The Feasibility of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix Filler in a Nude Mouse Model

BACKGROUND: In contrast to fillers made from artificial substances, platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) filler does not cause hypersensitivity reactions or foreign body reactions. PRFM is also highly accessible in terms of cost. Hence, in this study, the efficacy of PRFM for soft tissue augmentation and volume maintenance was evaluated in an animal experiment. METHODS: Twenty nude mice were injected with hyaluronic acid filler, fibrin glue, PRFM filler, and normal saline (control). The remaining volume was measured 4 times over the course of 8 weeks using the volumetric taping bowl method and magnetic resonance imaging. RESULTS: All nude mice survived and showed no signs of infection, such as erythema or edematous changes, during the study period. Migration of the injected substance was not detected at 2, 4, or 8 weeks after the procedure. The remaining volumes of normal saline at 2, 4, and 8 weeks were 10.50%, 2.00%, and 0.00%; fibrin glue, 20.50%, 9.00%, and 2.50%; hyaluronic acid filler, 82.00%, 35.00%, and 17.33%; and PRFM filler, 70.31%, 26.75%, and 14.37%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: PRFM filler had a high soft-tissue filling capacity compared with the control. It also showed a similar effect to hyaluronic acid filler. Thus, PRFM filler could be a good alternative for correcting soft-tissue deficits.

Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 Presenting as Male Infertility

Myotonic dystrophy 1 (DM1) is a multi-system disorder characterized by endocrine defects that include testicular and tubular atrophy, oligospermia and azoospermia, and increased follicle-stimulating hormone levels. We describe a rare case of DM1 presenting as infertility in a 29-year-old man.

Standard Type Cemented Hemiarthroplasty with Double Loop and Tension Band Wiring for Unstable Intertrochanteric Fractures in the Elderly

PURPOSE: To determine follow-up results for elderly patients with osteoporosis that received standard cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty with double loop and tension band wiring for treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between May 2000 and May 2006, 86 cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasties were done in elderly patients who had unstable intertrochanteric fractures. The mean age at the time of surgery was 82 years. The average follow-up period was 5.3 years. We evaluated post-operative results by clinical and radiographic methods. RESULTS: At the final follow-up, the mean Harris hip score was 79.2. The mean time needed for full weight bearing following surgery was 4.2 weeks and 82.5 % of patients regained their preoperative level of ambulation. All patients achieved union in the lesser trochanter fracture, but substantial trochanter displacement was observed in 4 cases. There was one case of acetabular erosion. Superficial infections were found Post-operatively in 2 cases. One case with stem subsidence (<5 mm) showed satisfactory results without subsidence in further follow-ups. CONCLUSION: If cemented bipolar hemiarthroplasty is properly applied in the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric hip fractures in the elderly, systematic postoperative rehabilitation, and pain control can be achieved.

Muscular System of Depressor Septi Nasi: Anatomical Study and Clinical Application

Hyper-activated depressor septi nasi is an important factor caused a nasal tip drooping and many studies have been carried out, however it still remains controversial. This study presents a surgical modality for its intervention, based on the anatomical study. Eleven fixed and six fresh cadavers were used for the study. We found that the depressor septi nasi was consisted of three fascicles. Medial fascicles were inserted into the dermocartilaginous ligament, and deep fibers of the medial fascicles were attached to the anterior nasal spine. After superficial fibers were interdigitated with the orbicularis oris, they were attached to the alveolar bone. Intermedial fascicles were inserted to the footplates of the medial cruses and the caudal septum. After they were interdigitated with the medial fascicle and the orbicularis oris, they were attached to the alveolar bone. From April to August 2008, five patients had surgical intervention for hyper-activated depressor septi nasi. Medial and intermedial fascicles were detached completely from the anterior nasal spine and the septum through intranasal approach. Tip droopings were improved in all cases. Specific complications were not found. We believe that surgical intervention through intranasal approach is a useful method for correction of tip drooping.

Staged Management of High Energy Proximal Tibia Fractures with Severe Soft Tissue Damage

PURPOSE: To find out the efficiency of two staged operation of patients with high energy proximal tibia fracture with severe soft tissue damage, the first step being external fixation, and the second, internal fixation with plates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study group was the 42 patients who had followed for one year out of a group of 56, performed the first step external fixation and the second step internal fixation with plates retrospectively, from March 2003 to March 2007. The average age of the study group was 51.4, 26 men, and 16 women participating in this study. The average time of follow up was 32 months. In the final follow up, investigations of the radiological assessments and functional abilities of the bony fusion were carried out along with the complications of the soft tissue. RESULTS: The duration after the first step external fixation until second step internal fixation to be performed was 14.9 (6~40) days in average. The final bone fusion took about 15 weeks, and according to the final follow up, the range of motion of the knee was around 110.8 degrees (6.2~117 degrees). In 31 cases, only the internal fixation was performed, while in 11 cases, soft tissue reconstruction was carried out with the internal fixations. As for the complications there were 2 cases of deep soft tissue infection, 2 cases of nonunion, 1 case of malunion and 1 case of knee joint stiffness. CONCLUSION: In cases of proximal tibia fracture with severe soft tissue damage, external fixation was important to secure the safety of the fracture, carry forward the anatomical alignment, plan the soft tissue safety and manage the wound to decrease the number of microbial in the next operation, which is the internal fixation with plates.

Reconstruction of the Recurrent Ischial Sore with Modified Gluteus Maximus Myocutaneous V-Y Advancement Flap

PURPOSE: Recurrent ischial pressure sore is troublesome for adequate soft tissue coverage, because usually its pocket has a very large deep space and adjacent donor tissue has been scarred in the previous surgery. However, the conventional reconstructive methods are very difficult to overcome them. Modified gluteus maximus myocutaneous V-Y advancement flap from buttock can be successfully used in these circumstances. METHODS: From February 2007 to October 2008, modified gluteus maximus myocutaneous V-Y advancement flaps were performed in 10 paraplegic patients with recurrent ischial pressure sore. The myocutaneous flap based on the inferior gluteal artery was designed in V-shaped pattern toward the superolateral aspect of buttock and was elevated from adjacent tissue. Furthermore, when additional muscular bulk was required to obliterate dead space, the flap dissection was extended to the inferolateral aspect which can included the adequate amount of the gluteal muscle. After the advanced flap was located in sore pocket, donor defect was repaired primarily. RESULTS: The patients' mean age was 46.9 and the average follow-up period was 12.4 months. The immediate postoperative course was uneventful. But, two patients were treated through readvancement of previous flap due to wound dehiscence or recurrence after 6 months. The long-term results were satisfied in proper soft tissue bulk and low recurrence rate. CONCLUSIONS: The modified gluteus maximus myocutaneous V-Y advancement flap may be a reliable method in reconstruction of recurrent ischial pressure sore, which were surrounded by scarred tissue because of its repetitive surgeries and were required to provide sufficient volume of soft tissue to fill the large pocket.

Clinical Experience of Three-dimensional Reconstruction Using Free TRAM Flap after Total Maxillectomy with Orbital Exenteration

PURPOSE: Extensive midface defect following total maxillectomy with orbital exenteration and cheek skin resection should be three dimensionally reconstructed with a large flap that have a sufficient volume of tissue and multiple skin islands. We describe our transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous(TRAM) free flap with three skin islands which was successfully used in this situation. METHODS: A 58-year-old man was performed enbloc total maxillectomy including orbital contents and wide cheek skin because of invasive maxillary squamous cell carcinoma. He was immediately reconstructed with TRAM flap that was designed not vertical but transverse fashion for providing sufficient skin area. Also, deepithelialization procedure making for multiple skin islands was done in flap insetting period when appropriate modification according to the intraoperative situation was possible. Dead space was completely obliterated by bulky muscular tissue, and three skin islands were used for lining of lateral nasal wall, palatal surface, and cheek skin restoration. RESULTS: Postoperative course was satisfying. Maintaining of proper ipsilateral nasal airway, loss of rhinolalia and oronasal regurgitation of food particles, and restoration of cheek contour were successfully obtained. CONCLUSION: We report clinical experience of threedimensional reconstruction using free TRAM flap after total maxillectomy with orbital exenteration.

Reconstruction of the Large Conchal Bowl Defect Using a Postauricular Pull-Through Transpositional Flap / 대한이비인후과학회지

Malignant lesions of external ear are most commonly excised with histologic margin control. But each ear defect is unique and the surgeon often faces a reconstructive challenge after tumor excision. Recently, we experienced a case of auricle cancer developed in 80 year old man with ulcerated lesion on conchal bowl, which was reconstructed with postauricular pull-through flap. We report this case with a review of the literature.

Treatment of Intraoperative Thrombosis and Spasm in Free Tissue Transfers Using the Fogarty Catheter

PURPOSE: Microvascular free tissue transfer has become a reliable technique for the reconstruction of complex wounds. Occasionally, unexpected intraoperative thrombosis and/or spasm of recipient artery might be annoying problems even for the technically competent microvascular surgeons. If such problems are not treated properly, they will inevitably cause to flap failure. METHODS: From January 2006 to February 2007, soft tissue reconstructions by free tissue transfers were performed on 21 patients having complex defects in the lower extremity. Although segmental revision and various pharmacologic agents were repeatedly applied, arterial occlusions were not managed in 6 cases. For removal of thrombi and release of spasm, Fogarty No. 2 or No. 3 catheters were inserted into the lumen to the proximal recipient artery. Its balloon was then inflated after passing through a resistant area. Next, the catheter was gently withdrawn backward. RESULTS: After the Fogarty catheter was inserted two or three times, the pulsatile arterial flow was restored. When the catheter was inserted into the lumen, a feeling of resistance existed in a 5-10cm more proximal portion that could not be easily accessed from the vascular end. After the reestablishment of blood flow, successful anastomoses were achieved and immediate rethrombosis or spasm did not occur. No long-term sequelae associated with balloon trauma to the arterial wall were observed. CONCLUSION: The use of the Fogarty catheter can be an effective method in treating pedicle thrombosis and spasm. This is a very simple and rapid technique that offers microvascular surgeons another option to increase the success rate of microvascular anastomosis in free tissue transfers.

The Correction of Inverted Nipple Using Modified Purse-string Suture

PURPOSE: An inverted nipple presents both cosmetic and functional problems. It is a source of repeated irritation and inflammation, and interferes with nursing. In addition, its abnormal appearance may cause psychological distress. With consideration of its underlying pathophysiologic components and severity, a number of techniques have been introduced for correction of this anomaly. The diversity of techniques indicates the lack of a good, sustainable, and durable solution for this quite common problem. We report our method as an alternative solution for correcting of the inverted nipple. METHODS: From August 2003 to November 2007, 273 nipples in 147 patients were treated. 126 patients had bilateral inverted nipples. Patient age at the operation ranged from 21 to 63 years(mean age, 34 years). All nipples were congenital anomaly. 45 nipples were graded as grade I, 179 nipples as II, and 49 nipples as III. In the our study, we made some modification to the classic purse-string suture: (1) twice purse-string suture: (2) excision of diamond-shaped skin at the nipple neck: (3) buried suture of the breast parenchyma at the nipple base: (4) some timely release of retraction using Bovie's electrocautery dissection at inner surface of the nipple neck. RESULTS: The operation time averaged 15 minutes. The mean follow-up period ranged from 3 to 48 months, with an average of 8.4 months. There were no complications associated with the surgery, such as infection, hematoma, permanent sensory disturbance, or total nipple necrosis except temporary sensory loss in 9 cases, partial nipple necrosis in 7 cases, and recurred inversion in 15 cases. All patients except recurred inversion were satisfied with their results. CONCLUSION: We believe that our modified purse- string suture is a reliable, simple, safe, and effective method for correcting the inverted nipple.

Resurfacing the Large Penoscrotal Defects with Various Local Flaps after Ablation of Extramammary Paget's Disease

PURPOSE: Penoscrotal extramammary Paget's disease is a rare cutaneous malignancy that primarily affects the elderly. To prevent local recurrence, adequate surgical excision with its intraoperative frozen section, proper reconstruction, and careful follow-ups are required. The present study describes the treatment of patients with penoscrotal extramammary Paget's disease, focusing on the reconstruction after the ablation of lesion. METHODS: Nine patients were selected who had undergone a local pedicle flap procedure due to the large defects after ablation of extramammary Paget's disease of the penoscrotal area, during the period of 1999 to 2005. Wide excision combined with intraoperative frozen sectioning was performed, and the penoscrotal wound was reconstructed with a local skin flap. Three flaps were chosen depending on the size of the defect. If the defect size was small and the scrotal tissue was adequate, scrotal flap(n=5) was enough for its reconstruction. However, as there were large defects with insufficient remnant scrotal tissue, a groin flap(n=2) or an anterolateral thigh flap(n=2) were performed. RESULTS: There were no complications with the postoperative wound. Furthermore, no local recurrence was noted during two to six years of follow-up period (mean average 3.7 years). CONCLUSION: For the resurfacing the penoscrotum at large defects after ablation of extramammary Paget's disease, we performed reconstruction with a local flap. In the aspect of both function and cosmetic concerns, the results were satisfactory.

Reconstruction of Proximal Nasal and Medial Canthal defects with Island Composite Glabellar Flaps

PURPOSE: It is difficult to reconstruct nasal root defects because of complicated anatomy and function of the nose and eyelids, donor site morbidities, and aesthetic results. So, choosing suitable one of various reconstructive methods is very important and difficult. We report the island composite glabellar flap as an alternative reconstructive method of proximal nasal and medial canthal area. METHODS: From May 2005 to January 2007, we performed 8 cases of the island composite glabellar flap to reconstruct the defects in proximal nasal and medial canthal area after resection of skin cancer. The flap was elevated with the nasal skin, subcutaneous fat tissue, and procerus muscle based on the dorsal nasal branch of the angular artery. The flap donor site was closed in a V-Y fashion. RESULTS: This result was satisfactory in point of color, texture and donor site scar. There was no major complication such as wound disruption, hematoma, and atrophy of flap. But flap bulkiness was observed in one case. CONCLUSIONS: This island composite glabellar flap has several advantages in reconstruction of proximal nasal and medial canthal defects. This flap has reliable vascular pedicle and can be moved to multiple direction and has more mobility than other local flaps. Also, aesthetic outcome of the donor and the recipient site was good. We believe that this flap is a useful technique as a treatment of proximal nasal and medial canthal defects

Retroangular Flap for Midface Reconstruction

PURPOSE: To report our experience of retro-angular flap for reconstruction of the midface defect. The midface, including nose, lower eyelid, and intercanthal area, is the very prominent area of face. Also midface is more vulnerable to trauma and skin cancer and defect of mid face of highly perceptible. Reconstruction of mid face is difficult because of complexity of anatomy and functions. Following factors should be considered in reconstructive prcedure of midface. First, multiple procedure may need for complete the reconstruction of mid face defect. Second, secondary reconstructive surgeries such as flap rotation or skin graft may need for donor site morbidity. Third, the color, texture and thickness of the skin used are not always complacency. METHODS: 8 cases of the midface defects (3 cases of lower eyelid, 1 case of intercanthal area, and 4 cases of nose) from skin cancer were reconstructed with retroangular flap from March 2004 to August 2005. RESULTS: Satisfactory result were obtained in color, texture and donor site scar. There was no major complication such as wound disruption, hematoma, and atrophy of flap. But partial necrosis of flap and bulkiness were observed one case in each. Retroangular flap is simple procedure that can be preceded in one stage under local anesthesia closing primary wound closure. It will leave less visible donor scar, acceptable color, texture and thickness of the skin. CONCLUSION: The retro-angular flap could be suggested as a safe and effective method for midface reconstruction.

Clinical Applications of Peroneal Perforator Flap

The perforator flaps are based on cutaneous vessels which are originated from a main pedicle and penetrate fascia or muscle to reach the skin. The lateral lower leg is one of the most suitable areas for harvesting perforator flaps because a number of perforator vessels exist. The authors applied peroneal perforator flaps in nine patients. Five flaps were reverse island flaps based on peroneal artery and septocutaneous perforator, and four flaps were free flap based on musculocutaneous perforator only. The recipient site was the posterior ankle in three patients, posterior heel in three patients, lateral malleolus, anterolateral ankle, and foot dorsum in one patient each. The flap size ranged from 5 to 12cm long, from 3 to 5cm wide, and the primary closure of the donor site was possible in most cases. All flaps, except for the flap in two patients in the reverse island flap series, survived completely. The peroneal perforator flap is a very thin, pliable flap with minimal donor site morbidity and is suitable for the reconstruction of small and medium sized superficial skin defects. Also, this flap may be considered as an alternative to radial forearm flap or other perforator flaps.

A Case of Trichoblastic Fibroma at the Cheek

PURPOSE: Trichoblastic fibroma originates from hair germ layer tumor which is a benign tumor mixture of epidermal and mesodermal factor. Trichoblastic fibroma was found only in adults and showed equal occurrence rate between men and women. Since it is a rare tumor, we report a case of a trichoblastic fibroma which developed on the right cheek. METHODS: A 72 year-old male was treated with excisional operation 17 years ago due to a solitary tumor that developed on the same site. He returned to the hospital with an asymptomatic mass which have been increasing in size for the last 3 months. RESULTS: In computerized tomography, a size of 2.7 x 2.3 x 0.8cm tumor was found in the subcutaneous tissue layer. Grossly, the mass was well-circumscribed, smooth-surfaced and flesh colored, and was lobulated and fragile. Pathologic observation showed diverse shaped and sized tumor cell nests and fibrocellular stroma consisting basophilic cells in dermal and subdermal layers. Immunohistopathologic staining showed positive reaction on pancytokeratin, CK-5/6, and bcl-2. CONCLUSION: By having no connection to the epidermis, and being positioned in the dermal and epidermal layers, typical pathologic findings make it possible to differentiate this tumor with basal cell carcinoma. This lesion is not clear whether it is a local recurrence or not, and it is necessary to observe a new recurrence in the future.

New Instruments and Techniques for Obtaining Septal Cartilage in Rhinoplasties

A symmetric approach, using external rhinoplasty, is presented to aid the plastic surgeon in obtaining improved aesthetic and functional results in patients with postoperative nasal deformities. The external approach yields a full visualization of the underlying nasal framework and intraoperative evaluation of the deformities to be corrected subsequently. The nasal septal cartilage is unequivocally one of the best graft sources for reconstruction of the dorsum, columella or tip. It has fairly even surface and pliability in carving and shaping the graft. The graft can be obtained during the surgery with less morbidity and prepared easily for need of the shape. The only real disadvantage is the limited amount of cartilage that can be obtained from the septum. The dorsal and caudal rims, one or more cm in width, of the nasal septum should not be disturbed to maintain the nasal frame during harvesting the septal graft. Authors invented novel instruments, J & D knife and Flat (Spatula) suction tip, and have employed the devices for harvesting the septal cartilage. We were unable to gain enough amount of the cartilage by using a swivel knife or cartilage scissors. The septal cartilage can be resected as much as needed with newly invented instruments which facilitate a separation(method) technique.

The Availability of Gore-Tex(R) Tube as Nerve Conduit at the Peripheral Nerve Defect

When a large peripheral nerve defect occurs, an autologous nerve graft is the most ideal method of recinstruction. But an autologous nerve graft has many limitations due to donor site morbidities. Many previous focused on finding the ideal nerve conduit. Among them, Gore-Tex(R) has several advantages over other conduits. It can be manipulated to a suitable size, does not collapse easily, and it is a semi- permeable material that contain pores. A round shaped nerve can be newly formed because of its smooth inner surface. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the availability of Gore-Tex(R) tube as a nerve conduit at the peripheral nerve defect in the rat sciatic nerve. The 10 mm nerve gap was made in each group. A Gore-Tex(R) tube filled with skeletal muscle was inserted and autologous nerve graft was harvested, respectively. In the experimental group, we placed a 0.5mm thickness, 30micrometer pored, 1.8mm in diameter and 14mm length tube with skeletal muscle inserted inside. In the control group, the nerve gap was inserted with a rat sciatic nerve. We estimated the results electrophysiologically and histologically to 16 weeks postoperatively. Results in the nerve conduction velocity, total myelinated axon count, myelin sheath thickness and mean nerve fiber diameter, the experimental group was substantially lower than that of the control group, but the statistic difference was not significant (p<0.05). The morphology was very similar in both groups, microscopically. From the above results, We conclude that Gore-Tex(R) qualifies as an ideal nerve conduit. It is suggested that Gore-Tex(R) tube filled with skeletal muscle may, substitute for an autologous nerve graft.

Clinical Experience of Hyperfibrosis Occurred after Silicone Implant Insertion

Facial depression is not rare conditions caused by soft tissue loss or bone distortion. In such conditions, autogenous bone, cartilage and bioacceptible materials are used for soft tissue augmentation. De Nicola used silicone rubber implant first in 1950. That after, silicone implants are used for bone defect and soft tissue augmentation. We experienced 31-year-old male patient who injured open depressed fracture of right temporal bone. He was operated with autogenous bone graft for bone defect area and silicone implants for soft tissue augmentation. After about 6 years later, mass palpated in right temporal area. There was no inflammatory sign in physical examination and CT finding. So we removed hyperfibrotic tissue totally with previous inserted silicone implants and augmented soft tissue with pored Medpor(R) block. In light microscopic findings, only tissue hyperfibrosis were proved without inflammatory cell, such as giant cell or ephithelioid cell.

The Significance of the Cornal incision in Treatment of Complex Zygormatic Fractures

Restoration of anteroposterior projection of the zygomatic body and facial width are key elements in treatment of complex zygomatic fractures. Traditionally, it has been understood that for most fractures of the zygoma, three-point fixation of the zygomaticofrontal suture, inferior orbital rim, and zygomaticomaxillary buttress generally produces exact structural restoration. Recently, the importance of accurate reduction of the zygomatic arch through coronal incision has been favored in complex zygomatic fractures. Though coronal incision has the advantages of accurate reduction and fixation as a result of extensive exposure of the fractured area, this procedure also has many disadvantages including injury to the facial nerve, paresthesia, alopecia, scar formation, longer operating time, protracted hospitalization, etc. As well, there have been no objective data to prove the fact that four-point fixation through coronal incision is superior to traditional three-point fixation. From May, 1994 to December, 1998, the authors treated 45 patients by traditional three-point (n=20) and coronal four-point fixation (n=25) with random sampling. To assess the difference between the two methods the authors measured the axial angle of the zygoma, the axial angle of the zygomatic arch, and the degree of zygomatic arch inclination on submentovertex X-ray, and then analyzed the measurements by the paired T-test(p < 0.05). As a result, the axial angle of the zygoma and zygomatic arch assessed by anteroposterior projection, as well as the facial width showed no statistical difference between the two groups, respectively(p = 0.26, p = 0.18). Mean while, the degree of zygomatic arch inclination representing the local contour of the fractured zygomatic arch was statistically significant between the two groups(p < 0.05). Thus, the traditional three-point fixation method may be widely acceptable in treatment of complex zygomatic fractures with anterior three-point or zygomatic arch comminution.

A Case Report of Frontometaphyseal Dysplasia

Frontometaphyseal dysplasia is an uncommon genetic syndrome affecting bone and connective tissue. This condition is characterized by the prominence of supraorbital ridges, hyperostosis of the skull, mandibular hypoplasia and malocclusion with antegonial notching, underdeveloped paranasal flaring of the long bone, and a widened iliac wing. Frontometaphyseal dysplasia has an X-linked dominant trait. Clinical manifestations are more severe in males and have extreme variability in females. We present an 11-year-old boy who had frontometaphyseal dysplasia with disfigured face due to bilaterally urinary tract malformation and chronic urinary tract infection. To improve facial appearance, his prominent supraorbital ridges were contoured by ostectomy and burring through bicoronal incision. Urologic operation was performed simultaneously. Histologically, resected bony specimen revealed bony tissue with normal trabecular pattern suggesting exostotic bone. The patient healed without any postoperative complications and he and his parents were satisfied with his final facial morphology.