[Clinical application of endoscopic radical mastectomy for breast cancer combined with total pectoral muscle reconstruction with breast implants].

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of endoscopic radical mastectomy for breast cancer combined with total pectoral muscle reconstruction with breast implants. Methods: The clinical data of 138 female patients with breast cancer who met the selection criteria between April 2019 and December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The mean age of the patients was 43.8 years (range, 27-61 years). The maximum diameter of the tumors ranged from 1.00 to 7.10 cm, with an average of 2.70 cm. Pathological examination showed that 108 cases were positive for both estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor, and 40 cases were positive for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. All patients underwent endoscopic radical mastectomy for breast cancer combined with total pectoral muscle reconstruction with breast implants. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, prosthesis size, and occurences of nipple-areola complex (NAC) ischemia, flap ischemia, infection, and capsular contracture were recorded. The Breast-Q2.0 score was used to evaluate breast aesthetics, patient satisfaction, and quality of life (including the social mental health score, breast satisfaction score, and chest pain score). Patients were divided into two groups based on the time of operation after the technique was implemented: group A (within 1 year, 25 cases) and group B (after 1 year, 113 cases). The above outcome indicators were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, based on the postoperative follow-up duration, patients were classified into a short-term group (follow-up time was less than 1 year) and a long-term group (follow-up time was more than 1 year). The baseline data and postoperative Breast-Q2.0 scores were compared between the two groups. Results: The average operation time was 120.76 minutes, the average intraoperative blood loss was 23.77 mL, and the average prosthesis size was 218.37 mL. Postoperative NAC ischemia occurred in 21 cases (15.22%), flap ischemia in 30 cases (21.74%), infection in 23 cases (16.67%), capsular contracture in 33 cases (23.91%), and prosthesis removal in 2 cases (1.45%). The operation time of group A was significantly longer than that of group B ( P<0.05), and there was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss, prosthesis size, and related complications between the two groups ( P>0.05). All patients were followed up 3-48 months (mean, 20 months). There were 33 cases in the short-term group and 105 cases in the long-term group. There was no significant difference in baseline data such as age, body mass index, number of menopause cases, number of neoadjuvant chemotherapy cases, number of axillary lymph node dissection cases, breast cup size, degree of breast ptosis, and postoperative radiotherapy constituent ratio between the two groups ( P>0.05). At last follow-up, the breast satisfaction score in the patients' Breast-Q2.0 score ranged from 33 to 100, with an average of 60.9; the social mental health score ranged from 38 to 100, with an average of 71.3; the chest pain score ranged from 20 to 80, with an average of 47.3. The social mental health score of the long-term group was significantly higher than that of the short-term group ( P<0.05); there was no significant difference in breast satisfaction scores and chest pain scores between the two groups ( P>0.05). No patient died during the follow-up, and 2 patients relapsed at 649 days and 689 days postoperatively, respectively. The recurrence-free survival rate was 98.62%. Conclusion: Endoscopic radical mastectomy for breast cancer combined with total pectoral muscle reconstruction with breast implants has fewer complications and less damage, and the aesthetic effect of reconstructed breast is better.

[Clinical analysis of breast reconstruction with endoscopic-assisted harvesting of latissimus dorsi muscle flap for breast cancer].

Objective: To investigate the benefits and drawbacks of breast reconstruction with endoscopic-assisted harvesting of the latissimus dorsi muscle flap for breast cancer and treatment experience of postoperative operation-related complications. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on clinical data of 26 female patients with breast cancer who met the selection criteria between September 2021 and March 2023 aging 48.7 years (range, 26-69 years). All tumors were unilateral, with 17 on the left side and 9 on the right side. The tumor size ranged from 1.0 to 7.0 cm, with an average of 2.7 cm. The pathological staging included T 1 in 11 cases, T 2 in 14 cases, and T 3 in 1 case; N 0 in 10 cases, N 1 in 11 cases, N 2 in 2 cases, and N 3 in 3 cases; no distant metastasis (M 0) occurred when first diagnosed. Among them, 10 cases underwent breast conserving surgery, and 16 cases underwent nipple-sparing mastectomy. All patients underwent breast reconstruction with endoscopic-assisted harvesting of the latissimus dorsi muscle flap. The operation time, incision length, and postoperative drainage volume in 3 days were recorded. Breast-Q "Satisfaction with back" scale was conducted to evaluate patients' satisfaction with back at 6 months after operation. Results: The operation time was 280-480 minutes (mean, 376.7 minutes), the incision length was 10-15 cm (mean, 12.2 cm), the postoperative drainage volume in 3 days was 500-1 600 mL (mean, 930.2 mL). There were 4 cases of postoperative seroma, 1 case of incision rupture, 1 case of paresthesia of the thoracic wall, and 1 case of edema of the ipsilateral upper limb. All patients were followed up 12-30 months (mean, 20.1 months). No latissimus dorsi muscle flap necrosis, latissimus dorsi muscle atrophy, or shoulder joint dysfunction occurred during follow-up; 2 patients had recurrence of lymph nodes in the ipsilateral axilla after operation, but no distant metastasis occurred. Breast-Q score at 6 months after operation was 64-100 (mean, 79.5). The average score was 78.6 (range, 64-100) in patients underwent nipple-sparing mastectomy and 81.0 (range, 78-100) in patients underwent breast conserving surgery. Conclusion: Breast reconstruction with endoscopic-assisted harvesting of the latissimus dorsi muscle flap for breast cancer is proven to be a surgical approach with safety and cosmetic effects with mild postoperative operation-related complications and considerable patient satisfaction.

Surgical Management of Iatrogenic Mercury Poisoning From Subcutaneous Injection Into the Arm.

BACKGROUND: Mercury, an element with threats of severe toxic insult to humans and no biological function, has a surprisingly extensive record of human exposure. Regardless of hesitancies toward its harmfulness, it has been historically identified with an almost supernatural power to provide protection from evil and sickness, give good fortune, lend aid in athletic undertakings, or even allow one to achieve immortality. Mercury poisoning is an iatrogenic disease even today as people attempt to achieve these effects through volitional injections into their body by practitioners. Although an uncommon practice in the United States, awareness of patient presentation after volitional injections of elemental mercury is necessary for appropriate treatment of these patients. We aim to increase awareness of the cultural practice of subcutaneous injections of mercury, as it is uncommonly seen in the United States, to contribute a broader understanding to the patient's medical presentation and describe an approach and the impact of medical and surgical intervention. METHODS: In this report, we describe a rare case of elemental mercury poisoning secondary to volitional subcutaneous injection to the arm. Initial management of care through chelation therapy and monitoring of renal and serum mercury levels in addition to symptoms of systemic spread was overseen by an internal medicine physician and poison control. Surgical intervention via full-thickness excision of the visible mercury to the right arm followed by local flap and skin grafting reconstruction was performed. CONCLUSIONS: Mercury poisoning from intentional subcutaneous administration is an uncommon patient presentation in the United States; however, knowledge of management of this rare condition is important for effective management of iatrogenic mercury toxicity.

Inverted flap technique versus internal limiting membrane insertion for macular hole in eyes with extremely high myopia.

BACKGROUND: To compare the surgical outcomes of the inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique and ILM insertion for macular hole (MH) without retinal detachment in eyes with extremely high myopia. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we analyzed 22 eyes with an axial length ≥ 30.0 mm that had underwent MH surgery between April 2015 and August 2021. The surgical procedures involved either an inverted ILM flap or ILM insertion. The outcomes were compared between the two techniques. Closure of the MH was confirmed by optical coherence tomography (OCT). The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was measured before and after surgery. Associated complications were documented. RESULTS: The median of axial length was 30.64 mm (range, 30.0-34.42). The MH closed in 100% (22/22) eyes and did not recur with a median follow-up of 12.5 months. For the inverted ILM flap technique, the median BCVA improved significantly from 0.80 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) (range, 0.40-2.00) before surgery to 0.70 logMAR (range, 0.09-1.52) after surgery (p = 0.002). In addition, the median of final BCVA was better for the inverted ILM flap than ILM insertion (0.7 logMAR V.S. 1.00 logMAR; p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS: In eyes with extremely high myopia, despite comparable effects on MH closure for both ILM insertion and the inverted ILM flap, the later technique achieved significantly better visual outcomes.

Management of large head and neck defects in the vessel-depleted neck.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are often utilized in the treatment of head and neck cancer. These treatments can cause extensive scarring within the neck and can limit the viability of recipient vessels for further microvascular reconstruction. Patients with vessel-depleted necks provide a significant challenge for microvascular surgeons and are a topic of much discussion in the field. RECENT FINDINGS: While reconstruction in the vessel-depleted neck is an active area of interest, the patient population is rare. Therefore, single institution series with small numbers comprise the majority of published literature. Recent publications describe techniques for identifying adequate recipient vessel options outside of the field of treatment with excellent free flap outcomes. Further, recent summary articles describe techniques for addressing issues with pedicle length that can arise when using vessels that are far from the defect to be reconstructed. SUMMARY: When viable vessel options are available within the treatment field, these recipient vessels can be used with good reliability and free flap success. If in-field recipient vessels are not available, minimal access incisions can be used to identify superficial temporal, angular, contralateral facial, or transverse cervical vessels. Further away from the treatment field, internal mammary vessels can be harvested through open or robotic approaches. If the use of these distant vessels creates issues with pedicle length, interposition vein grafts, arteriovenous (AV) loops, or flow-through flaps can be used to augment vessel length.

Step ladder VY advancement flap for lower eyelid reconstruction after resection eyelid malignant tumors.

BACKGROUND: In oculoplastic surgery, reconstruction of a large defect after the removal of a massive malignant lower lid tumor still represents a unique challenge. We will report on this case, including a presentation of the case using step ladder V-Y advancement flap. METHODS: During November 2018 to March 2023, five patients of lower eyelid malignant tumor had wide resection with safety margin and reconstructed using step ladder V-Y advancement flap. The flap was used step ladder V-Y advancement flap. RESULTS: No complications, including ectropion deformity, occurred. This flap does not sacrifice healthy skin as seen with the cheek rotation flap, and the area of dissection is very small and can be performed in a short time. CONCLUSIONS: Step ladder V-Y advancement flap is highly useful in cases that require a reconstruction of a large defect after the removal of a massive malignant lower lid tumor from viewpoints of operating time, ease of procedure, aesthetics, and complications.

Single-staged revascularization and reconstruction after crush injury of the wrist and distal forearm: A protocolized approach.

BACKGROUND: Amputation of the wrist or distal forearm after high-energy trauma due to a crushing mechanism is associated with complex tissue defects, making repair, and reconstruction challenging. Given the difficulty of this type of salvage, patients unfortunately experience a high revision amputation rate. However, a higher quality of life has been reported in patients with successful reconstructions. Herein, we described a protocolized approach for revascularization and reconstruction for functional hand salvage after traumatic amputation from a crushing mechanism using an anterolateral thigh flap (ALT). METHODS: A retrospective review was performed between October 2016 and October 2023 for all patients who underwent single-stage emergent debridement, revascularization, and soft tissue coverage using the ALT after amputation at the level of the wrist or distal forearm secondary to high-energy crush injury. Charts were reviewed for the preoperative Mangled Extremity Salvage Score, intraoperative details including what structures were injured and the reconstructive method performed, and postoperative data such as follow-up duration, outcomes, and complications. RESULTS: Eleven patients met the inclusion criteria with an average age of 35.5 (21-49) years old. The average size of the skin soft tissue defects was 17.3 × 8 cm (range, length: 13-25 cm, width: 6-13 cm), and all cases had associated injury to the underlying bone, nerves, and blood vessels. The average size of the ALT flap used for reconstruction was 19.2 × 9.8 cm (range, length: 14-27 cm, width: 7-15 cm). All patients had survival of the replanted limb. One patient experienced partial flap necrosis that required secondary debridement and skin graft. Nine patients healed without requiring any additional debridement procedures. Patient follow-up averaged 24.6 (12-38) months. All patients achieved satisfactory functional recovery with Grade II to III of Chen's criteria. CONCLUSIONS: For patients with traumatic crush amputation to the wrist with surrounding soft tissue injury, thorough debridement, revascularization, and reconstruction of amputated limbs can be performed in a single stage using the ALT. A protocolized approach from two institutions is presented, demonstrating improved survival and reduced complications of the traumatized limb with improved long-term patient outcomes.

The Effect of Botulinum Toxin A on the NADPH Oxidase System and Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

BACKGROUND: Despite the increasing popularity of various materials for ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury mitigation, research on botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) remains limited. This study assesses BoNTA's efficacy in protecting flaps from I/R injury by inhibiting the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase system and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. METHODS: Seventy-six Sprague-Dawley rats were studied. We examined the effects of BoNTA on superoxide production in four rats using a lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence assay (LECL). Another group of 60 rats had their superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flaps treated with either BoNTA or saline and clamped for 0, 1, and 4 hours before reperfusion. Flap survival and histological outcomes were assessed five days post-operation. ROS production in SIEA flaps and femoral vessels was analyzed in 12 additional rats, post-I/R injury. RESULTS: The LECL results showed that the BoNTA group had significantly lower superoxide production compared to controls, with notable reductions at 4 hours. While no significant differences were noted at the 0 and 1-hour marks, the 4-hour mark showed significant protective effects in BoNTA-treated groups. The survival rate was 90% for BoNTA-treated rats versus 60% for controls ( P = 0.028). Significant reductions in ROS were also observed in the 4-hour I/R group. CONCLUSIONS: BoNTA effectively protects against I/R injury by inhibiting the NADPH oxidase system and reducing ROS levels. These results support further investigation into the specific mechanisms of NADPH oxidase inhibition by BoNTA and its potential clinical applications, given its safety profile. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: The findings from the present study are expected to provide a basis for clinical studies regarding this use of BoNTA.

[Successful Closure of Postpneumonectomy Bronchopleural Fistula with Inserting Technique of Omental Pedicle Flap into the Right Main Bronchus:Report of a Case].

A 67-year-old male was admitted to our hospital for the treatment of pyothorax due to bronchopleural fistula at right main bronchus after pneumonectomy for lung cancer( squamous cell carcinoma, pathological stageⅢB). After tube drainage and fenestration, we performed operation to close large diameter fistula, that was almost fully opened stump of the right main bronchus. Omental flap was sutured roughly to the fistula with four stiches and inserted into the bronchus lumen, and covered with latissimus dorsi muscle flap to fix omental pedicle flap and additionally performed thoracoplasty to close the residual space of the pleural cavity. Fistula at the stump became airtight after operation and pyothorax was cured, so our method was thought to be available to close large diameter bronchopleural fistula with omental pedicle flap.

Scleral bridging technique for preventing PreserFlo microshunt exposure: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: The use of the PreserFlo microshunt is gaining popularity owing to its ease of implantation and reduced need for postoperative intervention compared to conventional trabeculectomy. PATIENT CONCERNS: However, microshunt exposure remains a severe complication of PreserFlo surgery, particularly in patients with a thin Tenon capsule and conjunctiva. However, the actual thickness and intensity of the Tenon capsule or conjunctiva can be confirmed only during surgery. DIAGNOSIS: Exfoliation glaucoma with previous several glaucoma surgeries with thinner Tenon capsule or conjunctiva. INTERVENTIONS: We performed PreserFlo implantation with a surgical technique to recover a thin Tenon capsule and conjunctiva by creating a half-thickness rectangular scleral flap under the shunt and covering it over the microshunt until the distal part, similar to the bridge. OUTCOMES: The patient had better intraocular pressure control with positive cosmetic appearance using this technique. CONCLUSION: This technique will be beneficial for both preventing exposure and holding down the top, in addition to improving cosmetic appearance.

Oronasal Fistula Closure and Defect Reconstruction: Two Case Reports Using Periodontal Plastic Surgery Principles.

OBJECTIVES: Oronasal fistulas are common sequelae following cleft lip and palate surgery and can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. They result from various factors, including surgical techniques, tissue management, and patient-specific factors. This case report explores the modern approach to oronasal fistula closure using periodontal plastic surgery principles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The report presents two cases of patients with oronasal fistulas due to previous maxillofacial surgical intervention. These patients underwent microsurgical procedures that involved partial flap thickness preparation of the fistula areas, the use of connective tissue grafts from the palate, and meticulous suturing techniques to ensure graft integrity. The procedures were performed in stages, and postoperative care was provided. RESULTS: Both cases demonstrated successful fistula closure and graft survival. The patients reported improvements in breathing, speech, aesthetics, and quality of life. The second case also included guided bone regeneration and implant placement. CONCLUSIONS: Oronasal fistulas resulting from maxillofacial surgery can be effectively treated using periodontal plastic surgery techniques, significantly improving patients' quality of life and aesthetic outcomes. This approach represents a valuable addition to the existing repertoire of oronasal fistula closure methods.

Comparisons of different general anesthetic techniques on immune function in patients undergoing flap reconstruction for oral cancer.

BACKGROUND: Anesthetic-induced immunosuppression is of particular interest in tumor surgery. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the 4 most common general anesthetic techniques on immune function in patients undergoing flap reconstruction for oral cancer. METHODS: 116 patients were randomly divided into 4 groups. Patients in group S were given sevoflurane-based anesthesia. Group P was administered propofol-based anesthesia. The SD group received sevoflurane combined with dexmedetomidine anesthesia. The propofol combined with dexmedetomidine anesthesia (PD) group received PD. Blood samples were obtained at 5 time points: baseline (T0), 1 hour after the start of the operation (T1), end of the operation (T2), 24 hours (T3), and 48 hours (T4) after the operation. Lymphocyte subsets (including CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and B lymphocytes) and dendritic cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Blood glucose, norepinephrine, and cortisol levels were measured using ELISA and a blood gas analyzer respectively. RESULTS: In total, 107 patients were included in the final analysis. Immunological indicators, except CD8+ counts, were all decreased in groups S, P, and SD at T1-4 compared with the baseline value, and the counts of CD3+, CD4+, and dendritic cells, as well as CD4+/CD8+ ratios, were significantly higher in the PD group than in the S, P, and SD at T1-3 (P < .05). There were no significant differences between groups P and SD at any observation time point. Intraoperative stress indices, including norepinephrine and cortisol levels, were significantly lower in the PD group than in the other 3 groups at T1-2 (P < .05). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that PD as a probably optimal choice can alleviate immunosuppression in patients undergoing flap reconstruction for oral cancer.

Comparison of instep and non-instep flap in the reconstruction of the weight-bearing portion of the forefoot and heel.

BACKGROUND: Instep flaps are commonly used for the reconstruction of weight-bearing areas of the foot. However, in cases of large defects or damage to the instep area, non-instep flaps such as reverse sural flaps (RSF) or free anterolateral thigh flaps (ALTF) can be employed. Previous studies have primarily focused on heel reconstruction when comparing different flaps, without considering the forefoot. This study aims to verify the clinical outcomes of these flaps and determine the appropriate donor site for weight-bearing areas of the foot including forefoot reconstruction. METHODS: In a retrospective study, 39 patients who had undergone flap reconstruction of weight-bearing area defects in the foot with a follow-up period of ≥1 year were included. The patients were categorized into two groups: Group A (n = 19) using instep flaps, and Group B (n = 20) using non-instep flap including RSFs and ALTFs. Surgical outcomes were assessed based on the success of the flap, the presence of partial necrosis, the number of additional surgeries, and complications related to the donor site. Clinical evaluation included visual analogue scale (VAS) and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and the occurrence of ulcers. RESULTS: All flaps were successful, while partial necrosis occurred in one case in Group B. There were three reclosures after flap border debridement in both groups and one donor site debridement in Group A. The VAS scores during weight-bearing were 2.0 ± 1.1 and 2.2 ± 1.5 for Groups A and B, respectively (p = .716). The AOFAS scores were 52.8 ± 6.8 and 50.2 ± 12.7 for Groups A and B, respectively (p = .435). The occurrence of ulcers was 0.4 ± 0.9 times for Group A and 0.3 ± 0.7 times for Group B, with no significant difference between the two groups (p = .453). CONCLUSION: There was no difference in clinical outcomes between the types of flaps after reconstruction of the forefoot and hindfoot. Therefore, it is recommended to choose the appropriate flap based on factors such as the size of the defect, its location, and vascular status rather than the type of flap.

Management of chronic exogenous rhinolith with gingivonasal fistula: A case report.

Recurrent rhinorrhoea that occurs chronically, needs to consider the possibility of a fistula in the nasal cavity, which has the potential to form a rhinolith. We report the case of a 39-year-old man with complaints of recurrent rhinorrhoea since four years ago, accompanied by thick secretions, symptoms of post-nasal drips, and olfactory disturbances. The patient had a history of removing the left upper molar (molar I), which causes a fistula in the tooth extraction site, making it more likely for food and drink to enter the left nasal cavity. Anterior rhinoscopy examination revealed a white mass in the left inferior meatus and a purulent odour discharge. In addition, there were gingival defects of the first molar teeth, multi-sinusitis, and nasal septum deviation. Rinolith extraction was performed using functional endoscopic sinus surgery, submucosal resection, and repair of gingivo-nasal defects with rotational flaps. Follow-up for one week showed that the flap was in place and there were no complications.

A case of melanoma in situ of the central forehead repair by V-Y advancement flap and Burow graft.

Large defects on the face after Mohs surgery have posed significant reconstructive challenges. A 90-year-old man presented with melanoma in situ of the central forehead, which resulted in a 4.5cmx4.3cm defect after multiple stages of Mohs surgery. Although different approaches for forehead repair with nasal root involvement are possible, we demonstrate that the V-Y advancement flap and subsequent Burrow graft for nasal root repair represents a viable closure technique for large circular defects of the central forehead.

Reconstruction techniques for upper extremity crush injuries with massive tissue loss and open fractures: a prospective study.

OBJECTIVE: Crush injuries and open fractures are often accompanied by extensive tissue loss, rendering clinical and surgical management quite challenging, particularly in the upper extremities. The primary goal in these cases is to obtain a functional and cosmetically acceptable limb. However, the management of complex crush injuries (involving extensive tissue loss and open fractures) is associated with a variety of complications, ranging from infection to amputation. In this study, we aimed to analyze the clinical outcomes of reconstruction for managing complex upper extremity crush injuries. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed the clinical and surgical data of patients with complex upper extremity crush injuries who were treated at five Level III trauma centers between July 2012 and December 2022. Patients with an injury that could not be replanted at the time of trauma, those who succumbed to the injuries before reconstruction, and patients with a postoperative follow-up time of < 1-year, missing data, or lost to follow-up were excluded. Data regarding demographic characteristics, clinical examination, radiological images, mechanism of injury, orthopedic or non-orthopedic injuries, comorbidities, tissue loss size, surgical procedures, number of debridement and first debridement time, complications, number of days of hospitalization and, if any, intensive care unit stay, were recorded. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients were included in the study (mean age = 37.4 ± 7.25; range = 16-62 years; 17 males, 4 females). Road traffic accidents were the most frequently documented cause of injury. The mean time to the first reconstruction was 4.2 ± 1.2 days. Tissue defect sizes ranged from 6 × 4 cm to 18 × 12 cm. Anterolateral thigh flaps, latissimus dorsi flaps, radial forearm, and lateral arm flaps, with sizes ranging from 3 × 6 cm to 18 × 26 cm, were used in the patients. CONCLUSIONS: Simple reconstruction techniques, such as skin grafts or island flaps, can provide satisfactory results in terms of both appearance and function in upper extremity crush injuries with significant bone exposure and large soft tissue defects.

Comparison of the therapeutic effects of lens capsular flap transplantation and autologous retinal transplantation in the management of refractory macular holes.

PURPOSE: To report the comparison of the therapeutic effects of lens capsular flap transplantation (LCT) and autologous retinal transplantation (ART) in refractory macular hole (MH) treatment. METHODS: Thirty-one patients (31 eyes) with refractory MH were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical procedures: the LCT group (13 eyes) and the ART group (18 eyes). Patients were monitored for a minimum of 6 months. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), hole closure rate, postoperative central foveolar thickness (CFT), and some complications (e.g. graft loss or dislocation, postoperative retinal detachment, or postoperatively elevated intraocular pressure) were the primary outcome measures. RESULTS: The mean preoperative MH diameter was 1104 ± 287 µm in the LCT group and 1066 ± 297 µm in the ART group (t = 0.353, P = 0.727). The MH was closed in 12 patients (92.3%) of the LCT group and 17 patients (94.4%) of the ART group (χ2 = 0.057, P = 0.811); the MHs of 10 patients (76.9%) in the LCT group and 11 patients (61.1%) in the ART group were completely closed (χ2 = 0.864, P = 0.353). The BCVA improved from 2.3 ± 1.0 logMAR preoperatively to 1.3 ± 0.9 logMAR postoperatively in the LCT group and 2.3 ± 0.9 logMAR preoperatively to 1.0 ± 0.6 logMAR postoperatively in the ART group (postoperative BCVA vs preoperative BCVA in the LCT group: t = 4.374, P = 0.001; postoperative BCVA vs preoperative BCVA in the ART group: t = 5.899, P = 0.000018). The visual improvement was 1.3 ± 0.9 logMAR in the ART group and 1.0 ± 0.8 logMAR in the LCT group (t = - 1.033, P = 0.310). The postoperative CFT was 139.7 ± 48.3 µm in the LCT and 199.2 ± 25.1 µm in the ART group (t = - 4.062, P = 0.001). Graft dislocation emerged in 2 patients (15.4%) in the LCT group and 1 patient (5.6%) in the ART group. CONCLUSIONS: Applications of LCT and ART may both enhance anatomical and visual outcomes in refractory MH cases. The ART group exhibited a more optimal postoperative CFT than the LCT group one.

Tracheal repair with sternocleidomastoid flap in mediastinoscopic surgery for esophageal cancer.

Tracheal injury during mediastinoscopic esophagectomy is a life-threatening complication that is challenging to manage. However, no precise treatment has been defined. An 80-year-old male patient with upper esophageal cancer underwent a mediastinoscopic esophagectomy and gastric tube reconstruction through the posterior mediastinal route. When the esophagus was separated from the trachea using a bipolar vessel sealing system, the left side of the membranous trachea incurred a 3-cm defect 7 cm below the sternal notch. We successfully repaired the tracheal injury not by directly suturing the defect but by reinforcing it with a pedicle sternocleidomastoid flap. The gastric tube was placed over the tracheal repair for esophageal reconstruction via a posterior mediastinal route. As a result, the patient recovered well and was discharged. A sternocleidomastoid flap might be another surgical option for reinforcement flaps in tracheal injuries.

Modified Reverse Hatchet Flap for Ablepharon-Macrostomia Syndrome.

Ablepharon-macrostomia syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by TWIST2 mutations and anterior lamellar dysgenesis. Timely intervention is critical to prevent exposure keratopathy, corneal ulceration, and permanent vision loss. We report a novel approach to multiplanar eyelid reconstruction in ablepharon-macrostomia syndrome involving use of a modified reverse hatchet flap in 1 lower eyelid along with division at the eyelid margin, recession of the eyelid retractors in conjunction with preputial skin grafting for anterior lamellar restoration in the other 3 eyelids.