Postoperative Aesthetic Results Research Articles

The evolving role of the superficial temporal vessels as anastomotic recipients in challenging microvascular reconstruction of the upper two-thirds of the face

Free-tissue transfer is now the standard of care in reconstructing head and neck defects. Microvascular reconstruction of the upper two-thirds of the face, particularly following recurrent malignant disease, however, remains a challenge. Retrospective review of all patients undergoing microsurgical reconstruction for defects of the upper two-thirds of the face between 2015 and 2019 revealed 17 free-tissue transfers where the superficial temporal vessels (STVs) were used as recipient vessels. Perioperative data, including return to theatre (RTT) and flap success rates were evaluated. Three patients required reoperation for vascular compromise. One of these patients ultimately lost the flap resulting in flap survival of 94%. This flap failure was, however, secondary to external factors distant to the flap and the anastomosis. In this patient, subsequent attempt at microvascular reconstruction was carried out successfully using contralateral neck vessels and vein grafts. We demonstrate the STVs are safe and reliable in microsurgical reconstruction for a variety of defects. Close proximity to the resection, reconstructing with flaps with a short pedicle, negating the need for neck access and/or high-risk anastomosis in a previously irradiated/operated vessel depleted neck are all highlighted indications. The pre-auricular/temporal access is familiar to the reconstructive surgeon and has excellent post-operative aesthetic results. We discuss key advantages of this approach and highlight potential complications and learning points - underlining the benefit of this approach for the head and neck reconstructive surgeon.

Use of Retroauricular Flaps to Reconstruct Defects of the Helical Rim and Adjuvant Intralesional Corticosteroids after Resection of Large Keloids.

The optimal treatment for large helical rim keloids remains unclear. The authors evaluated patient outcomes when retro auricular flaps were used to reconstruct helical rim defects and adjuvant intralesional corticosteroids were prescribed after resection of large keloids. The authors evaluated 7 females with 12 large keloids of the helical rim (5 patients had lesions in both ears). All patients were aged 18 to 33 years. The authors used retro auricular flaps to reconstruct the helical rim defects and prescribed adjuvant intralesional corticosteroids after resection. The lesion area ranged from 2.5 × 2.0 to 3.5 × 3.5 cm2. The flap size ranged from 2.5 × 3.0 to 3.5 × 4.5 cm2. The flaps and wound bases received 3 steroid injections at approximately 1, 2, and 3 months postoperatively. No flap necrosis or complications were noted. The postoperative esthetic results were satisfactory in 8 patients and excellent in 4. All patients were followed up for 14 to 28 months (median, 20.6 months). No recurrence was noted, although 3 patients exhibited mild scarring of the wound flap base. A retro auricular flap is safe and effective for reconstructing helical rim defects; adjuvant intralesional corticosteroids prevent scarring of the flap wound base after resection of large keloids.

Introduction of Digital-Assisted Multidisciplinary Treatment in the Functional and Morphological Reconstruction of Naso-Orbital-Ethmoid Fractures.

This study summarizes the process of digital-assisted multidisciplinary treatment (MDT) of naso-orbital-ethmoid (NOE) fractures and evaluates the treatment outcomes. From October 2018 to December 2020, 39 patients with NOE fractures were treated in our department, 21 of whom were diagnosed and treated by a multidisciplinary team. After preoperative multidisciplinary discussions and personalized virtual surgical planning, they received MDT with the assistance of a surgical navigation system. The other 18 patients received traditional single-disciplinary treatment, that is, no preoperative multidisciplinary discussions. Oral and maxil-lofacial surgeons performed surgical design and digitally-assisted surgery alone. After the operation, treatment outcomes were evaluated in terms of aesthetic appearance and function. The duration of preoperative preparation and postoperative aesthetic outcomes were not significantly different in patients who received single-disciplinary treatment and MDT ( P > 0.05). However, postoperative functional outcomes were significantly better in patients who received MDT ( P < 0.05). Furthermore, no significant complications were found. Digital-assisted MDT has a high application value in repair and appearance reconstruction, especially restoring functionality after NOE fracture; thus, it should be promoted in clinical practice.

Retrospective Study of 114 Free Flaps for Head and Neck Oncological Reconstruction in a Portuguese Tertiary Cancer Center.

The Portuguese experience in microsurgical reconstruction of the head and neck after oncological surgery is scantly described. The primary aim of this study was to characterize the use of microvascular reconstruction after head and neck tumor resection in a Portuguese tertiary oncological centerMaterial and Methods: The authors retrospectively evaluated 114 microvascular free flap procedures performed for head and neck reconstruction after oncological resection in a department of Head and Neck Surgery of a Portuguese tertiary oncological center. Patients were operated on from January 2012 to May 2018. Data on patient demographic features, tumour characteristics, perioperative complications, postoperative aesthetic and functional results, survival time and time to recurrence were extracted. Most tumours mandating microsurgical reconstruction were mucosal squamous cell carcinomas (85%) and were located in the oral region (95.6%). Around 45% of the patients had a T4a tumour and 30% a T2 tumour. Cervical metastases were present in 45.6% of the cases. The radial forearm flap and the fibular flap were the most commonly used microsurgical reconstructive options (58% and 41%, respectively). More than 80% of patients had no post-operative complications. Partial necrosis of the flap occurred in 6.1% of patients, while total flap necrosis occurred in 3.5% of cases. Aesthetic and functional results were considered at least satisfactory in all patients in which the flaps survived. This study is by far the largest series of microsurgical head and neck reconstruction after oncological surgery reported by a single tertiary centre in Portugal. Survival and functional benefits are similar to those reported in other large oncological centres in the world. Microvascular reconstruction seems like a reliable treatment option in head and neck oncological surgery at our institution.

Intraoperative 3D Comparison of Round and Anatomical Breast Implants: Dispelling a Myth.

Background: Thanks to 3D imaging, it is possible to measure the influence of different parameters on breast augmentation. In this study, we compare the effect of different shapes and sizes of breast implants on the topography of the resulting breast. Furthermore, the impact of different breast implants on inter-landmark distances and on changes of the nipple position was assessed. Methods: This interventional prospective study was carried out on 10 female patients after collecting informed consent. 3D scans of the native and augmented breasts were performed intraoperatively with small, medium, and large sizes of both anatomical and round implants, resulting in a total of n = 130 single breast scans. These scans were analyzed for topographic shift quantification, nipple migration, and inter-landmark distances of the breast. Results: Implant size, but not implant shape leads to significant topographic shifts of the breast (p < 0.001 and p = 0.900, respectively). Both round and anatomical implants lead to a significantly higher volumetric increase in the upper quadrants compared to the lower quadrants (p < 0.001). Nipple migration into the superomedial quadrant was seen in about 90% of augmentations. No evident differences in inter-landmark distances were observed when round and anatomical implants of different sizes were compared. Conclusions: Implant size rather than shape influences the postoperative aesthetic results. No significant difference in topographic shift was found comparing round and anatomical implants, suggesting that both implant shapes result in comparable aesthetic outcomes.

Endoscopic-assisted Nipple-sparing Mastectomy with Direct-to-Implant Subpectoral Breast Reconstruction in the Management of Breast Cancer.

Summary:Endoscopic-assisted or robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy (E-NSM or R-NSM) with direct-to-implant breast reconstruction is becoming an increasingly popular surgical treatment for breast cancer patients. However, existing surgical methods such as traditional two-dimensional endoscopic-assisted or robot-assisted surgery are time-consuming and expensive. A new innovative three-dimensional videoscope system is efficient but needs special instruments; additionally, the incision over the extramammary region near the anterior axillary line is still too invisible. This study took place from May 2020 to April 2021. This technique is suitable for patients with small- to moderate-sized breasts (C cup size and below; grade 0 to grade I ptotic breasts). We have now performed 30 procedures, including eight bilateral reconstructions. The average operative time (including axillary operation) of a unilateral reconstruction is 179 ± 40.96 minutes, and for bilateral reconstruction, it was 271 ± 45.29 minutes. The median follow-up time was 9.93 months. For the complications, only one patient presented with a mild depigmentation of the nipple and one patient presented with local cellulitis but recovered after oral administration of antibiotics. All patients were satisfied with their postoperative aesthetic outcome. We present a new surgical technique of E-NSM with direct-to-implant subpectoral breast reconstruction to achieve better results.

Examination of Postoperative Outcomes Using Morphological and X-Ray Classifications and Selection of the Toe to Be Excised in Postaxial Polydactyly of the Foot

The treatment of postaxial polydactyly requires excision of the medial fifth or lateral sixth toe, and separation of the adjacent fourth/fifth toes if the adjacent toes exhibit skin syndactyly. Morphological changes in the retained toes and reoperation are common problems after such surgery. This study examined the effects of preoperative classifications and selecting the medial fifth or lateral sixth toe for excision on the postoperative outcomes of surgery for postaxial polydactyly. From April 2006 to March 2019, surgery for postaxial polydactyly was performed on 55 feet in 49 patients. The patients’ mean age at surgery was 28.8 months. Postoperative esthetic and bone alignment scores, the reoperation rate, and postoperative dysfunction were examined. The postoperative esthetic and bone alignment evaluations were performed by examining postoperative photograph and X-ray images using original scoring systems. The surgical procedure was chosen by the surgeon-in-charge during a preoperative conference after considering the toe growth and bone alignment. In the postoperative esthetic evaluation, excising the lateral sixth toe produced significantly better outcomes than excising the medial fifth toe. The morphological classification also indicated that excising the lateral sixth toe produced better outcomes, as it resulted in the bifurcated toes being clearly independent. Interestingly, the postoperative X-ray-based bone alignment score was not correlated with the esthetic score. The reoperation rate tended to be high after medial fifth toe excision. There were no postoperative functional complications. Lateral sixth toe excision for postaxial polydactyly of the foot produces good postoperative esthetic outcomes.

An Algorithmic Approach for the Reconstruction of Extended Upper-Third Auricular Soft Tissue Defects.

Auricular defects are demanding to reconstruct due to the complex anatomy and the three-dimensional shape of the ear. The functional perspective needs to be addressed without neglecting aesthetic outcomes though, given that it is a prominent facial landmark. In this report the reconstruction of a sizable soft tissue defect of the helical crus and upper third of the right auricle, following surgical excision of a skin tumor, is presented. A variety of treatment options is explored, and a relevant algorithm is proposed. This defect was reconstructed using a transposition flap from the postauricular area, accomplishing single-stage full defect coverage combined with optimal postoperative aesthetic results. High patient satisfaction levels were achieved, avoiding more complicated and prolonged procedures. This case exemplifies the proposed algorithmic approach of upper-third auricular defects, addressing these defects in a systematic and logical manner.

Anchored Suture Technique for the Reconstruction of Paranasal Skin Defects Secondary to Melanocytic Nevus Excision.

To describe a modified anchored suture technique combined with varied flaps for the repair of paranasal skin defect secondary to melanocytic nevus excision. The feasibility and effectiveness of the technique were discussed. A total of 26 patients (10 male and 16 female) with an average age of 11.1 years were included in this retrospective study. All patients underwent the anchored suture technique. The subcutaneous tissue of the free margin of the cheek flap was sutured to the deep pyriform ligament. The local flaps were designed according to the size and shape of the defect. The diameter of the nevi ranged from 2.8 to 7.5 cm, with most being 3 to 5 cm (50%). Among the 26 patients, 17 patients underwent the anchored suture technique and nonadvancement flap, whereas the other 9 patients underwent the anchored suture technology and advancement flap with auxiliary incisions. Twenty-five patients had a symmetric nasal alar and unapparent scar and were satisfied with postoperative aesthetic outcomes. Thus, the anchored suture method combined with different flaps to repair paranasal defect is an effective and affordable technique to reconstruct paranasal tissue connections.

EVALUATION OF PATIENTS’ SATISFACTION AFTER RHINOPLASTY: A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Background: Rhinoplasty is a technically demanding procedure, requiring a comprehensive understanding of the nasal and facial anatomy and carrying out the nasofacial analysis. These factors are critical in determining the operative plan and the most effective technique that manipulates cartilage, bone, and soft tissue. The ultimate aim of rhinoplasty is to satisfy the patients with post-operative aesthetic and functional outcomes. Objective: To assess the long-term functional and aesthetic satisfaction among a sample of Egyptian patients subjected to rhinoplasty. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective cohort study conducted at Al-Azhar University Hospitals from May 2014 to May 2019. Patients aged more than 22 years of both sexes subjected to rhinoplasty, and presented in the outpatient clinics for follow-up were included. Post-operative counseling with the patients about the pre-operative conditions and deformities was done. Patients’ satisfaction was assessed using the rhinoplasty outcome evaluation questionnaire. Results: This study included a total of 30 patients. Of them, there was 3 (10%) male and 27 (90%) females with a mean age of 38.1±6.91years. The mean level of Rhinoplasty outcome evaluation questionnaire was 77.1±6.91. Out of the included patients, 17 (56.66%) patients were satisfied with their aesthetic and functional rhinoplasty outcomes and were presented only for follow-up. Of the remaining 13 (43.33%) cases, four (13.3%) cases required secondary correction due to functional problems and complained of headache and difficulty breathing. Two patients were dissatisfied due to partner dissatisfaction that developed significant psychological impact. Conclusion: A considerable proportion of patients were dissatisfied after rhinoplasty. The major contributing factors are related to functional and aesthetic problems, as well as psychological morbidities. Therefore, patients seeking rhinoplasty should be subjected to thoroughly functional and psychological evaluation preoperatively to achieve the desired functional and aesthetic outcomes.

V08-12 Y-SHAPED INCISIONS AND THREE-FLAP UMBILICOPLASTY: A NOVEL LAPAROENDOSCOPIC SINGLE-SITE SURGICAL APPROACH FOR PATIENTS WITH SYMPTOMATIC URACHAL SINUS

You have accessJournal of UrologyNOTES/LESS (V08)1 Sep 2021V08-12 Y-SHAPED INCISIONS AND THREE-FLAP UMBILICOPLASTY: A NOVEL LAPAROENDOSCOPIC SINGLE-SITE SURGICAL APPROACH FOR PATIENTS WITH SYMPTOMATIC URACHAL SINUS Hakushi Kim, Masahiro Nitta, Masanori Hasegawa, Yoshiaki Kawamura, Sunao Shoji, Hidenori Zakoji, and Akira Miyajima Hakushi KimHakushi Kim More articles by this author , Masahiro NittaMasahiro Nitta More articles by this author , Masanori HasegawaMasanori Hasegawa More articles by this author , Yoshiaki KawamuraYoshiaki Kawamura More articles by this author , Sunao ShojiSunao Shoji More articles by this author , Hidenori ZakojiHidenori Zakoji More articles by this author , and Akira MiyajimaAkira Miyajima More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002041.12AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Symptomatic urachal sinuses are rare benign anomalies that affect young adults. Surgical intervention is necessary for curative treatment, but acceptable postoperative esthetic outcomes are also required in young patients. In recent years, laparoscopic surgery has largely replaced the open surgical approach and cosmetic outcomes have improved. We describe a novel laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) surgical approach using Y-shaped incisions and three-flap umbilicoplasty to improve repair and esthetic outcomes. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 51 patients diagnosed with symptomatic urachal remnants at our institution between December 2014 and September 2020. We included 34 men and 17 women with a mean age of 27 years in this study. The clinical and perioperative data and esthetic outcomes of 51 patients who underwent LESS surgery were investigated. Body image and cosmesis of each patient after surgery were assessed subjectively using a self-assessment body image questionnaire (BIQ). RESULTS: The median operative time and the median insufflation time were 144 minutes (66–297 minutes) and 45 minutes (11–188 minutes), respectively. The median estimated blood loss and postoperative hospital stay were 5 mL (0–128 mL) and 4 days (2–13 days), respectively. The median body image and cosmesis scores after surgery were 19/20 and 21/24, respectively. Pictures of preoperative and postoperative umbilical appearances are depicted (Figure). CONCLUSIONS: Our novel LESS approach showed surgical feasibility for symptomatic urachal sinus. Moreover, the high postoperative BIQ scores indicated good perception of body image change and good satisfaction with postoperative cosmetic outcomes of this technique. Source of Funding: None © 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 206Issue Supplement 3September 2021Page: e604-e605 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Hakushi Kim More articles by this author Masahiro Nitta More articles by this author Masanori Hasegawa More articles by this author Yoshiaki Kawamura More articles by this author Sunao Shoji More articles by this author Hidenori Zakoji More articles by this author Akira Miyajima More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Loading ...

Improving preparedness prior to reconstructive breast surgery via inclusion of 3D images during pre-operative counselling: a qualitative analysis

BackgroundA proportion of women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer choose to undergo breast reconstruction. Evidence suggests that women’s preparedness for this surgery is low and that this may contribute to feelings of unmatched expectations and anxiety. There is substantial interest in decision-aids to remedy this. This study explores the incorporation of digitally rendered three-dimensional images into pre-operative counselling sessions as a means of enhancing patient preparedness.MethodsA database of three-dimensional images was produced showing both optimal and sub-optimal aesthetic outcome, matched to participant on the basis of type of surgical reconstruction, body habitus, and skin tone. Women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer followed by immediate reconstruction were targeted for inclusion. Participants interacted with image software during pre-operative counselling sessions by viewing, rotating, and zooming in/out to gain a more in-depth appreciation of post-operative aesthetic outcome. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews followed thereafter. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, coded, and themes identified.ResultsEight semi-structured interviews took place. The major emergent theme was ‘increased preparedness’ with subthemes including ‘expectation management’, ‘software interaction’, and ‘enhanced realism’. There were no prohibitively negative emotions after interacting with images. Women reported gaining ‘more of a perspective’ and feeling ‘more informed’ after viewing images. They also valued the enhanced interactivity and better appreciation of reconstructed breast symmetry that viewing three-dimensional images offered when compared to viewing two-dimensional photographs. Finally, women also commented that three-dimensional images were more realistic.ConclusionsResults suggest that incorporation of three-dimensional images into pre-operative counselling sessions prior to breast reconstruction, is a fairly simple yet effective method of enhancing patient preparedness prior to surgery. Women particularly valued the ability to use the software to generate a more realistic idea of what to expect after their operation. Future work should focus on better understanding any quantifiable benefit from incorporating three-dimensional images routinely into pre-operative decision-making.

Treatment of donor site wounds using facial skin remaining in the scar area.

Reconstruction of cheek skin defects is surgically challenging. We evaluated the outcomes of using cheek skin remaining in the scar area for treating donor site wounds following the repair of cheek skin defects using full-thickness skin. We conducted a retrospective case series study that included 12 patients with a scar of the cheek. The patients included seven females and five males. The donor site was treated using the cheek skin remaining in the scar area following repair of the cheek skin defect with a full-thickness skin graft from the inner side of the upper arm. Minor flap necrosis of the full-thickness skin graft in the cheek developed in one patient. The postoperative esthetic results were excellent and satisfactory in 11 and 1 patient, respectively. Patients were followed up for 18-32 months; no lagophthalmos or ectropion was noted. However, there were two cases of hyperpigmentation in cheek grafts, and two of graft hypertrophy in the arm. The facial skin remaining in the scar area can be used to treat donor site wounds following a full-thickness skin graft from the inner side of the upper arm to repair a large cheek skin defect.

Porcine small intestine graft for reconstruction of oral defects.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of porcine submucosal allograft (Biodesign Sinonasal Repair Graft [Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN]) in oral cavity and oropharynx reconstruction after ablative surgery.MethodsWe conducted a prospective and retrospective review of patients who underwent Biodesign Sinonasal Repair Graft reconstruction for oral and oropharyngeal surgical defects at a single institution between 2018 and 2020. A total of 11 patients were included in the study. Data points included their perioperative medical and demographic data, immediate postoperative course, and follow‐up visits at 10 days and at 2 months. The clinicopathologic characteristics of their disease, postoperative esthetic, and functional outcomes were recorded and analyzed.ResultsEleven procedures have been performed, and all patients received Biodesign reconstruction either immediately after ablation or after they failed a previous reconstruction. None of the patients had bone exposure. The subsites included oral tongue (n = 6), floor of the mouth (n = 3), buccal mucosa (n = 1), and soft palate (n = 1). In all cases, the operations and the postoperative course were uneventful. The mean defect size was 22 cm2. The median start of oral intake was at 2 days postoperatively. The Biodesign graft healed well in all patients with no total graft loss. There was one complication that required revision surgery due to obstruction of Wharton's duct by the Biodesign material.ConclusionsBiodesign can be a viable option for small and medium‐sized oral and oropharyngeal defects in patients who are medically unfit or do not want to undergo a free flap surgery.Level of Evidence4.

Correction of Metopic Craniosynostosis Using Limited Incision Strip Craniectomy Versus Open Fronto-Orbital Reconstruction: An Assessment of Aesthetic Outcomes.

Metopic craniosynostosis is traditionally repaired with fronto-orbital advancement (FOA) or, alternatively, limited short scar strip craniectomy (LSSSC) followed by helmet therapy. There is controversy among surgeons regarding resultant head shape outcomes between the 2 methods. This study aims to assess how surgeons perceive the postoperative aesthetic results of the 2 metopic craniosynostosis repair methods. A retrospective analysis was performed on 13 (n = 6 LSSSC; n = 7 FOA) patients who presented for surgical correction of isolated metopic craniosynostosis via either LSSSC (followed by helmet therapy) or FOA. Clinical photographs at 1 year postop were shown to 10 craniofacial surgeons who rated the aesthetic outcomes on a Likert scale of 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent) and guessed which surgical method was performed. Mean age at the time of the procedure was younger in LSSSC than FOA (3.1 ± 1.0 versus 17.5 ± 8.5 months; P < 0.001). Mean blood loss was significantly lower with LSSSC versus FOA (202.0 ± 361.2 versus 371.43 ± 122.9 mL; P < 0.001), as was mean blood transfusion requirement (92.5 ± 49.9 versus 151.3 ± 51.2 mL; P < 0.001) and mean duration of the operation (3:06 ± 0:24 versus 7:53 ± 0:31 hours; P < 0.001). Mean surgeon scores of aesthetic outcomes were similar between groups: LSSSC, 3.27 ± 1.09; FOA, 3.51 ± 0.95 (P = 0.171). When asked to identify which procedure patients had received, only 63.8% of responses were correct. Limited short scar strip craniectomy offers an important alternative to traditional open FOA and should be considered as an option for children diagnosed with metopic craniosynostosis.

Comparison of postoperative temporalis muscle atrophy between the muscle-preserving pterional approach and the mini-pterional approach in the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms.

This study aimed to compare the muscle-preserving pterional approach (modified classic pterional approach, mCP) and the mini-pterional approach (mPA) with respect to postoperative temporalis muscle atrophy.From November 2013 to April 2020, 78 patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysm of the anterior circulation underwent surgery using mCP or mPA in our institution. Patients' background characteristics, postoperative complications, and temporalis muscle volume (MV) rates (operative side/healthy side) were retrospectively investigated. In 64 patients (n = 31, mCP group; n = 33, mPA group), excluding 14 patients with missing imaging data from 6 to 24months after surgery, associations between the MV rate and clinical variables were assessed. A multiple regression model was used to examine the association between the MV rate and the surgical method, which is a predictor of postoperative atrophy.The mCP group had a significantly higher mean MV rate than the mPA group (0.955 ± 0.040 and 0.915 ± 0.070, respectively; p = 0.008). Based on the results of the univariate analysis, a multiple regression model was established using sex, age, follow-up period, and the presence of diabetes in addition to the surgical method. Patients who underwent mCP had a higher MV rate than those who underwent mPA (t value = 2.33, p = 0.023).The present result suggested that mCP has a preventive effect on postoperative temporalis muscle atrophy. However, further studies are needed in order to prove that mCP is also effective in terms of postoperative aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Septal Extension Graft in Increasing Nasal Tip Projection.

To study the use of septal extension graft for increasing nasal tip projection in cases of an under-projected nasal tip and to evaluate post-operative aesthetic and functional outcomes associated with it. 28 patients of underprojected tip underwent rhinoplasty with use of Direct caudal type of Septal extension graft with a minimum follow up of 12 months, operated between January 2018 to January 2020. ROE questionnaire and photographic evaluation were used for the assessment of post-operative functional and aesthetic outcomes. Significant improvement was seen in both aesthetic and functional outcomes with a mean ROE questionnaire score of 30.5 pre-operatively to 79.5 post-operatively. Pre-operative and post-operative photographic evaluation showed significant improvement in aesthetic outcome. None of the patients reported any postoperative complication. Septal extension graft can be used in patients with nasal tip deformity, Binder's syndrome, caudal septal dislocation, drooping tip,/ retracted columella and short nose with good post-operative aesthetic and functional outcomes and hence is an important technique for grafting. Owing to its rigid fixation with nasal septum, anterior nasal spine and lower alar cartilage, long term results for the control of nasal tip projection and rotation are remarkable.

Reconstruction of a Severely Damaged Cartilaginous Septum with a Bypass L-Strut Graft using Costal Cartilage

Reconstruction of a weakened septal cartilage is a key procedure for the correction of deformed noses. However, when septal mucoperichondrium dissection is technically challenging, reconstruction of the lower two-thirds of the nose should be performed bypassing the damaged septal cartilage and mucosa. This article summarizes our experience with treating patients with severely damaged septal cartilage with bypass L-strut graft using costal cartilage. We retrospectively reviewed 26 patients who underwent rhinoplasty using bypass L-strut graft. Autologous costal cartilage was used for creating L-strut in two different ways: (1) by fashioning the L-shaped graft as one unit using the sixth rib cartilage and (2) by integrating a dorsal strut with a columellar strut using slices of the seventh rib cartilage. The caudal strut is fixated to the anterior nasal spine; the dorsal L-strut is placed on the nasal dorsum with no fixation to the nasal bone. Medical records were assessed for demographic, clinical, and treatment information. One-piece-type L-strut graft was used for 11 patients and integrated-type L-strut graft was used for 15 patients. No statistical differences were found in postoperative aesthetic outcomes between the two groups. The postoperative assessment of surgical outcomes was excellent in 10 patients, good in 10, fair in 6, and poor in none. Functionally, all 26 patients experienced improvements in nasal breathing. Bypass L-strut graft using costal cartilage is a useful surgical maneuver of septal reconstruction in particular nasal deformity when the creation of the septal mucoperichondrial pocket is difficult or better to be avoided.

Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy in Patients with Breast Cancer.

Introduction: The rate of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) increased within the recent years. The main reasons are: genetic testing, availability of breast reconstruction, more often use of preoperative breast MRI, improvement of postoperative aesthetic results and reimbursement of breast reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to analyze the indication of CPM, it's evolution and the surgical techniques used for this type of surgery. Materials and methods: This prospective study enrolled patients with unilateral breast cancer for which conservative treatment was not an option and underwent CPM concomitant with therapeutic mastectomy, using different techniques, followed by immediate breast reconstruction using alloplastic materials. Results: A total of 45 patients with unilateral breast cancer underwent therapeutic mastectomy and CPM followed by immediate breast reconstruction, between January 2015-December 2020. The mean age was 43.5 years, 64,44% patients had stage I and II breast cancer and 22,22% were triplenegative. The indications for CPM were: pathogenic mutation of BRCA or of other genes associated with high risk of breast cancer, strong family history, suspicious findings on breast MRI, extended micro-calcifications, dense breasts, and extreme anxiety. Conclusions: A growing rate of bilateral mastectomy for unilateral breast cancer was observed. Availability of immediate breast reconstruction and reimbursement plays an important role for patients in choosing CPM. Factors associated with CPM include: young age, pathogenic BRCA mutation, significant family history and triple-negative disease. The rate of immediate postoperative complications was low. CPM is a valid option to reduce the risk of contralateral breast cancer and to achieve a good aesthetic outcome for patients with unilateral breast cancer with high risk of contralateral breast cancer.

Treatment of Pathological Scars with Nanofat Lipograft at the Hermanos Ameijeiras Hospital

Introduction: The healing is the result of the natural restoration of the organism before a corporal aggression produced by a surgical wound or trauma. Poor wound and injury healing represents a functional and aesthetic problem, which is why it deserves special attention. Objective: To evaluate the aesthetic results of the treatment of pathological scars with lipotransfer by nanofat. Method: A prospective longitudinal and descriptive study was carried out with 8 patients from Plastic Surgery Hospital ‘‘Hermanos Ameijeiras” with pathological scars, who received lipotransfer treatment by Coleman method and processing of adipose tissue by nanofat from January to June 2020. Results: 8 patients with ages between 25 and 50 years with a mean age of 39 years were included. The female sex predominated with 75%. The predominant skin color was grades 3 and 5 of the Fitzpatrick classification, both with 50%. The most frequent etiologies were post acne, postoperative and injection scars of allogenic substances, all with 25%. The main anatomical locations were the facial region and in the breasts with 3 patients each, followed by 2 cases in the gluteal region. The postoperative aesthetic results at three months were 100% good, observing macroscopic and microscopic positive changes with the nanograft. No patient presented complications. Conclusions: The treatment of pathological scars with lipotransfer by nanofat is an available, simple and reproducible option that offers objective improvement of the scar with rapid recovery.