Reconstruction of post burn scalp alopecia by using expanded hair-bearing scalp flaps

Background and Objective: Tissue expansion is a time-tested and frequently used procedure for utilizing local tissue to replace large defects. We aimed to assess the success and complications of tissue expansion in correction of post burn scalp alopecia

Methods: In this study, 30 patients of scalp burn alopecia of 5 to 35 years age group were treated with tissue expansion of the scalp at Bahawal-Victoria Hospital from January 2013 to December 2014. The area of the scalp loss was within 1/5 to 2/5. Our technique employed an insertion site distal to the area needed to be expanded, attempting to minimize complication like extrusion and wound dehiscence. The patients were followed-up weekly during first month and then fortnightly for next four months

Result: Our study involved 8 male [26.67%] and 22 female subjects [73.33%] with a mean age of 21years. Flame burn accounted for the mostly 53.3% [n=16] of scalp burns and parieto-temporal region was most commonly affected in 33.4% [n=10] of subjects. Desired aesthetic results were achieved in all the patients without any major complication. Minor complication included mild infection in 8 [26.67%], seroma in 4 [13.33%] and wound dehiscence in 2 [6.67%] patients

Conclusion: Tissue expansion is a simple, safe, and efficient technique for aesthetic scalp reconstruction. With a simple modification of distal incision and tunneling, we succeeded in minimizing complications. Versatile design of the expanded scalp flap can distribute the expanded hair-bearing scalp properly in the reconstructed recipient site

Ginseng conduces degeneration of differentiating tissues in developing albino mice

The current study was conducted to evaluate its effects on developing skin, heart and intestines, derivatives of ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm respectively, when given during pregnancy to albino mice. Experimental Randomized controlled trial study. This study was conducted at Anatomy Department, University of Health Sciences, Lahore from Jan 2011 to July 2011. Twelve pregnant albino mice were divided into two groups of 6 each; group A was given distill water, Human therapeutic dose [HTD][780mg/kg/day] was dissolved in 0.1ml of distilled water and was administered to the animals of group B for entire length of pregnancy. Fetuses were delivered and dissected on 18[th] day of gestation. Tissue samples comprising, skin, heart and small intestine derivatives of ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm respectively, were removed and processed for light microscopic study. In the current study, the difference between dead and alive fetuses, when compared between groups was found to be statistically significant [p value < 0.05]. In addition, the histological examination of the above tissues revealed extensive cell death resulting into loss of normal architecture of skin, heart and small intestine. Cells showed pyknotic nuclei and scanty cytoplasm, indicating process of apoptosis, which when compared between groups was found to be statistically significant [p<0.05]. It is suggested, therefore, that further investigations and monitoring of additional tissues for the effects of Ginsenosides during pregnancy are warranted

Effects of administration of vitamin a to pregnant dams on the skin of the fetuses of albino mice

For differentiation and maintenance of epithelial cells in vitro and vivo wider the influence ofretinoic acid treatment, skin seems to be a major target organ for both the normal and patholo-gical states. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effects ofretinoic acid on fetal skin if given to albino mice during pregnancy. Twelve pregnant albino mice were divided into two groups of 6 each; the experimental group was given 60 mg/kg/day ofretinoic acid [RA] dissolved in o.iml of olive oil orally on 7, 8 and 9 day of gestation. Fetuses were delivered and dissected on 18[th] day of gestation; skin samples were removed and processed for microscopic study. Histological examination of fetal skin in RA treated group showed increased keratinocyte proliferation resulting in increased number of epidermal cell layers and increased epidermal thickness. It also inhibited the development of hair follicles which are seen in the form of rudimentary buds in the dermis. So its usage during pregnancy should be warranted. Given the essential role of retinoids in epidermal differentiation and their effectiveness in the treatment of several skin orders it is important to see its histological effects on skin

Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap for reconstruction of major neck defects

To analyze results of pectoralis major myocutaneous flap used for reconstruction in massive neck trauma patients. Descriptive case series study. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department Bahawal Victoria Hospital Bahawalpur, from April 2010 -April 2014. Patients who were brought with major tissue defects in neck either due to trauma or surgeries done due to malignant lesions were enrolled. Patients with diabetes mellitus, renal or hepatic dysfunction were excluded. Those with active infection were also not subjected to this surgical procedure. Pectoralis major flap was taken based on longitudinal artery for reconstruction of neck. In those cases where history of extensive trauma or neck dissection was present, flap was based on thoracoacromial vessel. Complications during hospital stay and at follow up were recorded. Aesthetic and functional assessments of the patients were done at each follow up. Twelve patients were selected for the procedure. The age ranged from 15 year to 55 year. In six cases the soft tissue loss was due to electric burns while three were victims of road traffic accidents. Three [25%] patients developed complications including flap necrosis and hematoma of donor site in one case each. Three patients were able to speak normally and four had no problem with swallowing. Three patients attained good color match while two patients attained good neck contour. Pectoralis major myocutaneous flap is simple, easy, variable and a life saving flap for coverage of major head and neck defects with minimal complications

Vitamin A induced teratogenicity of heart in albino mice

The current study was designed to determine in vivo the embryotoxic potential of retinoic acid during organogenic period of mouse embryo. Retinoic acid [60 mg/kg], was administered orally to pregnant mice on 7[th], 8[th] and 9[th] days of gestation. Animals were sacrificed on the 8[th] day. Fetuses, whose dams had received retinoic acid showed, growth retardation and cardiac malformations. The decrease in mean fetal weight and their CRL was statistically significant. Effects on the heart included enlargement and change in its shape; the myocardium showed myofibrillar disarray, apoptosis and hypoplastic compact zone. Retinoic acid, which is an effective therapy for cystic acne and other dermatological disorders, is highly teratogenic during the period of organogenesis and therefore, should be avoided in early pregnancy