Differences in change of post-operative antioxidant levels between laser-assisted lenticule extraction and femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis.

To evaluate the change of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and ascorbic acid (AA) between femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) and laser-assisted lenticule extraction (LALEX). A prospective non-randomized study was conducted, and 33 and 75 eyes that had undergone FS-LASIK or LALEX surgeries were enrolled, respectively. The tear films near corneal incisions were collected, and the concentrations of TAC and AA were determined. The generalized linear mixed model was adopted to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of TAC and AA between the two groups. The AA reduction was significant 1 month after the LALEX and FS-LASIK procedures (both p < 0.05), and the decrement in AA level was significantly larger in the FS-LASIK group compared to the LALEX group (p = 0.0002). In the subgroup analysis, the LALEX group demonstrated a lower decrement in TAC level in the individuals with dry eye disease (DED) than the FS-LASIK group (p = 0.0424), and the LALEX group demonstrated a significantly lower AA decrement in the participants with high myopia (p = 0.0165) and DED (p = 0.0043). The LALEX surgery causes lesser AA decrement compared to FS-LASIK surgery especially for the patients with DED.

Exploring the Location of Corneal Pigmented Arc and Myopia Control Efficacy in Orthokeratology-Treated Children Using Pentacam Measurements.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the location and intensity of the corneal pigmented arc in orthokeratology (ortho-k)-treated children and its relationship with annual axial length (AL) change using Pentacam. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study enrolled children aged 9 to 15 years who had been followed up for at least one year after ortho-k treatment for myopia control. A Pentacam was used to determine the location and intensity of pigmented arc after lens wear. Annual AL changes were further used as the outcome measurement to determine their relationships with the location and intensity of pigmented arc using generalized estimating equations (GEE). RESULTS: In total, 62 eyes from 33 patients (mean age 10.9 years) were included in our final analysis. The mean follow-up time was 30.6 months. The mean annual AL changes were 0.10 mm. Age statistically correlated with annual AL change (GEE, P= 0.033). In addition, the annual AL change was negatively associated with the relative vertical distance of the lowest density of pigmented arc point based on the visual center, pupil center, and corneal thinnest point after adjustment with age ( P =0.005, P =0.004, and P< 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Pentacam could be a useful tool for evaluating the location and intensity of the corneal pigmented arc. In addition, there was a negative correlation between the vertical distance of the pigmented arc and annual AL change. These findings may provide important information regarding myopia control, next-generation ortho-k design, and prescription.

Evaluation of modulation of immunity by lymph node transfer: A preliminary histological evidence in lymphedema patients.

BACKGROUND: The exact knowledge of the local biological and immunological effects of vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) continues to be an emerging science but a positive control positive control over infectious and immune-mediated processes is often advocated. Knowing the characterization of the inflammatory infiltrate associated with lymphedema, the aim of this paper is to verify the hypothesis that VLNT is able to modulate the inflammatory and immune microenvironment of lymphedematous tissue by evaluating any modification of the local inflammatory cell infiltrate. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospectively database of patients who received VLN transfer for lower extremity lymphedema between January 2018 and December 2020 was reviewed. Nine patients diagnosed with extremities' stage II secondary lymphedema were included, with a mean age of 55.3 (range 39-66 years) years. Gastroepiploic lymph node transfer was performed in all patients and transferred heterotopically. Full thickness 6-mm skin punch biopsies were obtained from all voluntary lymph node transfer patients at identical sites of the lymphedematous limb during the surgical procedure of VLNT (T0) and 1 year later (T1). Immunohistochemistry was performed using antibodies against the following markers: anti-CD3; anti-CD4; anti-CD8; anti-CD68. Data at T0 were compared to those at T1. RESULTS: Post-operative course was uneventful in all cases experiencing a significant reduction (almost a third) in terms of cellulitis episodes: The median duration of follow-up for patients was 28.3 months (range 12-40). The analysis of the density of the inflammatory cells as a whole revealed a significant reduction at T1 compared to T0. Specifically, CD3 expression levels turned from 16.36 ± 3.421 (cells/mm2 ) pre-operatively to 7.6 ± 1.511 (cells/mm2 ) post-operatively (p < .0001). CD4+ cells turned from 7.270 ± 3.421 (cells/mm2 ) at T0 to 4.815 ± 1.511 cells/mm2 at T1 (p = .0173). CD8 expression values decreased from 4.360 ± 3.421 (cells/mm2 ) to 2.753 ± 1.451 (cell/mm2 ) at T1 (p = .0003). Monocyte/macrophage marker CD68 varied from 8.208 ± 2.314 (cells/mm2 ) at T0 to 7.600 ± 1876 (cells/mm2 ) at T1 (p = .0003). CONCLUSION: VLNT decreases skin and subcutaneous tissues' infiltration of inflammatory cells, providing one explanation for the positive control of lymph node transfer procedure over infectious and immune-mediated processes.

Rehabilitation Program for Postlaryngectomy Patients Following Ileocolon Flap Transfer for Voice Reconstruction: An Essential Part of Success.

BACKGROUND: Speech restoration is important for communication and social activities after pharyngolaryngectomy in head and neck cancer or corrosive injury. Several techniques of voice restoration have been developed to improve life quality. The aim of this paper was to focus on the microsurgical transfer of ileocolon flap and outcome of further voice rehabilitation. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From 2010 to 2022, 69 patients had ileocolon flap at our hospital with postoperative speech training and regular follow-up for over 1 year. The patients received deglutition training first, followed by voice rehabilitation. Voice outcomes were evaluated at an interval of 3 months and finally at 12 months of voice training rehabilitation. Among other examinations, the speech function was evaluated using a 4-point Likert scale and senior surgeon (H-c.C.) scoring system. RESULTS: The results showed that speech function reached 13.1% of excellent voice, 65.1% of good voice, 13.1% of fair result, and 8.7% of poor result by Likert scales. Meanwhile, the senior surgeon (H-c.C.) score showed 17.4% of excellent, 63.8% of moderate, and 18.8% of poor results. About voice laboratory results, maximal phonation time was 11.0 seconds, and the average number counted in one breath was 15. Loudness and frequency showed 56.0 dB and 105.0 Hz, respectively. CONCLUSION: The study showed that after voice reconstruction with ileocolon flap followed by the voice rehabilitation program, the patients would have a better understanding of the altered anatomical structures and practice in a more efficient way. Adequate recommendation by the therapists to plastic surgeons for revision surgeries optimized voice function of the patients.

Overexpression of OsERF106MZ promotes parental root growth in rice seedlings by relieving the ABA-mediated inhibition of root growth under salinity stress conditions.

BACKGROUND: Roots are essential for plant growth and have a variety of functions, such as anchoring the plant to the ground, absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, and sensing abiotic stresses, among others. OsERF106MZ is a salinity-induced gene that is expressed in germinating seeds and rice seedling roots. However, the roles of OsERF106MZ in root growth remain poorly understood. RESULTS: Histochemical staining to examine ß-glucuronidase (GUS) activity in transgenic rice seedlings harboring OsERF106MZp::GUS indicated that OsERF106MZ is mainly expressed in the root exodermis, sclerenchyma layer, and vascular system. OsERF106MZ overexpression in rice seedlings leads to an increase in primary root (PR) length. The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) is thought to act as a hidden architect of root system structure. The expression of the ABA biosynthetic gene OsAO3 is downregulated in OsERF106MZ-overexpressing roots under normal conditions, while the expression of OsNPC3, an AtNPC4 homolog involved in ABA sensitivity, is reduced in OsERF106MZ-overexpressing roots under both normal and NaCl-treated conditions. Under normal conditions, OsERF106MZ-overexpressing roots show a significantly reduced ABA level; moreover, exogenous application of 1.0 µM ABA can suppress OsERF106MZ-mediated root growth promotion. Additionally, OsERF106MZ-overexpressing roots display less sensitivity to ABA-mediated root growth inhibition when treated with 5.0 µM ABA under normal conditions or exposed to NaCl-treated conditions. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-qPCR and luciferase (LUC) reporter assays showed that OsERF106MZ can bind directly to the sequence containing the GCC box in the promoter region of the OsAO3 gene and repress the expression of OsAO3. CONCLUSIONS: OsERF106MZ may play a role in maintaining root growth for resource uptake when rice seeds germinate under salinity stress by alleviating ABA-mediated root growth inhibition.

Versatile Synthesis of Symmetric and Unsymmetric Imines via Photoelectrochemical Catalysis: Application to N-Terminal Modification of Phenylalanine.

A strategy that combines electrochemical synthesis and photoredox catalysis was reported for the efficient synthesis of imines. This approach was demonstrated to be highly versatile in producing various types of imines, including symmetric and unsymmetric imines, by exploring the impact of different substituents on the benzene ring of the arylamine. Additionally, the method was specifically applied to modify N-terminal phenylalanine residues and was found to be successful in the photoelectrochemical cross-coupling reaction between NH2 -Phe-OMe and aryl methylamines, leading to the synthesis of phenylalanine-containing imines. Therefore, this technique would present a convenient and efficient platform for synthesizing imines, with promising applications in chemical biology, drug development, and organic synthesis.

Integrated Approaches for Reconstruction of Facial Paralysis.

BACKGROUND: Facial paralysis can affect periorbital muscles, oral competence, and facial expressions with significant facial deformities, which could occur in either children or adults with variable severity, duration, and degree of recovery. OBJECTIVE: The present study was aimed to delineate treatment plans for facial paralysis with different clinical scenarios and to report the results of these patients. METHODS: Patients were grouped according to different presentations as follows: (1) facial paralysis with incomplete recovery; (2) young patients of facial paralysis without recovery; (3) senile patients of facial palsy without recovery; (4) combined facial palsy with mandibular deficiency, vascularized bone reconstruction for mandible with (a) subsequent muscle transfer or (b) simultaneous sling operation or (c) simultaneous facial nerve exploration and cross nerve grafting; (5) palsy of frontal branch of facial nerve; (6) palsy of zygomatic-buccal branch of facial nerve; (7) palsy of marginal mandibular branch of facial nerve; (8) partial recovery with dyskinesia; and (9) facial paralysis with dynamic asymmetry and muscle atrophy. According to clinical scenarios, different treatment plans were provided, and clinical outcomes were evaluated and presented. RESULTS: All patient groups achieved fair or satisfactory outcomes. Revisions using sling procedures, botulinum toxin injection, and filler or fat graft as supplement further refined the ultimate outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: For reconstruction of facial paralysis, individualized integrated treatment plans are mandatory according to the presentation and condition of the patient. Comprehensive considerations and strategic solutions for the existing disabilities have been appreciated by the patients. The least numbers of operations with considerate correction of asymmetry were the major concerns of the patients.

Management of an Unusual Avulsion Trauma of Total Esophagus During Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

BACKGROUND: An esophageal defect usually resulted from surgical ablation of tumors or corrosive injury. Staged reconstructions are required usually in extensive defects. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to present a rare iatrogenic complication of total esophageal avulsion injury during upper gastrointestinal endoscopic treatment and to perform staged reconstructions to create a neoesophagus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the presented case, staged reconstructions with a tubed deltopectoral flap and a supercharged colon interposition flap were performed to reconstruct the hypopharynx and esophagus. However, recurrent choking occurred because of the extent of injury involving the epiglottis. A tubed free radial forearm flap connected to the lower buccogingival sulcus was used to create a new route for food passage. RESULTS: The patient resumed oral intake after rehabilitation. CONCLUSIONS: The avulsion injury of the total esophagus is rare and devastating. Staged reconstructions with a tubed deltopectoral flap, a supercharged colon interposition flap, and a tubed free radial forearm flap would be a safe and reliable method.

Elevated Risk of Mood Disorders after the Occurrence of Recurrent Retinal Detachment: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to investigate the risk of mood disorders in patients who experienced retinal detachment (RD) by using the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. METHODS: Participants with a diagnosis of RD were regarded as the study group, and an age- and sex-matched group without a diagnosis of RD served as the control group. The outcomes related to mood disorders after RD included: (1) psychiatric outpatient department visits; (2) behavioural therapy; (3) sleep or anxiety-related disorders; and (4) major depressive disorder (MDD). RESULTS: A total of 4,129 participants diagnosed with RD and 16,516 non-RD individuals were enrolled in the study. There were no significant differences in the four mood disorder-related outcomes between the study and control groups. However, the patients with recurrent RD who received more than two treatments and female patients with RD who needed surgical treatment showed a higher probability of developing MDD than did the non-RD subjects (incidence rate: 0.96 vs. 0.36; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 2.382, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.032-5.496, log-rank p = 0.0325; and aHR: 6.895, 95% CI: 1.659-28.656, log-rank p = 0.0060, respectively). CONCLUSION: Patients with recurrent RD and multiple surgeries and females with RD who needed surgical treatment were at greater risk for developing MDD.

The triple conjoined scapular-latissimus dorsi-groin flap for reconstruction of long lower extremity degloving injury: A case report.

Since the introduction of the angiosome concept, many attempts have been made to push the dimensional limits of free tissue transfers. While initially limited by the boundaries of random vascularization of adjacent angiosomes, wider flaps were transferred by combining contiguous source vessels. Combined flaps, either chimeric or conjoined, represent nowadays the largest reconstructive options in the human body. This is the first report of a triple conjoined free flap with two vascular anastomoses, able to cover the anterior surface of the entire lower limb, representing the longest flap ever reported in history. A 43-year-old woman sustained a car accident as a pedestrian and presented with a massive circumferential degloving injury of the right lower limb. Femoral displaced shaft fracture and Gustilo type IIIb tibial fracture were diagnosed with emergent CT scan. A myocutaneous latissimus dorsi flap was planned, conjoined with the scapular flap to obtain a thick and large cover for the knee, and with a groin flap, to cover for the foot. Descending branch of lateral circumflex femoral artery and anterior tibial artery at the dorsum of the foot were selected as recipient vessels. Donor site was closed primarily. All flaps survived and no immediate nor late complications were reported. Follow up was 3 months. The triple conjoined flap can be considered a safe and useful reconstructive tool in severe degloving injuries of the lower limb, allowing the coverage of a large surface of the lesion with a single operation and without increasing the donor site morbidity.

Experience in reconstruction of esophagus, epiglottis, and upper trachea due to caustic injuries in pediatric patients and establishment of algorithm.

BACKGROUND: Unintentional swallowing of corrosive agents cause problems in the pediatric population. Swallowing dysfunction can be seen after injuring the pharynx and/or epiglottis which leads to the obstruction of esophagus. An algorithm was established taking into account the injury to the epiglottis and restoring gastrointestinal continuity with isolated or combine free and or supercharged jejunum flap, or supercharged colon transposition flap. METHODS: Seventeen patients between the ages of 3 and 16 (mean age: 7.7) were treated between 1985 and 2019. Three different procedures were performed based on endoscopic findings; for patients with no or minimal damage to epiglottis, pedicled colon transposition was done in 12 cases. For patients with epiglottic scarring or edema, a two-stage reconstruction was performed. In the first stage, free jejunum flap was implemented to the pharynx to facilitate food passage, followed by a pedicled jejunum in two cases, or a pedicled colon transposition in two cases to provide gastrointestinal continuity. For one patient with severe epiglottic scarring, a free jejunal flap was used as a diversion conduit in the first stage, followed by supercharged colon transposition to restore gastrointestinal continuity. RESULTS: Supercharged intestinal flaps were harvested with 3-4 cm of extra intestinal tissue than the measured thoracic portion in each individual in order to reach the hypopharyngeal region. The size of the free jejunal flaps were 10 cm. Oral feeding was initiated on the eighth postoperative day. Partial loss of the anterior wall of the jejunal flap was seen in one case, in which a free anterolateral thigh-vastus lateralis musculocutaneous flap was used for reconstruction. The mean follow-up time was 5.1 years and there was no stricture in the final outcome. CONCLUSION: A competent epiglottis is essential for proper swallowing reflex. Meticulous microsurgical dissection and performing supercharged intestinal flaps provide a complication-free end result.

Carotid artery and soft tissue reconstruction with superficial femoral artery-sartorius muscle-anteromedial thigh chimeric free flap: A case report and review of the literature.

Tumoral involvement of the carotid artery may require en-bloc resection in order to achieve a better regional control. Among the carotid reconstruction methods at disposal, autologous tissues appear to be more reliable in cases with high risk of infection and poor tissue healing like in radiated necks. We describe a case of a 55 year old man, who suffered from recurrent squamous cell carcinoma in the neck region, invading the common carotid artery. After en-bloc resection of the tumor together with skin, internal jugular vein, vagus nerve and common carotid artery, carotid reconstruction was performed with a flow-through chimeric flap based on superficial femoral vessels (15 cm). After resection of the tumor, the flap was used to replace the soft tissue defect (23 × 12 cm). Anteromedial thigh skin paddle (8 × 5 cm) and sartorius muscle (12 × 3 cm) were included in the flap. The superficial femoral vessels were reconstructed with 8-mm ringed polytetrafluoroethylene graft interposition. Thanks to an accurate surgical planning and a 2-team approach, the ischemia time of the leg was 42 min and there were no limb ischemia nor pathologic neurological signs after surgery. During the 12-month follow up, no other complication was registered. In our experience, microsurgical carotid reconstruction represents a reliable option with important advantages such as resistance to infection, optimal size matching, and good tissue healing between the irradiated carotid stump and the vascular graft.

Combined lymph node transfer and suction-assisted lipectomy in lymphedema treatment: A prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies have analyzed the combination of suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) and vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) in lymphedema treatment, reporting positive outcomes. However, it is difficult to draw conclusions due to the heterogeneity of the studies. Aim of this prospective study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the combination of VLNT and SAL in lymphedema treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between January 2016 and May 2019, 94 patients with upper or lower limb stage IIb-III lymphedema were enrolled and treated with the gastroepiploic VLNT followed by SAL. Patients were prospectively evaluated through circumference measurement and clinical examination, including number of episodes of cellulitis. RESULTS: Among patients enrolled in the study 83 were affected by lower limb lymphedema (LLL) and 11 were affected by upper limb lymphedema (ULL). Average follow-up was 3 ± 0.8 years. In the LLL group, the mean circumference reduction rates (CRR) were 60.4, 56.9, 29.6, and 55.4% above and below the knee, above the ankle, and at the foot level, respectively. A statistically significant difference was noted at all the levels (p < .05), but above the ankle (p = .059). Regarding the ULL group, the mean CRR were 80.7, 60.7, 65.0 and 49.6% above and below the elbow, at wrist and at mid-hand, respectively. CRR were reported at all the levels but no statistical difference was noted. The number of episodes of cellulitis dropped significantly (p < .05). CONCLUSION: This study supports the use of VLNT+SAL in lymphedema grades IIb-III, with important implications for the clinical practice.

The profunda artery perforator free flap for lower extremity reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap has been reported in several types of reconstructions. This report aims to evaluate the usefulness and the clinical outcome of patients who underwent the PAP free flap for lower limb reconstruction. METHODS: Between February 2018 and February 2020, nine patients with injury at lower third of the leg, foot dorsum or foot plant (eight acute injuries and one chronic ulcer) were selected. Mean wound size was 12.5 × 6.3 cm (9 × 5-14.5 × 6.5). Inclusion criteria consisted in patient's request to hide the donor site scar and the absence of previous traumas or surgery in the donor site. Patients considered unable to bear prolonged surgery were excluded. Patients underwent preoperative CT angiography and peri-operative Doopler, for perforator selection. All flaps were designed with pinch test, in elliptical shape. Microvascular anastomosis was performed to the tibialis anterior/posterior or medial plantar vessels. Outcomes were evaluated in terms of wound coverage success and patient's quality of life through Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) questionnaire. RESULTS: The mean size of the harvested skin paddle was 13.5 × 7.4 cm (9 × 6-15 × 8) and mean pedicle length was 8.5 cm. Mean flap harvest time was 43.5 min (35-55). Flap survival rate was 100%, with one re-exploration with minimal partial flap loss. Mean follow-up was 13.5 months . Reconstructive results were successful in wound coverage and function. All patients reported satisfaction with their result by LEFS questionnaire (score:64.7). CONCLUSION: With proper patient selection, there was 100% flap survival rate with no major complication. According to our data, the PAP free flap could be a valuable option for lower extremity reconstruction.

The Pathomechanism, Antioxidant Biomarkers, and Treatment of Oxidative Stress-Related Eye Diseases.

Oxidative stress is an important pathomechanism found in numerous ocular degenerative diseases. To provide a better understanding of the mechanism and treatment of oxidant/antioxidant imbalance-induced ocular diseases, this article summarizes and provides updates on the relevant research. We review the oxidative damage (e.g., lipid peroxidation, DNA lesions, autophagy, and apoptosis) that occurs in different areas of the eye (e.g., cornea, anterior chamber, lens, retina, and optic nerve). We then introduce the antioxidant mechanisms present in the eye, as well as the ocular diseases that occur as a result of antioxidant imbalances (e.g., keratoconus, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma), the relevant antioxidant biomarkers, and the potential of predictive diagnostics. Finally, we discuss natural antioxidant therapies for oxidative stress-related ocular diseases.

Staphylococcus aureus Keratitis in Taiwan: Genotyping, Antibiotic Susceptibility, and Clinical Features.

Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen for keratitis, a vision-threatening disease. We aimed to investigate the genotyping, antibiotic susceptibility, and clinical features of S. aureus keratitis, and to explore the possible role of Panton-Valentine leucocidin (PVL), a major virulence factor of S. aureus. We recruited 49 patients with culture-proven S. aureus keratitis between 2013 and 2017 at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan. PVL gene, multilocus sequence type (MLST), staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec), and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) were performed. Antibiotic susceptibility was verified using disk diffusion/E test. There were 49 patients with S. aureus keratitis; 17 (34.7%) were caused by methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and 9 (18.4%) isolates had PVL genes. The predominant genotyping of MRSA isolates was CC59/PFGE type D/SCCmec VT/PVL (+). All methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) and approximately 60% MRSA were susceptible to fluoroquinolones. No significant differences in clinical features, treatments, and visual outcomes were observed between MRSA/MSSA or PVL(+)/PVL(-) groups. In Taiwan, approximately one third of S. aureus keratitis was caused by MRSA, mainly community-associated MRSA. Although MRSA isolates were more resistant than MSSA, clinical characteristics were similar between two groups. Fluoroquinolones could be good empiric antibiotics for S. aureus keratitis.

A Comparison of the Use of Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Visualization Systems by Novice and Experienced Microsurgeons in Microsurgical Vessel Anastomosis: An Analysis Using the Chicken Model.

BACKGROUND: Various studies have discussed the benefits of applying three-dimensional (3D) techniques, specifically its advantages with respect to ergonomics, feasibility, and the rate of learning achievable in microsurgery training. However, no study has been conducted that compares the operator experience of using two-dimensional (2D) and 3D systems in microsurgical training. The aim of this study is to compare 2D- and 3D-assisted microsurgical training in novices based on anastomosis of chicken femoral arteries. METHODS: The participants were grouped by previous microsurgical experience. Group A includes novice participants. Group B includes 2D-experienced participants. Group C includes both participants in groups A and B. A questionnaire composed of 10 parameters in the field of image quality, dexterity, ergonomic, and feasibility will be filled out after each participant finished their anastomoses by the 2D and 3D systems. RESULTS: The results demonstrated 3D system was scored better on "field of view" (p = 0.004), "less tremor" (p = 0.005), "neck/upper back comfort" (p = 0.043), "lower back comfort" (p = 0.015), "technical feasibility" (p = 0.020), and "educational feasibility" (p = 0.004) in group A (N = 12). In group B (N = 9), 3D system was scored better on "field of view" (p = 0.041) but worse on "image resolution" (p = 0.031). CONCLUSION: With the 3D visualization system for microsurgical anastomosis of chicken femoral model, there are significant improvements in the field of view, stability, ergonomics, and educational value compared with 2D system among all participants. Accordingly, 3D-assisted microsurgery training can be a novel and potential popular training method.

Successful Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation with the Usage of Topical Ascorbic Acid in Patient with Reduced Corneal Endothelial Cell Density.

We aimed to describe the use of topical ascorbic acid (AA) in a patient with reduced endothelial cells density (ECD) who was scheduled for phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) implantation. A 28-year-old woman presenting with dry eye and reduced ECD would like to have her high myopia (spherical equivalence >−15.0 D) corrected. The procedure of laser refractive surgery or even pIOL was not indicated for the reduced ECD of 1865/mm2 in the right eye and 2188/mm2 in the left eye, as well as level 3 dry eye. Fortunately, the ECD increased to 3144/mm2 in the right eye and 2538/mm2 in the left eye after topical AA was prescribed for one year preoperatively and one month postoperatively, with concomitant improvement of dry eye to level 1. Finally, bilateral pIOL implantation was performed smoothly and no sign of corneal decompensation was found postoperatively. Three months postoperatively, the ECD showed a satisfactory level of 2983/mm2 in the right eye and 3003/mm2 in the left eye. In conclusion, topical AA instillation might increase and maintain the density of central human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs) even after pIOL implantation.

Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Lower Extremity Lymphedema: A Preliminary Report.

Background Posttraumatic lymphedema develops more frequently than expected and reports on its management are scarce in the literature. We aimed to report the clinical outcomes of a case series of posttraumatic lymphedema patients treated with different vascularized lymph node transfers (VLNTs). Patients and Methods Five patients with secondary posttraumatic lower limb lymphedema treated with VLNT were included in this report. The groin-VLNT ( n = 1), supraclavicular-VLNT ( n = 2), and gastroepiploic-VLNT ( n = 2) were implemented. The average flap area was 69.8 cm 2 . Patients underwent postoperative complex decompressive therapy for an average of 10.0 months. Results The average mean circumference reduction rate was 24.4% (range, 10.2-37.6%). Postsurgical reduction in the number of infection episodes per year was observed in all patients. The mean follow-up was 34.2 months. Conclusions VLNT is a promising surgical treatment for posttraumatic lymphedema patients. In our report, VLNT has demonstrated to reduce the volume and number of infections per year in posttraumatic lymphedema.

Clinico-microbiological profile of Burkholderia cepacia keratitis: a case series.

BACKGROUND: Burkholderia cepacia, an opportunistic pathogen mainly affecting patients with cystic fibrosis or immunocompromised, has rarely been documented as a cause of corneal infection. The clinical and microbiological profiles of B. cepacia keratitis are reported herein. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical record of 17 patients with culture-proven B. cepacia keratitis, treated between 2000 and 2019 at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan. Our data included predisposing factors, clinical presentations, treatments, and visual outcomes of B. cepacia keratitis as well as the drug susceptibility of the causative agent. RESULTS: The most common predisposing factor for B. cepacia keratitis was preexisting ocular disease (seven, 41.2%), particularly herpetic keratitis (five). Polymicrobial infection was detected in seven (41.2%) eyes. All B. cepacia isolates were susceptible to ceftazidime. Main medical treatments included levofloxacin or ceftazidime. Surgical treatment was required in five (29.4%) patients. Only four (23.5%) patients exhibited final visual acuity better than 20/200. CONCLUSIONS: B. cepacia keratitis primarily affects patients with preexisting ocular disease, particularly herpetic keratitis, and responds well to ceftazidime or fluoroquinolones. However, the visual outcomes are generally poor.