The long-term intercorrelation between post-burn pain, anxiety, and depression: a post hoc analysis of the "RE-ENERGIZE" double-blind, randomized, multicenter placebo-controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Despite the growing prevalence of burn survivors, a gap persists in our understanding of the correlation between acute burn trauma and the long-term impact on psychosocial health. This study set out to investigate the prevalence of long-term pain and symptoms of anxiety and depression in survivors of extensive burns, comparing this to the general population, and identify injury and demographic-related factors predisposing individuals to psychosocial compromise. METHODS: RE-ENERGIZE was an international, double-blinded, randomized-controlled trial that enrolled 1200 patients with partial- or full-thickness burns that required surgical treatment. For the post hoc analysis, we excluded participants who did not complete the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire. Normative data were taken from the 2021 National Health Interview Survey dataset. Propensity score matching was performed using the nearest-neighbor 1-to-1 method, and the two cohorts were compared in terms of chronic pain, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. A multivariable analysis was performed on the burns cohort to identify factors predicting post-discharge pain and symptoms of anxiety and depression. RESULTS: A total of 600 burn patients and 26,666 general population adults were included in this study. Following propensity score matching, both groups comprised 478 participants each, who were predominately male, white, overweight and between 20 and 60 years old. Compared to the general population, burn patients were significantly more likely to report the presence of moderate and a lot of pain (p = 0.002). Symptoms of anxiety were significantly higher in the burn population in two of four levels (most of the time; some of the time; p < 0.0001 for both). Responders in the burn population were significantly less likely to report the absence of depressive symptoms (p < 0.0001). Burn patients were also significantly more likely to report that their mental health affects their social life. TBSA, history of depression, and female sex were identified as independently associated factors for pain, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The presence of chronic pain and anxiety symptoms independently predicted for symptoms of depression. CONCLUSIONS: Analyzing the largest multicenter cohort of patients with extensive burns, we find that burn injury is associated with chronic pain, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition, TBSA-burned and history of depression directly correlate with the prevalence of chronic pain, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Finally, pain, and symptoms of anxiety and depression are interrelated and may have interactive effects on the process of recovery following burn injury. Burn patients would, therefore, benefit from a multidisciplinary team approach with early mobilization of pain and mental health experts, in order to promptly prevent the development of psychosocial challenges and their consequences.

Turn Your Vision into Reality-AI-Powered Pre-operative Outcome Simulation in Rhinoplasty Surgery.

BACKGROUND: The increasing demand and changing trends in rhinoplasty surgery emphasize the need for effective doctor-patient communication, for which Artificial Intelligence (AI) could be a valuable tool in managing patient expectations during pre-operative consultations. OBJECTIVE: To develop an AI-based model to simulate realistic postoperative rhinoplasty outcomes. METHODS: We trained a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) using 3,030 rhinoplasty patients' pre- and postoperative images. One-hundred-one study participants were presented with 30 pre-rhinoplasty patient photographs followed by an image set consisting of the real postoperative versus the GAN-generated image and asked to identify the GAN-generated image. RESULTS: The study sample (48 males, 53 females, mean age of 31.6 ± 9.0 years) correctly identified the GAN-generated images with an accuracy of 52.5 ± 14.3%. Male study participants were more likely to identify the AI-generated images compared with female study participants (55.4% versus 49.6%; p = 0.042). CONCLUSION: We presented a GAN-based simulator for rhinoplasty outcomes which used pre-operative patient images to predict accurate representations that were not perceived as different from real postoperative outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: 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 .

Gynecomastia Surgery in 4996 Male Patients Over 14 Years: A Retrospective Analysis of Surgical Trends, Predictive Risk Factors, and Short-Term Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The high prevalence of benign male breast tissue enlargement (gynecomastia) has resulted in a marked increase of gynecomastia cases. While about one third of male adults experience some form of gynecomastia, gynecomastia surgery (GS) outcome research is limited to small study populations and single-center/-surgeon databases. In this study, we aimed to access the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database to identify preoperative risk factors for complications and investigate postoperative outcomes of GS. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we queried the ACS-NSQIP database from 2008 to 2021 to identify male adult patients who underwent GS. Postoperative outcomes involved the occurrence of any, surgical and medical complications, as well as reoperation, readmission, and mortality within a 30-day postoperative time period. Univariable and multivariable assessment were performed to identify risk factors for complications while adjusting for possible confounders. RESULTS: The study included 4,996 GS patients with a mean age of 33.7 ± 15 years and BMI of 28.2 ± 5.1 kg/m2. White patients constituted 54% (n = 2713) of the cohort, and 27% (n = 1346) were obese. Except for 2020, there was a steady increase in GS cases over the study period. Outpatient surgeries were most common at 95% (n = 4730), while general surgeons performed the majority of GS (n = 3580; 72%). Postoperatively, 91% (n = 4538) of patients were discharged home; 4.4% (n = 222) experienced any complications. Multivariable analysis identified inpatient setting (p < 0.001), BMI (p = 0.023), prior sepsis (p = 0.018), and bleeding disorders (p = 0.047) as independent risk factors for complications. CONCLUSION: In this study, we analyzed 4996 male adult GS patients from the ACS-NSQIP database, revealing an increased caseload and significant general surgeon involvement. Risk factors like bleeding disorders, inpatient status, and prior sepsis were linked to postoperative complications, while BMI was crucial for predicting adverse events. Overall, our findings may aid in enhancing patient care through advanced preoperative screening and closer perioperative management. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: 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 .

A Retrospective Matched-Pair Analysis of Long-term Outcomes after Successful Lower Extremity Free Flap Salvage.

BACKGROUND: Pedicle occlusion with total free flap loss after microvascular lower extremity reconstruction is a considerably rare yet devastating complication. Fortunately, in the majority of cases, emergency salvage takebacks of compromised free flaps are initiated in a timely manner. In this report, we present our analysis of long-term outcomes following transient vascular compromise mitigated through successful free flap salvage in the lower extremity. METHODS: We performed a single-center retrospective matched-pair analysis of 46 patients with lower extremity free flap reconstructions. Cases underwent successful revisions of microvascular compromise (n = 23), whereas controls had uneventful postoperative courses (n = 23). Patient-reported outcome questionnaires and physical evaluations were used to assess general quality of life, functional outcomes, and cosmesis (Lower Extremity Functional Scale [LEFS], Lower Limb Outcomes Questionnaire [LLOQ], Short Form 36 (SF-36), Vancouver Scar Scale [VSS]). The mean follow-up time was 4.4 years. RESULTS: The health-related quality of life assessed by the SF-36 did not differ significantly between both groups in any of the subscales (p ≥ 0.15 for all subscales). Functional outcomes did not show significant differences between both groups according to the LEFS (p = 0.78) and LLOQ (p = 0.45). The overall scar appearance assessed by the VSS showed significantly poorer cosmesis in the re-exploration group (p = 0.014). CONCLUSION: Salvage of compromised free flaps in the lower extremity yields similar long-term outcomes compared to noncompromised free flaps with regard to function and quality of life. However, free flap revisions may lead to impaired scar formation. This study provides further evidence that the opportunity for urgent re-exploration is indispensable.

The prognostic role of extended preoperative hypercoagulability work-up in high-risk microsurgical free flaps: a single-center retrospective case series of patients with heterozygotic factor V Leiden thrombophilia.

INTRODUCTION: Hypercoagulability is associated with an increased risk of microvascular complications and free flap failures. The authors present their experience and approach to diagnosing and treating patients with heterozygotic factor V Leiden (hFVL) thrombophilia undergoing free flap reconstruction. METHODS: Between November 2009 and June 2018, 23 free flap surgeries were performed in 15 hypercoagulable patients with hFVL. According to the timing of perioperative hypercoagulability work-up, they were grouped into flaps with established diagnoses prior to surgery (Group A) versus flaps with unknown diagnoses prior to surgery (Group B). Baseline characteristics and perioperative complications were compared between both groups, including revision surgeries due to microvascular thromboses, acute bleedings, hematomas, flap necroses, and reconstructive failures. RESULTS: HFVL mutations had been confirmed preoperatively in 14 free flap surgeries (61%, Group A), whereas in 9 free flap surgeries (39%, Group B), mutations were only diagnosed postoperatively after the occurrence of microvascular thromboses had warranted extended hypercoagulability work-up. The overall rate of intraoperative flap thromboses was 9% (n = 2), whereas the overall rate of postoperative flap thromboses was 43% (n = 10). The corresponding salvage rates were 100% (n = 2/2) for intraoperative and 40% (n = 4/10) for postoperative pedicle thromboses. A total of five free flaps were lost (22%). Upon comparison, flaps with an unconfirmed diagnosis prior to surgery were at ten times higher risk for developing total necroses (flaps lost in Group B = 4/9 versus Group A = 1/14; OR: 10.4; 95% CI 1.0, 134.7; p = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Meticulous preoperative work-up of patients with any history of hypercoagulability can help reduce free flap loss rates, thus improving surgical outcomes and increasing patient safety.

A single-center retrospective comparison of Duplex ultrasonography versus audible Doppler regarding anterolateral thigh perforator flap harvest and operative times.

INTRODUCTION: We reported on the superiority of preoperative Duplex mapping ("Duplex") over audible Dopplers ("Doppler") in anterolateral thigh perforator (ALT) free flaps for upper extremity reconstruction. To corroborate our findings on a larger cohort, we conducted this present study focusing on surgical efficiency and patient safety. METHODS: 150 consecutive ALT free flaps were divided into 65 cases of preoperative Duplex versus 85 Doppler controls. We first compared patient demographics, operative details, and defect and flap characteristics. We then assessed group differences in the number and course of perforators pursued intraoperatively, flap harvest and operative times, and donor-site complications. Additionally, the impact of the training level of the primary microsurgeon was evaluated. RESULTS: Cases and controls were comparable regarding age (p = .48), sex (p = .81), ASA class (p = .48), and BMI (p = .90). Duplex was associated with an increased likelihood of raising flaps on one single dominant perforator of purely septal course and significant reductions of flap harvest (68 ± 10 min, p < .0001) and operative times (74 ± 16 min, p < .0001), regardless of the experience of the primary microsurgeon. There were strong negative linear correlations between preoperative Duplex and both the flap harvest and operative times (p < .0001). Additionally, while there was no effect on the emergency take-back rate (OR = 1.3, p = .60), revisions were significantly less likely among duplexed patients (OR = 0.15, p = .04). CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative Duplex is associated with a significant reduction in ALT free flap harvest and overall operative times, as well as donor-site revisions as opposed to Doppler planning, regardless of the training level of the primary microsurgeon.

Development of a mathematical formula and online tool to calculate the potential maximum flap width to allow for primary anterolateral thigh donor-site closure in Caucasians.

BACKGROUND: Primary anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap donor-site closure is crucial to achieve patient satisfaction, avoid burdensome secondary surgeries, and avert poor outcomes. Only vague maximum flap width recommendations have been suggested, which fall short of acknowledging individual patient habitus and thigh morphology. Therefore, we aimed at identifying a user-friendly preoperative calculation of maximum flap width for primary closure. METHODS: A total of 429 ALT free flaps performed between 2009 and 2020 were analyzed. A total of 350 donor-sites were closed primarily (82%) and 79 (18%) were split-thickness skin-grafted (STSG). Patient demographics including sex, age, and BMI, operative details, and flap characteristics were compared to assess their impact on the outcome variable. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted for all significant predictors discriminating between closure and STSG. Areas under the curve (AUCs) were calculated for each parameter combination and optimal cutoffs were determined using Youden's Index. RESULTS: Sex, age, BMI, and flap width alone were poor discriminators. Dividing flap width by BMI and logarithmized BMI yielded AUCs of 0.91 and 0.94, respectively. Including patient sex yielded the best fitting regression model (χ2  = 251.939, p < .0001) increasing the AUC to 0.96 (95% CI: 0.93-0.98, p < .0001). The optimal cutoff value discriminated between primary closure and STSG with 90% sensitivity and 89% specificity. An online calculator of patient-individual maximum ALT width was then programmed. CONCLUSIONS: Sex and BMI are reliable predictors of successful primary ALT donor-site closure in Caucasians. We devised a novel formula for calculating patient-individual maximum ALT widths preoperatively, predicting failure of primary closure with 90% sensitivity in our cohort, available at: https://kitteltaschenbuch.com/altwidth/calculate.htm.

A Retrospective Comparative Functional and Aesthetic Outcome Study of Muscle versus Cutaneous Free Flaps for Distal Upper Extremity Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Function and cosmesis are crucial in upper extremity reconstruction. Yet, there persists a lack of outcome evaluations, particularly regarding differences between free flap types. METHODS: In a single-center retrospective analysis, outcomes were compared between patients with cutaneous or muscle free flaps for distal upper extremity reconstruction between 2008 and 2018. The Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand -Score, Michigan-Hand (MHQ), and Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) Questionnaires were assessed, motor function was quantified, and self-reported measures of cosmesis were compared, including the Vancouver Scar-Scale (VSS), MHQ aesthetics-subscale (MAS), and Moscona's cosmetic validation-score (CVS). RESULTS: One-hundred forty-one cases were identified, with a shift toward cutaneous flaps over the study period. Muscle flaps were used for larger defects (251 vs. 142 cm2, p = 0.008). Losses, thromboses, and donor-site complications were equally distributed. Partial necroses were more frequent in muscle flaps (11 vs. 1%, p = 0.015). Seventy patients with 53 cutaneous versus 17 muscle flaps were reexamined. There was no difference in the timing of flap coverage (after 16 vs. 15 days, p = 0.79), number of preceding (2 vs. 1.7, p = 0.95), or subsequent operations (19/53 vs. 5/17, p = 0.77). Patients with cutaneous flaps showed higher grip strength (25 vs. 17 kg, p = 0.046) and reported better hand function (MHQ: 58 vs. 47, p = 0.044) and general health (SF-36: 70 vs. 61, p = 0.040), as well as more favorable appearance (MAS: 71 vs. 57, p = 0.044, CVS: 77 vs. 72, p = 0.048), and scar burden (VSS: 0 vs. 3, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Cutaneous flaps yielded better motor function, self-perceived cosmesis, patient satisfaction, and quality of life in our cohort of distal upper extremity reconstructions.

[Conservative treatment options for symptomatic thumb trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis]. / Konservative Therapieverfahren zur Behandlung der symptomatischen Daumensattelgelenksarthrose.

BACKGROUND: There are numerous non-surgical treatment options for basal thumb osteoarthritis (OA). OBJECTIVES: Aetiology, clinical appearance and diagnosis of basal thumb OA, explanation of the individual non-surgical treatment options, presentation of the current state of studies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Search for case analyses, studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses using PubMed and LIVIVO. RESULTS: Intraarticular injections have no more than short-term success with the risk of infection, which should not be underestimated. Radiotherapy seems to be an effective treatment, but little research has been done on this. Physiotherapy and splinting treatment promise long-term improvement of clinical symptoms and hand function. CONCLUSION: Basal thumb OA is a common and serious condition, which in the case of continuous pain should be diagnosed and treated adequately. A multi-modal therapeutic regimen with avoidance of repetitive intra-articular injections seems to provide the best long-term results.

Single incision thenar muscle reconstruction using the free functional pronator quadratus flap.

BACKGROUND: Injuries to the thenar muscle mass or the thenar branch of the median nerve and resulting loss of thumb opposition lead to a massive impairment of hand function. For decades, reconstructive approaches were based on tendon transfers. To broaden the reconstructive repertoire, we present the free functional pronator quadratus flap as a viable alternative for functional reconstruction and provide a specification for its indication. We demonstrate our surgical technique to a single incision reconstruction using the free functional pronator quadratus flap. Based on a series of three patients, which were analyzed for hand function using Kapandji's score and the angle of Bourrel, grip strength and nerve conduction velocity in a two year follow up, we present an indication algorithm. RESULTS: After successful reinnervation of all flaps, we found an improvement of Kapandji's score from 4.3 ± 0.94 preoperatively, to 8.7 ± 0.47 after two years. Accordingly, the angle of Bourrel decreased from 75.75 ± 3.45 degrees to 36.96 ± 3.68 degree. Grip strength also improved from 14 ± 2.2 kg to 26.2 ± 1.2 kg. No impairment of wrist pronation was observed. CONCLUSION: We found excellent functional recovery of thumb opposition and strength, showing similar or even superior results compared to results from tendon transfers. With the benefit of a single incision surgery and therefore minimal donor site morbidity, this free functional muscle transfer is a viable alternative to classic tendon transfers.

A meta-analysis evaluating risk factors for compound free flaps for upper extremity defect reconstruction comparing complications and functional outcomes of compound free flaps with and without bone components.

BACKGROUND: Compound flaps offer the advantage of one stage defect reconstruction respecting all relevant tissues and early functional recovery by optimal vascularity of all components. Due to its specific vascular anatomy and the three-dimensional donor site, compound flaps with bone components may result in higher complication rates compared to soft tissue compound flaps. The meta-analysis summarizes the available evidence and evaluates whether bone components are a risk factor for periprocedural complications in upper extremity multidimensional defect reconstruction. METHOD: PubMed and Embase were searched for all publications addressing compound free flaps for upper extremity defect reconstruction with bone or soft tissue components published between January 1988 and May 2018. The methodological quality was assessed with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Evidence Rating Scale for Therapeutic Studies. Flap loss, thrombosis rate, early infection, hematoma, seroma, as well as donor site complications were extracted and analyzed. RESULTS: Twelve out of 1157 potentially eligible studies (evidence-III) comprising 159 patients were finally included with publication bias for all summarized complication rates. Complication rates for flaps with/ without bone components were: total flap loss 5%, 95% CI = 3%-10% (6%/5%); partial flap loss 8%, 95% CI = 5%-15%, (9%/8%); arterial/venous thrombosis 7%, 95% CI = 4%-12%, (8%/5%)/14%, 95% CI = 9%-21% (16%/6%, P < .05) with higher risk for flaps with bone components; infection 6%, 95% CI = 3%-12% (6%/6%); hematoma 6%, 95% CI = 3%-11% (6%/5%); seroma 5%, 95% CI = 3%-10% (5%/5%); dehiscence 10%, 95% CI = 6%-17% (11%/9%). CONCLUSION: Compound flaps for upper extremity defect reconstruction including bone components have a higher venous thrombosis rate compared to compound soft-tissue flaps.

Comparison of pedicled versus free flaps for reconstruction of extensive deep sternal wound defects following cardiac surgery: A retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Myocutaneous pedicled flaps are the method of choice for sternal reconstruction after deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) following cardiac surgery. We set out to investigate whether free flaps provide a superior alternative for particularly extended sternal defects. METHODS: Between October 2008 and February 2020, 86 patients with DSWI underwent sternal reconstruction with myocutaneous flaps at our institution. Patients were retrospectively grouped into pedicled (A; n = 42) and free flaps (B, n = 44). The objective was to compare operative details, outcome variables, surgical as well as medical complication rates between both groups, retrospectively. Binary logistic regression analysis was applied to determine the effect of increasing defect size on flap necrosis. RESULTS: Rates of partial flap necrosis (>5% of the skin island) were significant higher in pedicled flaps (n = 14), when compared to free flaps (n = 4) (OR: 5.0; 33 vs. 9%; p = .008). Increasing defect size was a significant risk factor for the incidence of partial flap necrosis of pedicled flaps (p = .012), resulting in a significant higher rate of additional surgeries (p = .036). Binary regression model revealed that the relative likelihood of pedicled flap necrosis increased by 2.7% with every extra square-centimeter of defect size. CONCLUSION: To avoid an increased risk of partial flap necrosis, free flaps expand the limits of extensive sternal defect reconstruction with encouragingly low complication rates and proved to be a superior alternative to pedicled flaps in selected patients.

Microsurgical reconstruction of extensive lower extremity defects with the conjoined parascapular and latissimus dorsi free flap.

BACKGROUND: Extensive lower extremity soft-tissue defects pose a reconstructive challenge. We present our experience with the conjoined parascapular and latissimus dorsi (CPLD) free flap. METHODS: From October 2008 to October 2017, 69 patients (14 female, 55 male) with a mean age of 50 years (range: 16-79 years) underwent reconstruction of lower extremity defects with the CPLD free flap. Mean defect size was 24 × 36 cm (range: 14 × 20 to 45 × 80 cm). RESULTS: Mean latissimus dorsi (LD) flap size was 19 × 28 cm (range: 14 × 20 to 28 × 42 cm) and mean parascapular (PSC) flap size was 8 × 25 cm (range: 5 × 12 to 11 × 33 cm). Six patients (9%) experienced a total of eight microvascular complications: arterial thrombosis (n = 1), venous thrombosis (n = 6), combined arterial and venous thrombosis (n = 1). The re-exploration rate was 13%. Major complications of the donor-site were seen in 9 patients (13%), of the flap in 13 patients (19%), and of both in 6 patients (9%). Fifteen patients experienced partial flap necrosis (22%). Three CPLD and one PSC flap were lost (5%). PSC flap length was a significant predictor of distal flap necrosis (χ2 (1) = 13.2, p = .004, OR = 1.343, 95% CI [1.098-1.642]). PSC flap width was a significant predictor of donor-site revisions (χ2 (1) = 15.9, p = .010, OR = 4.745, 95% CI [1.584-14.213]). Arterio-venous loops (AVLs) tended to increase the risk of microvascular thrombosis (χ2 (1) = 3.7, p = .08, OR = 4.1, 95% CI [0.9-18.7]). CONCLUSIONS: The CPLD free flap is an extremely large and highly reliable flap, allowing one-stage reconstruction of extensive lower extremity defects. It may overcome the need for multiple flaps in selected cases.

One-stage double free flap arteriovenous loop reconstruction of a massive abdominothoracic defect following necrotizing fasciitis: A case report.

We report the case of a 67-year old male with necrotizing fasciitis after injection of the glenohumeral joint. After extensive debridement a massive defect from the left hip joint to the left upper arm, exposing ribs, scapula, axillary vessels and brachial plexus (45 × 40 cm) was present. Reconstruction was performed with a conjoined right myocutaneous tensor fasciae lata/vastus lateralis flap and a left myocutaneous vastus lateralis flap in combination with an arteriovenous loop originating from the axillary vessels using the greater saphenous vein. Revisional surgeries were necessary including ribs resection and flap re-advancements. Due to multiorganic failure invasive ventilation, renal replacement- and extensive transfusion therapy was required. After 241 days the patient was discharged for rehabilitation. At the 12 months follow-up wounds were sufficiently closed without the need for further intervention. This case illustrates that immediate diagnosis followed by an aggressive multidisciplinary treatment approach is crucial for the patient survival.

A comparative study of preoperative color-coded Duplex ultrasonography versus handheld audible Dopplers in ALT flap planning.

INTRODUCTION: The anterior lateral thigh (ALT) flap's vascular variability can lead to complications. Thus, the accuracy of numerous planning modalities has been studied. The clinical relevance of competing mapping methods, however, remains unknown. Therefore, we compared the impact of color-coded Duplex ultrasonography and handheld audible Dopplers on surgical efficacy and flap safety. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-four ALT flaps were included in this comparative retrospective monocentric study. Twelve patients received Duplex scans and 32 flaps were designed using Dopplers only. Patient, defect, and flap characteristics of both groups were analyzed. The effect of either planning method on the primary outcome variables - flap harvest and operative times (HT, OT), course of perforator dissection, incidence of flap loss, emergent re-explorations, and donor-site revisions - was then assessed. RESULTS: Patient, defect, and flap characteristics were comparable between both groups, including flap size (Doppler: 134 ± 73 cm2 , Duplex: 131 ± 65 cm2 , p = .90). There was no flap loss. Emergent re-explorations (Doppler: 4/32, Duplex: 1/12, p = .70) and donor-site revisions (Doppler: 2/32, Duplex: 1/12, p = .81) were equally distributed. Duplex rendered septal perforator dissection 10 times more likely (Chi-Square = 8.9, p = .003, OR = 9.7), reaching 50% (n = 6/12), as opposed to only 9% in the Doppler cohort (n = 3/32). This allowed for highly significant HT and OT reductions of 89 minutes, respectively (p < .01): from 255 and 383 min (Doppler) to 166 and 294 min (Duplex). CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative Duplex significantly reduces harvest and operative times of ALT flaps.

Venous bypass grafts versus arteriovenous loops as recipient vessels for microvascular anastomosis in lower extremity reconstructions: A matched-pair analysis.

BACKGROUND: Limb salvage in patients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and soft tissue defects often requires both a restoration of blood flow to the lower extremity and soft tissue coverage. Outcomes of free tissue transfer may be affected by vein grafts, which can be used for the placement of an autologous venous bypass or an arteriovenous (AV) loop leading to different hemodynamic situations. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether free flap anastomosis to a bypass or an AV loop can be performed with comparable results. METHODS: We performed a matched-pair analysis of 22 patients with PVD undergoing free flap reconstructions of the lower extremity with end-to-side anastomosis to an autologous venous bypass (n = 11, 1 female and 10 male patients) or an AV loop (n = 11, 2 female and 9 male patients). Defects caused by trauma, infection, ulcer, or fasciotomy were reconstructed in each group with 5 muscle-based flaps, 3 parascapular flaps, 2 anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps, and 1 conjoined latissimus dorsi and parascapular flap. Postoperative complications including thromboses, flap failures, wound complications, and hematomas were compared. RESULTS: Postoperative complication rates including 1 venous pedicle thrombosis (9%vs. 0%, P = 1.0), minor (18% vs. 9%, P = 1.0) and major wound complications (45% vs. 27%, P = .69) as well as hematomas (27% vs. 36%, P = 1.0) did not show relevant differences between the groups. Flap failures were absent in both groups. CONCLUSION: In patients with PVD, autologous venous bypass grafts may be used for end-to-side anastomoses of free flaps, with postoperative outcomes being comparable to AV loop reconstructions.

Soft tissue free flap for reconstruction of upper extremities: A meta-analysis on outcome and safety.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate outcome and safety of free flaps to the upper extremity by pooled, summarized rates, compared with the existing pooled results of the lower extremity from literature, and to improve the level of evidence in a meta-analysis. METHODS: A literature search of PubMed and Embase was conducted addressing publications between January 2000 and April 2018. Publications were selected by inclusion/exclusion criteria on safety and outcome. Postoperative complications were statistically analyzed: flap loss, vessel thrombosis; recipient-site infection, hematoma, seroma, wound dehiscence, dysesthesia; donor-site morbidity. RESULTS: Two hundred and seventy-nine patients with 283 free flaps from 23 publications were extracted and eligible for this meta-analysis. The predominant donor site was the lower extremity (56%), with the anterolateral thigh flap as the major workhorse (30%). The summarized rate of total and partial flap loss was 6.0% (95% CI = 3.0-9.0%, PQ = 1.0000) and 8.0% (95% CI = 6.0-13.0%, PQ = 0.9973), respectively. The rate of arterial and venous thrombosis was 5.0% (95% CI = 3.0-9.0%, PQ = 0.9999) and 8.0% (95% CI = 9.0-37.0%, PQ = 0.9804), respectively. Complication rates of recipient site were: early infection with 7.0% (95% CI = 4.0-11.0%, PQ = 0.9788), hematoma with 6.0% (95% CI = 3.0-8.0%, PQ = 1.0000), seroma with 6.0% (95% CI = 4.0-10.0%, PQ = 0.9948), dehiscence with 7.0% (95% CI = 4.0-11.0%, PQ = 0.9988), and dysesthesia with 6% (95% CI = 4.0-10.0%, PQ = 0.9988). The rate of donor-site morbidity was 14% (95% CI = 8.0-21.0%, PQ = 0.0895). CONCLUSIONS: Soft tissue free flaps to the upper extremity have comparable success rates, but higher perioperative complication rates (e.g., partial flap loss, infection, and wound dehiscence) compared to the pooled data of lower extremity reconstruction from existing meta-analysis.

Sliding free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap for closure of a massive abdominal wall defect: A case report.

Despite considerable advances in reconstructive surgery, massive abdominal wall defects continue to pose a significant surgical challenge. We report the case of a 72-year-old morbidly obese female patient with Clostridium septicum-related gas gangrene of the abdominal wall. After multidisciplinary treatment and multiple extensive debridements, a massive full-thickness defect (40 cm × 35 cm) of the right abdominal wall was present. The abdominal contents were covered with a resorbable mesh to prevent evisceration. Finally, the composite defect was successfully reconstructed through a contralateral extended free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneus (TRAM) flap (50 cm × 38 cm). An arterio-venous loop to the superficial femoral vessels using the great saphenous vein was necessary to allow the flap to reach the defect. Postoperatively, a minor wound healing disorder of the flap was successfully treated with split skin grafting. Six month after surgery, the patient presented with a completely healed flap coverage area and a small abdominal hernia without the need of further surgical revision. This case illustrates the use of a sliding free TRAM flap for closure of a massive abdominal wall defect.

Continuous Video-Rate Laser Speckle Imaging for Intra- and Postoperative Cutaneous Perfusion Imaging of Free Flaps.

BACKGROUND: Success of free tissue transfer depends on standardized intraoperative flap design, microsurgical technique, and postoperative monitoring. We sought to investigate whether laser speckle imaging (LSI) is suitable for optimization of intraoperative flap design and postoperative monitoring of free flaps with skin paddles. METHODS: Skin perfusion was assessed with LSI in 27 free flaps after dissection at the donor site, after anastomosis at the recipient site, after inset and on postoperative days (POD) 1, 5, and 10. Skin perfusion of the whole flap (ROI [region of interest]-1) and the area over the pedicle (ROI-2) were compared between patients with and without postoperative complications (POC+ and POC - , respectively). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to determine the optimal cutoff for perfusion during LSI-guided microsurgery. RESULTS: In flaps without or only minor POC, intraoperatively measured perfusion over ROI-2 was significantly higher compared with ROI-1, whereas no significant differences were found for flaps with major POC. Perfusion of ROI-1 and 2 intraoperatively and on POD 1 was significantly lower in the POC+ compared with the POC- group (p < 0.05). ROC analysis yielded a threshold of 107 perfusion units (PU) at ROI-2 with an area under the curve (AUC) of > 0.8 for identification of flaps with major POC. CONCLUSION: LSI is an easy to use, noninvasive technique for identification of malperfused areas in free flaps, thus allowing for intraoperative decision-making on flap dimensions and postoperative monitoring. LSI therefore is a valuable tool for perfusion assessment with a high potential to become an established part of microsurgical practice.

Long-Term Outcome after Successful Lower Extremity Free Flap Salvage.

BACKGROUND: Vascular occlusion after free flap surgery has become a rare complication but still poses a major challenge. It necessitates urgent re-exploration, but the logistic challenge to provide sufficient resources for the emergency intervention remains. The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term outcome after successful lower extremity free flap salvage. METHODS: A single-center retrospective study including long-term follow-up was approved by the local ethics committee. From January 1999 to December 2010, a total of 581 free flaps were performed for lower extremity reconstruction. Eighty-six flaps required emergency re-exploration, of which 65 could be salvaged. Fifteen salvaged flaps were excluded from the study because of secondary amputation. Of 50 patients, 29 (6 females and 23 males) were eligible for follow-up. The mean follow-up time was 54.5 ± 32.9 months. Health-related quality of life (Short Form 36 [SF-36]) and scar quality (Vancouver Scar Scale [VSS]) were analyzed. RESULTS: The overall flap survival rate was 94.7% and the total loss rate was 5.3%. The re-exploration rate was 14.8% (86 of 581 flaps). The salvage rate was 75.6% (65 of 86 flaps). Twenty-one free flaps were totally lost (24.4%). Partial flap loss occurred in 12 cases (14.0%); 67.5% of the vascular complications occurred during the first 24 hours, 20.9% between 24 and 72 hours, and 11.6% after more than 72 hours. The mean time from the first signs of impaired flap perfusion to re-exploration was 1.3 ± 0.4 hours, and from free tissue transfer to re-exploration was 16.2 ± 1.9 hours. The overall scar appearance was good with an average VSS score of 4.0 points. The average SF-36 physical component score was 54.4 ± 5.4 and the mental component score was 63.1 ± 10.7. CONCLUSION: Careful monitoring and the opportunity for urgent re-exploration are the key to success for free flaps salvage. Following these principles, an acceptable long-term outcome can be achieved.