Department Of Plastic Surgery Research Articles

The use of an innovative technique for perforations of the mucous membrane of the maxillary sinus during the sinus lift operation

Introduction. To date, according to WHO, the number of people with a complete absence of teeth is greater than 8% of all the people worldwide. Loss of teeth due to complications of caries treatment, chronic periodontitis and trauma leads to atrophy of the alveolar ridge and that of soft tissues in this area, which in turn complicates the rehabilitation of the patients. According to the literature, in the first year after tooth extraction, the volume of the bone tissue of the alveolar ridge decreases by 40–60%, which greatly complicates the subsequent orthopedic rehabilitation of the patients. Currently, the «gold standard» for increasing the volume of the bone tissue of the alveolar ridge of the upper jaw in the distal section is the sinus lift operation. However, according to the literature, when sinus lift operation is performed, Schneider’s membrane perforation occurs in 7–23% of cases, which in terms, leads to the inability to complete the operation and complications in cases with total perforations of membrane.Purpose of the study. To evaluate the complex rehabilitation of patients with partial secondary absence of teeth and severe atrophy in the lateral sections of upper jaw using the «envelope technique» during open sinus lifting.Materials and methods. In 2020–2022, during a clinical study at the clinic of the Department of maxillofacial and plastic surgery of the Moscow State Medical University named after A.I. Evdokimov, 54 patients who had a history of PPI interventions in the ENT department were treated. All patients underwent bilateral open sinus lifting using enamel matrix proteins or the «envelope technique» for perforation of the Schneider membrane. After 9–12 months, a comprehensive rehabilitation of patients based on dental implants was carried out.Results. The number of extensive (total) perforations of the Schneider membrane in the study group of patients was 50%. As a result of the use of the patented «envelope technique» with the use of enamel matrix proteins, no postoperative complications were observed in patients with total perforation of the Schneider membrane. Taking into account the planned orthopedic design, 292 dental implants were installed in all patients.Conclusion. The method is effective and safe, allowing to rehabilitate patients with missing teeth and severe atrophy in the lateral part of the upper jaw, in case of intraoperative total perforation of the Schneiderian membrane.

Dermatofibrosarcoma of Darrier and Ferrand: Recurrency Character: A Case-Report (Experience of the University Hospital Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima)

Introduction: Dermatofibrosarcoma of Darier and Ferrand (DFSP) is a rare skin tumor characterized by its local aggressiveness and high potential. Its prognosis depends essentially on the quality of its management. Observation and Results: In this article, we report the case of a young patient treated at the Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Tangier, for a Darier and Ferrand dermatofibrosarcoma that recurred five times after surgical excision, with a 5-cm margin on the surface and a healthy anatomical barrier at depth. Coverage of the loss of substance (LOS) was performed after anatomopathological confirmation of the carcinological nature of the excision, and essentially involved skin grafting. Despite a course of radiotherapy prescribed at the 4th recurrence, a 5th rapid recurrence was noted. Discussion: The great clinical, histological and evolutionary polymorphism of this type of sarcoma results in an underestimated incidence and explains the delay in diagnosis. Recurrences are frequent, and usually local. Initial wide surgical excision is the reference treatment, and directly conditions the prognosis of DFSP. According to several studies, recurrence may depend on the quality of surgical excision, but could also be attributed to genetic or environmental factors, or to variations in the histological subtype of the sarcoma. Conclusion: Darier Ferrand is an uncommon tumor with local malignancy, whose evolutionary risk depends mainly on the quality of the initial excision. The chances of cure in the case of well performed primary surgery are significantly higher than in the case of salvage surgery. Tumor excision must the refore be wide and deep, with sacrifice of a healthy barrier at depth.

Impact of Insurance Type on Access to Pediatric Surgical Care

Background: This study aimed to measure the impact of insurance type on access to pediatric surgical care, clinical and surgical scheduling decisions, provider-driven cancelations, and missed care opportunities (MCOs). We hypothesize that patients with public health insurance experience longer scheduling delays and more frequently canceled surgical appointments compared with patients with private health insurance. Methods: This retrospective study reviewed the demographics and clinical characteristics of patients who underwent a surgical procedure within the plastic and oral surgery department at our institution in 2019. Propensity score matching and linear regressions were used to estimate the effect of insurance type on hospital scheduling and patient access outcomes while controlling for procedure type and sex. Results: A total of 457 patients were included in the demographic and clinical characteristics analyses; 354 were included in propensity score matching analyses. No significant differences in the number of days between scheduling and occurrence of initial consultation or number of clinic cancelations were observed between insurance groups (P > 0.05). However, patients with public insurance had a 7.4 times higher hospital MCO rate (95% CI [5.2–9.7]; P < 0.001) and 4.7 times the number of clinic MCOs (P = 0.007). Conclusions: No significant differences were found between insurance groups in timely access to surgical treatment or cancelations. Patients with public insurance had more MCOs than patients with private insurance. Future research should investigate how to remove barriers that impact access to care for marginalized patients.

Keystone flap: Suitable option for coverage of soft tissue defect over Tendo Achilles following open repair

Introduction: Wound complications are not uncommon following operative Tendo Achilles repair. Patients presented in Plastic surgery department with soft tissue defect on Tendo achilles region with exposed Tendon. The paucity of tissue and poor blood circulation are main challenges for the reconstructive surgeon. The study aimed to evaluate the Keystone flap for soft tissue coverage of defects following Tendo achilles repair. Methods: This prospective study was conducted on January 2021 to December 2022 in Plastic surgery department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital and all 12 cases were done by single surgeon. All patients had history of repair for ruptured Tendo Achilles and were presented with defect over Tendo achilles near or at its insertion, where the defect length was larger than width. Keystone flap type IIA was done for each defect. Results: Mean age of the study patients was 43.42 ±9.79 years. The highest dimension of wound was 36.80 (8 X 4.6) cm2 and flap was 66 (10 X 6.6) cm2. The range of advancement of flap was 3- 4.6 cm (mean: 3.43 ±0.54 cm) in transverse axis of leg. Mean duration of operative time was 53.58± 10.06 minutes. Follow up period was 3 months to measure outcome the flap. Conclusion: The keystone flap has high survivability rate with low complications rate providing with good functional outcome of joint. So, keystone flap is a suitable option for coverage of soft tissue defects following operative Tendo Achilles repair. J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2024; 42: 155-160

Post-COVID-19 Rhino-Orbito-Maxillary Mucormycosis Defect: Our Surgical Experience with Single Stage Delayed Reconstruction Using Free Flap

Abstract Introduction The effect of the second wave of COVID-19 was immense in India, specifically in the form of vicious COVID-19-associated mucormycosis. A higher number of radical debridements are required for disease control in combination with antifungal drugs in cases of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, which results in complex maxillofacial defects. We aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes in patients with rhino-orbito-maxillary defects due to COVID-19-associated mucormycosis undergoing a single stage delayed free flap reconstruction. Methodology This prospective, single-center, multisurgeon study was performed on eight patients with COVID-19-associated rhino-orbito-maxillary mucormycosis in the department of burns and plastic surgery. The postoperative clinical outcome was evaluated using the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire for patient's quality of life (QOL), aesthetic numeric analog (ANA) scale for patient's satisfaction for aesthetics, and the functional intraoral Glasgow scale for speech and deglutition at 1 and 3 months. Results The median age of the study patients was 40 years, with 75% of the patients being males. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was present in all the patients. Mucormycosis was diagnosed within the first 3 months of COVID-19 infection. Maxillary defect was present in 62.5% of patients, out of which 50% had bilateral maxillary defects. There was significant improvement in the QOL and the aesthetics of patients from 1 to 3 months (p < 0.001). Speech and deglutition were also improved at 3 months, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion Single stage delayed free flap reconstruction can be advocated in patients with COVID-19-associated rhino-orbito-maxillary mucormycosis defect as there is considerable improvement in patients' QOL, aesthetics, speech, and deglutition over a period of time.

Application and effect of tension-reducing suture in surgical treatment of hypertrophic scar

PurposeTo investigate the application and effectiveness of tension-reducing suture in the repair of hypertrophic scars.MethodsA retrospective analysis of clinical data was conducted on 82 patients with hypertrophic scars treated at the Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from September 2021 to December 2022. Patients were operated with combination of heart-shaped tension-reducing suturing technique and looped, broad, and deep buried (LBD) suturing technique or conventional suture method. Outcomes of surgical treatment were assessed before and 6 months after surgery using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS).ResultsImprovements were achieved on scar quality compared to that preoperatively, with a reduction in scar width (1.7 ± 0.6 cm vs. 0.7 ± 0.2 cm, P < 0.001). Assessment using the POSAS and VSS scales showed significant improvements in each single parameter and total score compared to preoperative values (P < 0.05). The Combination method group achieved better score in total score of VSS scale, in color, stiffness, thickness and overall opinion of PSAS scale, and in vascularity, thickness, pliability and overall opinion of OSAS scale.ConclusionThe amalgamation of the heart-shaped tension-reducing suturing technique and the LBD suturing technique has shown promising outcomes, garnering notably high levels of patient satisfaction in the context of hypertrophic scar repair. Patients have exhibited favorable postoperative recoveries, underscoring the clinical merit and the prospective broader applicability of this approach in the realm of hypertrophic scar management.

A fully integrated flexible wireless sensing system for wound flatness diagnosis

In both plastic surgery and burn treatment departments, the management of postoperative wounds is a crucial element of surgical care, profoundly influencing patient recovery and the broader spectrum of healthcare outcomes. The monitoring of wound flatness after surgery, although a pivotal component of this process, is frequently underemphasized. In most cases, this parameter can only be judged based on doctors’ personal experience. Here, we propose a compact, fully integrated wireless sensing system encapsulated by soft biocompatible materials for quantitative assessment of wound flatness and long-term temperature. The absence of physical tethers and the ion-gel-based construction of the micro-structured sensor represent key defining features, resulting in high measurement resolution of 2 mm radius and 0.096 Ω/°C and reliable capabilities. In addition, these sensors can be connected to the server network or mobile clients to evaluate the state of postoperative suture wounds and monitor the patient’s recovery status. With our devices, detailed data on smoothness and temperature of sutured wounds can be collected, analyzed, and stored for medical assistance as well as being used to improve the quality of surgery.

Robotic-Assisted Lymphatic Surgery

Surgical robotic systems specifically developed for microsurgery are increasingly being used in recent years, particularly in reconstructive lymphatic surgery. Currently, there are two robotic systems that are used in microsurgery. Both systems feature tremor reduction and motion scaling technologies, which are intended to optimise the surgeon's precision and dexterity. In the Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery at the University Hospital Zurich, the Symani Surgical System is used in many microsurgical and supermicrosurgical procedures. It is mainly used in reconstructive lymphatic surgery, especially for robotic-assisted lymphovenous anastomosis, microvascular anastomosis of lymph node flaps, and it is used in central lymphatic surgery. The robot enables smaller surgical approaches for deep anatomical structures with enhanced surgical precision. In combination with an exoscope, it can also improve the ergonomics of the microsurgeon.

Reconstruction of extensive defects involving the entire upper third of the auricle: A case report

The auricle represents a complex anatomical region. Over the years, various techniques have been proposed for the reconstruction of different anatomical regions of the auricle. Defects in the upper third of the ear less than 3 cm wide can be reconstructed with superior and inferior pedicle flaps harvested from the postauricular region.In our Plastic Surgery department we have treated a patient with a 3.5 cm wide squamous cell carcinoma involving all the upper third of the pinna excluding helix. The patient had many comorbidities and asked for a safe reconstruction with low risk of local complications and the possibility to use glasses. For this reason we excluded the option of a superior de-epithelized pedicled post auricular flap that has got a high risk of venous congestion for defects more than 3 cm wide and performed a wide post auricular island flap with subcutaneous pedicle.At the seven-day follow-up, there was an absence of signs of venous congestion. At the six months follow-up, the patient reported satisfaction with the result and had no issues wearing glasses. Post auricular island flap with subcutaneous pedicle can be considered as an alternative in case of auricle upper third defects more than 3 cm wide.

Shifts in Reduction Mammaplasty Surgical Volumes With the Emergence of a Global Pandemic.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in significant changes to the surgical caseload for various surgery departments across the United States. As medical institutions prioritized resources for the expected increase in patient volumes due to the SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, surgical departments saw a decrease in nonemergent and elective surgical procedures. Reduction mammoplasties, which are largely covered by insurance, are among the elective procedures that provide significant revenue to the hospital. This expected decline in procedures suggests a potential decline in revenue provided by the plastic surgery department of a hospital. The purpose of this study was to analyze the loss of revenue experienced by a single academic medical institution due to changes in breast reduction mammoplasty volumes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Upon institutional review board approval, using the Augusta University Medical Center's Financial Billing Data, 373 patients who underwent bilateral reduction mammoplasty were queried. A time horizon of March 2019 to February 2022 was used to determine the pre- and post-COVID case load and charges that were incurred. Statistical analysis to compare the prior 12 months and after 24 months of COVID was conducted using 2 samples of equal variance t test and F test confirming equal variance. There was a statistically significant increase in the number of reduction mammoplasties performed per month from the year before the onset of COVID-19 (March 2020) to the 2 years after (6.6-11.4 per month, P = 0.0024). There was a statistically significant increase in the per-month charges from the AU Health system for reduction mammoplasties for the same period ($31,780.92-$52,113.34 per month, P = 0.0054). Although there was an increase in per-month revenue from reduction mammoplasties, this increase failed to reach statistical significance ($7,059.95-$10,423.51 per month, P = 0.064). The plastic surgery department saw a statistically significant increase in reduction mammoplasty cases and subsequent charges in the post-COVID cohort. These findings suggest that the emergence of a nationwide pandemic did not necessarily lead to a decrease in the volume of nonemergent surgical cases despite an expected decrease in caseload due to the need to reallocate hospital resources. On the contrary, there was an increase in caseload suggesting that there may be other factors contributing to patients' pursuance of reduction mammoplasty post-COVID including convenience, resulting from time off due to pandemic, meeting insurance-covered reduction criteria, and projected recovery time.

Evaluation of Vermillion Symmetry and Scar Quality in Unilateral Cleft Lip Repair Using Modified Millard's Technique Versus Fisher's Technique

BackgroundSince the primary goal of cleft lip repair is to achieve a symmetrical, aesthetic lip, several surgical techniques have been utilized. Accordingly, in this study, a unilateral cleft lip was surgically repaired using two techniques: modified Millard's and Fisher's techniques. PurposeThis study was designed to compare the vermillion symmetry and scar quality in the surgical management of patients with unilateral incomplete cleft lip using the modified Millard's and Fisher's techniques. Study design, setting, and sampleWe conducted a prospective randomized controlled clinical study. The study involved 20 patients selected from the Department of Plastic Pediatric Surgery at the Specialized Pediatric Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University. The patients included in the study were aged between 2 and 6 months old, had a primary non-syndromic unilateral incomplete cleft lip, and had no other associated anomalies. Predictor variableThe predictor variable was operative management of the cleft lip, and subjects were randomly assigned to either the modified Millard or Fisher techniques. Outcome variablesThe primary outcome, vermilion symmetry, was evaluated by computerized photogrammetric lip analysis with Image J software. Additionally, scar quality, considered a secondary outcome, was assessed with the Vancouver Scar Scale and the Image J software. Every measurement was meticulously recorded in millimeters. CovariatesAge, sex, and cleft side were considered. AnalysesThe study comprised 20 children (12 males and 8 females), with a mean age of 140.5 ± 23.7 days in the Fisher’s group and 137.4 ± 25.6 days in the modified Millard’s group (p = 0.8). No statistically significant differences (p = 0.6) were found in vermillion height and width between both groups at 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences (p = 0.4) between both groups in terms of scar length and width at the 3- and 6-month follow-up periods. Conclusions and RelevanceThis study found no statistically significant differences in vermillion symmetry and scar quality between the two cleft lip repair techniques. Notably, one patient in the modified Millard group exhibited a notch on the vermillion border, which was not statistically significant.

Incidence and Factors Associated With the Development of Calvarial Osteoradionecrosis in Patients Treated for Cutaneous Malignancies

Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Objective Calvarial osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a rare but devastating complication of radiotherapy. The aim of this study was to describe the cumulative incidence of Calvarial ORN in patients in patients treated for cutaneous malignancy of the scalp. Methods Data was compiled from patient records of a large tertiary hospital Plastic Surgery department and radiotherapy records of an affiliated cancer Center. We included all patients that were treated for cutaneous malignancies of the scalp that received radiotherapy. Patient demographics, cancer stage, treatment modalities, intraoperative details, and patient outcome data were recorded. Patients with incomplete radiotherapy data were excluded. Results We analyzed 105 radiotherapy treatments to the scalp administered to 84 patients and recorded 7 cases of calvarial ORN resulting in a gross incidence of 6.67% per radiotherapy treatment. The parietal bone was the most frequently targeted site of radiotherapy and accordingly the most common site of ORN (85.7%). Median time from radiotherapy dose to the development of ORN was 846 days. Higher number of radiotherapy fractionation ( P = .038), cumulative radiotherapy dose ( P = .035), prolonged radiotherapy duration ( P = .022) and skin grafting ( P = .003) were associated with the development of ORN. Conclusions Our findings suggest radiotherapy variables, such as prolonged radiotherapy duration, increased cumulative dose and higher radiotherapy fractions were strongly associated with the development of ORN. In addition, skin grafting following surgical resection was associated with the development of ORN. Further studies with larger sample sizes are required to further explore this relationship.

Nano Fat Graft Harvested from Abdomen in Comparison with Thigh in the Treatment of Hyperpigmentation of Face

Objective: To evaluate the outcomes of nano fat graft harvested from abdomen in comparison with thigh in the treatment of hyperpigmentation of face. Study Design: Randomized control trial. Settings: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery department, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: 2 years January 2021-December 2023. Methods: The tissue thickness was also assessed through ultrasonographical imaging in all patients. Cases enrolled were divided into two groups wherein Group I was those cases where Nano fat graft was generated from the medial thigh fat while Group II were those cases where the abdomen region fat was used for the formation of the fat graft. A 10-cc syringe (14G needle) in multiple layers was used for injecting fat graft under local anesthesia. Over corrections were performed up to 20-30% for due to absorption chance. Postoperative ultrasonography was performed and tissue thickness was observed after 3 months for comparing the fat survival and thickness rate. Results: The fat thickness in the application of medial thigh fat graft group I was observed slightly higher than the abdomen-based fat graft generated, although the variance was insignificant. It was observed that the rate of complications like bruising and pain was higher in the group I while seroma was lowed in group I than Group II. Conclusion: The Nano fat graft generated from the fat tissues of the medial thigh has higher efficacy and survival rate with lack of lethal complications than the nano graft generated form the abdomen fats.

CERVICAL SCAR CONTRACTURES: EXPERIENCE OF THE PLASTIC SURGERY DEPARTMENT IN MARRAKECH

Deep cervical burns can lead to disabling sequelae, especially in cases of delayed, incorrect, or inadequate initial burn management. The aim of this study is to report the various epidemiological aspects of cervical contractures, analyze therapeutic modalities, and emphasize the importance of prevention. Our work is a retrospective study spanning a period of 10 years from July 2013 to July 2023, which includes 107 cases of cervical contractures followed at the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department and Burn Unit of the Mohammed VI University Hospital Center in Marrakech. The average age of our patients is 20 years, ranging from 1 to 55 years. 68% of the studied population is female, with a sex ratio of 2.14. They mostly come from a low socioeconomic background. The most frequently found circumstances of the initial burn were domestic accidents, accounting for 80% of all accidents. The etiology of the initial burn is thermal in all patients in our series, 100%. In our study, the majority of cases were initially managed in non-specialized health centers or even at home through traditional practices. Initial treatment involved conventional treatment in 45.5% of cases, early excision with grafting in 22.7% of cases, and physiotherapy (compression therapy, massage) in 22.7% of cases. The topographic distribution of sequelae showed a predominance of anterior neck involvement in 96% of cases. Facial burn sequelae are most frequently associated (70%) with cervical contractures, followed by trunk sequelae (50%). The majority of patients (80.5%) present with deformation of the cervico-mental angle, as well as limitation of cervical extension. Severe cervical contractures (according to Achauers classification) are the most frequent, representing 44.6% of cases. Surgical treatment of these sequelae involves various methods, including skin grafts used in 50.6% of cases, local flaps used in 38.4% of cases, flaps used in 5.5% of cases, and skin expansion used in 5.5% of cases. Functional and aesthetic improvement is achieved in 85.9% of cases, while surgical revision was necessary in 5 patients. Cervical burn sequelae pose a major therapeutic challenge, despite the diversity of surgical procedures, hence the importance of prevention.

Application of System Nursing in the Prevention of Postoperative Nonstructural Scoliosis in Patients With Ear Reconstruction.

To evaluate whether early systematic nursing can reduce the occurrence of postoperative nonstructural scoliosis in patients undergoing ear reconstruction. A total of 136 patients with congenital microtia who underwent ear reconstruction surgery at the Department of Plastic Surgery, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from, January 2022 to July 2022 were included as study subjects. They were randomly divided into a routine nursing group and a systematic nursing group. After preoperative and postoperative education, as well as continuous follow-up intervention after surgery, spinal CT three-dimensional imaging examination was performed 6 months later to measure the Cobb angle and observe the occurrence of spinal scoliosis. Compared with the routine nursing group, the incidence and severity of postoperative nonstructural scoliosis were significantly reduced in patients who received systematic nursing. Systematic nursing intervention for patients undergoing ear reconstruction can help prevent the occurrence of postoperative nonstructural scoliosis and has a positive effect on improving patient prognosis. It is worth promoting in clinical treatment.

Paucity of Online Information About Gender-Affirming Surgery Fellowships in the United States.

Despite growing demand for gender-affirming surgery (GAS), there are few formal GAS fellowships in the United States. Paucity of online information about GAS fellowships may discourage potential applicants and decrease the visibility of the field. Thus, it is important to analyze the existing online information about GAS fellowships to improve fellow recruitment and patient outcomes. To identify the number of GAS fellowship websites (GASFWs) and evaluate their robustness. Second, to report the social media presence of GAS fellowships. To identify GASFWs, existing databases sponsored by plastic surgery associations and Google query were used between April and May 2023. Thirty-five independent variables based on previously published data were evaluated for presence in a bivariate fashion on GASFWs. Accounts on popular social media websites were also identified by Google query. Website and social media analysis were also done for GAS fellowships that were offered by departments/specialties other than plastic surgery. In total, only 6 GASFWs associated with plastic surgery departments were identified and analyzed. Eight nonplastic surgery GASFWs were included for analysis. Overall, both categories of GASFWs were not robust; key information such as previous fellow listing and selection criteria was often missing. Furthermore, important topics specifically related to GAS such as community engagement and programmatic building are often not found on GASFWs either. In addition, none of the fellowships had any independent Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. To ensure patient safety and quality outcomes, it is important to promote GAS by recruiting more applicants for specialized training beyond residency. With increased Internet use, improving GASFWs and social media presence as well as considering the use of a centralized database or match system can foster the growth of the field.

Aesthetic Reconstruction Based on Facial Subunit Principle for Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Face: A Retrospective Analysis.

Background and objective Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignancy of the skin. Reconstruction of post-excisional defects in BCC should follow the subunit principle for better outcomes. The location of BCC of the faceis determined based on facial units; however, very few studies have described the involvement of multiple units and multiple subunits in BCC. In this study, we aimed to provide valuable insights into the management of BCC involving various facial units and subunits, thereby contributing to improved patient care and outcomes. Materials and methods We conducted a retrospective studyat the Plastic Surgery Department of the SCB Medical College in Cuttack, Odisha, from January 2020 to January 2022, after obtaining ethical approvalfrom the SCB Medical College IRB (no: 1155). We examined 35 patients with BCC of the face. The inclusion criteria were as follows: patients with early-stage and primary tumors that were mobile, not attached to underlying bone or cartilage, and amenable to surgical resection. Conversely, patients with late-stage, neglected, and recurrent tumors, fixed tumors, or those infiltrating the underlying bone or cartilage were excluded from the study. Data collection involved retrieving pertinent information from medical records, including parameters such as age, sex, tumor site, type of flap utilized, follow-up, and any complications observed. The tumor sites were further divided into six separate groups based on facial aesthetic units: the forehead, the nose, the area around the eyes, the cheek, the mouth, and the area around the ear, each with its own subunits. Results A total of 35 patients were included in this study, comprising 15 males (42.85%) and 20 females (57.15%), with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.33. The ages of the patients ranged from 42 to 68 years. Among the facial units, the nose was the most commonly involved (in seven cases), while the lip was the least commonly affected (in one case). In 24 cases, a single unit was involved, while 11 cases involved multiple units. Furthermore, single subunits were affected in 18 cases, double subunits in 10 cases, three subunits in five cases, four subunits in one case, and five subunits in another case. Notably, no cases exhibited flap necrosis, wound dehiscence, wound hematoma, or seroma, indicating excellent surgical outcomes. All flaps remained viable, and all patients were followed up for a minimum of one year, with no reported recurrence during the follow-up period ranging from 6 to 18 months, reaffirming the effectiveness of the treatment approach. Conclusions For small, superficial lesions, full-thickness skin grafts (FTSG) are a suitable treatment option. However, when dealing with larger lesions that encompass multiple subunits, the preferred approach involves reconstructing with locoregional flaps. It is essential to plan the procedure carefully, taking into account the goal of positioning the final scar along the junction of facial subunits. This strategic plan aims to achieve superior aesthetic outcomes.

Clinical effects of flaps or myocutaneous flaps transplantation after titanium mesh-retaining debridement in repairing the wounds with exposed titanium mesh after cranioplasty

Objective: To explore the clinical effects of flaps or myocutaneous flaps transplantation after debridement to repair the wounds with exposed titanium mesh after cranioplasty on the premise of retaining the titanium mesh. Methods: This study was a retrospective observational study. From February 2017 to October 2022, 22 patients with titanium mesh exposure after cranioplasty who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to the Department of Plastic, Aesthetic & Maxillofacial Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, including 15 males and 7 females, aged from 19 to 68 years. After admission, treatments such as bacterial culture of wound exudate sample, anti-infection, and dressing change were carried out. Thorough surgical debridement was performed when the wound improved, and the wound area was 3.0 cm×2.0 cm to 11.0 cm×8.0 cm after debridement. The wound was repaired with local flaps, expanded flaps, or free latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps according to the size, location, severity of infection, and surrounding tissue condition of the wounds, and the areas of flaps or myocutaneous flaps were 5.5 cm×4.0 cm to 18.0 cm×15.0 cm. The donor areas of flaps were sutured directly or repaired by split-thickness skin grafts from head. The wound repair method was recorded. The survivals of flaps or myocutaneous flaps after surgery and wound healing in 2 weeks after surgery were recorded. During postoperative follow-up, recurrence of infection or titanium mesh exposure in the implanted area of titanium mesh was observed; the head shapes of patients, scar formation of the operative incision, and baldness were observed. At the last follow-up, the satisfaction of patients with the treatment effect (dividing into three levels: satisfied, basically satisfied, and dissatisfied) was evaluated. The total treatment costs of patients during their hospitalization were calculated. Results: The wounds in 11 cases were repaired with local flaps, the wounds in 5 cases were repaired with expanded flaps, and the wounds in 6 cases were repaired with free latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps. All flaps or myocutaneous flaps survived completely after surgery, and all wounds healed well in 2 weeks after surgery. Follow up for 6 to 48 months after operation, only one patient with local flap grafting experienced a recurrence of infection in the titanium mesh implanted area at more than one month after surgery, and the titanium mesh was removed because of ineffective treatment. Except for one patient who had a local depression in the head after removing the titanium mesh, the rest of the patients had a full head shape. Except for myocutaneous flap grafting areas in 6 cases and skin grafting area in 1 case with local flaps grafting had no hair growth, the other patients had no baldness. All the scars in surgical incision were concealed. At the last follow-up, 19 cases were satisfied with the treatment effects, 2 cases were basically satisfied, and 1 case was dissatisfied. The total treatment cost for patients in this group during hospitalization was 11 764-36 452 (22 304±6 955) yuan. Conclusions: For patients with titanium mesh exposure after cranioplasty, on the premise of adequate preoperative preparation and thorough debridement, the wound can be repaired with appropriate flaps or myocutaneous flaps according to the wound condition. The surgery can preserve all or part of the titanium mesh. The postoperative wound healing is good and the recurrence of infection or titanium mesh exposure in the titanium mesh implanted area is reduced, leading to good head shape, reduced surgical frequency, and decreased treatment costs.

Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Detects Body Fat Changes After Surgical Subcutaneous Fat Removal.

Background: The risk and metabolic effects of obesity are determined by the distribution of fat throughout the body. It has been proposed that the distribution of abdominal fat is more closely related to the metabolic risks of obesity. High prevalence of overweight and obesity has thereby contributed to an increased uptake of surgical subcutaneous fat removal (SSFR) procedures. The goal of this study was to determine whether bioelectrical impedance analysis (Tanita system) can be used to detect the removal of excess abdominal subcutaneous fat tissue during SSFR when studying the metabolic effects of such procedures. Methods: Study population comprised patients who received body contouring procedures at the Hamad General Hospital's plastic surgery department between November 2020 and December 2022. To evaluate the factors of interest, subjects were prospectively followed up at two time points: within 1 week before the surgery and within 1-2 weeks thereafter. The following factors were measured: body weight, body fat percentage, body fat mass, body mass index (BMI), fat-free mass, estimated muscle mass, total body water, visceral fat score, and basal metabolic rate. Results: In total, 22 patients were included in the study. The two visits' medians for height, weight, BMI, fat percent (fat%), fat mass, visceral fat rating, and Doi's weighted average glucose (dwAG) were compared. Only in the case of Tanita fat% and fat mass, were the preoperative and postoperative medians significantly different. Furthermore, there was no association between these Tanita measures and dwAG or homeostatic model assessment (HOMA; insulin resistance [IR]) changes (before and after surgery). Tanita measures overestimated fat loss, as seen by the mountain plot and Bland-Altman plot agreement methods. Conclusions: Our findings indicated that the only two Tanita measures exhibited meaningful early associations with the amount of tissue excised which were fat mass and fat% differences. Although dwAG and HOMA-IR are not impacted immediately postsurgery, a trend was seen that suggested improvements in those parameters, even though the changes are not clinically significant.

Possibilities of using topical retinoids and azelaic acid in acne therapy

Background. Acne is a common, complex and multifactorial inflammatory disease that results from a variety of causes. Acne therapy is an urgent problem of dermatocosmetology. The clinical manifestations of dermatosis can be alleviated, and its long-term consequences can be prevented by early diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment, affecting multifaceted all parts of the pathogenesis.&#x0D; Aims. To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of the use of monotherapy of 0.1% adapalene cream (Adaclean) with combined external therapy of 0.1% adapalene cream (Adaclean) with 20% azelaic acid cream (Azix-Derm) in the treatment of mild to moderate acne.&#x0D; Methods. Under our supervision at the Department of Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Cosmetology and Regenerative Medicine of the State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Professional Education Rost of the State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, the clinics “Ekaterininskaya” and “MIR-O-MED” there were 50 patients aged 12 to 50 years (18 (36%) men and 32 (64%) women) with mild and moderate acne. Patients with comedonal acne, in the absence of multiple inflammatory elements, which made up group 1 of observation (n = 16), were prescribed Adaclean cream, 1 time per day (evening) against the background of skin care. In the group with mild to moderate papulo-pustular acne and post-inflammatory changes (group 2, n = 34), patients were prescribed a combination of 0.1% adapalene cream and 20% azelaic acid cream (Adaclean (evening) and Azix-Derm (morning)). The follow-up period was 6 months.&#x0D; Results. Total clinical remission after 6 months therapy was achieved in 70% of cases, a significant improvement — in 28%, improvement — in 2%. In patients with a comedonal form of acne against the background of monotherapy with Adaclean cream, clinical recovery was obtained in 44% of patients, a significant improvement — in 50%, and an improvement — in 6%. In patients from the group of papulo-pustular acne of mild to moderate severity, after 3 months the use of complex therapy Adaclean and Azix-Derm noted almost complete relief of the inflammatory process; after 6 months therapy clinical recovery was recorded in 58%, significant improvement — in 36%; 6% showed partial improvement, which is associated with irregular use of drugs and skin care products. After 6 months combined treatment was able to achieve regression of dyschromia in 18–46% of patients, atrophic scars — in 5–22%, which significantly improved the results of therapy and made it possible to achieve a good cosmetic effect.&#x0D; Conclusion. The combined use of drugs for external use of adapalene (Adaclean) and AK (Azix-Derm) in the treatment of papulo-pustular acne of mild and AK (Azix-Derm) in the treatment of papulo-pustular acne of mild and moderate severity can significantly increase the effectiveness of treatment, achieve a stable clinical effect and remission of the disease, as well as improve the quality of life of patients.