). Intravelar veloplasty is associated with shorter operative times. Both techniques are associated with low morbidity, improved speech scores, and low reoperative rates.

A Preliminary Three-Dimensional Analysis of Nasal Aesthetics Following Le Fort I Advancement in Patients With Cleft Lip and Palate.

Nasal aesthetic changes after cleft orthognathic surgery remain understudied. Previous scarring associated with prior cleft surgery may affect the predictability of outcomes after jaw surgery. This study evaluates changes in nasal aesthetics using three-dimensional photography after Le Fort I advancement in patients with nonsyndromic cleft-related maxillary hypoplasia. Cephalometric parameters were recorded pre- and postoperatively. Three-dimensional photogrammetric imaging analyzed changes in interalar width (IAW), internostril width (INW), nasal tip projection (NTP), collumelar length (CL), nasal labial angle (NLA), and nasal length (NL). Statistical significance between pre- and postoperative data was determined using T-tests for each parameter. Eleven patients underwent either single piece Le Fort I osteotomy and advancement, (3 bilateral, 4 unilateral cleft lip, and palate), or 2-piece advancement (2 bilateral, 2 unilateral). Average nasal soft tissue changes were IAW 1.9 mm (0.4-4.2), INW -0.2 mm (-2.8 to 1.6), NTP -1.0 mm (-4.0 to 2.0), CL -0.7 mm (-2.9 to 1.5), NLA -0.2° (-13.9 to 15.1), and NL -0.7 mm (-4.3 to 1.5), (P = 0.001, 0.6, 0.08, 0.01, 0.9, 0.2). For single-piece osteotomy alone changes were IAW 2.1 mm (0.6-4.1), INW -0.6 mm (-2.8 to 1.7), NTP -1.9 mm (-4.0 to 0.3), CL -1.2 mm (-2.9 to 0.03), NLA -1.3° (-13.9 to 15.0), and NL -1.1 mm (-4.3 to 0.7), (P = 0.007, 0.3, 0.009, 0.0002, 0.7, 0.2). For 2-piece osteotomy alone changes were IAW 1.6 mm (-0.4 to 3.3), INW 0.5 mm (0.4-1.6), NTP 0.5 mm (-1.1-2.0), CL 0.2 mm (-1.4 to 1.5), NLA 2.8° (-7.6 to 10.1), and NL -0.1 mm (-1.4 to 1.5), (P = 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.5, 0.9). Cleft-related scarring and malposition affect changes in nasal aesthetics following maxillary advancement that are different to the noncleft population. Two-piece Le Fort I increases variability of changes in nasal aesthetics compared with single-piece advancement.

Cleft and Craniofacial Care During Military Pediatric Plastic Surgery Humanitarian Missions.

BACKGROUND: Military pediatric plastic surgery humanitarian missions in the Western Hemisphere have been initiated and developed since the early 1990 s using the Medical Readiness Education and Training Exercise (MEDRETE) concept. Despite its initial training mission status, the MEDRETE has developed into the most common and advanced low level medical mission platform currently in use. The objective of this study is to report cleft- and craniofacial-related patient outcomes after initiation and evolution of a standardized treatment protocol highlighting lessons learned which apply to civilian plastic surgery missions. METHODS: A review of the MEDRETE database for pediatric plastic surgery/cleft and craniofacial missions to the Dominican Republic from 2005 to 2009 was performed. A multidisciplinary team including a craniofacial surgeon evaluated all patients with a cleft/craniofacial and/or pediatric plastic condition. A standardized mission time line included predeployment site survey and predeployment checklist, operational brief, and postdeployment after action report. Deployment data collection, remote patient follow-up, and coordination with larger land/amphibious military operations was used to increase patient follow-up data. Data collected included sex, age, diagnosis, date and type of procedure, surgical outcomes including speech scores, surgical morbidity, and mortality. RESULTS: Five hundred ninety-four patients with cleft/craniofacial abnormalities were screened by a multidisciplinary team including craniofacial surgeons over 4 years. Two hundred twenty-three patients underwent 330 surgical procedures (cleft lip, 53; cleft palate, 73; revision cleft lip/nose, 73; rhinoplasty, 15; speech surgery, 24; orthognathic/distraction, 21; general pediatric plastic surgery, 58; fistula repair, 12). Average follow-up was 30 months (range, 1-60). The complication rate was 6% (n = 13) (palate fistula, lip revision, dental/alveolar loss, revision speech surgery rate). The average pre-surgical (Pittsburgh Weighted Speech Score) speech score was 12 (range, 6-24). The average postsurgical speech score was 6 (range, 0-21). Average hospital stay was 3 days for cleft surgery. There were no major complications or mortality, 1 reoperation for bleeding or infection, and 12 patients required secondary operations for palatal fistula, unsatisfactory aesthetic result, malocclusion, or velopharygeal dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Military pediatric plastic surgery humanitarian missions can be executed with similar home institution results after the initiation and evolution of a standardized approach to humanitarian missions. The incorporation of a dedicated logistics support unit, a dedicated operational specialist (senior noncommissioned officer), a speech language pathologist, remote internet follow up, an liaison officer (host nation liaison physician participation), host nation surgical resident participation, and support from the embassy, Military Advisory Attachment Group, and United States Aid and International Development facilitated patient accurate patient evaluation and posttreatment follow-up. Movement of the mission site from a remote more austere environment to a centralized better equipped facility with host nation support to transport patients to the site facilitated improved patient safety and outcomes despite increasing the complexity of surgery performed.

The history of military cranioplasty.

There is evidence that the neurosurgical procedure of cranioplasty is as ancient as its better-known counterpart, trephination. With origins in pre-Incan Peru, cranioplasty remains an important reconstructive procedure for modern craniofacial surgery teams to master. Solutions to the often challenging problem of repairing skull defects continue to evolve to improve patient outcomes. Throughout recorded history, advances in cranioplasty have paralleled major military conflicts due to survivorship after trephination or decompressive craniectomy. Primitive skull coverings used in Peru were later replaced during the Middle Ages by grafts obtained in animals and humans. Improved survivorship secondary to advances in anesthesia and battlefield medicine during the Crimean War and the American Civil War allowed the use of tantalum and acrylic cranioplasty to evolve during World Wars I and II. In the modern era of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, greater survivorship after cranial injury due to improvements in protective armor, medical evacuation, and early "far-forward" neurosurgical treatment have occurred. Consequently, the last decade has seen great advancement in cranial defect reconstruction, including custom-fabricated alloplast implants and the emergence of regenerative cranial treatments such as distraction osteogenesis, protected bone regeneration, and free tissue transfers. Comprehensive rehabilitation after neurotrauma has emerged as the new standard of care.