Update on Total Auricular Construction.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand principles of preoperative planning for microtia repair. 2. Understand key techniques for flap design, skin envelope dissection, framework creation, and donor-site reconstruction. 3. Describe important components of postoperative management. SUMMARY: Total auricular construction remains a challenge for reconstructive surgeons. This article describes current surgical strategies and advancements for microtia construction. The authors' focus is to describe the several keys for success that are useful for young surgeons who wish to train themselves to create satisfactory results.

The use of vascularized fibula flap with allograft in post-oncologic microsurgical bone reconstruction of lower limbs in pediatric patients.

BACKGROUND: Post-oncologic surgical reconstruction of lower limbs in pediatrics remains a challenging topic. Microsurgical techniques allow reconstructions of large bony defects. The use of vascularized fibular flap with allograft has proven to be an ideal biologic construct. We aim to assess the success rate of this operation, including flap survival, bony union, weight-bearing ambulation, and complications in a long-term follow-up in our case series compared to the literature. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Our case-series includes 18 femoral resections (9 osteosarcomas, 8 Ewing sarcoma, and 1 desmoid tumor) and 15 tibial resections (10 osteosarcoma, 4 Ewing sarcoma, and 1 Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma). We collected patients' demographics, type of tumor, type of resection, defect size, fibula-flap length, method of fixation, anastomosis site, follow-up data, complications, and their management. All survivals were examined by X-ray and CT-scan to evaluate the morphological changes of the vascularized fibula and follow-up. The functional evaluation was performed by the 30-point Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Rating Score (MSTS) for the lower limb (Enneking et al., Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research 1993(286):241-246). RESULTS: The mean age of the femur resection patients' group was 11.2 years with a mean defect size of 14 cm and a mean length of the fibular flap of 18 cm; for the tibia the mean age was 12 years with a mean defect size of 14 cm and a mean length of the fibular flap of 16.6 cm. The overall survival of the reconstructions at 5 years follow-up was 17 out 18 cases for the femur and 13 out of 15 cases for the tibia. MSTS score was 28.2 for the femur and 23.7 for the tibia. The average time of union of the fibula was seen after 5 months, while allograft consolidation was observed around 19.7 months. The mean time of follow-up was 144.5 months for the femur and 139.2 months for the tibia. The complication rate observed was 7 out of 18 for the femur and 7 out of 15 for the tibia reconstructions. CONCLUSIONS: The viability of the fibula is a cornerstone in the success of reconstruction as well as the successful management of complications in intercalary defects after tumor resection in pediatrics to restore good functionality. Our results are in line with those reported in the literature in terms of overall complication rates. The high primary union of allograft, the high MSTS score obtained, and the low rate of severe complications reflect the mechanical role of this reconstructive technique over a long follow-up.

Pectoralis Major Muscle Flap Utilization in Salvage Esophagectomy Including Great Vessel Resection Reconstructed by Prosthetic Grafts.

BACKGROUND: Salvage surgery is a therapeutic option for recurrent or residual esophageal cancer after definitive chemoradiation therapy. This report aimed to describe the procedure of reconstruction after salvage esophagectomy involving great vessel resection using prosthetic grafts, a pectoralis major muscle (PM) flap, and free jejunal transfer, if required. To the best of our knowledge, no previous report has described the reconstruction of the defect after combined esophageal and great vessel resection. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From January 2017 to December 2022, 4 patients underwent salvage esophagectomy with excision of the great vessels and reconstruction with prosthetic grafts, as well as a PM flap placement in a single center. We retrospectively investigated the patients' clinical data. The patients were all men, with a median age of 70 (range, 67-77) years. Regarding neoadjuvant therapy, 2 patients received chemoradiation therapy, 1 patient received radiotherapy only due to drug-induced pneumonia, and 1 patient received chemotherapy with adjuvant radiotherapy. RESULTS: Alimentary tract reconstruction was performed by free jejunal transfer in 2 cases, direct suture in 1 case, and stomach roll in 1 case. In all cases, a vascular bypass was established before tumor resection. We created mediastinal tracheostoma in 2 cases. A PM flap was inserted to cover the prosthetic grafts and approximate the tracheal mucosa. With regard to major complications, leakage from the jejunal esophageal anastomotic site was observed in 2 cases. The leakage improved with conservative treatment without graft removal or replacement in both cases. CONCLUSIONS: In cases of locally recurrent or residual tumors after definitive chemoradiation therapy, salvage esophagectomy along with great vessel resection, followed by reconstruction using prosthetic grafts, PM flaps, and free jejunal transfer, if necessary, is a useful option.

Colgajo nautilus y colgajo en muleta taurina para defectos quirúrgicos faciales periorificiales / Nautilus Flap and Bullfighter Crutch Flap for the Repair of Periorificial Surgical Defects of the Face

Antecedentes La reconstrucción de defectos quirúrgicos en regiones anatómicas próximas a bordes palpebrales, fosas nasales o boca es un reto debido su tendencia a ser deformadas por la tensión del cierre directo o los colgajos cutáneos. El empleo de nuevas técnicas reconstructivas que eviten la retracción de estas zonas sensibles puede suponer un avance importante. Pacientes y métodos Se emplean 2 nuevos diseños, el colgajo nautilus y el colgajo en muleta taurina, para la reconstrucción de defectos quirúrgicos periorificiales, realizando una recolección retrospectiva de los mismos en las zonas periparpebral, perivestibular nasal y peribucal. El colgajo nautilus se empleó en 4 pacientes con defectos periparpebrales y 2 peribucales. El colgajo en muleta taurina se utilizó para la reconstrucción de 14 defectos en ala nasal. Resultados En los 20 pacientes se obtuvieron resultados muy satisfactorios tanto a nivel estético como funcional, sin la aparición de ectropión, colapso del vestíbulo nasal o asimetría de borde labial. No se observó necrosis en ningún caso. Conclusiones Proponemos el colgajo nautilus y el colgajo en muleta taurina como una excelente opción reconstructiva para defectos quirúrgicos localizados en zonas periorificiales (AU)

Background Reconstruction of surgical defects located close to eyelid edges, nostrils, or the mouth is challenging, as tension generated by direct closure or skin flaps in these sensitive regions tends to cause distortion. New repair techniques that prevent retraction may significantly improve outcomes. Patients and methods Retrospective study of the use of 2 novel flap designs—the nautilus flap and the bullfighter crutch flap—to repair surgical defects in the peripalpebral, perivestibular, nasal, and perioral areas. The nautilus flap was used to repair 4 peripalpebral defects and 2 perioral defects, and the bullfighter crutch flap to repair 14 nasal ala defects.Results Cosmetic and functional outcomes were very satisfactory in all 20 patients, with no cases of ectropion, nasal vestibule collapse, or labial asymmetry. Necrosis did not occur in any of the cases. Conclusions The nautilus and bullfighter crutch flaps appear to be excellent choices for reconstructing surgical defects in periorificial areas (AU)

[Translated article] Nautilus Flap and Bullfighter Crutch Flap for the Repair of Periorificial Surgical Defects of the Face / Colgajo nautilus y colgajo en muleta taurina para defectos quirúrgicos faciales periorificiales

Background Reconstruction of surgical defects located close to eyelid edges, nostrils, or the mouth is challenging, as tension generated by direct closure or skin flaps in these sensitive regions tends to cause distortion. New repair techniques that prevent retraction may significantly improve outcomes. Patients and methods Retrospective study of the use of 2 novel flap designs—the nautilus flap and the bullfighter crutch flap—to repair surgical defects in the peripalpebral, perivestibular, nasal, and perioral areas. The nautilus flap was used to repair 4 peripalpebral defects and 2 perioral defects, and the bullfighter crutch flap to repair 14 nasal ala defects.Results Cosmetic and functional outcomes were very satisfactory in all 20 patients, with no cases of ectropion, nasal vestibule collapse, or labial asymmetry. Necrosis did not occur in any of the cases. Conclusions The nautilus and bullfighter crutch flaps appear to be excellent choices for reconstructing surgical defects in periorificial areas (AU)

Antecedentes La reconstrucción de defectos quirúrgicos en regiones anatómicas próximas a bordes palpebrales, fosas nasales o boca es un reto debido su tendencia a ser deformadas por la tensión del cierre directo o los colgajos cutáneos. El empleo de nuevas técnicas reconstructivas que eviten la retracción de estas zonas sensibles puede suponer un avance importante. Pacientes y métodos Se emplean 2 nuevos diseños, el colgajo nautilus y el colgajo en muleta taurina, para la reconstrucción de defectos quirúrgicos periorificiales, realizando una recolección retrospectiva de los mismos en las zonas periparpebral, perivestibular nasal y peribucal. El colgajo nautilus se empleó en 4 pacientes con defectos periparpebrales y 2 peribucales. El colgajo en muleta taurina se utilizó para la reconstrucción de 14 defectos en ala nasal. Resultados En los 20 pacientes se obtuvieron resultados muy satisfactorios tanto a nivel estético como funcional, sin la aparición de ectropión, colapso del vestíbulo nasal o asimetría de borde labial. No se observó necrosis en ningún caso. Conclusiones Proponemos el colgajo nautilus y el colgajo en muleta taurina como una excelente opción reconstructiva para defectos quirúrgicos localizados en zonas periorificiales (AU)

Partial Central Anterior Reconstruction of the Auricle with One-Stage Combined Retroauricular Flaps.

SUMMARY: Basal cell carcinomas of the central anterior area of the auricle limited to the antihelix and scapha without peripheral infiltration of the helix are not uncommon. Resection is rarely transfixing, but resection of the underlying cartilage is often required. The complex anatomy of the ear and the lack of local tissue available makes its reparation challenging. Defects of antihelix and scapha require special reconstructive techniques, taking into account skin structure and the three-dimensional architecture of the ear. The reconstruction usually consists of full-thickness skin grafting or anterior transposition flap, requiring an extended skin resection. The authors describe a one-stage technique that uses a pedicled retroauricular skin flap turned over the anterior defect, followed by immediate closure of the donor site with a transposition or a bilobed retroauricular skin flap. The one-stage combined retroauricular flap reparation optimizes cosmetic outcome and reduces the risk of successive surgical procedures.

Reconstruction of Concha-Type Microtia Using a Delayed Postauricular Skin Flap.

SUMMARY: Understanding how to remove and retain the relatively large residual auricle is important in concha-type microtia reconstruction. The authors present a method for concha-type microtia reconstruction using a delayed postauricular skin flap. A total of 40 patients with concha-type microtia who underwent ear reconstruction using a delayed postauricular skin flap were retrospectively examined. Reconstruction was performed in three stages. The first stage consisted of preparing a delayed postauricular skin flap and dealing with the residual auricle including removal of the upper residual auricular cartilage. In the second stage, an autogenous rib cartilage framework was placed and covered with a delayed postauricular skin flap, postauricular fascia flap, and autologous medium-thickness skin graft. The ear framework was carefully articulated and secured with the retained residual auricular cartilage to achieve a smooth junction between the two. The third stage involved modification of the reconstructed ear. Patients were followed up for 12 months after ear reconstruction. All reconstructed auricles had a good appearance, and there was a smooth connection between the reconstructed auricle and the residual ear, with similar color as well as a flat and thin scar. All patients were satisfied with the results. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Efficacy of concentrated growth factor (CGF) in the surgical treatment of oral diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Concentrated growth factor (CGF), a new autologous platelet concentrate, has been widely investigated to the adjunctive treatment of oral diseases. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of CGF in the surgical treatment of oral diseases. METHODS: MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases were searched up to July 2023. Only randomized clinical trials were included. The methodologic quality was evaluated by the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. RevMan 5.4 software was used for data analysis. RESULTS: In the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects, bone graft combined with CGF was significantly superior to bone graft (P < 0.01), with mean intrabony defect depth reduction of 1.41 mm and mean clinical attachment level gain of 0.55 mm. In the regenerative surgery of furcation defects, the effect of CGF group was significantly better than control group (P < 0.0001), with mean probing depth reduction of 0.99 mm, vertical bone gain of 0.25 mm, and horizontal bone gain of 0.34 mm. CGF combined with coronally advanced flap (CAF) was more effective than CAF alone (mean keratinized tissue width increase of 0.41 mm, mean gingival thickness increase of 0.26 mm, P < 0.00001), but less effective than connective tissue graft (CTG) combined with CAF (mean root coverage difference of -15.1%, mean gingival thickness difference of -0.5 mm, P < 0.0001). In the alveolar ridge preservation, additional use of CGF reduced horizontal bone resorption by 1.41 mm and buccal vertical bone resorption by 1.01 mm compared to control group (P < 0.0001). The VAS score of CGF group was significantly lower than that of the control group at the 1st and 7th day after oral surgery (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: CGF can exert a positive adjunctive effect for the regenerative surgery of periodontal intrabony defects, furcation defects, and alveolar ridge preservation procedure. CGF combined with CAF has a better therapeutic effect on gingival recession compared to CAF alone, although it is not as effective as CTG combined with CAF. CGF could promote postoperative healing and pain relief in oral surgery within a week. There is currently not enough evidence to support the clinical benefits of CGF in other oral surgeries.

Comparison of the Effects of Spreader Graft Versus Spreader Flap on Nasal Valve Angle in Open Approach Rhinoplasty.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the spreader graft and flap techniques, which are used in nasal valve surgery, based on measurements of nasal valve angles using computed tomography. MATERIAL AND METHOD: In this retrospective study, all patients' right and left internal nasal valve angles were measured from coronal computed tomography images taken preoperatively and in the third postoperative month. A paired t-test and independent t-test were used to compare continuous numerical variables. RESULTS: There were 52 patients with 104 valves in the spreader flap group and 54 patients with 108 valves in the spreader graft group, with a mean age of 27.76 ± 8.16 years. The angles were found to be statistically significantly higher in the postoperative period (p<0.001) in all patients. While the angles did not differ significantly between the flap and graft groups in the preoperative period, they were significantly higher in the flap group in the postoperative period (p<0.001). DISCUSSION: It is essential to preserve nasal valve function in rhinoplasty. The findings show that a spreader flap is superior to a spreader graft, although both techniques increase internal nasal valve function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Preserving the Nipple Projection in Breast Reduction with the Free Nipple-Areolar Graft Technique: Purse-String Suture.

BACKGROUND: Breast reduction with the free nipple-areolar graft (FNG) technique has disadvantages such as loss of nipple projection, loss of nipple sensation, and depigmentation of the nipple-areolar complex. In this study, patients in whom a purse-string (PS) suture was used in the center of the de-epithelialized area to prevent loss of nipple projection were compared with patients who underwent the conventional method. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the patients who underwent breast reduction with the FNG was conducted in our department. Patients were divided into two groups according to the FNG placement. In the PS suture method group, a 1-cm-diameter circumferential suture was placed with a 5-0 Monocryl® (poliglecaprone 25) suture to gain a 6-mm-nipple projection. In the conventional method group, the FNG was placed directly over the de-epithelized area. Graft viability was evaluated after 3 weeks postoperatively. The final nipple projection and depigmentation were evaluated after 6 months postoperatively. The results were evaluated with statistical tests. RESULTS: The number of patients with the conventional method was 10, and the PS suture method was 12. There was no statistically significant difference between two groups regarding graft loss and depigmentation (p > 0.05). Nipple projection was significantly higher in the PS method group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: We observed that PS circumferential suture made an acceptable nipple projection compared to the conventional method in breast reduction with the FNG technique. Since the method is easy to apply and has relatively low risk, it would contribute to clinical practice. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Colgajo axial de fascia temporoparietal (TPFF) para cobertura de dispositivo de estimulación cerebral profunda. Reporte de caso / Axial temporoparietal fascia flap (TPFF) for deep brain stimulation device coverage. Case report

Presentamos el caso de una paciente con enfermedad de Parkinson y extrusión del fijador craneal del electrodo de estimulación cerebral profunda. Luego del explante de todo el sistema, se realizó un colgajo axial de fascia temporoparietal (TPFF) para cobertura del trépano residual y en el segundo tiempo se utilizó el colgajo para cubrir el nuevo implante. La paciente no presentó complicaciones durante el seguimiento de 2 años

We present the case of a patient with Parkinson's disease and extrusion of the cranial fixation of the deep brain stimulation electrode. After explantation of the entire system, an axial flap of temporoparietal fascia (TPFF) was performed to cover the residual Burr hole, and in the second procedure, the flap was used to cover the new implant. The patient did not experience any complications during the 2-year follow-up period.

Reconstrucción palpebral inferior con colgajo tarsoconjuntival de Hughes / Lower eyelid reconstruction with Hughes tarsoconjunctival flap

Introducción. Los párpados son estructuras delicadas, compuestas por piel fina y cartílago (tarso), las cuales, al presentar una lesión, son de difícil reconstrucción, debido a su importante papel estructural, funcional y estético, como así también la delicadeza de las estructuras que la componen1. En cuanto a las pérdidas de sustancia que asientan en el párpado inferior, existen diversas técnicas para intentar reestablecer su anatomía. Entre ellas se encuentra la ampliamente conocida y utilizada técnica de Hughes, descripta en 1937, que consiste en crear, desde el párpado superior, un colgajo de lamela posterior, compuesto de un segmento de tarso unido a la conjuntiva, las cuales se suturan al párpado inferior, al que hay que asociar otro tipo de procedimiento para formar la lamela anterior, ya sea un injerto cutáneo libre o un colgajo de piel adyacente al defecto2. Fue modificada en 1982 por McCord y Nunery, quienes plantean dejar un margen de 4 mm del borde libre palpebral, para no debilitar el párpado superior5. Su indicación principal son los defectos mayores al 50-60% de la longitud palpebral horizontal, con cantos intactos3, aunque se puede combinar con otro tipo de técnicas que reparen los defectos cantales1. Objetivo. Demostrar la versatilidad y efectividad del colgajo tarsoconjuntival de Hughes para la reconstrucción de defectos de cobertura asentados en el párpado inferior. Descripción de la técnica "paso a paso", resaltando tips quirúrgicos para mejorar resultados. Materiales y métodos. Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo, en el cual se intervinieron 5 pacientes con afección de párpado inferior, en el Parque de la Salud, Posadas, Misiones, Argentina, entre julio del 2019 y febrero del 2022, de los cuales 3 fueron con anestesia local (casos clínicos 1, 2 y 4) en quirófano ambulatorio, y dados de alta luego del procedimiento, y el resto con anestesia general y dados de alta al día siguiente (casos clínicos 3 y 5). Resultados. Se analizaron 5 pacientes, 1 mujer (20%) y 4 hombres (80%), con un rango etario que fue desde los 39 hasta los 70 años (media de 56 años). Con respecto al diagnóstico, 3 fueron reconstrucciones inmediatas posresección de carcinomas basocelulares con cirugía micrográfica de Mohs (2 variante lobulado, y 1 macronodular) y a los restantes 2 pacientes se los realizó como método reconstructivo pos ectropión cicatrizal (de los cuales uno tenía antecedentes de resección de carcinoma basocelular palpebral y el otro un dermatofibrosarcoma en mejilla). Considerando el segundo paso quirúrgico, es decir la autonomización, se realizaron en 2 casos a los 21 días, y los 3 restantes próximos a cumplir el mes (media 25 días). El seguimiento posoperatorio varía desde el año hasta los 36 meses posoperatorios, con una media de 22,6 meses. Discusión. El colgajo tarsoconjuntival de Hughes es un colgajo versátil, que requiere una curva de aprendizaje corta, el cual está indicado para defectos del párpado inferior que no se extienden mucho más allá del borde inferior de la placa tarsal. Para el mismo se utiliza una tira ancha de placa tarsal superior sobre un pedículo de conjuntiva y posteriormente, para reconstruir la lamela posterior del párpado inferior, se puede utilizar un nuevo colgajo de tejidos adyacentes del párpado inferior o un autoinjerto de piel, para el cual la mejor opción por la similitud de los tejidos es la piel del párpado superior contralateral. Conclusiones. El colgajo de Hughes es una técnica que proporciona resultados estéticos y funcionales muy satisfactorios. Sus principales limitaciones son que requiere procedimientos asociados para reestablecer la lamela anterior (injertos o colgajos), y otra intervención posterior para autonomizar el colgajo a las dos semanas y reformar el nuevo borde libre palpebral, considerando además la incomodidad que representa la oclusión ocular que requiere hasta su autonomización. En esta serie de casos la lesión cutánea más frecuente fue el carcinoma basocelular, y a 4 de ellas se les realizó cirugía micrográfica de Mohs, de los cuales no hubo recidiva hasta la actualidad, lo cual demuestra además la efectividad de este método para tratar esta clase de tumores en zonas faciales especiales

Introduction. The eyelids are delicate structures, composed of thin skin and cartilage (tarsus), which, when presenting an injury, are difficult to reconstruct, due to their important structural, functional and aesthetic role, as well as the delicacy of their structures that compose1. Regarding the loss of substance that settles in the lower eyelid, there are various techniques to try to reestablish its anatomy, among them is the widely known and used Hughes Technique, described in 1937, which consists of creating, from the upper eyelid , a flap of the posterior lamella, composed of a tarsal segment attached to the conjunctiva, which are sutured to the lower eyelid, to which another type of procedure must be associated to form the anterior lamella, either a free skin graft or a flap of skin adjacent to the defect2. It was later modified in 1982, by McCord and Nunery, who propose leaving a 4 mm margin from the eyelid free edge, so as not to weaken the upper eyelid5. Its main indication is defects greater than 50-60% of the horizontal palpebral length, with intact edges3, although it can be combined with other types of techniques that repair canthal defects1 Objective. To demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of the Hughes tarsoconjunctival flap for the reconstruction of coverage defects located in the lower eyelid. Description of the "step by step" technique, highlighting surgical tips to improve results. Materials and methods. This is a retrospective descriptive study, in which a total of 5 patients with lower eyelid disease were operated on, in the Parque de la Salud, Posadas, Misiones, Argentine, between July 2019 and February 2022, of which 3 patients were with local anesthesia (Clinical Cases 1, 2 and 4) in the ambulatory operating room, and discharged after the procedure, and the rest underwent general anesthesia and discharged the next day (Clinical Cases 3 and 5). Results. A total of 5 patients were analyzed, 1 woman (20%) and 4 men (80%), with an age range from 39 to 70 years (mean 56 years). Regarding the diagnosis, 3 were immediate reconstructions after resection of Basal Cell Carcinomas with Mohs Micrographic Surgery (2 lobulated and 1 macronodular variants) and the remaining 2 patients underwent post-scarring ectropion reconstructive method (of which one had a history of resection). Basal Cell Carcinoma of the eyelid and the other a Dermatofibrosarcoma on the cheek). Considering the second surgical step, that is, autonomization, 2 cases were performed at 21 days, and the remaining 3 were close to a month old (mean 25 days). Postoperative follow-up varies from one year to 36 postoperative months, with a mean of 22.6 months. Discussion. The Hughes tarsoconjunctival flap is a versatile flap, requiring a short learning curve, which is indicated for lower lid defects that do not extend much beyond the lower border of the tarsal plate. For this, a wide strip of the upper tarsal plate is used on a conjunctival pedicle, and later, to reconstruct the posterior lamella of the lower eyelid, a new flap of adjacent tissues from the lower eyelid or a skin autograft can be used, for which the best option due to the similarity of the tissues is the skin of the contralateral upper eyelid. Conclusions. The Hughes flap is a technique that provides very satisfactory aesthetic and functional results. Its main limitations are that it requires associated procedures to reestablish the anterior lamella (grafts or flaps), and another subsequent intervention to autonomize the flap after two weeks and reform the new eyelid free edge, also considering the discomfort represented by ocular occlusion that requires even its autonomy. In this series of cases, the most frequent skin lesion was Basal Cell Carcinoma, and in 4 of them Mohs micrographic surgery was performed, of which there has been no recurrence to date, which also demonstrates the effectiveness of this method to treat this class of tumors in special facial areas.

Hybrid double-dermal flap technique for vest-over-pants-closure correction of depressed abdominal scars.

Surgical procedures performed during neonatal period or childhood that result in vertical midline, transverse left upper quadrant, or central upper abdominal scars create significant psychological concerns in adulthood. Various surgical techniques correct depressed scars, including scar revision, Z- or W-plasty flaps, sub-incision tunnelling, fat grafting, and autologous or alloplastic dermal grafting. This article describes a novel technique for repairing depressed abdominal scars using hybrid double-dermal flaps. We included patients with psychosocial concerns who underwent abdominal scar revision because of wedding plans. Hybrid local de-epithelised dermal flaps were used to correct the depression of the abdominal scar. Superior and inferior skin flaps, medial and lateral to the depressed scar, were de-epithelised for 2 to 3 cm and sutured using the vest-over-pants technique with 2/0 nylon permanent sutures. Six female patients who want to marry were included in this study. Depressed abdominal scars were successfully fixed using hybrid double-dermal flaps, either from the superior-inferior aspect for transverse scars or from the medial-lateral aspect for vertical scars. No postoperative complications were noted, and the patients were satisfied with the outcomes. De-epithelialised double-dermal flaps in the vest-over-pants technique are an effective and valuable surgical technique for correcting depressed scars.

Gracilis Muscle Interposition: A Valuable Tool for the Treatment of Failed Repair of Post-partum Rectovaginal Fistulas-A Single-Center Experience.

INTRODUCTION: Rectovaginal fistulas (RVFs) account for approximately 40% of anorectal complications from obstetrical trauma. Treatment can be challenging requiring multiple surgical repairs. Interposition of healthy transposed tissue (lotus or Martius flap or gracilis muscle) has been used for recurrent RVF. We aimed to review our experience with gracilis muscle interposition (GMI) for post-partum RVF. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent GMI for post-partum RVF from February 1995 to December 2019 was undertaken. Patient demographics, number of prior treatments, comorbidities, tobacco use, postoperative complications, additional procedures, and outcome were assessed. Success was defined as absence of leakage from the repair site after stoma reversal. RESULTS: Six of 119 patients who underwent GMI did so for recurrent post-partum RVF. Median age was 34.2 (28-48) years. All patients had at least 1 previously failed procedure [median: 3 (1-7)] including endorectal advancement flap, fistulotomy, vaginoplasty, mesh interposition, and sphincteroplasty. All patients underwent fecal diversion prior to or at initial procedure. Success was achieved in 4/6 (66.7%) patients; 2 underwent further procedures (1 fistulotomy and 1 rectal flap advancement) for a final 100% success rate as all ileostomies were reversed. Morbidity was reported in 3 (50%) patients, including wound dehiscence, delayed rectoperineal fistula, and granuloma formation in one each, all managed without surgery. There was no morbidity related to stoma closure. CONCLUSIONS: Gracilis muscle interposition is a valuable tool for recurrent post-partum RVF. Our ultimate success rate in this very small series was 100% with a relatively low morbidity rate.

Papaverine loaded injectable and thermosensitive hydrogel system for improving survival of rat dorsal skin flaps.

Vasospasm during reconstructive microsurgery is a common, uncertain, and devastating phenomena concerning flap survival. Topical vasodilators as antispasmodic agents are widely used to reduce vasospasm and enhance microvascular anastomosis in reconstructive microsurgery. In this study, thermo-responsive hydrogel (CNH) was fabricated by grafting chitosan (CS) and hyaluronic acid (HA) to poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM). Papaverine, an anti-spasmodic agent, was then loaded to evaluate its effect on rat skin flap survival. Post-operative flap survival area and water content of rat dorsal skin flap were measured at 7 days after intradermal application of control hydrogel (CNHP0.0) and papaverine loaded hydrogel (CNHP0.4). Tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to determine oxidative stress in flaps. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to evaluate flap angiogenesis and inflammatory markers. Results showed that CNHP0.4 hydrogel could reduce tissue edema (35.63 ± 4.01%), improve flap survival area (76.30 ± 5.39%), increase SOD activity and decrease MDA content. Consequently, it also increased mean vessel density, upregulated expression of CD34 and VEGF, decreased macrophage infiltration, and reduced CD68 and CCR7 expression based on IHC staining. Overall, these results indicate that CNHP0.4 hydrogel can enhance angiogenesis with anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects and promote skin flap survival by preventing vascular spasm.

Utilization of Perifascial Loose Areolar Tissue Grafting as an Autologous Dermal Substitute in Extremity Burns.

BACKGROUND: Perifascial areolar tissue (PAT) is an areolar layer over the muscle fascia. PAT has been shown to be resistant to ischemia and prone to survival even in ischemic conditions. PAT grafts provide a vascular tissue layer on necrotic bone and tendons where skin grafting is not possible. The effect of PAT grafting on burn reconstruction has not yet been reported. Thus, in this study, we aimed to present our experience and discuss the role of PAT grafting in extremity burn reconstruction. METHODS: Between January 2019 and December 2020, 16 PAT grafting procedures were performed in 11 patients. All patients had second- or third-degree burns in the upper and lower extremities, with exposed bone or tendon. PAT grafts were harvested from the abdominal region and were used for the upper extremity in 7 patients and the lower extremity in 4 patients. Immediate skin grafting was performed during the same session. RESULTS: The patients' mean age was 50.7 years; defect size, 3.3 × 3 cm2; and follow-up time, 11.8 months. The survival rates of the PAT and skin grafts were 93.8% and 68.6%, respectively. Partial skin graft losses were encountered in 4 patients, and total skin graft loss was seen in 1 patient. CONCLUSION: PAT grafting is an alternative method to the use of dermal substitutes and flap surgery in small-to-medium-sized defects with exposed bone and tendon in burn patients.

Buccal mucosa graft vaginoplasty: A viable option demonstrated step-by-step.

INTRODUCTION: Persistent cloaca, defined as confluence of the rectum, the vagina and the urethra into a single common channel, has an estimated incidence of 1/50,000 live births. We describe the buccal mucosa graft vaginoplasty for a 11 year old female with cloaca, who underwent at the age of 11 months a Peña repair. We performed the vaginoplasty after the onset of uterine pain due to the beginning of menstruation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We accessed the lower lip for superficial dissection to harvest the graft. The donor site has been kept with as much submucosal fat as possible to avoid damage to the buccinatoria muscles. A second graft was further obtained from the cheek. Both grafts were submitted to multiple small sections to produce a mesh graft and increase its size. A arciform incision anterior to the anal canal and posterior to the urethra was performed followed by consecutive dissection with eletrocautery to gain profundity. The mesh-graft was placed over the neovaginal cavity and sutured with 4.0 PDS monofilament suture used to suture and then quilt the graft in place. The vaginal capacity was confirmed by ease of a two-digit insertion. Haemostasis was confirmed before the insertion of a soft vaginal mold. The patient remained with an indwelling urinary catheter. The mold was equivalent to 24Fr and had 13 cm of profundity and Foley tube were removed after 14 days postoperatively. RESULTS: Patient had an excellent postoperative course and had been instructed to perform vaginal dilatation every 3 h during the day. Current follow up is 10 months. DISCUSSION: Buccal mucosal grafting has advantages over the use of keratinized skin flaps and intestinal flaps. Buccal mucosa is ideal for female genital reconstruction, given its color, texture, lack of hair and mild mucous production. In our particular case, we connected the neovagina after two months of adequate healing to the native 1/3 through laparoscopic approach. CONCLUSIONS: BMG vaginoplasty is a viable alternative to treat females with cloaca at adolescence.

The Treatment of Complex Extremity Wounds Using External Tissue Expansion: A Case Series.

SUMMARY: The goal of wound reconstruction is the approximation of soft tissue and re-establishment of an acceptable appearance with minimal risk of complications. For large wound closure in the extremities, skin graft and flap reconstruction are common treatments but are associated with a variety of complications. Comparatively, tissue expansion can provide the opportunity to reconstruct large wounds with native, durable, and sensate tissue without significant donor site morbidity. External tissue expansion is less invasive and avoids complications associated with internal expansion. The authors treated 11 patients with varying extremity wound types and sizes with an external tissue expansion device. Patient age ranged from 18 to 68 years with an average age of 43.7 years (SD, ± 13.1 years). Average wound surface area was approximately 235 cm 2 (SD, ± 135.3 cm 2 ). Devices were affixed and left for 7 to 11 days before closure of the wounds. Outcomes were assessed at 2 to 36 weeks postoperative follow-up. All wounds were fully closed after treatment without need for secondary reconstructive procedures. No patient experienced major complications. All patients demonstrated intact sensation within the area of reconstruction equivalent to surrounding tissues. External tissue expansion, an excellent treatment option in extremity reconstruction, is efficacious and associated with lower complication rates compared with internal tissue expansion, skin grafts, and flap reconstruction. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Comparison of retrograde anatomy iliac bone flap grafting versus anterograde anatomy iliac bone flap grafting for treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

BACKGROUND: Iliac bone flap with deep circumflex iliac artery is a common option in the treatment of Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), and dissection of iliac bone flap is the key step for successful operation. This paper aims to introduce a new operative technique for dissecting iliac bone flap with deep circumflex iliac artery based on analysis of its advantages. METHODS: A total of 49 patients treated by retrograde anatomy and 52 patients treated by anterograde anatomy from January 2010 to December 2020 were recruited. The two groups were then compared in terms of the preoperative baseline conditions, intraoperative data, and postoperative Harris hip score (HHS). RESULTS: Compared with the retrograde anatomy group, the anterograde anatomy group had a significantly longer operating time, a significantly heavier intraoperative blood loss, a significantly higher rate of donor complication morbidity, a significantly higher rate of donor-recipient delayed healing, a significantly higher failure rate of iliac bone flap resection, a significantly higher rate of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) injury, and a significantly higher rate of ectopic ossification. No difference was found in postoperative HHS score between the two groups. CONCLUSION: As a new operative technique that can accurately locate the nutrient vessels of the iliac bone flap and quickly dissect the iliac bone flap with deep circumflex iliac artery while maintaining a comparable clinical effect, retrograde anatomy exhibited distinct advantages over anterograde anatomy in terms of simpler intraoperative operation, safer dissection, shorter operation time, lower blood loss, and fewer donor complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III, Retrospective.

Hair-Bearing Expanded Scalp Flap for Total Beard Reconstruction in Patients With Chin and Submental Postburn Scars.

BACKGROUND: Loss of beard in adult male caused by severe burn may cause cosmetic and psychological problems for these patients. Reconstruction of the beard with hair-bearing skin flaps in similar color and texture of the surrounding tissues remains a challenge. METHODS: Eight male patients suffered from submental postburn scar and beard loss were treated by using the hair-bearing expanded scalp flap. A 1000 mL nephroid tissue expander was first implanted under the frontal and mid scalp. After a 3 to 4-month tissue expansion, the expanded hair-bearing scalp flap based on bilateral superficial temporal vessels were raised and transferred for beard reconstruction, and the cutaneous pedicles were curled into tubes. Delay and division of the pedicles were performed 3 to 4 weeks after flap transfer. RESULTS: Eight male patients with postburn scar and beard loss were successfully treated with no major complication. One patient suffered from edge necrosis at distal end of the flap and healed after daily dressing change. Chin and submental areas were repaired by expanded scalp flap and total beard was reconstructed at the same time. All donor sites were closed directly without skin grafting. CONCLUSIONS: The modified expanded bipedicled scalp flap provides an easy and reliable way for total beard reconstruction and large-scale submental scars repairment.