The distance of insertion points from wound margins in interrupted and vertical mattress sutures influences the tensile load capacity: An in vitro experimental study.

AIM: To determine the tensile load capacity (TLC) and the tearing characteristics for interrupted and vertical mattress sutures with different insertion points from the wound margin, and the effect of the bite size when using vertical mattress sutures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 120 gingiva and lining mucosa samples obtained from pig jaws were divided into groups according to the suturing technique (interrupted and vertical mattress sutures), distance of the insertion points from the wound margin (margin, 1, 3, and 5 mm) and bite size (1, 3, and 5 mm). The TLC of the suture and the tearing characteristics were evaluated using a tensile tester device. RESULTS: The TLC was significantly higher for vertical mattress sutures than for interrupted sutures regardless of the distance of the insertion points from the wound margin (intergroup p < .001). This distance significantly influenced the TLC for vertical mattress sutures (p < .05) but not for interrupted sutures (p > .05). Testing the tearing characteristics revealed that no tissue tearing occurred in groups when the insertion points were more than 3 mm from the wound margin. CONCLUSION: The TLC is higher for vertical mattress sutures than for interrupted sutures, and it increases when the insertion points are farther from the wound margin.

Horizontal pharyngeal closure during total laryngectomy reduces rates of pharyngocutaneous fistula.

PURPOSE: Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is a possible complication following total laryngectomy (TL), with a mean incidence of 17%. We intended to investigate the effect of pharyngeal closure type during TL on the prevention of PCF. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed patients that underwent TL with a horizontal pharyngeal closure over a 10-year period. The frequency of PCF clinically, dysphagia, total oral diet, postoperative dilatation of the neopharynx and voice problems were tabulated. RESULTS: Seventy-seven subjects underwent TL due to laryngeal tumor without pharyngeal extension. Of them, 45 underwent a salvage TL. PCF occurred in 1/77 subjects. The rest of the subjects (76/77) did not develop a PCF, neither in the early nor in the late postoperative phase. All subjects (15/77) that underwent implantation of a voice prosthesis were satisfied with their voice. No subject complained about dysphagia. Every subject achieved total oral diet. CONCLUSION: The horizontal pharyngeal closure is a safe pharyngeal closure technique during TL, reduces PCF rates (< 2%), results in excellent voice rehabilitation and swallowing function, and can also be used during salvage TL instead of a major pectoral flap. This type of closure should be used only in selected patients with laryngeal disease without pharyngeal extension.

Efficacy, Complications and Effects of Alcides Pereira's Sutures in the Management of Uterine Atony: A Retrospective Study.

INTRODUCTION: Uterine compressive sutures are conservative measures applied in cases of severe postpartum hemorrhage unresponsive to uterotonics. Pereira's suture was introduced in 2005 and consists of two longitudinal and three transverse non-transfixes sutures. Previous studies reported favorable results, highlighting its benefits and value. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy, complications, and impact on fertility and future pregnancies of Pereira's suture applied in cases of uterine atony and postpartum hemorrhage. METHODS: An observational retrospective study was performed by consulting the medical records of women treated with Pereira's compressive sutures in a tertiary center between January 2013 and December 2022. We registered demographic data, pregnancy outcomes, short-term complications, and outcomes of subsequent pregnancies. RESULTS: A total of 50 women were treated with Pereira's suture. The overall success rate was 96% and no hysterectomies were performed. Women who had sutures performed during an intra-cesarean section had better outcomes than those who had an after-cesarean section. Complications were reported in 12% (n = 6) of women, with the most frequent being pelvic infection (n = 3) and abdominal pain (n = 3). Regarding fertility, all women desiring a future pregnancy (n = 5) were able to conceive, resulting in three live births. CONCLUSION: Pereira's suture is a type of suture that provides numerous advantages and should be considered when first-line medical treatment fails. When applied at an early stage, the sutures may prevent maternal morbidity. The Alcides Pereira's suture is a safe technique and appears to preserve fertility.

Management of a Large Hypervascular Apicoposterior Mediastinal Mass Using the Purse-String Suture Technique in Robotic-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery: A Case Report.

Complete resection of an apicoposterior mediastinal mass is essential due to the mass effect, which exerts pressure on adjacent organs. Recently, the use of minimally invasive surgery has had many advantages. In this report, we describe a case in which a large apicoposterior mediastinal hypervascular mass was managed using a purse-string suture technique during robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS). The patient, a 77-year-old woman, was diagnosed with a 6.2-cm apicoposterior mediastinal hypervascular solid mass originating from the branches of the right subclavian artery. The patient underwent RATS for treatment. To obtain an adequate view of the apex of the thoracic cavity, a needle aspiration was performed, followed by the application of a purse-string suture technique. This was done to reduce the size of the tumor and to prevent catastrophic events such as seeding or spillage of the cystic mass. The mass was histopathologically diagnosed as a schwannoma. The patient was discharged on the first postoperative day without experiencing any complications.

Modelo alternativo para o treinamento de técnicas de microssuturas em "patch" de pericárdio bovino / Alternative model for training microsuture techniques in bovine pericardium patches

Introdução: As técnicas microcirúrgicas caracterizam-se pela aplicação de manobras e suturas em estruturas milimétricas com o auxílio de lentes de aumento. São técnicas complexas, utilizadas em diversas especialidades médicas, que demandam grande habilidade e treinamento antes da aplicação em humanos. O objetivo é desenvolver um modelo de baixo custo e alta fidelidade, para o treinamento de técnicas de microcirurgia, utilizando um fragmento de patch de pericárdio bovino. Método: São utilizados para a confecção deste modelo segmentos remanescentes de uma placa de pericárdio bovino, previamente utilizado em reparos vasculares. O material é recortado em duas partes simétricas e suas extremidades fixadas aos campos cirúrgicos, com auxílio de clamps. A borda superior de cada uma das partes é, então, suturada à borda inferior com fio de Prolene 8-0, de maneira que cada uma forme uma estrutura tubular. Posteriormente, as extremidades tubulares livres passam pela dissecção da camada adventícia e são suturadas entre si, mimetizando uma anastomose vascular término-terminal. Resultados: Com o modelo, simulam-se os mesmos inconvenientes/ dificuldades presentes nas suturas vasculares humanas, como a delaminação de camadas, excesso da camada adventícia e risco de sutura inadvertida da parede posterior, provando sua utilidade na aquisição de habilidades microcirúrgicas básicas, sem necessidade de manipulação de tecidos humanos ou animais. A prática neste modelo pode ocorrer dentro do próprio centro cirúrgico e emprega materiais que seriam descartados. Conclusão: A utilização do pericárdio bovino para confecção de suturas milimétricas mimetiza o tecido vascular humano e é um procedimento de baixo custo, que possibilita o treinamento de habilidades microcirúrgicas.

Introduction: Microsurgical techniques are characterized by the application of maneuvers and sutures to millimetric structures with the aid of magnifying lenses. These are complex techniques, used in various medical specialties, which require great skill and training before applying them to humans. The objective is to develop a lowcost and high-fidelity model for training microsurgery techniques using a fragment of bovine pericardium patch. Method: Remaining segments of a bovine pericardium plate, previously used in vascular repairs, are used to create this model. The material is cut into two symmetrical parts, and its ends are fixed to the surgical drapes with the aid of clamps. The upper edge of each part is then sutured to the lower edge with 8-0 Prolene thread so that each one forms a tubular structure. Subsequently, the free tubular ends undergo dissection of the adventitial layer and are sutured together, mimicking an end-to-end vascular anastomosis. Results: With the model, the same inconveniences/ difficulties present in human vascular sutures are simulated, such as delamination of layers, excess of the adventitial layer, and risk of inadvertent suturing of the posterior wall, proving its usefulness in the acquisition of basic microsurgical skills, without need to manipulate human or animal tissues. Practice in this model can take place within the surgical center itself and uses materials that would otherwise be discarded. Conclusion: The use of bovine pericardium to create millimetric sutures mimics human vascular tissue and is a low-cost procedure that allows the training of microsurgical skills.

Eight years experience of transanal endoscopic microsurgery

Introduction: Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM) is a minimally invasive method for management of different proctologic conditions. Despite widespread use of this method, it is not used widely in Iran. This report is about to describe the application of TEM in managing different proctologic conditions in a tertiary colorectal referral center in Iran regarding methods and complications. Methods: All of the patients' documents such as procedure, method, early postop complications and further operations were actively reviewed and the data were entered in to the database. Results: Since 2012 till the end of 2020 chart review was done and 150 cases of TEM operation were found. The most frequent procedure that was done was resection procedure. Using different energy devices during surgery or suturing versus not suturing the defect were not associated with complication. There was a case of in hospital mortality and one case delayed perianal fistula following TEM. Measurement of lesion distance from anal verge was not significantly different using TEM or colonoscopy. Villous adenomas detected in colonoscopy were mostly associated with malignancy. In evaluated resected lesions most of cases had free base and distance from anal verge or using different energy devices were not associated with obtaining free base. Conclusion: TEM is a safe minimal invasive procedure with acceptable complications that could be helped in managing different proctologic conditions and the results of reviewing our patients revealed the same results that is reported from other colorectal centers. (AU)

Addition of Transfixation Suture to Purse String Suture During Intraperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair Increases Peri-Hernia Sac Neck Collagen Formation.

BACKGROUND: The worldwide accepted repair for indirect inguinal hernia in children is high ligation of the hernia sac with open herniotomy. However, laparoscopic pediatric inguinal hernia repair (IHR) has been gaining popularity in the last two decades. An experimental study was conducted to investigate the effects of different intraperitoneal IHR suture techniques on the collagen formation at the hernia sac neck. METHODS: Present study was conducted on thirty-five male adult (3-6 months old) Wistar-Albino rats (260-300 g). Intraperitoneal IHR with different hernia sac neck suturing techniques (purse string suture only, transfixation suture only and purse string suture plus transfixation suture) were performed through median laparotomy using open operative techniques. Non-absorbable 2/0 braided polyester suture with 16 mm 1/2 curved round needle (Ti-cron, Covidien, MN) was used as suture material. RESULTS: The highest collagen thickness around the suture was detected in intraperitoneal IHR with purse-string plus transfixation suture group. The collagen thickness of the intraperitoneal IHR with purse string suture only and IHR with tranfixation suture only groups were not statistically significantly different. The collagen thickness of the intraperitoneal IHR with purse string suture plus transfixation suture group was statistically significantly higher compared with the intraperitoneal IHR with purse string suture only and intraperitoneal IHR with transfixation suture only groups. CONCLUSIONS: The combined usage of purse string suture and transfixation suture during laparoscopic intraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair further stimulates mesothelial fibrosis at the hernia sac neck compared with mesothelial fibrosis induced by purse string suture only or transfixation suture only.

Surgical and Clinical Outcomes Associated With the Use of Barbed Sutures and Self-Adhering Mesh System and Polymeric Glue for Wound Closure in Multilevel or Revision Spinal Surgery: A Matched Cohort Comparative Study With Conventional Wound Closure Procedure.

OBJECTIVE: Multilevel or revisional posterior spinal surgery is prone to infection and delayed wound healing, related with the wound closure time and suture strength. Knotless barbed suture is an innovative self-locking, multianchor suture. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the knotless barbed suture and self-adhering mesh with polymeric glue in multilevel or revisional posterior spinal surgery. METHODS: This is a single-center retrospective matched cohort study. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the wound closure method: barbed suture group with novel wound closure, and conventional suture group with conventional wound closure, 1:1 matched by the level of surgery and sex, resulting in 120 subjects each. Total operation time and wound closure time were measured intraoperatively, and perioperative clinical outcome parameters including postoperative wound complication were investigated for the first 3 months postoperatively. The distribution of continuous variables was assessed for normality by Shapiro-Wilk test, then parametric or nonparametric tests were applied accordingly (paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test). RESULTS: Wound closure time was significantly shorter with the novel barbed suture than with conventional suture in all subgroups divided by the level of spinal surgery: 3-5, 6-9, ≥ 10 levels (p < 0.001). The 2 groups showed no significant differences in surgical complications (p = 1.000). Specially, total operation time and wound-closing time were significantly shorter in revisional subgroup. CONCLUSION: Absorbable knotless barbed suture and self-adhering mesh with polymeric glue can shorten spinal wound closure time with noninferiority in complications for multilevel or revisional spinal surgery.

Continuous suture technique increases the complete closure rate of colorectal mucosal defects after endoscopic resection: a single-blind, randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Complete closure of mucosal defects after colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD)/piecemeal endoscopic mucosal resection (p-EMR) procedures reduces postoperative adverse events, but the complete closure rate of the traditional method using only hemostatic clips is not satisfactory. Therefore, we invented a continuous suture technique using a barbed suture and clips to increase the complete closure rate of colorectal mucosal defects. METHODS: Patients with a single large (≥ 2 cm) colorectal lesion were recruited. After completion of the ESD/p-EMR procedures, they were randomly allocated to the treatment group or control group. The mucosal defects of the treatment group were closed using barbed suture and clips, while the control group was closed using only clips. RESULTS: From January 18, 2022 to April 13, 2022, a total of 62 patients with colorectal lesions were enrolled, with 31 patients in each group. Complete closure was achieved in 29 patients (93.5%) in the treatment group and 18 patients (58.1%) in the control group (P = 0.001). The median closure time was 13 min in the treatment group and 19 min in the control group (P < 0.001). The median closure speed was 6.4 cm2/10 min in the treatment group and 3.5 cm2/10 min in the control group (P = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS: This study provided a clinically feasible continuous suture technique that was safe and effective for the complete closure of colorectal mucosal defects after endoscopic resection.

Comparison of modified gunsight suture technique and traditional interrupted suture in enterostomy closure.

BACKGROUND: Prophylactic enterostomy surgery is a common surgical approach used to reduce the risk of anastomotic leakage in patients who have undergone partial intestinal resection due to trauma or tumors. However, the traditional interrupted suturing technique used in enterostomy closure surgery has several issues, including longer surgical incisions and higher incision tension, which can increase the risk of postoperative complications. To address these issues, scholars have proposed the use of a "gunsight suture" technique. This technique involves using a gunsight incision instead of a traditional linear incision, leaving a gap in the center for the drainage of blood and fluid to reduce the risk of infection. Building on this technique, we propose an improved gunsight suture technique. A drainage tube is placed at the lowest point of the incision and close the gap in the center of the gunsight suture, which theoretically facilitates early postoperative mobility and reduces the burden of dressing changes, thereby reducing the risk of postoperative complications. AIM: To compare the effectiveness of improved gunsight suture technique with traditional interrupted suture in closing intestinal stomas. METHODS: In this study, a retrospective, single-center case analysis was conducted on 270 patients who underwent prophylactic ileostomy closure surgery at the Department of Colorectal Surgery of Qilu Hospital from April 2017 to December 2021. The patients were divided into two groups: 135 patients received sutures using the improved gunsight method, while the remaining 135 patients were sutured with the traditional interrupted suture method. We collected data on a variety of parameters, such as operation time, postoperative pain score, body temperature, length of hospital stays, laboratory indicators, incidence of incisional complications, number of wound dressing changes, and hospitalization costs. Non-parametric tests and chi-square tests were utilized for data analysis. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in general patient information between the two groups, including the interval between the first surgery and the stoma closure [132 (105, 184) d vs 134 (109, 181) d, P = 0.63], gender ratio (0.64 vs 0.69, P = 0.44), age [62 (52, 68) years vs 60 (52, 68) years, P = 0.33], preoperative body mass index (BMI) [23.83 (21.60, 25.95) kg/m² vs 23.12 (20.94, 25.06) kg/m², P = 0.17]. The incidence of incision infection in the improved gunsight suture group tended to be lower than that in the traditional interrupted suture group [ (n = 2/135, 1.4%) vs (n = 10/135, 7.4%), P < 0.05], and the postoperative hospital stay in the improved gunsight suture group was significantly shorter than that in the traditional interrupted suture group [5 (4, 7) d vs 7 (6, 8) d, P < 0.05]. Additionally, the surgical cost in the modified gunsight suture group was slightly lower than that in the traditional suture group [4840 (4330, 5138) yuan vs 4980 (4726, 5221) yuan, P > 0.05], but there was no significant difference in the total hospitalization cost between the two groups. CONCLUSION: In stoma closure surgery, the improved gunsight technique can reduce the incision infection rate, shorten the postoperative hospital stay, reduce wound tension, and provide better wound cosmetic effects compared to traditional interrupted suture.

The Elbow's Achilles Heel: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Triceps Tendon Rupture and Repair Techniques.

Triceps tendon avulsion is a rare but debilitating condition and the least frequent of all tendon injuries, but it is receiving increasing attention in the literature. The most common mechanism of injury is resisted extension, which is typically seen in a fall onto an extended hand. Such injuries are easily overlooked and should be considered a differential diagnosis in all patients who describe pain and swelling at the posterior aspect of the elbow following a traumatic event. Non-operative management is the general principle for partial rupture as opposed to a variety of surgical treatments for a complete avulsion. The goal of this meta-analysis is to analyse the current literature on triceps avulsion and provide a detailed overview of the occurrence, diagnosis, treatment options and outcomes, comparison of various repair techniques, and consequences of this injury.

Laparorrafia en pacientes con cáncer colorrectal. Hospital Enrique Cabrera, 2019-2021

Fundamento aún no se ha establecido una técnica ideal que permita realizar el cierre laparotómico que garantice la disminución de complicaciones. Objetivo comparar los resultados del cierre de la pared abdominal mediante puntos subtotales internos y puntos totales en pacientes intervenidos por cáncer colorrectal. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, prospectivo y transversal en el Hospital General Docente Dr. Enrique Cabrera, en el trienio 2019-2021, con 80 pacientes intervenidos por cáncer colorrectal. Se empleó la prueba Chi-cuadrado, la prueba exacta de Fisher y la prueba U de Mann-Whitney, entre otros. Resultados el tumor se localizó en colon sigmoide en 35 % de los casos de los pacientes con cierre de puntos totales; y en 31,7 % del grupo con cierre mediante puntos subtotales. La cirugía fue urgente en 80 % del grupo con cierre de puntos totales; y electiva en 75 % de los de cierre con puntos subtotales. La incisión fue media supra e infraumbilical en 70 % de los pacientes del grupo con cierre de puntos totales; y xifopubiana en 66,7 % de los del cierre con puntos subtotales. Se presentaron medianas de 3 ± 2 y 1 ± 0 complicaciones para los de cierre con puntos totales y cierre con puntos subtotales, respectivamente. La mediana de la estadía hospitalaria fue mayor en el grupo con cierre de puntos totales (8 ± 6 días). Conclusiones en los pacientes donde se aplicaron puntos subtotales internos para el cierre de la pared abdominal, los resultados fueron mejores que en grupo donde se emplearon puntos totales.

Foundation an ideal technique has not been established yet to allow laparotomic closure to guarantee the reduction of complications. Objective to compare the results of abdominal wall closure using internal subtotal points and total points in patients operated on for colorectal cancer. Methods a descriptive, prospective and cross-sectional study was carried out at the Dr. Enrique Cabrera General Teaching Hospital, from 2019 to 2021, with 80 patients operated on for colorectal cancer. The Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test and the Mann-Whitney U test, among others, were used. Results the tumor was located in the sigmoid colon in 35% of patients with total suture closure; and in 31.7% of the group with closure by subtotal points. Surgery was urgent in 80% of the group with total stitch closure; and elective in 75% of the closing cases with subtotal points. The incision was median supra and infraumbilical in 70% of the patients in the group with total suture closure; and xiphopubic in 66.7% of those at closure with subtotal points. There were medians of 3 ± 2 and 1 ± 0 complications for closure with total stitches and closure with subtotal stitches, respectively. Median hospital stay was longer in the total stitch closure group (8 ± 6 days). Conclusions in the patients where internal subtotal sutures were applied for abdominal wall closure, the results were better than in the group where total sutures were used.

The application of an intraoral banana peel suturing model in surgical training of dental students.

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the application of an intraoral banana peel suturing model in helping students to acquire intraoral surgical techniques. METHODS: This is a self-control study conducted from January 2021 to March 2021. An intraoral banana peel suturing model was implemented to provide oral suture experience for undergraduates majoring in stomatology. The sutures students placed in the model were photographed and evaluated blindly by a professional team using an established scoring system. Training scores were recorded before (training 1) and after 2 months of training (training 2). Linear regression was used to examine factors related to the scores. Suturing training was conducted in the School and Hospital of Stomatology at Peking University. A total of eighty-two students in Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology were in their fourth pre-clinical year and followed a workshop on surgical sutures according to the curriculum. All students who should take this course were included, and the response rate was 100%. RESULTS: The mean training 2 score (23.04 ± 3.83) was higher than the mean training 1 score (13.94 ± 3.15). The training 1 score was not significantly correlated with any of the students' general characteristics. The training 2 score was correlated with the training 1 score and the cumulative duration of practice outside of class. CONCLUSION: The intraoral banana peel suturing model can be used for suture training, and dental students' suture ability was improved after using the banana peel for suture practice.

Rotura aguda del tendón de Aquiles tratadas quirúrgicamente con Técnica de Mínimo Abordaje. Resultados clínicos y funcionales a un año de seguimiento / Acute rupture of the Achilles tendon surgically treated with the Minimal Approach Technique. Clinical and functional results at one year of follow-up

Se deben tener consideraciones especiales cuando se realizan reparaciones quirúrgicas del tendón de Aquiles. Su anatomía e irrigación particular plantean desafíos únicos para el manejo, y tener comprensión profunda de estas características es crucial para escoger el tratamiento adecuado y lograr resultados exitosos. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar la eficiencia de la reparación quirúrgica de la rotura aguda del tendón de Aquiles con técnica de Dresden, entre el 2015 y el 2021. Se realizó un estudio de tipo analítico, observacional, longitudinal y prospectiva. El análisis del aspecto estadístico fue a través de estadística descriptiva y asociación de las variables. Se incluyeron 34 pacientes con un promedio de 42 años, la mayoría de sexo masculino. Al aplicar las escalas VISA-A se obtuvo un promedio de 12 puntos, 67,5 puntos a los 6 meses y 80,5 puntos a los 12 meses. En la encuesta SF-12 a los 6 meses se obtuvo un promedio de 68,5 puntos y 80 puntos a los 12 meses; un paciente presentó rechazo de la sutura y 6 afirmaron algún grado de edema residual aun al año de la cirugía. La reparación quirúrgica con técnica de Dresden mejora la funcionabilidad del tendón de malos resultados a regulares y buenos resultados al año de seguimiento. El 68% de la población estudiada afirmó que se encuentran satisfechos con la cirugía(AU)

Special considerations must be made when performing surgical repairs of the Achilles tendon. Its particular anatomy and blood supply pose unique management challenges, and a thorough understanding of these characteristics is crucial to choosing the right treatment and achieving successful results. The objective of this work is to analyze the efficiency of the surgical repair of the acute rupture of the Achilles tendon with the Dresden technique, between 2015 and 2021. An analytical, observational, longitudinal and prospective study was carried out. The analysis of the statistical aspect was through descriptive statistics and association of the variables. 34 patients with an average age of 42 years were included, most of them male. When applying the VISA-A scales, an average of 12 points was obtained, 67,5 points at 6 months and 80,5 points at 12 months. In the SF-12 survey at 6 months an average of 68,5 points and 80 points at 12 months were obtained; One patient presented rejection of the suture and 6 reported some degree of residual edema even one year after surgery. Surgical repair with the Dresden technique improves the functionality of the tendon from poor to regular results and good results after a year of follow-up. 68% of the population studied stated that they are satisfied with the surgery(AU)

Functional Shoulder Evaluation after Osteosynthesis of Greater Tuberosity Fracture: Is There any Influence of Glenohumeral Dislocation?

Objective To evaluate the postoperative functional and radiographic outcomes of the shoulder of patients submitted to transosseous suturing of a greater tuberosity fracture (GTF) through an anterolateral route and the influence of the glenohumeral dislocation on these outcomes. Methods We conducted a retrospective study and functional assessment using the Constant-Murley score. The distance between the greater tuberosity and the joint surface of the proximal humerus (in true anteroposterior radiographs) after the union was calculated. We used the Fisher exact test for the categorical independent variables, and the Student t or Mann-Whitney test for the non-categorical variables. Results In total, 26 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 38% of the sample presented an association between glenohumeral dislocation and GTF. The mean Constant-Murley score was of 82.5 + 8.02 points. The presence of an associated dislocation did not alter the functional outcome. The mean distance between the greater tuberosity of the humerus and the joint surface of the humeral head after the union was of 9 ± 4.3 mm below the articular line of the humeral head. The dislocation led to a lower level of reduction, but this did not influence the Constant-Murley score. Conclusion The cases of GTF submitted to surgical treatment with transosseous sutures had good functional outcomes. The presence of dislocation made the anatomical reduction of the greater tuberosity difficult. However, it did not influence the Constant-Murley score.

[Results of abdominal wall closure using the 4:1 suture/wound lenght technique]. / Resultados del cierre de pared abdominal utilizando técnica longitud sutura/herida 4:1.

Background: Laparotomy is a daily procedure for the general surgeon and its main complication is the formation of hernias. Objective: To determine if the suture length to wound length ratio 4:1 for wall closure decreases the incidence of hernia. Material and methods: Data from patients (n = 86) in whom abdominal wall closure was performed from August 2017 to January 2018 were prospectively reviewed. Patients who could not undergo adequate follow-up, those managed with open abdomen, or those with use of non-absorbable suture materials were excluded. 2 groups were formed: in one, the suture length to wound length ratio 4:1 technique was used as wall closure, and in the other it was used conventional suture; the length of the wound-suture length was measured, and the follow-up was post-surgical. For statistical analysis it was used descriptive statistics and inferential statistics (chi-squared and Mann-Withney's U). Results: The 2 groups had similar characteristics in all the inclusion criteria. There was a statistically significant difference in dehiscence and hernias. For both complications, the 4:1 suture is a protective factor. For the first it was obtained: p = 0.000, relative risk (RR) 0.114 with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.030-0.437, and for the second, p = 0.000, RR .091, 95% CI 0.027-0.437. Conclusions: Abdominal wall closure using 4:1 suture/wound length was shown to decrease the incidence of hernia.

Introducción: la laparotomía es un procedimiento cotidiano del cirujano general y una su principales complicaciones es la formación de hernias. Objetivo: determinar si la relación 4:1 longitud de sutura-largo de herida para cierre de pared disminuye la incidencia de hernia. Material y métodos: datos de pacientes (n = 86) en quienes se realizó cierre de pared abdominal de agosto de 2017 a enero de 2018 fueron revisados prospectivamente. Fueron excluidos los pacientes a quienes no se les pudo realizar el seguimiento adecuado, los manejados con abdomen abierto, o en los que se utilizaron de materiales de sutura no absorbibles. Se formaron 2 grupos: en uno se utilizó la técnica 4:1 longitud de sutura-largo de herida como cierre de pared, y en el otro la sutura convencional; se midió la longitud de herida-largo de sutura y el seguimiento fue en el postquirúrgico. Para el análisis estadístico, se usó estadística descriptiva y estadística inferencial (chi cuadrada y U de Mann-Withney). Resultados: los 2 grupos tuvieron características semejantes en todos los criterios de inclusión. Hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa en dehiscencia y hernias; para ambas complicaciones, la sutura 4:1 es un factor protector. Para la primera se obtuvo una p = 0.000, razón de riesgo (RR) 0.114 con intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC 95%) 0.030-0.437 y en la segunda una p = 0.000, RR 0.091, IC 95% 0.027-0.437. Conclusiones: el cierre de pared abdominal con longitud sutura/herida 4:1 demostró que disminuye la incidencia de hernia.

A comparison study of vessel twisting by different microsurgical suture techniques in a chicken wing artery side to side bypass training model.

OBJECTIVE: Microvascular anastomosis, particularly side-to-side (STS) bypass, is a complex surgical procedure. While several suture techniques exist, none of them is superior to the others. We assessed the association between various STS bypass techniques and vessel twisting using chicken wing training models. METHODS: Three suture techniques were compared over an anterior wall suture procedure. The unidirectional continuous suture (UCS) group used a downward "right-to-left" continuous suture. The reverse continuous suture (RCS) group used a downward "left-to-right" continuous suture. The interrupted suture (IS) group used the standard interrupted suture. The number of samples in each of the three groups was 30 (n=90). We compared the incidence of vessel twisting and rotation angles across groups. RESULTS: Vessel twisting occurred in 96.7%, 56.7%, and 0% of the cases in the UCS, IS, and RCS groups, respectively. The incidence of vessel twisting differed significantly in all 3 groups (p<0.001), with an apparent trend (p=0.002). The mean rotation angles were 201˚±90.6˚, 102˚±107.6˚, and 0˚ in the UCS, IS, and RCS groups, respectively, which were significantly different (p<0.001). On excluding cases without twisting, the rotation angles of twisted vessels in the UCS and IS groups were 207.9˚±83.7˚ and 180˚±77.9˚, respectively, which yielded a significant difference between these groups (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We found that the incidence and trend of vessel twisting differed significantly across suture techniques. The RCS technique may aid in preventing vessel twisting in the STS bypass procedure.

EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF KNOTLESS BARBED SUTURES IN CAPSULAR CLOSURE FOLLOWING DISTAL FEMUR FRACTURE FIXATION.

Introduction: Good wound closure is an important step in management of distal femur fracture to prevent infection and faster rehabilitation. Knotless barbed sutures can save time and distribute wound tension evenly. However, its role in terms of functional outcome, closure time, and postoperative complications has not been studied in a distal femur fracture. Material and methods: A total of 47 patients aged more than 18 years of distal femur fracture treated with distal femur locking plate were randomized either into either barbed or traditional suture groups. in the barbed group, capsular wound closure was carried out with 2-0 bidirectional barbed knotless sutures (Quill SRS® PDO, Angiotech, Vancouver, BC, Canada). In patients assigned to group B, capsular closure was done with 1-0 Vicryl® (Ethicon inc. Somerville, NJ) and 5-0 Ethibond® alternatively. Results: The mean flexion at the knee joint was 105.7±15.6 degrees in the study group while it was 110.4±13.7 in the control group (p= 0.2133). Mean estimated closure time was significantly shorter in the study group as compared to the control group (p<0.05). Cases of needle prick injury were higher in traditional suture group. Patients developed stitch abscess and superficial infection in both groups. However, the difference in incidence between the two was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Barbed suture is an efficient method of wound closure. It reduces wound closure time with similar complication rate as with use of conventional sutures. Evidence Level II; Randomized Clinical Trial.

Introdução: O fechamento adequado da ferida é um passo importante no manejo da fratura distal do fêmur a fim de evitar infecção e permitir uma rápida reabilitação. Suturas farpadas sem nós podem poupar tempo e distribuir uniformemente a tensão da ferida. Entretanto, seu papel em termos de resultado funcional, tempo de fechamento e complicações pós-operatórias não tem sido analisado em casos de fratura distal do fêmur. Material e métodos: Um total de 47 pacientes com mais de 18 anos de idade com fratura distal do fêmur tratados com placa de fixação distal do fêmur foram aleatorizados em grupos de sutura farpada ou tradicional. No grupo de farpados, o fechamento da ferida capsular foi feito com suturas sem nós farpados bidirecionais 2-0 (Quill SRS® PDO, Angiotech, Vancouver, BC, Canadá). Em pacientes designados para o grupo B, o fechamento capsular foi feito com Vicryl®1-0 (Ethicon inc. Somerville, NJ) e Ethibond® 5-0 respectivamente. Resultados: A flexão média na articulação do joelho foi de 105,7±15,6 graus no grupo de estudo e 110,4±13,7 no grupo controle (p= 0,2133). O tempo médio estimado de fechamento foi significativamente menor no grupo de estudo em comparação com o grupo controle (p<0,05). Os casos de ferimento por perfuração da agulha foram maiores no grupo de sutura tradicional. Os pacientes desenvolveram abscesso de pontos e infecção superficial em ambos os grupos. Entretanto, a diferença na incidência entre os dois não foi estatisticamente significative. Conclusão: A sutura farpada é um método eficiente para o fechamento de feridas. Ele reduz o tempo de fechamento das feridas com uma taxa de complicação semelhante à utilização de suturas convencionais. Evidência Nível II; Ensaio Clínico Randomizado.

Functional Shoulder Evaluation after Osteosynthesis of Greater Tuberosity Fracture: Is There any Influence of Glenohumeral Dislocation? / Avaliação funcional do ombro após osteossíntese da fratura da tuberosidade maior: Há influência da luxação glenoumeral?

Abstract Objective To evaluate the postoperative functional and radiographic outcomes of the shoulder of patients submitted to transosseous suturing of a greater tuberosity fracture (GTF) through an anterolateral route and the influence of the glenohumeral dislocation on these outcomes. Methods We conducted a retrospective study and functional assessment using the Constant-Murley score. The distance between the greater tuberosity and the joint surface of the proximal humerus (in true anteroposterior radiographs) after the union was calculated. We used the Fisher exact test for the categorical independent variables, and the Student t or Mann-Whitney test for the non-categorical variables. Results In total, 26 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 38% of the sample presented an association between glenohumeral dislocation and GTF. The mean Constant-Murley score was of 82.5 + 8.02 points. The presence of an associated dislocation did not alter the functional outcome. The mean distance between the greater tuberosity of the humerus and the joint surface of the humeral head after the union was of 9 + 4.3 mm below the articular line of the humeral head. The dislocation led to a lower level of reduction, but this did not influence the Constant-Murley score. Conclusion The cases of GTF submitted to surgical treatment with transosseous sutures had good functional outcomes. The presence of dislocation made the anatomical reduction of the greater tuberosity difficult. However, it did not influence the Constant-Murley score.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar os resultados funcional e radiográfico pós-operatórios do ombro, em pacientes submetidos a sutura transóssea de fratura da tuberosidade maior (FTM) por acesso anterolateral, e a influência da luxação glenoumeral nesses resultados. Métodos Realizou-se estudo retrospectivo e avaliação funcional (pela escala de Constant-Murley). Calculou-se a distância entre a tuberosidade maior e a superfície articular do úmero proximal (por meio de radiografia em incidência anteroposterior verdadeira) após a consolidação. Usou-se o teste Exato de Fisher para as variáveis independentes categóricas, e os testes tde Student ou de Mann-Whitney para as não categóricas. Resultados Ao todo, 26 pacientes preencheram os critérios de inclusão. A associação de luxação glenoumeral com FTM foi observada em 38% da amostra. A média da pontuação na escala de Constant-Murley foi de 82,5 + 8,02. A presença de luxação associada não alterou o resultado funcional. A distância média da consolidação da tuberosidade maior do úmero em relação à superfície articular da cabeça umeral foi de 9 + 4,3 mm abaixo da linha articular da cabeça umeral. Pacientes com luxação associada evoluíram com redução menor, mas isso não influenciou na pontuação na escala de Constant-Murley. Conclusão As FTMs submetidas ao tratamento cirúrgico com sutura transóssea evoluíram com bom resultado funcional. A presença de luxação dificultou a redução anatômica da tuberosidade maior. Entretanto, isso não influenciou na pontuação na escala de Constant-Murley.