Superficial Wound Complications Research Articles

442 Prophylactic Peri-Nephric Drain Placement in Renal Transplant Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Aim Usage of prophylactic perinephric drains is variable in renal transplantation, drains are associated with risks, and there is a lack of consensus as to the relative benefit of placing a drain intraoperatively in this patient cohort. This meta-analysis assessed whether prophylactic perinephric drainage reduced the need for postoperative intervention to manage collections. Method This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items in Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis and was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021255795). A literature search was carried out in June 2023, and titles and s was screened against our pre-defined criteria. Quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Summary statistics for outcomes of interest underwent meta-analyses to a confidence interval (CI) of 95% and are presented as Forest Plots for Odds Ratio (OR). Results Literature search revealed 1540 unique titles and s across all four databases. Of these, 4 retrospective cohort studies were selected. Meta-analysis of 3 studies showed no evidence of a significant reduction in reintervention rate with drain placement, OR=0.59 (95%CI: 0.16-2.23, p=0.44). Meta-analysis did not show a significant reduction in perinephric collections with drainage OR=0.55 (95%CI: 0.13-2.37, p=0.42). Finally, there is not good evidence that drain placement reduces superficial wound complications or improves 12-month graft survival. Conclusions Given the lack of current evidence basis supporting the practice of prophylactic perinephric drain placement in renal transplantation, we advocate for a drain-free strategy in this patient cohort. Well-designed, prospective studies to assess the risks and benefits of intraoperative drain placement in these patients is needed.

African Americans have worse outcomes after transcatheter and surgical aortic valve replacement: A national inpatient sample analysis from 2015 to 2020

BackgroundRacial disparities in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) are controversial among African Americans (AA). This study investigated racial disparities comparing AA and Caucasians undergoing aortic valve replacement. MethodsPatients who underwent SAVR and TAVR for aortic stenosis were identified in National Inpatient Sample from Q4 2015–2020. In-hospital perioperative outcomes, length of stay, days from admission to operation, and total hospital charge, were compared between AA and Caucasians using multivariable analysis, adjusting for sex, age, socioeconomic status, comorbidity, and hospital characteristics. ResultsIn TAVR, 51,394 (84.41 %) were Caucasians and 2433 (4.00 %) were AA. In SAVR, there were 50,080 (78.52 %) Caucasians and 3565 (5.59 %) AA. Compared to Caucasians, AA underwent TAVR had a higher risk of complications such as major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.335, p = 0.02)], respiratory complications (aOR = 1.363, p = 0.01), acute kidney injury (AKI) (aOR = 1.468, p < 0.01), pulmonary embolism (aOR = 4.65, p = 0.05), hemorrhage/hematoma (aOR = 1.202, p < 0.01), or superficial wound complication (aOR = 1.414, p = 0.04). AA who underwent SAVR had higher risks of morality (aOR = 1.184, p < 0.05) and surgical complications including MACE (aOR = 1.263, p < 0.01), pericardial complications (aOR = 1.563, p < 0.01), cardiogenic shock (aOR = 1.578, p < 0.01), respiratory complications (aOR = 1.261, p < 0.01), AKI (aOR = 1.642, p < 0.01), venous thromboembolism (aOR = 1.613, p < 0.01), hemorrhage/hematoma (aOR = 1.129, p < 0.01), infection (aOR = 1.234, p < 0.01), superficial wound complications (aOR = 1.756, p < 0.01), vascular complications (aOR = 1.592, p < 0.01), and diaphragmatic paralysis (aOR = 2.181, p = 0.02). In both TAVR and SAVR, AA had longer waiting times from admission to operation (p < 0.01), longer hospital stays (p < 0.01), and higher hospital charges (p < 0.01). ConclusionAA were underrepresented, especially in TAVR. AA experienced higher in-hospital mortality post-SAVR, but not after TAVR. Furthermore, AA had more complications for both TAVR and SAVR. These findings underscore the pronounced disparities among AA in aortic valve replacement.

Do We Need Routine Postoperative Prophylactic Oral Antibiotics in Elective Foot and Ankle Surgery?

Previous studies about antibiotic prophylaxis in foot and ankle surgery have focused on perioperative intravenous administration, with few studies reporting on the efficiency of postoperative oral antibiotics. The purpose of this study is to investigate differences in the rate of postoperative infection and wound complications between patients with and without postoperative oral antibiotics and to identify independent risk factors for these complications following foot and ankle surgeries. A retrospective review of all elective foot and ankle surgeries with at least a 6-month follow-up was performed over a 2-year time span. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on if they received postoperative oral antibiotics. We compared the rates of postoperative infections and wound complications between the 2 groups. The surgical site, the number of Current Procedural Terminology codes, and the number of surgical incisions were also noted. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors of postoperative infection and wound complications. A total of 366 patients were included in this study-240 with antibiotics and 126 without antibiotics. There was no significant difference in the rates of postoperative infection and wound complications between the 2 groups. The rate of superficial infection, deep infection, and wound complications was 1.7%, 0.8%, and 5.8% in the antibiotic group vs 3.2%, 0.0%, and 4.0% in patients without antibiotics, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified independent risk factors of postoperative infection and wound complications as follows: smoking (OR: 4.7), male (OR: 4.0), history of neoplasm (OR: 6.7), and multiple incisions (OR: 4.1). Our results suggest that routine postoperative prophylactic oral antibiotics are not needed following elective foot and ankle surgeries. However, certain risk factors may increase the risk for postoperative infection and wound complications in foot and ankle surgery. Level III, case-control study.

Evaluation of the clinical, functional and radiological outcomes in patients with distal tibia fractures with simple intra-articular extension treated with intramedullary multidirectional locking nail: a prospective study

Background: Distal tibia fractures with extension into the ankle joint (AO/OTA type 43C) poses challenge for an orthopedic surgeon, due to its subcutaneous nature and precarious blood supply. Literature has described various treatment modalities; most commonly used being locking compression pates, external fixators and intramedullary multidirectional locking nails. Methods: This prospective study included 60 patients with distal tibia fracture AO type 43C1 and 43C2, managed with intramedullary multidirectional locking nails in a close manner, with intra-articular fragment fixation preceding the nail insertion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical, functional and radiological outcomes as well as the complications in these patients. Results: Patients’ mean age was 48.7±16.6 years; most had type 43C1 fractures (51 patients). The mean surgery time was 88.4±17.5 minutes, performed within 5.6±2.01 days post-injury. The 30 patients had fibula fracture with syndesmotic injury which was fixed with TENS nail. The functional assessment with Johner and Wruh’s criteria; 45 patients (75%) had excellent, 12 patients (20%) had good and 3 patients (5%) had fair outcomes. The fracture union averaged 16.7±1.63 weeks (14-20 weeks). 6 patients had superficial wound complication, while 3 patients had valgus malalignment; all managed without further surgery. Conclusions: Intramedullary nailing following specific surgical technique, and potential percutaneous screws; is a safe, effective and successful treatment option for AO/OTA types 43C1 and 43C2 fractures with high fracture union rates, high functional results, and low complication rates.

Immediate Unprotected Weightbearing vs 2 Weeks Nonweightbearing After Open Reduction Internal Fixation of Ankle Fractures.

Postoperative care protocols for ankle fracture surgery remain controversial with variability among care providers. This prospective controlled trial compared 12-week postoperative outcomes for immediate unprotected weightbearing (IMWB) vs nonweightbearing (NWB) for 2 weeks in a splint followed by weightbearing as tolerated (WBAT) in a boot after surgical fixation of selected low-energy ankle fractures without superior articular involvement. Eighty-seven patients undergoing surgical fixation of ankle fractures at a single level 1 trauma center were recruited according to specific criteria and enrolled by presentation date. The first 43 eligible patients were allocated to the control group, with NWB in a splint for 2 weeks followed by WBAT in a walker boot. The next 44 patients recruited were allocated to the IMWB group. The primary outcome was the Olerud-Molander score (OMAS). Secondary outcome measures included the Euroquol-5D (EQ5D) score and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment: Specific Health Problem (WPAI:SHP) scores, ankle range of motion (ROM), wound complications, time to return to work, radiograph measurements, and fracture reduction loss. In this perioperative-focused study, we collected data on patients until 12 weeks postoperation. The IMWB group had 5 superficial wound complications vs 1 in the control group. At 12 weeks, we found no difference in OMAS, EQ5D, WPAI:SHP scores, ROM, time to return to work, or radiographic measurements. In this short-term and relatively small prospective trial, we found more wound complications among patients treated with immediate unprotected weightbearing compared with patients treated with 2 weeks of NWB followed by protected weightbearing. Given the low incidence and small sample size, we do not know if these observed findings are generalizable. However, we also found no difference in functional outcomes at 12 weeks postoperation between these 2 groups. In light of that, we do not recommend IMWB after open reduction internal fixation of low-energy ankle fractures with plate and/or screw fixation. Level II, prospective controlled trial.

Effect of Various Ancillary Operating Room Techniques on Wound Healing Outcomes After Total Knee Arthroplasty.

The successful management of wound healing after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) depends on several aspects of ancillary intraoperative techniques and surgical variables. Many of these have been evaluated in a few recent reports. The prior reviews studied many aspects of wound healing and, for example, found lower risks of wound complications with barbed sutures compared with interrupted closure with non-barbed sutures, no differences in wound complications between adhesives, subcuticular sutures, staples, glue, or mesh adhesives for the closure of the skin layer, and that mesh adhesives may be associated with faster closing times compared to subcuticular sutures or staples in TKA. However, some topics that can be influenced by the surgeon were not covered in these previous reviews. Namely, the use of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis, tourniquet application, management of intraoperative drains, surgical approach selection, and patellar handling techniques can all potentially influence wound healing. Therefore, in this comprehensive systematic review of the literature, we focused on these five factors that may influence wound healing. Specifically, we evaluated: (1) the impact of different DVT prophylaxis methods on wound healing and infection rates; (2) the role of tourniquet application on wound closure and potential infection risks; (3) the effects of intraoperative drain usage on wound healing; (4) the influence of different surgical approaches on wound closure and postoperative infection rates; and (5) the effects of varying patellar handling strategies on wound healing and infection rates. A systematic search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Medline, and Embase, was conducted to identify studies assessing auxiliary surgical techniques and their impact on wound healing in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Relevant terms like "knee," "arthroplasty," and "wound healing" refined the search, which included English language publications until May 1, 2023. Independent screening by two authors and a third mediator facilitated the selection process, with 24 studies meeting the criteria. Assessment of these studies involved evaluating their evidence level and methodological quality using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (MCMS). A comparison was made on wound healing outcomes in TKA, which included evaluating methodological quality parameters like sample sizes, follow-up durations, and clinical effect measurements. Data synthesis for the studies provided a comprehensive summary, categorizing them by evidence level. There were seven reports on DVT prophylaxis that showed no statistically significant differences in wound complications among various treatment methods and medications in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA), with wound complication rates ranging from 0.25 to 1%, except that aspirin appeared to have lower wound complications rates in three recent studies than other methods. There were five reports on tourniquet application that showed a generally increased rate of wound complications, but no increase in deep infections. The five reports on intraoperative drain use showed that while there is an increase in total blood loss in the group with drains, ranging from 568ml to 1,856ml, compared to 119ml to 535ml in the no-drain group, there are no significant differences in wound complications, infection rates, or other postoperative outcomes such as swelling, deep vein thrombosis, and range of motion between the drain and no-drain groups. There were three studies on surgical approaches revealing no differences in wound complication rates between the mini-subvastus and medial parapatellar incisions. Also, the surgical variables of patella eversion and anterior tibial translation were only studied in one report. The current literature highlights the importance of using aspirin when possible for DVT prophylaxis and the possibility that tourniquets may lead to increased superficial wound complications. Drains or surgical approach do not appear to lead to wound problems. Surgical variables, such as patella eversion and anterior tibial translation, need more study.

Polyester Mesh with Liquid Adhesive Compared to Incisional Negative Pressure 2 Therapy for Direct Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty in the 90-day Postoperative Period

Background Some data suggest higher rates of superficial wound complications following direct anterior approach to total hip arthroplasty (DAA-THA) compared to other approaches, likely owing to proximity of the incision to the groin crease. Increased body mass index (BMI) has also been associated with increased superficial wound complications regardless of approach. We investigated superficial wound complications following DAA-THA comparing two different dressing types, polyester mesh (PM) with liquid adhesive and incisional negative pressure therapy (iNPT), with additional analysis of the association of BMI and medical comorbidities with wound complications in each dressing type cohort. Methods Consecutive DAA-THAs were assessed (n = 711 total, 213 iNPT, 498 PM). Superficial or deep wound complications within 3 months of surgery were recorded. Demographics were compared using student’s t-test with Welch’s correction and Chi-square tests, where appropriate. Logistic regression on wound complication included the following variables: patient BMI, dressing type, active tobacco smoking, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and anemia. A p-value of &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The overall rate of wound complication was 9.00%. Wound dehiscence was the most frequent complication, affecting 26 patients (3.66%) overall. Multiple logistic regression showed that BMI and tobacco smoking were associated with increased wound complications (aOR=1.072, p=0.007; aOR=3.258, p=0.009) and that PM use was associated with fewer wound complications when compared to iNPT (aOR=0.555, p=0.047). Conclusions In this investigation, PM dressings after DAA-THA were associated with decreased risk of wound complication compared to iNPT. Secondarily, smoking and increased BMI were risk factors for postoperative wound complications.

Weekend Admission is Associated with Higher Kidney Failures after Thoracic Endovascular Aneurysm Repair for Stanford Type B Aortic Dissection.

Weekend effect characterized by worse perioperative outcomes has been demonstrated in some surgery patients admitted on weekends, as opposed to weekdays. This study aimed to examine weekend effect on open surgical repair or thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR) for Stanford Type B Aortic Dissection (TBAD). Patients who underwent TBAD repair were identified in National/Nationwisde Inpatient Sample from Q4 2015-2020. Open surgery and TEVAR were examined separately. Multivariable analyses were performed comparing in-hospital perioperative outcomes of patients under weekday and weekend admission. Adjusted preoperative variables included sex, age, race, socioeconomic status, hospital characteristics, clinical symptoms, comorbidities, and elective/non-elective admission. Also, length of stay, days from admission to operation, and total hospital charge were compared. Among patients who underwent open TBAD repair, 1321 were admitted on weekdays and 340 on weekends. Among patients who underwent TEVAR for TBAD, 2018 were admitted on weekdays and 440 wereadmitted on weekends. There was no difference in open repair outcomes between those admitted on weekdays vs weekends. In TEVAR, weekend admission was associated with higher post-procedural kidney failure (1.14% vs .20%, aOR = 4.11, P = .04) and superficial wound complications (2.73% vs 1.49%, aOR = 2.2, P = .03) but lower respiratory complications (5.80% vs 3.64%, aOR = .47, P = .01). Also, in TEVAR, weekend admission was associated with longer time from admission to operation (3.92 ± .27 vs 2.35 ± .09days, P < .01). Renal malperfusion was a common indication for TBAD repair. TBAD patients admitted over the weekend and underwent TEVAR had higher post-procedural kidney failure, which may be due to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Retrospective study of superficial wound complication comparison between monofilament absorbable versus monofilament nonabsorbable sutures for skin closure in kidney transplant

Retrospective study of superficial wound complication comparison between monofilament absorbable versus monofilament nonabsorbable sutures for skin closure in kidney transplant

Reconstruction after hemisacrectomy with a novel 3D-printed modular hemisacrum implant in sacral giant cell tumor of the bone.

Background: There are a limited but increasing number of case reports and series describing the use of 3D-printed prostheses in bone tumor surgery. Methods: We describe a new approach to performing nerve-preserving hemisacrectomy in patients with sacral giant cell tumors with reconstruction using a novel 3D-printed patient-specific modular prosthesis. The series included four female and two male patients with a mean age of 34 years (range, 28-42years). Surgical data, imaging assessments, tumor and functional status, implant status, and complications were retrospectively analyzed in six consecutive patients. Results: In all cases, the tumor was removed by sagittal hemisacrectomy, and the prosthesis was successfully implanted. The mean follow-up time was 25months (range, 15-32months). All patients in this report achieved successful surgical outcomes and symptomatic relief without significant complications. Clinical and radiological follow-up showed good results in all cases. The mean MSTS score was 27.2 (range, 26-28). The average VAS was 1 (range, 0-2). No structural failures or deep infections were detected in this study at the time of follow-up. All patients had good neurological function. Two cases had superficial wound complications. Bone fusion was good with a mean fusion time of 3.5months (range, 3-5months). Conclusion: These cases describe the successful use of custom 3D-printed prostheses for reconstruction after sagittal nerve-sparing hemisacrectomy with excellent clinical outcomes, osseointegration, and durability.

The Association Between Preoperative INR Values and Postoperative Outcomes Including Mortality in Geriatric Femoral Neck Fractures Treated with Hemiarthroplasty.

To evaluate the association between preoperative INR and postoperative mortality and other outcomes following hemiarthroplasty for geriatric femoral neck fractures. Retrospective cohort study. A single Level-I trauma centerPatients/Participants: Patients ≥ 55 years of age with OTA/AO 31B proximal femur fractures (1556 patients (1616 hips)). Hip hemiarthroplasty. 90-day mortality, postoperative transfusion within 72 hours, and 90-day postoperative outcomes. Adjusting for confounders, the association of preoperative INR and 90-day mortality was not statistically significant (HR: 1.3; 95% CI: 0.97, 1.8; p=0.08). Dementia (HR: 1.9; 95%CI: 1.4 - 2.6; p<0.001), Charlson Comorbidity Index (HR: 1.1; 95%CI: 1.1 - 1.2; p<0.001), and age by decade (HR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1 - 1.8; p=0.002) were associated with 90-day mortality. Increasing INR was significantly associated with blood transfusion (OR 1.4; 95% CI 1.03 - 1.6; p=0.031). Preoperative hemoglobin < 10 g/dL (OR 13.7; 95% CI 8.4 - 23.3; p<0.001) was also associated with a postoperative transfusion while intraoperative TXA use (OR 0.3; 95% CI 0.2 - 0.5; p<0.001) was inversely associated with postoperative transfusion rate. INR was associated with superficial wound infection (HR: 2.0; 95%CI: 1.1 - 3.7; p=0.02) and non-infected wound complications (HR: 1.6; 95%CI: 1.1 - 2.4; p=0.007). Risk of superficial infection increased when INR was > 1.8. When controlling for confounders, preoperative INR was not significantly associated with 90-day mortality. Underlying medical conditions contribute to postoperative mortality more than an elevated INR. However, INR is associated with superficial wound complications. This risk becomes statistically significant as INR rises above 1.8. Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

The Fate of the Patient With Superficial Dehiscence Following Direct Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundDirect anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been associated with higher rates of superficial incisional dehiscence. However, limited data are available regarding the outcomes following initial treatment of this complication. This study aimed to evaluate patient risk factors, reoperations, and revisions in those who developed superficial wound dehiscence following DAA THA. MethodsWe identified 3,687 patients who underwent a primary DAA THA between 2010 and 2019 from our enterprise total joint registry. Of these, 98 (2.7%) patients developed a superficial wound dehiscence requiring intervention [irrigation and debridement (n = 42) or wound care with or without antibiotics (n = 56)]. Dehiscence was noted at a median of 27 (range, 2-105) days. These patients were compared to patients who did not have a superficial wound complication (n = 3,589). Landmark survivorship analysis was performed to account for immortal time bias with a 45-day landmark time. ResultsPatients who had superficial wound dehiscence compared to those who did not, were more often women (64 versus 53%, P = .02) and had increased mean body mass index (33 versus 29, P < .001). There was no difference in 4-year survivorship free from any revision between cohorts (97 versus 98%, respectively, P = .14). There were 2 (2.0%) revisions in the superficial dehiscence group: 1 for periprosthetic joint infection and 1 for aseptic femoral loosening. ConclusionSuperficial wound dehiscence following DAA THA was associated with higher body mass index and was more common in women. Fortunately, with proper index management, the risk of revision THA and periprosthetic joint infection was not increased for these patients.

Wound complications following revision total knee arthroplasty: Prevalence and outcomes

BackgroundWound complications following revision TKA can be catastrophic and can compromise joint and even limb. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of superficial wound complications requiring return to the OR in revision TKA, rates of subsequent deep infection, factors that increase the risk of superficial wound complications, and the outcomes of revision TKA following development of superficial wound complications. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 585 consecutive TKA revisions with at least two years follow-up, including 399 aseptic revisions and 186 reimplantations. Superficial wound complications without deep infection requiring return to the OR within 120 days were compared to controls. ResultsFourteen patients following revision TKA (2.4%) required return to the OR for a wound complication, including 7 of 399 (1.8%) patients who underwent aseptic revision TKA and 7 of 186 (3.8%) patients undergoing reimplantation TKA (p = 0.139). Aseptic revisions with wound complications were more likely to develop subsequent deep infection (HR 10.04, CI 2.24–45.03, p = 0.003), but this did not hold true for reimplantations (HR 1.17, CI 0.28–4.91, p = 0.829). Risk factors for wound complication included atrial fibrillation when all patients were combined (RR 3.98, CI 1.15–13.72, p = 0.029), connective tissue disease in the aseptic revision group (RR 7.1, CI 1.1–44.7, p = 0.037), and a history of depression in the re-implantation group (RR 5.8, CI 1.1–31.5, p = 0.042).

Modified Direct Anterior Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty in an Indonesian Population with Primary Standard Instruments of Total Hip Arthroplasty: Our Experiences and Short-term Follow-up

AbstractIntroduction: The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a very sophisticated and complicated surgery typically performed using a specialized operating room table and instruments. In our clinic, this procedure was performed with a modified incision to avoid dependence on a special operating room table and we could use ordinary THA instruments. There is an obvious absence of literature regarding this subject.Methods: A total of 31 patients (31 hips) were recruited for primary THAs from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021 who underwent THAs using the DAA in the supine position with modified incision. The technical feasibility and early results were evaluated.Results: The orientation of the acetabular component average cup inclination was 41.57o ±6.7o, (23o-57o) and the mean cup anteversion was 17.36o ± 5o, (11o-38o). The incidence of neutral coronal femoral stem alignment were 30 hips (97%), varus was 1 (3%), neutral sagittal alignment were 30 hips (97%), and flexion was 1 (3%). The preoperative Harris Hip Score (HHS) was 57.89 points (range: 17-68 points), whereas the postoperative HHS was 89.97 points (range: 82-100 points). There were no postoperative problems such as proximal femur fracture, hematoma, superficial wound complications, deep vein thrombosis, lateral femoral cutaneous nerve damage, heterotopic ossification, loosening of the acetabular component, loosening of the stem, dislocation, infection, or postoperative periprosthetic fracture.Conclusion: The DAA supine for THA with modified incision may be a valuable alternative in the absence of a special operating room table or special instruments for DAA. This technique also seems to provide satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes with acceptable complications in our early follow-up.

Tracking Complications and Unplanned Healthcare Utilization in Aesthetic Surgery: An Analysis of 214,504 Patients Using the TOPS Database.

Tracking surgical complications and unplanned healthcare utilization is essential to inform quality initiatives in aesthetic surgery. This study used the Tracking Operations and Outcomes for Plastic Surgeons database to characterize rates and predictors of surgical complications and unplanned healthcare utilization across common aesthetic surgery procedures. The Tracking Operations and Outcomes for Plastic Surgeons database was queried for all patients undergoing breast augmentation, liposuction, blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty, and abdominoplasty from 2008 to 2019. Incidence and risk factors for complications and unplanned readmission, reoperation, and emergency room visits were determined. A total of 214,504 patients were identified. Overall, 94,618 breast augmentations, 56,756 liposuction procedures, 29,797 blepharoplasties, 24,946 abdominoplasties, and 8387 rhinoplasties were included. A low incidence of perioperative complications was found, including seroma (1.1%), hematoma (0.7%), superficial wound complication (0.9%), deep surgical-site infection (0.2%), need for blood transfusion (0.05%), and deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolism (0.1%). Incidence of unplanned readmission, emergency room visits, and reoperation were 0.34%, 0.25%, and 0.80%, respectively. Patients who underwent an abdominoplasty more commonly presented to the emergency room and had unplanned readmissions or reoperations compared with other studied procedures. Furthermore, increased age, diabetes, higher body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, longer operative times, and pursuit of combined aesthetic procedures were associated with increased risk for unplanned health care use. There is a low incidence of perioperative complications and unplanned healthcare utilization following common aesthetic surgery procedures. Continued entry into large national databases in aesthetic surgery is essential for internal benchmarking and quality improvement. Risk, III.

Noninvasive Soft Tissue Expansion Strips and Wound Complications After Total Ankle Arthroplasty.

Total ankle arthroplasty through the anterior approach (TAR-AA) is an increasingly popular treatment for ankle arthritis, but it carries a known risk for wound complications. Several products have been investigated to mitigate this risk; however, most are either costly or invasive. Noninvasive skin expansion strips (NSESs) were designed to transfer tension away from the incision and induce new skin growth at the edges of the strips. We hypothesize that postoperative application of NSESs will decrease unplanned clinic visits and wound complications after TAR-AA. This is a prospective cohort study of 41 patients at a single institution (3 surgeons) treated with NSESs after undergoing TAR-AA. An additional 41 consecutive historical patients treated without NSESs were retrospectively included as a control group. Patients received application of NSESs in the operating room after routine wound closure and again 2 weeks postoperatively. No other changes were made to the surgeons' wound closure technique, immobilization, follow-up timing, or rehabilitation protocols. Primary outcomes included (1) additional clinic visit required for wound assessment or suture removal, (2) superficial wound complication, and (3) deep infection. Baseline demographics did not differ significantly from our 41 consecutively treated historical controls. Additional clinic visits for suture removal or wound evaluation were significantly lower for patients treated with NSESs (15%, 6 of 41) compared to the control group (49%, 20 of 41) (P = .001). There was also a significant difference in the superficial wound complication rate in the treatment group vs control group, 2% and 12%, respectively (P = .04). There were no deep infections in either group. Noninvasive skin expansion strips placed after TAR-AA with an anterior approach have the potential to decrease wound complications and unplanned clinic visits. Further high-volume or randomized studies are needed to clarify their cost effectiveness and effect on long-term outcomes. Level II, prospective cohort study.

What are the 2-year survivorship outcomes of custom hemipelvis reconstruction after hemipelvectomy and revision arthroplasty? The evolution of a customilium "monoflange".

Innovations in machined and three-dimensionally (3D) printed implant technology have allowed for customized complex pelvic reconstructions. We sought to determine the survivorship of customhemipelvis reconstruction using ilium-only fixation at a minimum 2-year follow-up, their modes of failure, and the postoperative complications resulting from the procedure. A retrospective review identified 12 consecutive patients treated with customhemipelvis reconstruction. Indications for surgery were bone tumor requiring internal hemipelvectomy (four patients) or multiply revised, failed hip arthroplasty with massive bone loss (eight patients). All patients had a minimum of 2-year follow-up with a mean of 60.5 months. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis was determined for all patients. Postoperative complications and reoperations were categorized for all patients. At a mean of 60.5 months, 11 of 12 patients had retained their customimplant (92% survivorship). One implant was removed as a result of an acute periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). There were no cases of aseptic loosening. Seven of 12 patients required reoperation (threePJI; two dislocations; two superficial wound complications), with five patients going on to reoperation-free survival. Customhemipelvis reconstruction utilizing an ilium monoflange provides durable short-term fixation at a minimum 2-year follow-up. Reoperation for infection and dislocation is common.

Early Results of Bone-Conserving High Flexion Posterior-Stabilized Total Knee System in Indian Population.

A number of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) systems are used across a variety of markets in which outcome will be influenced by patient factors, surgical technique and implant characteristics. The aim of the current study was to report the early functional results of a primary TKA system in support of the component design characteristics adapted for achieving increased functional expectations of the patients. A prospective, continuous series of 304 primary posterior-stabilized (PS) TKAs were performed in 208 patients by a single surgeon. Inclusion criterion was patients undergoing primary TKA with Freedom Total Knee system and willing to participate in the study. Exclusion criteria were patients undergoing revision TKA, patients not willing to participate and patients who were lost to follow-up. Patients were clinically and radiologically assessed for a minimum of 5 years post-operatively. Oxford Knee score (OKS) and range of motion (ROM) were assessed for the entire study population and by gender. There were no patients who were lost to follow-up. Two patients (Two knees) required incision and secondary suturing for superficial skin wound complication. At minimum 5-year follow-up, there was no radiographic evidence of component loosening/failure. Clinical evaluation at 5 years post-operatively showed statistically significant increase in the OKS and ROM as compared to pre-operative values (OKS pre-operative 19.27 ± 1.86, post-operative 38.76 ± 1.5, p value < 0.001, ROM pre-operative 94.57 ± 3.49, post-operative 127.69 ± 3.65, p value < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the clinical outcome between male and female genders as well as between unilateral and bilateral TKA. The study showed encouraging early results for the bone-conserving high flexion TKA system in 208 patients at minimum 5-year follow-up. The adapted design characteristics for improved functional expectations are confirmed in this reported Indian population study group cohort. Further continued evaluation is warranted for this primary TKA system across Indian and other ethnic population.

Transverse Tibial Bone Transport Enhances Distraction Osteogenesis and Vascularization in the Treatment of Diabetic Foot.

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of transverse tibial bone transport on the treatment of Wagner Stage 4 diabetic foot.MethodsFrom January 2017 to October 2019, a total of 19 patients with Wagner Stage 4 diabetic foot ulcers were recruited. All patients were treated with transverse tibial bone transport. A detailed follow‐up was carried out at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. The wound healing rate and the limb salvage rate at 1 year after the surgery were evaluated. Preoperative and 3‐month postoperative digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were obtained. The level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) before surgery and on 1st, 4th, 11th, 18th, 28th, and 35th days after surgery were measured. Operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative complications, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, skin temperature, Semmes‐weinstein monofilament (SWM), and ankle brachial index (ABI) were also assessed.ResultsThe wound healing rate and the limb salvage rate were both 94.74% in the patients at 1 year after the surgery. DSA showed the thickening of the calf and foot arteries, clear visualization, and a rich vascular network. The levels of VEGF, bFGF, and PDGF on the 11th, 18th, 28th, and 35th days after surgery were significantly higher than those before surgery (p < 0.05). The EGF level on the 18th, 28th, and 35th days after surgery was significantly higher than that before surgery (p < 0.05). Superficial wound complications occurred in one patient during the hospitalization. There was no movement area infection, skin flap necrosis, tibial fracture, loosening of the external fixator, or rupture in study.ConclusionTransverse tibial bone transport can improve the blood circulation of the affected limbs, promote the healing of diabetic foot wounds, and reduce the amputation rate of the affected limbs. Transverse tibial bone transport can promote the healing of Wagner Stage 4 diabetic foot.

Unstable Rotational Ankle Fractures Treated With Anatomic Mortise Repair and Direct Posterior Malleolus Fixation.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate patient outcomes following a standardized algorithmic approach to ankle mortise stabilization, following rotational fracture, utilizing direct repair of the posterior malleolus in the prone position. Methods: Eighty consecutive patients with unstable rotational ankle fractures that involved the posterior malleolus were analyzed. All underwent direct repair of the posterior malleolus regardless of size through a posterolateral approach. Electronic records were retrospectively reviewed for demographic information, initial injury and operation details, healing status, and complications. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were obtained to assess the initial injury and healing was determined both by radiographic and clinical progress at follow-up visits. Results: Average posterior malleolus fragment width was 8.1 ± 3.7 mm (range = 2.1-19.9 mm) and percentage of the articular surface was 23.6% (range = 7.1%-56.7%) on the lateral radiograph. Overall, 80/80 (100%) patients healed their ankle fractures by a mean 2.9 ± 1.1 months. Only 1 (1.3%) patient required transsyndesmotic fixation following posterior malleolus repair. Mean range of ankle motion was as follows: dorsiflexion 20° ± 10°, plantarflexion 34° ± 10°, inversion 8° ± 4°, and eversion 7° ± 4°. Seventy-nine patients (98.8%) had an anatomic mortise reduction. Nine patients (11.3%) had a superficial wound complication, 3 patients (3.8%) had dysesthesia in the sural nerve distribution, and 1 patient (1.3%) lost reduction of the medial malleolus. Conclusion: Patients who undergo direct repair of the posterior malleolus in the prone position can expect a high rate of healing with superficial wound breakdown being the biggest problem, which was associated with an ankle fracture dislocation. Posterior malleolus fixation may obviate the need of transsyndesmotic stabilization.Levels of Evidence: Retrospective Level IV.