Deep Fascia Research Articles

Reappraisal of the anatomy of the frontotemporal branches of the facial nerve.

The anatomy of the temporal branches of the facial nerve (FN) has been widely described in the neurosurgical literature because of its relevance in anterolateral approaches to the skull base and implication in frontalis palsies from these approaches. In this study, the authors attempted to describe the anatomy of the temporal branches of the FN and identify whether there are any FN branches that cross the interfascial space of the superficial and deep leaflets of the temporalis fascia. The surgical anatomy of the temporal branches of the FN was studied bilaterally in 5 embalmed heads (n = 10 extracranial FNs). Exquisite dissections were performed to preserve the relationships of the branches of the FN and their relationship to the surrounding fascia of the temporalis muscle, the interfascial fat pad, the surrounding nerve branches, and their final terminal endpoints near the frontalis and temporalis muscles. The authors correlated their findings intraoperatively with 6 consecutive patients with interfascial dissection in which neuromonitoring was performed to stimulate the FN and associated twigs that were observed to be interfascial in 2 of them. The temporal branches of the FN stay predominantly superficial to the superficial leaflet of the temporal fascia in the loose areolar tissue near the superficial fat pad. As they course over the frontotemporal region, they give off a twig that anastomoses with the zygomaticotemporal branch of the trigeminal nerve, which crosses the superficial layer of the temporalis muscle, spanning the interfascial fat pad, and then pierces the deep temporalis fascial layer. This anatomy was observed in 10 of the 10 FNs dissected. Intraoperatively, stimulation of this interfascial segment yielded no facial muscle response up to 1 mA in any of the patients. The temporal branch of the FN gives off a twig that anastomoses with the zygomaticotemporal nerve, which crosses the superficial and deep leaflets of the temporal fascia. Interfascial surgical techniques aimed at protecting the frontalis branch of the FN are safe in their efforts to protect against frontalis palsy with no clinical sequelae when executed properly.

The Anatomy of the Frontalis Muscle Revisited: A Detailed Anatomic, Clinical, and Physiologic Study.

There are differing opinions regarding the specific mechanical forces related to contraction of the frontalis muscle and how it exerts its effects on eyebrow motion. The goal of this study was to perform a detailed anatomic and clinical study of the frontalis muscle in cadavers and patients to better define the movement of the frontalis muscle. This study consisted of 4 arms, which included: (1) dynamic ecography to evaluate movement of the frontalis muscle, (2) anatomical study of the relationship between the frontalis muscle and the deep fascia, (3) histological study to define the frontalis muscle attachments, and (4) clinical study to evaluate the action of the frontalis muscle in patients undergoing a temporal facelift. The frontalis muscle was attached, inserted, and adhered to the deep layer of the fascia in the superior cephalic and middle third of the forehead. In the superior cephalic third of the forehead, loose areolar tissue was observed deep to the frontalis muscle and the deep layer of the fascia. Within the middle third of the forehead, the deep layer of the galea was fused with the periosteum and firmly adhered. In the inferior caudal third of the forehead, the frontalis muscle was separated from the deep galeal aponeurosis and interdigitated with the orbicularis muscle. When the frontal muscle end was dissected free from the deep fascia by approximately 1 cm and pulled upward, no movement of the eyebrows was observed. Eyebrow elevation was only achieved by pulling on the inferior part of the muscle. Frontalis muscle movement occurs from the inferior caudal end toward the mid-part of the muscle as it contracts centripetally on its superficial layer, sliding over the deep part strongly attached to the deep fascia.

The Effect of Myofascial Release on Pain Levels in the Condition of Myofascial Pain Syndrome in the Upper Trapezius Muscle in Students of Stikes Kesdam IV/Diponegoro Semarang

Working position when typing is closely related to ergonomics or comfort issues, especially in the areas of design, position and proper body posture. MTrPs is a condition describing acute or chronic soft tissue pain, which occurs in muscles or muscle fascia. MTrPs cause contraction of knots or nodes that can form in a muscle band junction which is a source of pain. Pain or discomfort in the form of a prickling, throbbing, cutting and burning sensation in the loose connective tissue that covers the trapezius muscle due to trigger points. Data on computer workers in the Pedurungan Wetan area is 24 workers. This research method is a pre-experimental one group pre and post test design and sampling using purposive sampling technique. The population of this research is rental workers who work in Tlogosari Wetan, Pedurungan, Semarang City. The research instrument uses VAS (Vasual Analog Skill). The research stages consist of preparation, implementation and processing of research data. The steps taken at the preparation stage are literature study, field survey, outreach to rental workers. The implementation stage is carried out by collecting data. The results of this study showed that there was a relationship between typing time and the occurrence of MTrPs in the Upper Trapezius Muscle.

Cadaveric Study of Variations in the Course of Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve: Insight to Prevent Injury.

A recent spurt in incidence of meralgia paresthetica to 0.1-81% due to minimally invasive anterior approach to hip joint has resulted in reinterest in anatomy of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN). Familiarity with variations in the course of LFCN will reduce the morbidity associated with orthopedic procedures around the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and inguinal ligament (IL). Twenty five adult human formalin embalmed cadavers were dissected. Course and relations of nerve to ASIS, IL and sartorius muscle was noted, distance of nerve from ASIS at IL was measured and statistically analyzed. Mean distance of LFCN from ASIS at IL was 1.73±1.15 cm. Differences between two sides and sexes was statistically not significant (p=0.51 and p=0.96 respectively). Inferomedial to ASIS, 94% of LFCNs crossed IL with 92% of them present within 4 cm medial to ASIS. Majority of LFCNs (90%) exited pelvis and entered thigh posterior to IL. Out of these nerves 48% were single trunks on entry into thigh, then bifurcated into anterior and posterior branches. Remaining LFCNs bifurcated proximal to IL or at level of IL. Trifurcations were seen in 6% while a rare case of pentafication was observed. In 66% main trunk/branches were present in intermuscular cleft between sartorius muscle and tensor fascia lata. Care should be exercised by surgeons while dissecting around IL as more than half of nerves are liable to be injured during operative procedures. This would help in better anticipation of problem, acceptance and reducing litigation.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound guided core needle biopsy for soft tissue tumors: Accuracy and applicability

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) guided core needle biopsy (CNB) in diagnosing soft tissue tumors (STTs) and to identify the conventional ultrasonography (US) features of STTs that are recommended for CEUS-guided CNB. Materials and methodsA retrospective study was conducted on 123 patients with surgically confirmed STTs. Before surgeries, all subjects underwent CNB under the guidance of US or CEUS. The histopathological results of surgical specimens were considered as the gold standards. A successful biopsy diagnosis was defined as the pathological subtypes obtained by biopsy consistent with the gold standard. The diagnostic yields were compared between the US and CEUS groups, and the diagnostic yields based on various conventional US features of STTs were also compared between the two groups. ResultsSixty-seven cases underwent US-guided CNB and fifty-six cases underwent CEUS-guided CNB. The clinical, biopsy, and conventional US characteristics revealed no significant difference between the two groups. The diagnostic yield of the CEUS group was statistically higher than that of the US group (p = 0.011). In the CEUS group, more STTs with the anechoic areas were identified after CEUS examination (p = 0.031). Furthermore, the diagnostic yields based on the conventional US features of STTs, including deep fascia layer (p = 0.010), a maximum diameter ≥5 cm (p = 0.037), rough margin (p = 0.016), heterogeneous echotexture (p = 0.017), and absence of anechoic area (p = 0.013), were significantly different between the two groups, and the CEUS group exhibited higher diagnostic yields. ConclusionCEUS-guided CNB was found to be an efficient method for STTs diagnosis. It is particularly recommended for STTs with the following conventional US features, including location in deep fascia layer, a maximum diameter ≥5 cm, rough margin, heterogeneous echotexture, or absence of anechoic area.

High-resolution musculoskeletal ultrasonography and elastography for eosinophilic fasciitis diagnosis and follow-up: a case-based review.

Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) remains a rare condition without precise diagnostic criteria due to common symptoms with other autoimmune diseases requiring broad differential diagnosis. This paper describes the use of high-resolution musculoskeletal ultrasonography and elastography in the diagnosis and follow-up of eosinophilic fasciitis through the case of a 56-year-old male patient. In addition to laboratory data, instrumental data, and biopsy, musculoskeletal ultrasonography (US) was used both in the diagnostic process and in the follow-up period for an objective assessment of the changes in the patient's condition and response to treatment. The US showed disorganization of the myofibrils adjacent to the superficial fascia, edema, and thickening of the fascia and subcutaneous edema. In addition, the use of shear-wave elastography (SWE) demonstrated significantly reduced skin elasticity. High-frequency musculoskeletal ultrasound in combination with SWE is an effective method both for the diagnosis of EF and for the follow-up of the changes occurring after therapy. Based on the fact that it can easily differentiate the substrate of involvement, such as skin, subcutaneous tissue, or muscle fascia, ultrasound can be used to distinguish EF from other skin and muscle diseases.

Usefulness of Ultrasound in Verrucous Venous Malformation: a Series of 103 Cases.

Verrucous venous malformation (VVM), previously called "verrucous hemangioma," is a rare type of vascular malformation. Little is known about the ultrasonographic characteristics of VVM. The present study aimed to show the conventional US and elastographic features of a VVM. The US findings in 103 patients with VVMs were retrospectively evaluated. On gray-scale ultrasound images, 98 (95.1%) lesions showed subcutaneous fat infiltration from skin across muscle to deep fascia. The other 5 (4.9%) sat in the subcutaneous layer with no skin involvement. Most (96.1%) lesions were hyperechoic. Furthermore, 71.8% of lesions were heterogeneous, 68.9% of which were with ill-defined margins. Calcifications and visible vessels were present in 5.7% and 10.7% of the VVM cases, respectively. By color Doppler ultrasound, all lesions were found with low vascular density and 4.9% showed enhanced blood flow after compression. Venous spectrum was observed in 67.0% of lesions. The elasticity score was 2.66 ± 0.48. Diagnosis of a VVM is challenging in the clinic. However, we found that most VVM lesions present distinctive ultrasound imaging characteristics. These ultrasound findings may well contribute to the accuracy of VVM diagnosis, especially in those with the absence of epidermal changes and the lack of dermal involvement.

Variation in the practice of wide local excision for melanoma in Ireland and the UK: a questionnaire survey.

Wide local excision (WLE) is standard practice in the management of melanoma, but no national or international guidelines exist regarding its technique. To assess variation in the practice of WLE and to explore the effect of clinicians' specialty and grade on such variation. This was an international, anonymized, cross-sectional study. An online questionnaire was distributed to the Irish Association of Dermatologists, British Association of Dermatologists, British Association of Plastic and Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, Melanoma Focus and BioGenoMEL members. Of 128 respondents, 57% were dermatologists and 38% plastic surgeons. Most (80%) were consultants. Almost all clinicians learned their technique from colleagues (99%) 'on the job', although 21% also used textbooks or other media as part of WLE training. There was significant variation in planning and performing WLE: 59% considered margins already achieved, 71% marked margins with the skin relaxed. For 1 cm WLE, 84% delineated 1 cm from the edge of the scar; with a greater proportion of plastic surgeons than dermatologists marking from the centre of the scar (P < 0.05). Most followed a longitudinal/oblique axis on the limbs for WLE (81%). Only 40% sent 'dog ears' for histology. Most (70%) incised through the marked line, 27% incised outside it. Most (79%) excised to deep fascia, 18% to the next biological margin. This study demonstrates significant variation among clinicians performing WLE, an essential component of melanoma management. We postulate that this could have an impact on patient outcomes. A consensus statement should be developed, to achieve more consistency in the practice of WLE.

The deep cervical fascia neck lift

The main and more frequent problem in face lift is recurrence of neck bands. To improve face lift stability, a new aging analysis is proposed. The visible sign of face aging is skin excess. Superficial musculo aponeurotic system (SMAS) retraction is a much less visible sign. Nevertheless, botulinum toxin injections elongate muscles of the SMAS and rejuvenate the face. In the Face Recurve Concept, MRI studies prove the mimic muscles retraction that comes with aging. Face lift techniques include SMAS plication, traction or excision, which increases discrepancy between the envelope, the skin and the core, the SMAS. As skin excision is poorly efficient because performed posteriorly, far from the anterior skin excess located at the medial neck, the association to SMAS retraction exacerbates the gradient difference between envelop and core. This analysis shows that it is paramount to preserve the SMAS. (1) The sub-skin dissection has to be executed moving beyond the marionette fold and the paramedian neck bands; (2) no action is performed on the SMAS, only an horizontal section of the platysma at the hyoid height that will avoid platysma band recurrence. A botulinum toxin injection performed herein just after, blocks muscle regeneration; (3) the skin is pulled backward with a clear posterior transposition to the platysma. The skin at the cervico-mental angle and all along the cervico-mental crease is fixed to the deep cervical fascia, in the gap between the edges of the sectioned platysma, blocking muscle recreation. A resorbable barbed thread is used, with a first bite made at the cervico-mental angle through the deep cervical fascia then in the direction of the mastoid, with long bites through the deep cervical fascia versus short subcutaneous bites. Thanks to this strong shift, the cervico-mental crease is definitely recreated with no need of pre-auricular skin tension. Thirty-two patients have been operated with this technique on a one-year period. The results are a lot more stable and swelling is lowered down to the minimum.

Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty With Gluteus Medius Repair: A Novel Technique

Introduction: Proper function of the gluteus medius muscle is crucial to performance and outcomes following total hip arthroplasty. Gluteus medius tears are reported in up to 20% of patients undergoing hip replacements. The combination of increasing notoriety for the direct anterior approach and the potential for improved patient outcomes necessitates a technique to address gluteus medius tears in conjunction with total hip arthroplasty. Therefore, we present the following novel technique for transtendinous gluteus medius repair in conjunction with a direct anterior approach for total hip arthroplasty. Technique: The patient is placed supine with the operative leg in slight external rotation. An incision is made to the fascia overlying the tensor fascia latae. Blunt dissection is performed to the tensor fascia latae-sartorius interval. The deep rectus fascia is split, identifying the anterior capsule. Arthroplasty is then performed in the usual manner. Once the arthroplasty is completed, the hip capsule is closed, and the gluteus medius is exposed through an anterolateral approach. Once found, the tear is classified. A split in line with the tendon fibers is made in the mid aspect of the tear. Once visualized, the greater trochanter is decorticated, and suture anchors are placed. Sutures are passed and tied sequentially from distal to proximal. Expected Outcomes: Gluteus medius repair patients experience excellent outcomes, with multiple studies showing decreased pain and restoration in the strength of the abductor complex. In the setting of total hip arthroplasty, most patients display adequate abductor strength and no Trendelenburg gait at 5 years postoperative.

Minireview of connective tissue features and selected forearm structures

Abstract Connective tissue is an extremely divaricated structure and, unlike other tissues, made up of proteins combined in various configurations. This construction is characterized by high variability and the ability to adapt through the appropriate selection of synthesized matrix components. That feature helps properly stabilize the body’s joints. The content of receptors enables information transfer about stimuli acting on itself and on neighboring structures. This work aims are to collect information about selected forearm structures, its features, functions and receptors content. One of the objectives is to improve the knowledge organization, indicate possible areas to expand and to inspire exploration diversity of connective tissue. Structures described in the article include the transverse carpal ligament, the superficial and deep fascia of the forearm, the interosseous membrane, the flexor retinaculum system and the palmar aponeurosis. These structures are well-known even to inexperienced science students. However, acquired knowledge is still incomplete and possible to explore.

Ultrasound Detected Subcutaneous Changes in a Pediatric Cohort After Initiation of a New Insulin Pump or Glucose Sensor.

Objective: This study examined subcutaneous tissue changes at sites used by continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), and tested whether these changes, if any, were associated with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Research Design and Methods: This prospective study investigated recently used CSII or CGM sites in 161 children and adolescents during the first year after initiation of a new diabetes device. Subcutaneous changes such as echogenicity, vascularization, and the distance from the skin surface to the muscle at CSII and CGM sites were assessed by ultrasound. Results: The distance from skin surface to muscle fascia at both the upper arm and abdomen was influenced by age, body mass index z-score, and sex. Especially in boys and the youngest, the depth of many devices outreached the mean distance. The mean distance for boys at the abdomen and upper arm ranged from 4.5-6.5 mm and 5-6.9 mm for all ages, respectively. Hyperechogenicity at CGM sites was 4.3% after 12 months. The frequency of subcutaneous hyperechogenicity and vascularization at CSII sites increased significantly over time (41.2% to 69.3% and 2% to 16% respectively, P < 0.001 and P = 0.009). Hyperechogenicity in the subcutis was not a predictor of elevated HbA1c (P = 0.11). Conclusion: There is large variation in the distance from the skin surface to the muscle fascia and many diabetes devices reach even deeper. Hyperechogenicity and vascularization increased significantly over time at CSII sites, but not CGM sites. The importance of hyperechogenicity for insulin absorption is unclear and further investigations are needed. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT04258904.

Meme Koruyucu Cerrahide İntraoperatif Ultrason ve Frozen Patoloji Kullanımının Güvenli Cerrahi Sınır Üzerindeki Etkinliği

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women over the age of 40. The lifetime risk is around 12%. Today, breast cancer patients are diagnosed at an early stage thanks to screening programs, and thus mortality has decreased to around 25-30%. The positivity or closeness of surgical margins in breast conserving surgery varies between 5-60%. Negativity of surgical margins is very important to prevent future recurrent breast cancer, to pre-vent recurrent surgeries, and to prevent additional treatments. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of intraoperative ultrasonography and frozen section use in breast cancers treated with breast conserving surgery in obtaining safe surgical margins and in postoperative cosmetic terms. Materials and Methods: This study includes 150 patients diagnosed with breast cancer and treated with breast con-serving surgery in between January 2015 and January 2019. The presence of distant metastases and multifocal or centrally located tumor involvement in the breasts were investigated. The localization of the tumor was marked anatomically by preoperative ultrasonography in all patients. The operation was started 15 minutes after the injec-tion. The tumor was completely excised, leaving at least 1 cm of intact tissue around the tumor, including the skin, on the preoperatively marked area, including the underlying muscle fascia. Medial and superior borders were marked with string. This excised tissue block was examined with intraoperative ultrasonography. Results: The mean age of the patients was 48,3± 9.7 years. While the tumor was located in the right breast in 83 (55.3%) of the patients, it was located in the left breast in 67 (44.7%) patients. The tumor was located in the upper outer quadrant in 67 (44.7%) patients, in the upper inner quadrant in 53 (35.3%) patients, and in the lower outer quadrant in 30 (20%) patients. Axillary dissection was performed in 21 (14 %) of the patients because sentinel lymph node was positive. In histological typing, 141 (94 %) patients were ductal carcinoma and 9 (6 %) patients were lobular carcinoma. Conclusions: As a result of our study and literature review, we think that frozen examination together with intraope-rative ultrasonography is a simple, easily applicable and cosmetically good method to determine the safe surgical margin in breast conserving surgery.

Calcification of the pump pouch in patients receiving ITB therapy: A rare complication affecting refill procedure – Analysis of two cases

BackgroundIntrathecal baclofen therapy (ITB) is an effective treatment for reducing spasticity but can be associated with various complications, including infection and implant malfunction. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study analyzed refill reports, complications, and functional outcomes in 40 consecutive patients with intractable spasticity or dystonia undergoing ITB. ResultsAmong the 40 patients, 8 experienced complications, including two cases of calcification of the baclofen pump pouch and surrounding tissue, a rare complication not extensively described in the literature. DiscussionCalcification, in addition to port access difficulties, could lead to drug delivery failure. We hypothesize that calcification may result from microtrauma or needlestick injury to the subcutaneous tissue and muscle fascia. The length of time the pump stays in the pocket could also contribute to favoring this phenomenon. ConclusionAs the number of patients receiving ITB increases, physicians must be aware of potential life-threatening complications. The risk of pouch calcification should be further investigated and considered in managing patients undergoing ITB, as it could significantly impact patient care.

Potential role of thoracolumbar fascia in younger middle-aged patients with chronic low back pain

Aim This study aimed to quantitatively assess the thickness of the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) and lumbar multifidus muscle through ultrasound imaging in younger-middle aged individuals, both those experiencing chronic low back pain (LBP) and those without LBP. Additionally, the study sought to explore the potential significance of these anatomical structures in relation to clinical and sonographic findings. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted involving a cohort of 50 participants, divided into two groups: chronic LBP group (Group LBP, n = 30) and a group without LBP (Group control, n = 20). Participants from both groups underwent assessments pertaining to pain characteristics (intensity and quality), functional impairment, and kinesiophobia. The thicknesses of the thoracolumbar fascia and lumbar multifidus muscle were measured using ultrasonography. Results Among participants with chronic LBP, the thoracolumbar fascia displayed a statistically significant increase in thickness on the left side, whereas the lumbar multifidus muscle exhibited reduced thickness on the left side. Notably, positive correlations were observed between the thickness of the thoracolumbar fascia and scores from the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for pain intensity (r = 0.472, p = 0.008) as well as the McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) (r = 0.547, p = 0.002). Moreover, a positive correlation was established between the thickness of the lumbar multifidus muscle and the modified Schober test (r = 0.174, p = 0.040). However, the thickness of the lumbar multifidus muscle demonstrated a negative correlation with age (r = −0.304, p = 0.032). Multiple logistic regression analysis did not identify any significant predictors for the presence of LBP based on demographic or clinical variables. Conclusions Individuals afflicted with chronic LBP exhibited pronounced thickening of the thoracolumbar fascia and attenuation of the lumbar multifidus muscle in comparison to asymptomatic counterparts. Notably, increased thickness of the thoracolumbar fascia corresponded to heightened pain intensity, while reduction in lumbar multifidus muscle thickness was associated with decreased lumbar flexion ability. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating tailored regimens targeting both fascial and muscular components in the rehabilitation of individuals with LBP.

Saphenophemoral Junction and its Related Anatomical Variation in Black Bengal Goat

Blood circulation especially venous distribution is an important subject in any kind of surgical procedure. In the case of the hind leg from the ankle to the groin blood is supplied by the saphenous vein. For venous drainage in hind limbs saphenous vein has a significant role that extends from the ankle to the groin. Basically median and lateral saphenous veins join together as great saphenous veins and enter into gastrocnemius muscle. The ventral to the muscle layer of the tensor fascia lata saphenous vein joins with the femoral vein and forms a junction, which is known as the saphenofemoral junction. It’s also known as the great saphenous vein. Between the deep and aponeurotic fascia of the tensor fascia lata saphenous vein has been found. Many tributaries such as the circumflex iliac vein, external pudendal, and deep pudendal vein were examined in this case. Four cadaveric lower limbs were dissected to examine anatomical variations of these veins and describe their relation to the deep fascia of the thigh. A saphenous compartment is actually a triangular structure. This triangular space is formed by the adductor muscle, fascia lata, and Sartorius muscle. The range of saphenous veins in the saphenous compartment ranged from 5.7-8.1 (7±1.3) cm.

Comparison of temporalis muscle fascia and cartilage grafts for primary type 1 tympanoplasty: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

To compare the efficacy and safety of temporalis fascia (TF) with cartilage grafts for primary type 1 tympanoplasty in chronic otitis media (COM) patients. Computerized search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL. Eligible for inclusion were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing TF and cartilage grafts in individuals with non-cholesteatoma COM and intact ossicles requiring type 1 tympanoplasty. Primary outcomes were graft success and hearing improvement, measured by the air-bone gap (ABG) closure. The secondary outcome was the occurrence of complications. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Eighteen RCTs that enrolled 1273 participants were found eligible. Data were reported at follow-up periods ranging from 6weeks to 24months. The pooled effect estimate revealed a higher and statistically significant graft success favoring cartilage grafts at 12months (OR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.33-3.78) and 24months (OR = 2.96, 95% CI 1.18-7.43). There was no significant difference between both grafts in post-operative ABG closure across all follow-up periods (6weeks to 12months). Compared to TF, primary type 1 cartilage tympanoplasty offers better graft uptake rates and comparable postoperative hearing outcomes for COM patients.

Methylene Blue Infiltration As a Method for Distinguishing Superficial and Deep Infections

BackgroundThere are no established objective methods to reliably differentiate between superficial and deep infection in the setting of total hip arthroplasty. We employed a technique of distinguishing superficial and deep infections by infiltrating methylene blue to a prosthetic hip during infection workup to determine its effectiveness and to characterize its utility in defining the joint cavity where deep debridement is required. MethodsAn analysis was conducted on 35 patients who preoperatively received an injection of methylene blue under radiological guidance to their total hip arthroplasty. Where established periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) criteria were not met, without signs of methylene blue beyond the deep fascia, the infection was considered superficial, and debridement remained superficial to the deep fascia. Where diagnosis of PJI was confirmed preoperatively or the presence of methylene blue in the wound cavity confirmed deep contamination, the prosthesis was addressed with methylene blue staining defining the joint cavity as a guide for debridement. ResultsThere were 11 patients who had no methylene blue extrusion into the superficial compartment and did not meet PJI criteria. Eight patients failed to meet PJI criteria preoperatively, but had extrusion of methylene blue, confirming a deep infection intraoperatively. There were 16 patients who met PJI criteria preoperatively with methylene blue acting as a visual guide to the joint space. ConclusionInfiltrating methylene blue in a prosthetic hip is useful in differentiating between superficial or deep infections where PJI workup is indeterminate. Where deep infection is present, its utility in defining the joint cavity may be advantageous.

Bracing or kinesio taping in the management of lateral elbow tendinopathy: A prospective, randomized single-blinded trial

ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to compare the effects of forearm counter force brace (FCB) and kinesio taping (KT) on pain severity, grip strength and functionality of patients with lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET). MethodsThe study was planned as a prospective, randomized and assessor-blinded study with 1-month follow-up period. Seventy-two patients, diagnosed as LET were randomly assigned to FCB (n = 41) or KT (n = 31) groups. In the FCB group, the patients were informed and instructed to wear the brace for three weeks continuously. In the KT group, tape was applied once a week for four weeks with muscle inhibition and fascia correction techniques. The outcome measures were pain pressure threshold (PPT), maximal pain-free hand grip strength measurement and patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation questionnaire (PRTEE). The assessments were performed at the baseline, immediately after treatment and one month later after treatment. ResultsPPT and grip strength were significantly increased over time in both groups. Pain, function and total scores of PRTEE were significantly decreased in both FCB and KT groups. The effect size of the improvement in PRTEE function score was within acceptable clinical significance in the KT group. However, there was no significant difference between groups. ConclusionsPain severity, grip strength and functionality of patients with LET improved over time in both FCB and KT groups. However, neither was superior in the management of LET.

Fascia turnover procedure at breast reconstruction using free TRAM flap for decreasing umbilical migration

The ideal umbilical position is midway between the two iliac crests. Some patients complained that the umbilicus position shifted from the midline after the breast reconstruction with a free muscle-sparing transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (MS-TRAM) flap. We considered that the fascia of the external oblique muscle could be applied to the rectus abdominis fascia defect. This study aimed to introduce this "fascia turnover procedure" and compare the umbilical position in this procedure with that in primary fascial closure for the MS-TRAM flap of breast reconstruction. A total of 152 patients were enrolled (80 patients with fascia turnover (+) vs. 72 patients (-)). The patients' demographics were compared. Horizontal distances (right side: a; left side: b) were measured bilaterally from the lateral abdominal wall to the center of the umbilicus. Frontal abdominal photographs were taken preoperatively (a1, b1) and postoperatively (a2, b2). The rate of umbilical migration (= | (a1 - b1) / (a1 + b1) -(a2 - b2) / (a2 + b2) | ×100%) was calculated. Because the aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle is confirmed in front of the lateral side of the anterior rectus sheath, this procedure could be performed in cases with a medial defect. No significant differences in the patients' demographics, including abdominal bulging rates and abdominal wall defect widths were observed between the two groups. The rate of umbilical migration showed a significant difference (median 1.78% vs. 3.70%, P<0.001). This procedure could decrease the rate of umbilical migration.