Removal Of Scar Tissue Research Articles

Abstract 4137145: Aortic Stenosis in Pregnancy: A Multidisciplinary Team Approach

Introduction: The hemodynamic adaptations that occur during pregnancy can have significant effects on patients with aortic stenosis (AS). These changes can lead to structural changes identified on echocardiogram even during uncomplicated pregnancies. While some cases can be managed with medical therapy and activity modification, others may require valve intervention in the gestational period. Case: A 29-year-old female with history of congenital bicuspid aortic valve, G1P0 presented at 42+2 weeks of pregnancy and was admitted to cardiac intensive care unit for continuous hemodynamic monitoring via use of arterial line. Her prior aortic valve disease was treated by valve repair with valvotomy, removal of tissue from pseudo raphe, removal of calcified scar tissue from both commissures, and a mitral valve repair for closure of an iatrogenic tear in her anterior leaflet. She followed closely with maternal fetal medicine and cardiology but became symptomatic at week 28 with lightheadedness, shortness of breath and decreased exercise tolerance (NYHA Class II). By week 33 she noticed lower extremity edema. Despite recommendations for planned delivery, she opted to wait until full term for delivery. Surveillance echoes revealed rising velocities yet stable valve area by planimetry. She ultimately underwent an uncomplicated Cesarean delivery of baby boy in week 42. At 6 months post partum she had successful transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Discussion: As the severity of valvular disease worsens there is a higher risk of complications during pregnancy. In our case, aortic valve velocities were elevated due to the expected hemodynamic changes of pregnancy. Thus, echocardiography monitoring should be used to assess the left ventricle’s ability to tolerate and compensate for these changes, while intervening based on symptoms and NYHA classification. We highlight the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration for safe and successful delivery in patients with AS.

Effect of cephalosporin injection postoperative after cell assisted lipografting in fat survival and improving post burn scar quality

Scars have always been an issue, and the majority of treatments have failed to address them adequately. The biggest obstacle that plastic surgeons still face is finding an effective procedure that works for all skin types in the long run. In a non-invasive way, external volume expansion (EVE) devices use suction to mechanically stretch and stimulate tissues. Different studies have proposed various mechanisms for how stretch releases the skin, including mechanical action on individual cells, inflammation, ischemia, and soluble mediators that promote cell proliferation, adipogenesis, and most crucially, vascular remodeling. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a product made from autologous blood that is concentrated in plasma volume and contains an abundance of platelets, growth factors, and chemo/cytokines. The contents of the alpha and dense granules in PRP have the ability to provide a high concentration of growth factors to the tissues that need them. Autologous fat grafting, initially described by Neuber in 1893 and subsequently improved by Coleman, is a relatively new alternative to scar tissue removal. It is believed that autologous fat grafting improves skin quality by increasing dermal thickness and volume via stimulating the neosynthesis of collagen fibers. It is still unclear what impact autologous fat grafting has on scar tissue, despite its growing popularity in the medical field, and the use of postoperative cephalosporin is very essential for guarding against infection and losing of fat. Critics have cast doubt on its usefulness due to the fact that survival rates can range from 30% to 80% , the infection rate and loss of fat

Ventricular arrhythmia outcomes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy from a high level myectomy centre

Abstract Background The presence of ≥15% late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used as a prognostic indicator for sudden cardiac death in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). [1] According to the European Society of Cardiology clinical practice guidelines (2014), septal myectomy is only indicated for symptomatic relief from left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) that is refractory to medical therapy, provided LVOTO gradient ≥ 50 mmHg. [2] At present, there is scarce data correlating the burden of ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death with LGE percentage or showing benefit of myectomy in reducing the burden of the same. Purpose We aimed to compare the burden of ventricular arrhythmia burden in patients with HCM who underwent septal myectomy compared with those who did not. Methods Adult patients with HCM followed in the advanced heart failure outpatient clinic at Allegheny General Hospital were included in this study. All included patients had cardiac MRI with LGE quantification and data related to cardiac events through devices placed for various indications (such as evaluation of reported palpitations, established supraventricular tachycardia, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for primary or secondary prevention). Patients were divided into 2 groups: those undergoing myectomy (post myectomy group) and those that did not undergo myectomy (non-myectomy group). Chi square test was used to calculate incidence of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) and sustained ventricular tachycardia (SVT) in the non-myectomy and post myectomy group. Results 76 patients with HCM (interventricular septal thickness ≥1.5 cm and LGE positive) longitudinally followed in the Allegheny General Hospital advanced heart failure outpatient clinic from 2016 to 2022 were included. 37 patients underwent septal myectomy. Baseline characteristics of post myectomy and non-myectomy group were matched and are listed in table 1. Left ventricular mass index was expectedly higher in patients undergoing myectomy. LGE was quantified on cardiac MRI prior to myectomy (mean 16.4% in myectomy group, 14.6% in non-myectomy group). Burden of ventricular arrhythmia (PVCs, NSVT and SVT) was found to be significantly lower in the post myectomy group (n=13, 44.83%) compared to the non-myectomy group (n=36, 92.31%). None of the patients included were noted to have ventricular fibrillation or sudden cardiac death. Conclusion Septal myectomy may reduce the incidence of ventricular arrhythmia and thus impact outcomes related to sudden cardiac death. This is likely a consequence of removal of arrhythmogenic scar tissue. Larger studies are required to further evaluate the burden and correlation of ventricular arrhythmia with scar tissue volume measured on cardiac MRI.

Prevention and Resolution of Silicone Implant-Related Problems in Secondary Rhinoplasty Using a Cross-Linked Human Acellular Dermal Matrix.

Silicone implant augmentation rhinoplasty along with various tip plasties are commonly performed in Asian patients, but a revision rhinoplasty is frequently required because of various problems. Secondary rhinoplasties are often performed using silicone, dermofat, costal cartilage block, or diced rib cartilage, but often result in unsatisfactory outcomes. This study assessed the surgical outcomes and complications of cross-linked acellular dermal matrix (ADM) as an alternative biological substitute for silicone implant in secondary rhinoplasty. The authors prospectively studied 56 patients with a minimum follow-up of 1 year among 104 patients who underwent secondary rhinoplasty in their clinic between January of 2015 and December of 2018. Silicone implant, capsule, and scar tissue removal; dorsal augmentation with ADM; and tip plasty using autogenous cartilage were performed for all of them. The results were assessed using the modified Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation, consisting of a 10-item questionnaire completed preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and over 1 year postoperatively. One infection and three cases of excessive resorption were noted, with no other major complications. The mean modified Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation score was 31.7 on preoperative evaluation, 77.3 at 6 months postoperatively, and 81.4 at 1 year postoperatively (mean difference, 45.6 and 49.7, respectively; P < 0.001). Various problems that occur after primary rhinoplasty using silicone implants can be resolved successfully with secondary rhinoplasty by dorsal augmentation using the cross-linked human ADM along with various nasal tip work using autogenous cartilage. Surgical outcome showed favorable resolution of contracture deformities, a low infection rate, firm fixation of the implant, good skin texture/thickness of the skin/soft-tissue envelope, and gain of desired height and dorsal line. Therapeutic, IV.

Surgery for female dyspareunia after perineal trauma

Perineal trauma during labor and vulvo-vaginal surgery is common and entails pain, dyspareunia, and other quality of life issues. Herein we describe common pitfalls, reconstruction problems and considerations illustrated by two cases. Diagnosis: A thorough conversation with the woman about her history concerning trauma and present symptoms including sex life before the trauma. Examination: Visual traces of the trauma and palpation for persisting trigger points in accordance with the history. CASE 1: Had previously had two operations for Bartholinitis and two operations for vulvo-vaginal fistulas. She had severe external dyspareunia and not been able to engage in intercourse for 1 ½ year when referred. CASE 2: Suffered a total obstetric anal sphincter rupture during first delivery. Primary suturing was performed in the delivery room. The patient suffered from severe dysparunia and soiling during intercourse three months after the delivery. A low perineum and a low rectocele were seen. By 3D ultrasound a very short external anal sphincter was seen. The transverse perineal and bulbocavernose muscle were still torn. Surgery: Removal of scar tissue. Identifying affected anatomical structures. Usually, the superficial and deep transverse perineal muscle, the bulbocavernosus muscle and the rectovaginal fascia are traumatized. Examples of anatomical correct reconstruction are presented. Postoperative: Weekly Low Level Laser therapy (LLLT) for three weeks was applied, and pain killers were used. Scar tissue massage after four weeks. Recommendation of no intercourse for six weeks. After a longer period with dyspareunia, sex is usually connected with an expectation of pain even when the trigger is removed. This is partially caused by strong pelvic muscle contractions. Supportive consultations about sexual issues are usually necessary to obtain a complete recovery with a healed body and mind. Anatomical correct reconstructive surgery after long term dyspareunia is best treated in a bio-psycho-social frame. No conflict of interest

The feasibility of reduced sutures in 3D laparoscopic tubal sterilization reversal

Study ObjectiveTo show the technique of reduced sutures in 3D laparoscopic tubal reanastomosis. DesignStep-by-step demonstration of the procedure using video. SettingLaparoscopic tubal sterilization reversal demands high precision and requires both skill and experience. Conventionally, 4 to 6 interrupted patterns using 6-0 to 8-0 absorbable sutures are used for laparoscopic tubal reanastomosis. We used fewer and larger sutures under a magnified 3D view to perform the procedure. InterventionsWe presented a case of a 42-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 3, who underwent tubal sterilization during Cesarean section 10 years ago. Preoperative hysterosalpingography (HSG) showed bilateral distal tubal occlusion. The procedure started with the subserosal injection of diluted vasopressin in both proximal and distal ends and in the mesosalpinx to facilitate dissection and hemostasis. After transection of tubal stump and removal of scar tissue, we used a 3 Fr ureteral catheter as the stent to facilitate suturing. Three interrupted 4-0 monocryl sutures were used for suturing both tubal mucosal and muscular layers at 6, 2, and 10 o'clock sites. We performed bilateral ampullo-ampullary reanastomosis. The tubes were successfully reanastomosed, and patency was confirmed by chromotubation performed at the end of the procedure (Figure 1). The operation lasted for 71 minutes. The operative blood loss was less than 50 ml. Patent right fallopian tube was confirmed on postoperative HSG 1 month later. The patient had a successful pregnancy 8 months after the operation. ConclusionOur experience shows the feasibility of 3D laparoscopy for tubal reanastomosis using reduced sutures. The technique alleviates the damage to the fallopian tube. The operative time, hospital stay, and postoperative adhesions were significantly lower than the conventional method with a comparable success rate.

Functional outcomes after transoral CO2 laser treatment for posterior glottic stenosis: a bicentric case series

PurposeThe aim of this study is to evaluate functional outcomes in terms of decannulation rate and quality of life of patients affected by PGS (Grades I–IV) treated only by transoral CO2 laser microsurgery (TOLMS) in two tertiary centers.MethodsAn observational retrospective study was carried out, enrolling 22 patients affected by PGS who were treated by a transoral approach at two tertiary referral centers. Surgical treatment included TOLMS with tailored laser resection of the scar tissue combined with posterior cordotomy, resurfacing of the raw area with mucosal microflap, or placement of a Montgomery T-tube or Keel stent. All patients were evaluated and staged preoperatively and postoperatively, at least 6 months after the surgery. Functional outcomes were objectively evaluated by the Airway-Dysphonia-Voice-Swallowing (ADVS) staging system, Voice Handicap Index-30 (VHI-30), and Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10) questionnaires.ResultsQuality of life significantly improved as measured by the VHI-30 questionnaire with a median variation of − 31.0 (p = 0.003), the EAT-10 with a median variation of − 4.0 (p = 0.042), and the ADVS with a median variation of − 3.5 (p < 0.001). No significant changes were observed in swallowing scores. We were able to decannulate 7 of 9 patients (almost 80%) with previous tracheotomy.ConclusionIn conclusion, even if there is still no general agreement on an exact therapeutic algorithm to treat PGS, our results confirm that transoral surgery, in terms of scar tissue removal, combined in selected patients with posterior cordotomy and pedicled local flaps and/or placement of stents, represents a safe and effective surgical approach even for more severe PGS.

P116. RECONSTRUCTION OF LONG TRACHEA DEFECTS BY TRACHEA ALLO-TRANSPLANTATION WITH CESSATION OF IMMUNOSUPPRESSION. LEARNING CURVE AFTER 10 CASES

PURPOSE: The trachea is an enigmatic organ due to its complex morphology and definitive treatment of defects are challenging. Reconstructive options largely depend on the remaining structural cartilaginous support around the defect.For short tracheal defects, we moved from a 2-stage cartilage-prelaminated radial forearm flap, towards a 1-stage mucosa-laminated flap to restore the hollow mucosa-lined lumen. Alternatives are medial condylar flaps, or cartilage-loaded fascia flaps.For long airway defects there are no authentic autologous donor tissues available to restore the mucosa-lined elastic cartilaginous framework consistantly. When autologous options are not stable over time, the most promising approach for difficult-to-repair long airway defects is tracheal allotransplantation. METHODS: We treated 10 patients with long trachea defects, using a compatible donor allogenic trachea that was banked for prefabrication into the forearm of the recipient. We developed a strategy that creates a chimera of allogenic and autologous tissues which results in ‘tolerance’ of the vascularized trachea tube and allows for tapering and withdrawal of immunosuppressive therapy. RESULTS: Today all patients are alive. Further treatments may consist of laser removal of intraluminal scar tissue, bronchoscopy for broncho-lavage and stents. We report the outcomes and determining treatment factors of these 10 patients and define the hurdle stones and opportunities. CONCLUSION: Restoration of a long-segment circumferential tracheal defect remains an unmet challenge. Future reports on this subject should be required to provide thoroughly documented visual evidence of outcomes to reduce confusion surrounding tracheal replacement and to prevent future scandals like those seen previously in the tracheal regeneration story.

A novel onlay urethroplasty for hypospadias with mild chordee after degloving: modified for complete removal of scar tissue underlying the urethral plate and for long-term outcomes.

Urethral plate (UP)-preserving urethroplasty is simple and has few complications, but it may affect the development of penis in the long term and lead to recurrent chordee. In this study, we used obliquely cut UP to repair hypospadias with mild chordee after degloving (15°-30°) and compared the results with onlay urethroplasty to explore its rationality and feasibility. Between April 2018 and October 2020, 108 hypospadias patients underwent onlay urethroplasty or modified onlay urethroplasty. Clinical data were prospectively collected, and medium-term outcomes were assessed at follow-up. The complications were compared between the two groups. Forty-four patients underwent the modified onlay procedure (Group I), with follow-up time (mean ± standard deviation [s.d.]) of 23.2 ± 4.5 (range: 17-31) months. Sixty-four patients underwent a standard onlay procedure (Group II), with follow-up time (mean ± s.d.) of 39.7 ± 3.9 (range: 32-46) months. There was no difference in age at surgery. The urethral defect length and operative time were longer in Group I. Six cases of fistula and one case each of stricture and diverticulum were reported in Group I. In Group II, 11 cases of fistula and one case each of stricture and diverticulum were reported. The complication rates were 18.2% and 20.3% in Group I and Group II, respectively (P &gt; 0.05). These medium-term follow-up results demonstrate that the modified onlay procedure (oblique cut UP urethroplasty) is a safe and feasible technique for hypospadias with mild chordee after degloving. Compared with standard onlay urethroplasty, this modified procedure is conducive to the complete removal of scar tissue underlying the UP without increasing the risk of surgical complications.

Arthroscopic Release of Severe Flexion- and Extension-Impeding Knee Stiffness With Inaccessible Joint

Knee stiffness with severe flexion and extension impediment is a common clinical condition that challenges orthopaedic surgeons. Arthroscopic release techniques have been reported, mostly for slight extension or flexion deficits. However, for severe flexion- and extension-impeding knee stiffness, especially when there is no intra-articular space in which to place the arthroscope, effective arthroscopic release techniques are still being pursued. We introduce a systemic arthroscopic release technique to address this special condition, in which a trans–infrapatellar fat pad release technique is developed to obtain access to the joint and to perform intra-articular and periarticular release, as well as scar tissue removal. One critical point of this technique is to create the posteromedial and posterolateral portals to re-establish the posterior compartments, remove the fibrotic posterior septum, and release the posterior capsule. This technique combines almost all related arthroscopic techniques in the treatment of knee stiffness. We consider that the introduction of this technique will provide a useful guide when surgical release is selected for this special condition.

Combined Hysteroscopic and Laparoscopic Approach to a Complicated Case of Asherman's Syndrome

<h3>Study Objective</h3> We aim to present a combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic approach to the resection of a post-cesarean section scar causing complete obstruction of the endometrial cavity. <h3>Design</h3> Video presentation. <h3>Setting</h3> Ambulatory surgery center, academic hospital. <h3>Patients or Participants</h3> 31-year-old multiparous patient with history of c-section who presented with secondary amenorrhea and infertility due to Asherman's Syndrome. She underwent laparoscopic guided hysteroscopic adhesiolysis followed by postoperative hormone therapy and close follow up. <h3>Interventions</h3> The patient's workup included saline infusion sonohysterogram, 2D ultrasound, and 3D ultrasound. She underwent a combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic procedure in which hysteroscopic scissors were used to remove the adhesion under laparoscopic guidance. An intrauterine balloon catheter was placed postoperatively. She took postoperative antibiotics while the balloon remained in situ as well as postoperative hormone therapy to promote growth of healthy endometrium and prevent new adhesion formation. <h3>Measurements and Main Results</h3> The use of a combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic approach resulted in a safe and successful removal of post-cesarean uterine scar tissue and treatment of Asherman's Syndrome with subsequent resumption of menses. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Asherman's Syndrome should remain on the differential for women who present with secondary amenorrhea. The addition of 3D ultrasound to saline infusion sonohysterogram is useful for surgical planning. A combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic approach to the resection of uterine adhesions should be considered when managing severe cases of Asherman's Syndrome and dense adhesions, especially when the location of adhesions is not clear from imaging.

A New Surgical Technique for Postoperative Trachomatous Trichiasis.

The World Health Organization has identified management of postoperative trichiasis (PTT) as one of the key remaining areas of focus needed to eliminate blinding trachoma as a public health problem. We developed the Bevel-Rotation Advancement Procedure (B-RAP) to treat individuals who need repeat trichiasis surgery. Scarring caused by trichiasis surgery can cause the eyelid to become thick and distorted, making repeat surgery more difficult. To minimize eyelid thickness following B-RAP, a beveled incision of the tarsus is made allowing a marginal rotation of the eyelash fragment. Dissection between the anterior and posterior lamellae above the beveled incision and removal of scar tissue allows the marginal rotation to be combined with a posterior lamellar advancement to treat severely scarred eyelids with PTT and eyelid contour abnormalities (ECAs). Two surgeons performed B-RAP on 44 eyelids of 30 patients with PTT. The number of prior trachomatous trichiasis (TT) surgeries ranged from 2 to more than 4. At the 3-6 months postoperative visit, 37 eyelids (84%) had no recurrence of PTT. Three eyelids had central lashes touching; the remaining eyelids with recurrent PTT had nasal and temporal lashes touching. Fifteen eyelids (34%) had ECAs, but only 1 was severe. B-RAP was developed considering the altered eyelid anatomy found in the postsurgical eyelid with TT. Thinning of the eyelash fragment and removal of postoperative scar tissue improves the ability to advance and stabilize the eyelash fragment after external rotation. B-RAP shows promise as a procedure for improving outcomes of repeat trichiasis surgery.

Robotic-Assisted Thoracoscopic Resection of the First Rib for Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: The New Gold Standard of Treatment?

In thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) the narrowing between bony and muscular structures in the region of the thoracic outlet/inlet results in compression of the neurovascular bundle to the upper extremity. Venous compression, resulting in TOS (vTOS) is much more common than a stenosis of the subclavian artery (aTOS) with or without an aneurysm. Traditional open surgical approaches to remove the first rib usually lack good exposure of the entire rib and the neurovascular bundle. Between January 2015 and July 2021, 24 consecutive first rib resections for venous or arterial TOS were performed in 23 patients at our institutions. For our completely portal approach we used two 8mm working ports and one 12/8 mm camera port. Preoperatively, pressurized catheter-based thrombolysis (AngioJet®) was successfully performed in 13 patients with vTOS. Operative time ranged from 71–270 min (median 128.5 min, SD +/− 43.2 min) with no related complications. The chest tube was removed on Day 1 in all patients and the hospital stay after surgery ranged from 1 to 7 days (median 2 days, SD +/− 2.1 days). Stent grafting was performed 5–35 days (mean 14.8 days, SD +/− 11.1) postoperatively in 6 patients. The robotic approach to first rib resection described here allows perfect exposure of the entire rib as well as the neurovascular bundle and is one of the least invasive surgical approaches to date. It helps improve patient outcomes by reducing perioperative morbidity and is a procedure that can be easily adopted by trained robotic thoracic surgeons. In particular, patients with a/vTOS may benefit from careful and meticulous preparation and removal of scar tissue around the vessels.

Transplantation of a vascularized pedicle of hemisected spinal cord to establish spinal cord continuity after removal of a segment of the thoracic spinal cord: A proof-of-principle study in dogs.

IntroductionGlial scar formation impedes nerve regeneration/reinnervation after spinal cord injury (SCI); therefore, removal of scar tissue is essential for SCI treatment.AimsTo investigate whether removing a spinal cord and transplanting a vascularized pedicle of hemisected spinal cord from the spinal cord caudal to the transection can restore motor function, to aid in the treatment of future clinical spinal cord injuries. We developed a canine model. After removal of a 1‐cm segment of the thoracic (T10–T11) spinal cord in eight beagles, a vascularized pedicle of hemisected spinal cord from the first 1.5 cm of the spinal cord caudal to the transection (cut along the posterior median sulcus of the spinal cord) was transplanted to bridge the transected spinal cord in the presence of a fusogen (polyethylene glycol, PEG) in four of the eight dogs. We used various forms of imaging, electron microscopy, and histologic data to determine that after our transplantation of a vascular pedicled hemisection to bridge the transected spinal cord, electrical continuity across the spinal bridge was restored.ResultsMotor function was restored following our transplantation, as confirmed by the re‐establishment of anatomic continuity along with interfacial axonal sprouting.ConclusionTaken together, our findings suggest that SCI patients—who have previously been thought to have irreversible damage and/or paralysis—may be treated effectively with similar operative techniques to re‐establish electrical and functional continuity following SCI.

Outcomes of islanded scrotal raphe flap employment for skin shortage in complicated hypospadias repair

Ventral skin deficiency in complicated hypospadias is a difficult problem to treat. The aim of our study is to report our technique and outcomes of vascularized islanded scrotal raphe flap for ventral skin deficiency in complicated hypospadias. A retrospective review was conducted at Northwest General Hospital & Research Centre, Peshawar, from January 2012 to January 2019. Complicated hypospadias patients who underwent two-stage surgery employing islanded scrotal flap were identified. Patients underwent surgery in two stages: scar tissue removal, chordee correction and buccal mucosal graft in the first stage; neourethral tubularization, water proofing, and skin coverage with vascularized islanded scrotal raphe flap in the second stage. The primary outcome was 6-month flap survival rate. Secondary outcomes were 6-month complication rate (fistula, persistent chordee, distal stenosis) and end-of-follow-up patient self-reported satisfaction rate. A total of 1845 patients underwent hypospadias surgery, of which 380 patients had complications. Scrotal raphe flap was used in 45 patients. Mean age was 14.09 (±8.02) years. Mean follow-up was 29.78 (±12.18) months. Mean number of previous surgeries was 4.31 (±2.59). The flap survived in all cases. Nine patients (20%) developed complications. One patient (2.2%) developed distal stenosis. Eight patients (17.8%) developed fistulas, one of whom additionally had persistent chordee. Five fistulas closed spontaneously within 3 months, while the rest were repaired surgically after 6 months. All patients self-reported satisfaction with results at end-of-follow-up. Islanded Scrotal Raphé flap is a promising option for treating complicated hypospadias when there is significant ventral deficiency of skin, as it not only provides vascularized pliable skin but also fascia as a waterproofing layer.

Patient-specific surgical options for breast cancer-related lymphedema: technical tips.

In order to provide a physiological solution for patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), the surgeon must understand where and how the pathology of lymphedema occurred. Based on each patient’s pathology, the treatment plan should be carefully decided and individualized. At the authors’ institution, the treatment plan is made individually based on each patient’s symptoms and relative factors. Most early-stage patients first undergo decongestive therapy and then, depending on the efficacy of the treatment, a surgical approach is suggested. If the patient is indicated for surgery, all the points of lymphatic flow obstruction are carefully examined. Thus a BCRL patient can be considered for lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA), a lymph node flap, scar resection, or a combination thereof. LVA targets ectatic superficial collecting lymphatics, which are located within the deep fat layer, and preoperative mapping using ultrasonography is critical. If there is contracture on the axilla, axillary scar removal is indicated to relieve the vein pressure and allow better drainage. Furthermore, removing the scars and reconstructing the fat layer will allow a better chance for the lymphatics to regenerate. After complete removal of scar tissue, a regional fat flap or a superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap with lymph node transfer is performed. By deciding the surgical planning for BCRL based on each patient’s pathophysiology, optimal outcomes can be achieved. Depending on each patient’s pathophysiology, LVA, scar removal, vascularized lymph node transfer with a sufficient adipocutaneous flap, and simultaneous breast reconstruction should be planned.

Reconstruction of burn scar contracture deformity of the extremities using thin thoracodorsal artery perforator free flaps.

Severe burn scar contracture of the extremities, especially the joint areas, causes aesthetic problems and functional limitation. Release of burn scar contractures requires complete removal of the scars and resurfacing of the resulting defects. Here, we describe thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) free flaps for reconstructing burn scar contractures. Between August 2013 and July 2018, 25 patients with severe burn scar contractures of the extremities underwent reconstruction using TDAP free flaps. Twelve were men and the mean age of the patients was 38.1 years (range, 12-66 years). Five patients had upper extremity contractures and 20 had lower extremity contractures. Twenty-one patients underwent reconstruction with a TDAP flap alone, while three received two perforator flaps, a TDAP and an anterolateral thigh flap or deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap. The remaining patient received three perforator flaps, two TDAP and an anterolateral thigh flap. Fourteen patients had an improved range of motion after reconstruction. All the flaps survived except in the case of four patients who suffered partial loss of a TDAP flap. In one patient, there was partial skin graft loss at the donor site. The mean follow-up was 17.2months (range 6-36 months). Ideal reconstruction of burn scar contracture yielding functional and aesthetic results involves complete removal of scar tissue and reconstruction. Depending on the extent of the defect, the TDAP flap, with its thin and pliable tissue and minimal donor site morbidity, may be the best option for reconstruction of burn scar contracture.

Scar tissue removal-activated endogenous neural stem cells aid Taxol-modified collagen scaffolds in repairing chronic long-distance transected spinal cord injury.

Scar tissue removal combined with biomaterial implantation is considered an effective measure to repair chronic transected spinal cord injury (SCI). However, whether more scar tissue removal surgeries could affect the treatment effects of biomaterial implantation still needs to be explored. In this study, we performed the first scar tissue removal surgery in the 3rd month and the second in the 6th month after completely removing 1 cm of spinal tissue in canines. We found that Taxol-modified linear ordered collagen scaffold (LOCS + Taxol) implantation could promote axonal regeneration, neurogenesis, and electrophysiological and functional recovery only in canines at the first scar tissue removal surgery, but not in canines at the second scar tissue removal surgery. Interestingly, we found that more endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) around the injured site could be activated in canines with the first rather than the second scar tissue removal. Furthermore, we demonstrated that Taxol could promote the neuronal differentiation of NSCs in the myelin inhibition microenvironment through the p38 MAPK signaling pathway in vitro. Therefore, we speculated that endogenous NSC activation by the first scar tissue removal surgery and its further differentiation into neurons induced by Taxol may contribute to functional recovery in canines. Together, LOCS + Taxol implantation in combination with the first scar tissue removal provides a promising therapy for chronic long-distance transected SCI repair with the help of scar tissue removal activated endogenous NSCs.

Treatment of post-adenotonsillectomy velopharyngeal stenosis with bivalved uvular flaps

ObjectiveVelopharyngeal stenosis (VS) is a rare devastating complication of adenotonsillectomy that causes obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Its treatment is challenging and has a high recurrence rate. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a bivalved uvular flap technique with topical application of mitomycin C for treatment of this problem. Study designCase series. MethodsFourteen children with VS after adenotonsillectomy were treated with a bivalved uvular flap technique with application of mitomycin C after release of the adhesions and removal of scar tissue. Preoperative and postoperative evaluation of patients were performed. Flexible nasopharyngoscopy was used to assess the patency of the velopharynx, and apnea/hypopnea (A/H) index and minimum O2 saturation were measured before and after surgery. ResultsAdequate patent airway was obtained in all patients as seen by oropharyngeal examination and flexible nasopharyngoscopy. Additionally, significant improvement in A/H index and minimum O2 saturation were achieved postoperatively. ConclusionThe bivalved uvular flap technique with topical application of mitomycin C after removal of scar tissue is an effective treatment for VS that may follow adenotonsillectomy in children.

The role of muscle forces in elite athletes before and after ACL surgery while performing a drop landing task

To report the characteristics of patients with restrictive diplopia following pterygium excision and a successful treatment approach for the strabismus.Retrospective interventional case series.This study was set in a single academic institution and included 15 patients with restrictive diplopia after pterygium excision. Patients with any other reason for strabismus were excluded. Patients were evaluated for deficits with special attention to diplopic measures. The intervention was a combined procedure by a strabismologist and oculoplastic surgeon to correct the diplopia. The primary outcome measurements were subjective and objective improvement of diplopia.Fifteen patients (mean age = 49 years) who developed diplopia after pterygium excision were included. Mean time to diplopia was 6 months. All patients had limited abduction in the previously operated eye causing esotropia in the abductive field (mean deviation = 18 prism diopters). After intervention, all patients were no longer diplopic in primary gaze. In the abductive field, 11 (73%) patients had residual small angle esotropia (mean = 7 prism diopters) in ipsilateral extreme end-gaze only. Only 2 patients required additional surgical intervention for scar tissue removal. No patients underwent medial rectus recession.Restrictive diplopia is a potential complication after pterygium excision, particularly for patients with a history of recurrent pterygia requiring multiple excisions and previous amniotic membrane graft placement with fibrin glue. However, diplopia after pterygium excision in primary position is surgically correctable with scar tissue removal and ocular surface reconstruction, without needing medial rectus recession. Given the high volume of pterygium excision, awareness of postoperative restrictive strabismus and the potential for correction is critical.