[Economic factors in microsurgery - Report of the consensus workshop of the German-Speaking Society for Microsurgery of Peripheral Nerves and Vessels - (DAM)]. / Wirtschaftliche Aspekte in der Mikrochirurgie: Bericht zum Konsensus-Workshop der Deutschsprachigen Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Mikrochirurgie der peripheren Nerven und Gefäße ­ (DAM).

In addition to outcome assessments, cost effectiveness of surgical treatments becomes increasingly important. Both, insurance companies and hospital administrations aim for short and efficient procedures to reduce costs.Microsurgical procedures are often surpassing traditional treatment options in terms of function and aesthetics. However, they are more expensive as they require a high level of surgical expertise, more theatre capacity and longer inpatient treatment. Adequate reimbursement is mandatory, if we want to continuously perform these procedures with the best possible quality and outcome. To cover the case-related expenses of each specialty, multidisciplinary procedures require appropriate distribution of reimbursements to each department.The main diagnosis as well as all complications and relevant comorbidities should be documented to obtain the correct DRG. The additional financial benefit of a microsurgical procedure in a multidisciplinary case can be calculated by specifying the procedural increment in pay. Therefore, a fair distribution of revenues to each participating department should be performed. Different models exist, which lead to a benefit in compensation for all departments. Unfortunately, distribution of resources is still insufficiently managed in many hospitals, which hampers high quality multidisciplinary microsurgical procedures. Still, picking the best possible procedure for our patients, independently of financial incentives, is of utmost importance.

Perioral aging--an anthropometric appraisal.

To adequately perform perioral rejuvenation procedures, it is necessary to understand the morphologic changes caused by facial aging. Anthropometric analyses of standardized frontal view and profile photographs could help to investigate such changes. Photographs of 346 male individuals were evaluated using 12 anthropometric indices. Data from two groups of health subjects, the first exhibiting a mean age of nearly 20 and the second of nearly 60 years, were compared. To evaluate the influence of combined nicotine and alcohol abuse, the data of the second group were compared to a third group exhibiting a similar mean age who were known alcohol and nicotine abusers. Comparison of the first to the second group showed significant decrease of the vertical height of upper and lower vermilion and relative enlargement of the cutaneous part of upper and lower lips. This effect was stronger in the upper vermilion and medial upper lips. The sagging of the upper lips led to the appearance of an increased mouth width. In the third group the effect of sagging of the upper lips, and especially its medial portion was significantly higher compared to the second group. The photo-assisted anthropometric measurements investigated gave reproducible results related to perioral aging.

Cheek rotation flap reconstruction--an anthropometric appraisal of surgical outcomes.

OBJECTIVES: Cheek rotation flaps are an established surgical procedure for coverage of facial skin defects especially of the cheek and infraorbital region. A comparison of pre- and postoperative anthropometric measurements may help to objectify intraoperative estimations with regards to postoperative appearance. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present an evaluation of 31 patients undergoing periorbital reconstruction by a cheek rotation flap on standardized photographs based on reference anthropometric data. Analysis included intercanthal, binocular and eye fissure width, eye fissure, lid sulcus and upper lid height, upper and lower iris coverage, position of cornea to palpebra inferior, scleral show, ectropion, and canthal tilt. Furthermore, it was clearly differentiated whether the defect to cover included eyelid skin or not. RESULTS: Ectropion showed a significant association to surgery (p = 0.03) and time (p = 0.03). If the defect to cover included lower eyelid skin, lower iris coverage values decreased significantly (p = 0.02), meanwhile the rate of scleral show increased significantly (p < 0.01), indicating pre- to postoperative lower eyelid retraction. CONCLUSIONS: In all patients analyzed, indices were reproducible and reliable. An association between surgery and ectropion was detectable. Whenever lower eyelid skin is involved in the defect to be covered, the significantly decreased lower iris coverage and increased rate of scleral show indicate an increased risk of lower lid retraction. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Whenever eyelid skin is involved in a defect to be covered by a cheek rotation flap, there is an increased risk of postoperative lower lid distortion. Special care has to be taken to perform techniques preventing lower lid retraction.

Successful management of a massive residual space empyema using intrathoracic vacuum-assisted instillation.

There is no universally accepted single line treatment for residual space empyema. Recently, the vacuum-assisted instillation therapy was applied for wounds in different anatomical positions. However, it has not yet been applied as an intrathoracic management. Herein, we describe the first experience of intrathoracic vacuum-assisted instillation therapy for residual space empyema after extended thoracic surgery. It appears to be an attractive treatment option for patients with large contaminated pleural cavities in preparation for reconstructive surgery.

Soft tissue outcome after mandibular advancement--an anthropometric evaluation of 171 consecutive patients.

OBJECTIVES: There is an ongoing discussion in the literature about preoperative planning and postoperative evaluation of orthognathic surgery and its impact on facial appearance and aesthetics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present an anthropometric and cephalometric evaluation of orthognathic surgery results based on reference anthropometric data. In 171 Class II patients, mandibular advancement by bilateral sagittal split osteotomy was performed. Preoperative as well as 3 and 9 months postoperative standardized frontal view and profile photographs and lateral cephalograms were evaluated in a standardized manner by use of 21 anthropometric indices. In cephalograms, SNA and SNB angle as well as Wits appraisal were investigated. Results of anthropometric and cephalometric measurements were correlated. RESULTS: Lower vermilion contour, vermilion and cutaneous total lower lip height, nose-lower face height, nose-face height, upper face-face height, upper lip- and chin-mandible height index showed significant pre- to postoperative changes as well as SNB angle and Wits appraisal. Furthermore, medial-lateral cutaneous upper lip height, vermilion and cutaneous total lower lip height and philtrum-mouth width index presented significant correlations to cephalometric measurements. CONCLUSIONS: The investigated anthropometric indices and cephalometric measurements presented reproducible results related to surgery. The correlation of cephalometric to anthropometric measurements has been proven useful for preoperative planning and postoperative evaluation of orthognathic surgery patients. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The presented anthropometric measurements and their observed correlation to cephalometric measurements could lead to a better prediction and optimized planning of the soft tissue result in orthognathic surgery patients and thereby improve the aesthetic outcome.

Objective anthropometric analysis of eyelid reconstruction procedures.

Before undergoing facial tumour resection and reconstruction, especially of the eyelids, patients are worried about their postoperative appearance. "Eye-balling" of postoperative results may not be sufficient to adequately judge surgical results. Reference anthropometric measurements for the eyelids are available. We present an evaluation of a series of tumour resection and reconstructive procedures of the eyelids on standardized photographs based on reference anthropometric data. 51 patients underwent eyelid reconstruction with different established techniques after resection of local eyelid tumours. Analysis included intercanthal width, biocular width, eye fissure width, eye fissure height, lid sulcus height, upper lid height, upper iris coverage, lower iris coverage, position of cornea to palpebra inferior, scleral show, ectropion, and canthal tilt. We clearly differentiated between resections including eyelid margin or not. Time (p = 0.04) and surgery (p = 0.03) showed a significant association with decreased values of lower eyelid coverage. Resection of the eyelid margin showed no significant influence on the values investigated. In all the patients analysed the indices were reproducible and reliable. Not surprisingly an association between surgery and lower eyelid retraction was found. Resection of the eyelid margin does not seem to cause a greater risk of eyelid deformity. The standard measurements described are accurate and objective to evaluate postoperative results.

Transconjunctival versus subciliary approach for orbital fracture repair--an anthropometric evaluation of 221 cases.

OBJECTIVES: In the literature, there is an ongoing discussion about the influence of orbital fractures and the surgical approach on the rate of eyelid deformities of the lower eyelid. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present an evaluation of a series of 221 patients 9 months after zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture repair that underwent implant removal. Reference anthropometric data were measured on standardized pre- and postoperative photographs. Analysis included eye fissure width and height, lid sulcus and upper lid height, upper and lower iris coverage, position of cornea to palpebra inferior, canthal tilt, scleral show, ectropion, and entropion. Both operated and contralateral eyelids were evaluated as well as whether a transconjunctival or a subciliary approach was performed. RESULTS: Time, surgery, and surgical approach presented significant effects on eye fissure index and lower iris coverage. Scleral show was significantly influenced by the surgical procedure itself as well as by the type of incision. The rate of ectropion increased significantly pre- to postoperative. CONCLUSIONS: The subciliary approach included the highest risk of lower lid retraction. The low pre- to postoperative increase of scleral show and ectropion compared to recent studies gives us an idea about the influence of the underlying trauma on the rate of lower lid retraction. The standardized measurements described are accurately and objective to evaluate postoperative results. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The transconjunctival approach is preferable in orbital fracture repair.

The zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture - an anthropometric appraisal of surgical outcomes.

Before undergoing repair of zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures, most patients are worried about their postoperative appearance. Furthermore, there is an ongoing discussion about the selection of the surgical approach to the inferior orbita and resulting eyelid deformities. We present a photo-assisted postoperative evaluation of zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture repair based on reference anthropometric data. Two hundred and twenty-one patients underwent zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture repair. An analysis of standardized postoperative photographs included measurements of eye fissure width and height, lid sulcus height, upper lid height, upper and lower coverage, position of cornea to palpebra inferior, canthal tilt, scleral show, ectropion and entropion. It was clearly distinguished between operated and contralateral eyelid, and whether a transconjunctival or a subciliary approach was performed. Surgery per se significantly influenced eyelid deformities as measured by its impact on eye fissure index, lower iris coverage and rate of scleral show and ectropion. The surgical approach selected significantly affected eye fissure index, lower iris coverage and rate of scleral show, indicating distortion of the lower eyelid. Investigations regarding orbital fractures should clearly differentiate the type of fracture. The subciliary approach included the highest risk of postoperative lower eyelid deformity in zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture repair. The standardized measurements described here are accurate and objective to evaluate postoperative results.

Outcomes analysis of eyelid deformities using photograph-assisted standardized anthropometry in 311 patients after orbital fracture treatment.

BACKGROUND: Before undergoing repair of orbital fractures, most patients are worried about their postoperative appearance. Furthermore, there is an ongoing discussion in the literature about the influence of trauma and surgical approach to the inferior orbita on eyelid deformities. METHODS: In this retrospective comparative study, we present an evaluation of a series of 311 postoperative results of orbital fractures on standardized photographs based on reference anthropometric data. Analysis included eye fissure width and height, lid sulcus height, upper lid height, upper and lower iris coverage, position of cornea to inferior palpebra, canthal tilt, scleral show, ectropion, and entropion. It was clearly differentiated between operated and contralateral eyelid type of fracture of the midface and whether a transconjunctival or a subciliary approach was used. RESULTS: Surgery and the chosen approach presented significant effects on eye fissure index, lower iris coverage, scleral show, and ectropion. Different types of fractures affecting the orbita showed no influence on the investigated values. CONCLUSION: Not surprisingly, an association between surgery and lower lid retraction was found. The underlying osseous trauma did not show a significant influence on the presented measurements. Subciliary approaches increased the risk of lower lid retraction. The standard measurements described here are accurate and objective to evaluate postoperative results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic/epidemiologic study, level III.

Standardized anthropometric evaluation of ectropion repair results.

BACKGROUND: Before undergoing ectropion repair, most patients are concerned not only about the functional result, but also about their postoperative aesthetic appearance. Furthermore, there is an ongoing discussion in the literature about the influence of various surgical techniques on eyelid function and morphology. We present a photograph-assisted evaluation for preoperative planning, intraoperative estimation, and postoperative evaluation of ectropion surgery based on anthropometric measurements and clinical data. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From January 2008 to December 2010, 36 ectropion patients underwent a lateral tarsorrhaphy or fascial sling repair. An analysis of standardized preoperative and postoperative photographs included measurements of intercanthal width, biocular width, eye fissure width, eye fissure height, lid sulcus height, upper lid height, upper iris coverage, lower iris coverage, position of cornea to palpebra inferior, canthal tilt, scleral show, and ectropion. RESULTS: Eye fissure index (P < 0.01) and lower iris coverage (P < 0.01) were statistically significantly influenced by surgery and time. The rates of scleral show (P < 0.01) and ectropion (P < 0.01) were significantly influenced, too. The 2 applied surgical techniques, lateral tarsorrhaphy and fascial sling repair, presented no significantly different effect in the preoperative to postoperative measurements. CONCLUSIONS: In all analyzed patients, the performed measurements were reproducible and reliable. The methods described may help to estimate the necessary extent of correction in ectropion repair surgery. Furthermore, intraoperatively performed measurements could be compared with the postoperative results.

Evaluation of nasal reconstruction procedures results.

Before undergoing a reconstructive procedures of the nose most patients ask how they will look postoperatively. Anthropometric measurements of the nose described by Farkas represent standard values. A comparison of pre- and postoperative anthropometric measurements may help to double-check the correctness of intraoperative "eye-balling" measurements with regards to postoperative appearance. Sixty-three patients underwent reconstruction of nasal ala, tip or dorsum. An analysis of standardized pre- and postoperative photographs included measurements of nose width, nose height, nasal tip protrusion, columella width, ala length, intercanthal width, mouth width, philtrum width, upper lip height, lateral upper lip height, cutaneous upper lip height and upper face height. Preoperative measurements were compared to data given by Farkas in young adults. Postoperative changes were evaluated clearly distinguishing between reconstruction of nasal ala, tip and dorsum. All anthropometric indices showed significant differences compared to the Farkas population. There was no significant pre- to postoperative change in any reconstructed region observed, indicating adequate intraoperative measurements. The application of Farkas' anthropometric measurements described in this study showed reliable and objective results and can help to double-check the previous intraoperative measurements. The correct application of these surgical techniques leads to a satisfying and near to normal postoperative look of the patient.

Scalp defect repair: a comparative analysis of different surgical techniques.

Scalp defects often arise in multimorbid patients. This study aimed at establishing an algorithm of defect repair with particular focus on new regenerative options.All patients, who consulted to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery/Plastic Surgery, University Jena between April 2005 and March 2010 were reviewed. Different reconstructive options were compared with regard to duration of hospital stay as well as rate of reoperations needed to achieve full closure.Sixty-eight patients were identified. Local flaps were more effective than skin grafts (P = 0.038) and microvascular free flaps (P = 0.037) in case of skin-galea-periosteal-defects. However, no differences were found between skin grafting in combination with wound bed preconditioning using a dermal regeneration template and microvascular free flap transfer. Scalp defects should be repaired based on careful evaluation of defect anatomy as well as patient's general health. Application of dermal regeneration templates allows for an increase of the indication spectrum of free skin grafts.

Microvascular free flaps for mandibular reconstruction in Goldenhar syndrome.

Although Goldenhar syndrome is a relatively common craniofacial malformation, there is some debate regarding the ideal treatment of severe mandibular hypoplasia. Traditionally, patients with severe mandibular deficits have been treated with iliac or costochondral bone grafts followed by distraction osteogenesis, with mixed results. The authors present their experience with the use of the osteocutaneous fibula and scapula free flap for mandibular reconstruction in patients with severe mandibular hypoplasia. The cases of 4 patients who underwent free-flap reconstruction of a severely hypoplastic mandible due to Goldenhar syndrome are presented. Microvascular reconstruction of the severely hypoplastic mandible is possible with the osteocutaneous scapula and the fibula flap. Minimal donor-site morbidity is elicited. Furthermore, the vertical relationship can be restored adequately, and breathing is facilitated. The microvascular fibula and scapula flap are a viable option for reconstruction of the severely hypoplastic mandible in patients with Goldenhar syndrome.

Photo-assisted analysis of blepharoplasty results.

Currently, postoperative evaluation of aesthetic results of blepharoplasties mainly consists of subjective assessment by patients, surgeons, or others. We present an objective photo-assisted evaluation for preoperative planning and postoperative evaluation of blepharoplasties. Thirty-one female patients underwent aesthetic blepharoplasty. All types of blepharoplasties were included. An analysis of standardized pre- and postoperative photographs included measurements of eye fissure height, eye fissure width, lid sulcus height, upper lid height, upper iris coverage, scleral show, position of cornea to palpebra inferior, canthal tilt, an analysis of the architecture, and correction of wrinkles of the upper eyelid. Patients' satisfaction was investigated by a standardized questionnaire. All measured data showed postoperative changes to standard values. Upper eyelid wrinkles showed a significant decrease postoperatively. Most patients were highly satisfied with their results. The methods described in the present study help to evaluate the pre- and postoperative situation in blepharoplasty surgery.