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A case of Pott’s paraplegia of sudden onset and of more than two months duration in an aged female, treated by a novel surgical technique of anterior decompression and local kyphotic angle correction by spinal pedicular fixation is presented here. A 52 year female with Pott’s paraplegia, ASIA-A with sphincters involvement and with flexor spasm, was treated by surgical intervention, in a single operation of two stages, the first by provisional posterior pedicular fixation and the second stage by anterolateral decompression and correcting the local kyphotic angle by cyclic changing the rods in increments of 5 degrees in compressive mode. The paravertebral abscess of opposite side was sucked out and at the end a tricortical bone graft harvested from iliac crest was impacted in between the space created by pedicular fixation maneuver in course of correcting kyphosis. There was steady dramatic improvement of clinical and neurological status within three weeks. Kyphotic correction was maintained with anterior tricortical interbody bone graft impacted in position. The novel surgical technique that is adopted for decompression, drainage including paravertebral abscess of opposite side, debridement and local kyphotic angle correction along with interbody bone graft fusion, in this case, offered a satisfactory outcome in spite of poor prognostic factors.
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Abstract Objective To evaluate if there is a significant difference in the outcomes of isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in patients with or without associated anterolateral ligament (ALL) injury. Methods We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study through the analysis of medical records and the application of the questionnaires of the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Form to patients undergoing isolated ACL reconstruction. Results The 52 participants included were divided into two groups: 19 with associated ALL injury and 33 with no associated ALL injury. None of the patients with associated ALL injury suffered an ACL rerupture, and 21.1% presented injuries to other knee structures after surgery. Among the patients with no associated injury, 6.1% suffered ACL rerupture, and 18.2% presented injuries to other structures after surgery (p = 0.544). Return to activities at the same level as that of the preoperative period occurred in 60% of the patients with associated ALL injury and in 72% of those with no associated injury (p = 0.309). The mean score on the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale was of 81.6 points in patients with associated ALL injury, and of 90.1 in those with no associated injury (p = 0.032). The mean score on the IKDC Subjective Knee Form was of 70.3 points in patients with associated ALL injury and of 76.7 in those with no associated injury (p = 0.112). Conclusion There was no statistically significant difference regarding graft injuries or new injuries to other structures, satisfaction with the operated knee, or the score on the IKDC Subjective Knee Form. Return to activity was similar in the groups with and without associated ALL injuries. The scores on the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale were better, with a statistically significant difference in the group with no associated ALL injuries.
Resumo Objetivo Avaliar se há diferença significativa nos resultados da reconstrução isolada do ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) em pacientes com e sem lesão associada do ligamento anterolateral (LAL). Métodos Foi realizado um estudo transversal retrospectivo com análise de prontuários e aplicação dos questionários da Escala de Pontuação do Joelho de Lysholm e do Formulário Subjetivo de Joelho do International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) a pacientes com reconstrução isolada do LCA. Resultados Os 52 participantes incluídos foram separados em 2 grupos: 19 com lesão associada do LAL e 33 sem lesão associada. Nenhum paciente com lesão associada do LAL sofreu rerruptura do LCA, e 21,1% tiveram lesões em outras estruturas do joelho após a cirurgia. Entre os pacientes sem lesão associada, 6,1% sofreram rerruptura do LCA, e 18,2% tiveram lesões em outras estruturas após a cirurgia (p = 0,544). O retorno às atividades no mesmonível do quenopré-operatóriofoi observadoem60% dos pacientes com lesão associada do LAL e em 72% daqueles sem lesão associada (p = 0,309). Na Escala de Pontuação do Joelho de Lysholm, os pacientes com lesão associada do LAL obtiveram média de 81,6 pontos, e os sem lesão associada, média de 90,1 pontos (p = 0,032). No Formulário Subjetivo de Joelho do IKDC, os pacientes com lesão associada do LAL obtiveram média de 70,3 pontos, e os sem lesão associada, média de 76,7 pontos (p = 0,112). Conclusão Não foi observada diferença estatística significativa quanto a lesões do enxerto ou novas lesões de outras estruturas, satisfação com o joelho operado ou pontuação no Formulário Subjetivo de Joelho do IKDC. Oretorno às atividades foi semelhante nos grupos com e sem lesão associada do LAL, e os resultados na Escala de Pontuação do Joelho de Lysholm foram melhores, com diferença estatística significativa no gruposem lesãoassociada do LAL.
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The innovative concept of employing "Megaflaps", large free flaps, in particular the anterolateral thigh megaflap, for the reconstruction of large surface defects remains relatively unexplored. Although the theoretical value of "megaflaps" is recognized, their documentation remains limited. Microsurgical free flaps are essential for treating musculotendinous, osseous, and vasculonervous injuries. The appeal of these flaps lies in their minimal donor site morbidity, which offers an alternative approach. Taking advantage of the intricate anatomy of the lateral femoral circumflex artery and its branches facilitates the creation of large surface area flaps.
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Objective To compare the value of standard coronal MRI and multi-planar reconstruction(MPR)images for evaluation of anterolateral ligament(ALL).Methods Data of 130 patients who underwent knee joint MR examination were retrospectively analyzed,including standard coronal MRI and MPR images.ALL were identified on standard coronal MRI and MPR images and classified as fully visible,partially visible or invisible.The visibility of bilateral ALL on both standard coronal MRI and MPR images were compared,while Kappa test was used to evaluate the consistency on both kinds of images.Results Among 130 cases,on standard coronal MRI and MPR images,the left ALL was fully visible in 83 and 93 cases,partially visible in 21 and 12 cases but invisible cases in 26 and 25 cases,respectively,while the right side ALL was fully visible in 66 and 80 cases,partially visible cases in 29 and 15 cases but invisible cases each in 35 cases,respectively.Significant difference of visibility of bilateral ALL were found between standard coronal MRI and MPR images(both P＜0.05),both with excellent consistency(both Kappa＞0.80).Conclusion MPR could display bilateral ALL better than standard coronal MRI.If the scanning conditions for MPR could not be met,standard coronal MRI might be used to evaluate ALL rather accurately.
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Objective:To investigate the application of 3-D ultrasonography enabled by a wide band linear matrix array volume transducer in the localisation of perforating vessels of a free anterolateral thigh perforator flap (ALTPF) before surgery, and to guide microsurgeons in precise design and harvest of a ALTPF.Methods:From May 2020 to October 2022, a retrospective study was carried out on 35 patients who had soft tissue defects and undertaken free ALTPF surgery in Department of Foot and Ankle Surgery, Wuxi No.9 People's Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University. ALTPFs were transfered for reconstruction of soft tissue defects of foot in 25 patients and of ankle in 10 patients. The age of patients were 20 to 66 years old. The defects were 11.0 cm×8.0 cm-28.0 cm×9.0 cm in size. The sizes of ALTPFs were at 12.0 cm×9.0 cm-29.0 cm×10.0 cm. Before surgery, ultrasound scans with a wide band linear matrix array volume transducer were performed to locate the perforating vessels. The 3-D ultrasound images showing the perforating vessels of ALTPFs were acquired and the number, location and classification of the perforating vessels were saved. After the appropriate perforating vessels had been determined, ALTPFs were designed for precisely intraoperative incision. The accuracy of preoperative location of perforating vessels by the linear matrix array volume ultrasound transducer was investigated in surgery. All patients received the scheduled postoperative follow-up at outpatient clinics.Results:Of the 72 perforating vessels discovered in surgery, 70 matched with those being located by ultrasound before surgery. It was found that a total of 67 perforating vessels located before surgery by ultrasonography were consistently mapped with the perforators discovered in surgery. Of the 67 consistently mapped perforating vessels, 19 were Kimura type I, 27 of Kimura type II and 21 of Kimura type III perforators. The rate of sensitivity and positive prediction were 95.7% and 93.1%, respectively, in the preoperative localisation of perforating vessels of ALTPFs with a wide band linear matrix array volume ultrasound transducer. Twenty-five ALTPFs were harvested subfascially and 10 superfascially. Average size of ALTPFs was 17.7 cm × 8.6 cm. The perforating vessels revealed during the harvest of all ALTPFs were basically consistent with the preoperative 3-D ultrasound. All flaps survived after surgery without any incident. The postoperative follow-up lasted 8 to 20 months, with 12.7 months in average.Conclusion:The 3-D ultrasonography with a wide band linear matrix array volume ultrasound transducer can accurately locate the perforating vessels of ALTPF before surgery. This technique has many advantages in the design and harvest of super-thin ALTPFs.
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Objective:To evaluate the viability and clinical effect of polyfoliate anterolateral thigh perforator flap (ALTPF) in reconstruction of large soft tissue defect around ankle.Methods:From June 2019 to October 2022, large soft tissue defects around ankle of 11 patients were reconstructed with ALTPF in the Department of Orthopaedics of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University. The causes of injury were traffic accident in 8 patients and heavy objects in 3 patients. All wounds were large defects (15.0 cm×14.0 cm-30.0 cm×20.0 cm) and combined with various degrees of infection. Intraoperatively, polyfoliate ALTPFs sized 16.0 cm×14.5 cm-23.0 cm×18.5 cm were used in reconstruction of the defects. Deep dead spaces were filled with antibiotic bone cement, and direct suture was performed to close the donor sites or by skin grafting repair. Postoperative follow-ups were scheduled at 1, 3 and 6 months, and 6 monthly thereafter at outpatient clinics and via telephone interviews. The appearance and colour of the flaps and healing of donor sites were recorded together with evaluation of the recovery of ankle motor function according to the ankle-hindfoot rating scale of American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS).Results:All flaps survived. No haematoma or secondary infection occurred at the recipient site after surgery. All donor sites healed primarily. One patient had venous occlusion at the distal end of the polyfoliate ALTPF. The flap survived completely at 1 week after distal venous bloodletting. Postoperative follow-ups lasted 6-24 (15.27±5.21) months. All flaps had good blood supply with satisfactory appearance, similar colour and texture to the recipient sites, and without obvious bloat nor ulceration. Only a linear scar or few skin graft scar was left at the flap donor sites in concealed locations. The mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was (88.36±10.21) point. There were 6 cases of excellent, 4 cases of good, and 1 case of fair.Conclusion:A polyfoliate ALTPF is an ideal flap for reconstruction of soft tissue defects around ankle by converting the length of a flap to the width.
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Objective:To investigate the feasibility and clinical effects of the application of augmented reality (AR) navigation on assisted design of the chimeric twin-paddled anterolateral thigh perforator flap (ALTPF) in reconstruction of soft tissue defects in extremities.Methods:From June 2017 to June 2023, 8 patients with soft tissue defects in extremities received reconstruction of chimeric twin-paddled ALTPF designed with the assistance of AR navigation in Department of Hand & Foot Microsurgery Orthopaedics, Guigang City People’s Hospital. All of them were traffic accidents or machine injuries, with 3 cases of calf, 2 cases of ankle, 1 case of foot, and 2 cases of hand defects. All the wounds were wide or irregular (defect sized 14 cm×14 cm-25 cm×13 cm). The images of bilateral thighs were acquired by CT angiography preoperatively. The dominant side and dominant perforators were selected. Three dimensional reconstruction was performed by Mimics software. AR technology was applied to guide the design and harvest of the chimeric twin-paddled ALTPF. Flap area was 15 cm × 16 cm to 26 cm × 14 cm. The donor site was sutured directly. Follow-up with outpatient visits or WeChat images and videos at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively to record the appearance, colour, texture, recurrence of infection, and knee extension function of the flap donor site.Results:According to the preoperative design, the perforator flaps were harvested and transferred in all the 8 patients. All flaps survived and the recipient and donor sites healed in one stage. All patients entered postoperative follow-up for 3 to 12 (mean, 8.6)months. The colour and texture of the flaps were excellent, and the appearance of donor and recipient sites was satisfactory. Two patients with hand injuries were evaluated using the brief Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ), with scores of 43.74 and 81.25, respectively. Six patients with lower limb injuries were evaluated using the Maryland foot score, with scores of 2 excellent, 3 good and 1 fair.Conclusion:The application of AR navigation can effectively assist the design of a chimeric twin-paddled ALTPF. It also provides an effective basis for clinical personalised flap design.
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Objective:To explore the clinical effects of end-to-side anastomosis of non-primary perforating vessels carried by free anterolateral thigh perforator flap (ALTPF) in reconstruction of soft tissue of limb.Methods:Between February 2020 and July 2021, 14 patients with soft tissue defect of limb were admitted in the Department of Hand and Foot Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College. The patients were 12 males and 2 females, aged between 30 and 69 years old, with a median age of 52 years old. One defect was found in left hand, 7 in left foot and ankle and 6 in right foot and ankle. Wound sizes were 7 cm×7 cm-9 cm×22 cm, all accompanied with exposed tendons, nerves or bone tissue. The size of flaps ranged from 8 cm×8 cm to 10 cm×23 cm. ALTPFs carrying non-primary source vessels were applied in reconstruction of soft tissue defects. The non-primary perforating vessels of ALTPF was anastomosed with the artery in recipient site in an end-to-side fashion and the vein of ALTPF was end-to-end anastomosed with the accompanying vein of the recipient artery. All donor sites were sutured directly. The follow-up was conducted by online reviews via WeChat or by visit of outpatient clinics. Appearance of flap and donor site were observed and the aesthetic satisfaction of the patients recipient sites were assessed subjectively using Likert scale.Results:All 14 ALTPFs survived uneventfully. Wound exudation occurred in 1 flap, and healed after dressing change and drainage. All patients received 9-18 (mean 12.6) months of follow-up. The ALTPFs were in good texture and shape. According to the Likert scale, appearance were excellent in 4 flaps, good in 8 flaps and fair in 2 flaps.Conclusion:Application of free ALTPF of non-primary source vessels with end-to-side anastomosis is not only effective in the reconstruction of limb defects, but also has advantages of reliable blood perfusion and cosmetic appearance.
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OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the clinical application of high-frequency color Doppler ultrasound (HFCDU) in detecting perforators in the deep adipose layers for harvesting super-thin anterolateral thigh flap (ALTF).@*METHODS@#Between August 2019 and January 2023, 45 patients (46 sides) with skin and soft tissue defects in the foot and ankle were treated, including 29 males and 16 females, aged from 22 to 62 years, with an average of 46.7 years. The body mass index ranged from 19.6 to 36.2 kg/m 2, with an average of 23.62 kg/m 2. The causes of injury included traffic accident injury in 15 cases, heavy object crush injury in 20 cases, mechanical injury in 8 cases, heat crush injury in 1 case, and chronic infection in 1 case. There were 20 cases on the left side, 24 cases on the right side, and 1 case on both sides. After thorough debridement, the wound size ranged from 5 cm×4 cm to 17 cm×11 cm. All patients underwent free super-thin ALTF transplantation repair. HFCDU was used to detect the location of the perforators piercing the deep and superficial fascia, as well as the direction and branches of the perforators within the deep adipose layers before operation. According to the preoperative HFCDU findings, the dimensions of the super-thin ALTF ranged from 6 cm×4 cm to 18 cm×12 cm. The donor sites of the flaps were directly sutured.@*RESULTS@#A total of 55 perforators were detected by HFCDU before operation, but 1 was not found during operation. During operation, a total of 56 perforators were found, and 2 perforators were not detected by HFCDU. The positive predictive value of HFCDU for identifying perforator vessels was 98.2%, and the sensitivity was 96.4%. Among the 54 perforators accurately located by HFCDU, the orientation of the perforators in the deep adipose layers was confirmed during operation. There were 21 perforators (38.9%) traveled laterally and inferiorly, 12 (22.2%) traveled medially and inferiorly, 14 (25.9%) traveled laterally and superiorly, 5 (9.3%) traveled medially and superiorly, and 2 (3.7%) ran almost vertically to the body surface. Among the 54 perforators accurately located by HFCDU, 35 were identified as type 1 perforators and 12 as type 2 perforators (HFCDU misidentified 7 type 2 perforators as type 1 perforators). The sensitivity of HFCDU in identifying type 1 perforators was 100%, with a positive predictive value of 83.3%. For type 2 perforators, the sensitivity was 63.2%, and the positive predictive value was 100%. The surgeries were successfully completed. The super-thin ALTF had a thickness ranging from 2 to 6 mm, with an average of 3.56 mm. All super-thin ALTF survived, however, 1 flap experienced a venous crisis at 1 day after operation, but it survived after emergency exploration and re-anastomosis of the veins; 1 flap developed venous crisis at 3 days after operation but survived after bleeding with several small incisions; 3 flaps had necrosis at the distal edge of the epidermis, which healed after undergoing dressing changes. All 45 patients were followed up 6-18 months (mean, 13.6 months). Three flaps required secondary defatting procedures, while the rest had the appropriate thickness, and the overall appearance was satisfactory.@*CONCLUSION@#Preoperative application of HFCDU to detect the perforator in the deep adipose layers can improve the success and safety of the procedure by facilitating the harvest of super-thin ALTF.
Subject(s)
Male , Female , Humans , Thigh/surgery , Plastic Surgery Procedures , Prospective Studies , Skin Transplantation , Free Tissue Flaps , Burns , Soft Tissue Injuries/surgery , Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color , Crush Injuries/surgery , Perforator Flap , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
Surgical technique of lung transplantation exerts significant impact on clinical prognosis of the recipients. Choosing an appropriate surgical incision determines the exposure of intraoperative visual field, which is the first step of surgical success and directly affects subsequent surgical procedures. Lung transplantation incision is usually considered as primary closure. Nevertheless, for patients with high-risk factors such as oversized lung allografts and primary graft failure after lung transplantation, primary closure cannot be achieved. Hence, delayed chest closure is an effective strategy. The selection of incisions and the adoption of delayed chest closure of lung transplantation exert profound impact upon perioperative prognosis, long-term quality of life and surgical complications of the recipients. Therefore, the development and research status of Clamshell incision, anterolateral incision, posterolateral incision and median sternal incision in lung transplantation were reviewed, highlighting the effect of incision patterns on clinical prognosis of lung transplantation and providing reference for the selection of incisions in clinical lung transplantation.
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OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effectiveness of Flow-through bridge anterolateral thigh flap transplantation in the treatment of complex calf soft tissue defects.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of the patients with complicated calf soft tissue defects, who were treated with Flow-through bridge anterolateral thigh flap (study group, 23 cases) or bridge anterolateral thigh flap (control group, 23 cases) between January 2008 and January 2022, were retrospectively analyzed. All complex calf soft tissue defects in the two groups were caused by trauma or osteomyelitis, and there was only one major blood vessel in the calf or no blood vessel anastomosed with the grafted skin flap. There was no significant difference between the two groups in general data such as gender, age, etiology, size of leg soft tissue defect, and time from injury to operation ( P>0.05). The lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) was used to evaluate the sufferred lower extremity function of the both groups after operation, and the peripheral blood circulation score of the healthy side was evaluated according to the Chinese Medical Association Hand Surgery Society's functional evaluation standard for replantation of amputated limbs. Weber's quantitative method was used to detect static 2-point discrimination (S2PD) to evaluate peripheral sensation of the healthy side, and the popliteal artery flow velocity, toenail capillary filling time, foot temperature, toe blood oxygen saturation of the healthy side, and the incidence of complications were compared between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#No vascular or nerve injury occurred during operation. All flaps survived, and 1 case of partial flap necrosis occurred in both groups, which healed after free skin grafting. All patients were followed up 6 months to 8 years, with a median time of 26 months. The function of the sufferred limb of the two groups recovered satisfactorily, the blood supply of the flap was good, the texture was soft, and the appearance was fair. The incision in the donor site healed well with a linear scar, and the color of the skin graft area was similar. Only a rectangular scar could be seen in the skin donor area where have a satisfactory appearance. The blood supply of the distal limb of the healthy limb was good, and there was no obvious abnormality in color and skin temperature, and the blood supply of the limb was normal during activity. The popliteal artery flow velocity in the study group was significantly faster than that in the control group at 1 month after the pedicle was cut, and the foot temperature, toe blood oxygen saturation, S2PD, toenail capillary filling time, and peripheral blood circulation score were significantly better than those in the control group ( P<0.05). There were 8 cases of cold feet and 2 cases of numbness on the healthy side in the control group, while only 3 cases of cold feet occurred in the study group. The incidence of complications in the study group (13.04%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (43.47%) ( χ 2=3.860, P=0.049). There was no significant difference in LEFS score between the two groups at 6 months after operation ( P>0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Flow-through bridge anterolateral thigh flap can reduce postoperative complications of healthy feet and reduce the impact of surgery on blood supply and sensation of healthy feet. It is an effective method for repairing complex calf soft tissue defects.
Subject(s)
Humans , Thigh/surgery , Plastic Surgery Procedures , Leg/surgery , Cicatrix/surgery , Retrospective Studies , Soft Tissue Injuries/surgery , Treatment Outcome , Lower Extremity/surgery , Skin Transplantation/methods , Perforator FlapABSTRACT
Free flap procedure provides an overall success rate of 97%, which decreases to 85% in hypercoagulable states. COVID-19, as a pro-thrombotic disorder, therefore seems detrimental to free flap survival. We encountered a case of unique pattern of free flap partial failure in a young male who underwent extremity reconstruction. The patient was diagnosed as COVID-19 positive on the 3rd day post-reconstruction. The flap survived well for the first 7 days post-operatively, but gradually the skin got necrosed and the subcutaneous fat layer was preserved when debriding. To our knowledge, this is the only case in which the skin of the free flap of a COVID-19 positive patient was necrosed almost entirely subsequently, while the subcutaneous fat was relatively preserved.
Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Thigh/surgery , Free Tissue Flaps/surgery , Plastic Surgery Procedures , COVID-19 , Lower Extremity/surgery , Vascular Diseases , Postoperative Complications/surgeryABSTRACT
Obiective:To explore the surgical technique of arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) combined with anterior lateral ligament (ALL) using the hamstring tendon graft through the femoral tunnel, and evaluate the clinical efficacy before and after surgery.Methods:Retrospective analysis of clinical data of 20 patients with ACL combined with ALL rupture admitted to Qinhuangdao First Hospital of Hebei Medical University from October 2020 to July 2022. All patients received arthroscopic reconstruction of ACL combined with ALL using the hamstring tendon graft through the femoral tunnel. The Lysholm knee joint score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, and Lachman test were evaluated using a questionnaire survey, and objective evaluations were performed using a knee joint activity measurement instrument and a KT-2000 measurement instrument before and 1 year after surgery. Compare the Lysholm knee joint score, IKDC score, Lachman test grade, knee flexion and extension range of motion, and tibia anterior and posterior relaxation before and after surgery. The measurement data were represented by mean ± standard deviation ( ± s), and t-test was used for comparison before and after surgery. The comparison of paired grade data before and after surgery was conducted using Wilcoxon test. Results:All 20 patients underwent surgery successfully, and all patients were followed up for an average follow-up time of (12.2±1.4) months, with a surgical time of 60-90 minutes. Postoperative MRI examination of the knee joint showed good graft fixation and no common complications such as knee stiffness, infection, deep vein thrombosis, and neurovascular injury. At the last follow-up, the knee joint flexion and extension activities of 20 patients were normal, with 2 patients weakly positive for Lachman test I; the Lysholm knee joint score and IKDC score increased from preoperative (44.6±1.7) points and (54.2±2.0) points to final follow-up (87.5±1.3) points and (89.6±1.0) points, respectively. The knee joint flexion and extension range of motion increased from preoperative (35.0±1.5)°to final follow-up (134.2±2.5)°, and the knee joint stability and function score improved significantly compared to preoperative, and the difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05); bend the knee 90°, KT-2000 measures the difference in tibial relaxation decreased from preoperative (11.9±1.0) mm to final follow-up (1.9±0.3) mm. The results showed that the stability of the knee joint was significantly improved compared to before surgery, and the difference before and after surgery was statistically significant ( P<0.05). Conclusions:The surgical technique of arthroscopic reconstruction of ACL and ALL using a single bundle of hamstring tendon graft under knee arthroscopy is safe and effective, and can restore the stability of knee joint rotation in patients. The clinical subjective and objective functional scoring indicators for short-term follow-up after surgery are satisfactory.
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Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of turbocharged large free anterolateral thigh flaps (ALTF) by anastomosis with a superior perforator of the flap in reconstruction of large soft tissue defects of limbs.Methods:From June 2017 to June 2021, 6 patients with large soft tissue defects of limbs with exposed joints and tendons were treated in the Department of Hand and Foot Surgery of the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University with turbocharged large free ALTFs. The pressurised blood supply of ALTF was achieved by anastomosing a superior perforating branch carried in the flap. Such large and turbocharged ALTFs were used to repair large soft tissue defects with exposed joints and tendons in limbs. Of the 6 patients, there were 4 males and 2 females, and aged 32-60(46.0±8.1) years old. Cause of injury: 5 by traffic accident and 1 by machine crush. Four patients had soft tissue defects in lower limbs: 2 with open tibia and fibula fractures, 1 had patellar defect and fibula fracture, and 1 associated with fibula fracture. The other 2 patients had soft tissue defect in upper limbs with bone and tendon exposed but without fracture. The sizes of wound were 25.0 cm×12.0 cm-35.0 cm×19.0 cm. In the primary surgery, Vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) was applied. In the second stage, free ALTFs were used to cover the wound. The area of flap incision was increased by anastomosing the superior perforators and as the consequence, the size of flaps was achieved to 26.0 cm×13.0 cm-36.0 cm×15.0 cm. Donor site of 6 cases were reduced by direct suture, and the remaining wound was covered by free skin graft. Postoperative follow-ups were conducted at outpatient clinic reviews at 1, 2, 3 and 6 months after surgery, and followed by telephone or WeChat interviews. The results of the operation were evaluated according to the appearance, texture and sensory recovery of the flap.Results:All 6 flaps survived and the patients completed the postoperative follow-up that lasted for 6-24 (16.7±5.0) months. No necrosis of flap occurred after surgery. The appearance and texture of the flaps were satisfactory without wear and tear. Sensation recover was evaluated by the standered of British Medical Research Council (BMRC), 4 patients recovered to S 3 and 2 patients to S 2. The Mayo score of the elbow joint was good in 2 patient with upper extremity injuries. Of the other 4 patients with lower limb injuries, the knee function evalued by Hospital for Special Surgery(HSS) score were excellent in 3 patients and good in 1 patient, and the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Societ(AOFAS) ankle-hind foot function score was excellent in 2 patients and good in 2 patients. There was no infection or function loss at all donor sites. Conclusion:The perforator of an ALTF is relatively constant, and the flap can partially restore sensation. The superior perforator is reliable and the incision area of the flap can be enlarged by anastomosing the superior perforator vessels. It is a better way to reconstruct a large soft tissue defects in limbs.
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Objective:To evaluated the options in selection of surgical procedures for treatment of the patients suffering from diabetic feet with chronic refractory wounds.Methods:From January 2020 to June 2021, 23 patients with diabetic feet complicated with refractory wounds were treated in Department of Hand Surgery, Shunde Heping Surgical Hospital. The patients were 15 males and 8 females, aged 51-86 years old and with an average age of 65 years old. All the patients had Type-II diabetes for over 5 - 22 years. Average blood glucose of the patients was found at 15.6 mmol/L on admission. Free anterolateral thigh perforator flaps (ALTPF) were used for reconstruction of the wound of diabetic feet in 19 patients, 2 patients received vascular bypass surgery and 2 had amputations. Regular outpatient follow-up were conduct on all patients after surgery.Results:Follow-up time lasted for 8 to 30 months, 12 months in average. At the last follow-up, the donor and recipient sites healed well in the 19 patients who received flap reconstruction, without an infection, necrosis and wound recurrence. Pains were significantly relieved after the surgery in the 2 patients who received vascular bypass surgery, and wounds all healed well after symptomatic treatment and dressing change without recurrence of wounds at the last follow-up. Average Maryland score of foot function was 84 for the patients who had limb salvage, and 2 patients were in excellent and 19 in good at the last follow-up. The 2 patients who had amputation successfully survived through the perioperative period, and the wounds healed well at the last follow-up.Conclusion:The treatment is complicated in the patient suffering from diabetic foot with chronic refractory wounds due to factors such as advanced age, co-existing and complicated underlying diseases together with the complex wounds. Most patients can achieve good prognosis in wound treatment of free flap transfer or vascular bypass surgery. However, a limb salvage is recommended with caution for the patients who have severe infections and dry gangrene.
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Objective:To investigate the application value of mixed reality (MR) technology in reconstruction of soft tissue defect of extremities with free anterolateral thigh flap(ALTF).Methods:From December 2019 to November 2021, a retrospective analysis was performed on 10 patients who had undergone ALTF reconstruction of soft tissue defects in extremities in Department of Orthopaedics, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province. Four patients had the defects in hand and 6 patients in foot and ankle. For the 6 patients in emergency surgery, the time from injury to admission was 4.0-15.0 hours, with an average of 7.3 hours. Four patients with soft tissue defects caused by chronic infection and ulcers were given debridement, and the soft tissue defects were reconstructed by flap transfer at the second stage. The defect area were from 8.0 cm×5.0 cm to 22.0 cm×8.0 cm. Preoperatively, 3D bone-vessel-flap model was established based on the lower extremity CTA scans. Intraoperatively, MR technology was used to project the 3D model on the flap donor site to observe the virtual profile of vessel shape in real time, to locate the perforator and the course of the perforator, and observe the consistency between the virtual image and the actual anatomy of the perforator. The appearance, texture and colour of the flap were recorded at the last follow-up. Hand function was evaluated by the total activity movement (TAM), and foot and ankle function was evaluated by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS).Results:The position location and course of perforator vessels were reconstructed successfully in all patients before surgery. The MR technology was used to locate the perforator, and the course of the virtual perforator was consistent with the actual anatomy, and the matching reached 100%. The length of vascular pedicle measured before surgery was at 11.02 cm±1.37 cm. And that measured during surgery was at 11.21 cm±1.23 cm ( P=0.748, t=-0.326). The difference was not statistically significant ( P>0.05). The flap area was at 9.0 cm×6.0 cm to 23.0 cm×9.0 cm. The donor site was sutured directly in one stage. All patients were entered postoperative followed-up for 1 to 24 months, with an average of 13.5 months. All the flaps survived after surgery. The flap with good appearance, colour and texture, and only one linear scar was left in the donor site. According to the TAM of the hand function, 3 cases were excellent and 1 was fair. Foot and ankle function were evaluated according to the AOFAS, 5 cases were in excellent and 1 was good. Conclusion:MR technology applied to the surgery of ALTF can locate the course of the flap vessels in real time, guide the operation, improve the operation efficiency and reduce the risk in surgery.
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Objective:To explore the value of clinical application of the infrared ray thermal imaging (IRTI) combined with the method of "two longitudinal and five transverse lines" in locating the perforators in the transfer of free anterolateral thigh perforator flap (ALTPF) in children.Methods:From November 2018 to November 2022, 13 children (8 boys and 5 girls) aged 2 to 12 years old (6.3 years old in average) who received free ALTPF transfers were included in this study. Causes of injury were 6 by car accidents, 2 by falls, 3 by crushing injuries and 2 by burning scars. Injury sites were 2 in head, 1 in trunk, 5 in hand and 5 in ankle. The size of soft tissue defect was 2.0 cm×4.2 cm-9.0 cm×16.0 cm, and the size of ALTPF was 2.3 cm×4.5 cm-6.0 cm×20.0 cm. The remaining wound was covered with medium thick skin grafts. IRTI combined with the method of "two longitudinal and five transverse lines" was applied to preoperatively locate the pedicle and design the ALTPF. Intraoperatively, the pedicles were explored within the region of anterolateral thigh. The rate of perforrator location and sensitivity of the infrared thermography were calculated. All donor sites were directly sutured. Standard postoperative management included anti-infection, anti-coagulation, anti-convulsion and blood volume expansion with adequate warming. Regular outpatient follow-ups were conducted through various means such as home visits, telephone calls, WeChat and text messages to observe flap survival and donor site healing.Results:All 13 patients completed the 3 to 35 (11.0±1.5) months of postoperative follow-up. All 13 flaps survived well, with good colour and texture, and without obvious bloating. Only one bloated flap had a local repair at the inner ankle with a flap thinning surgery in the stage Ⅱ surgery. Then all flaps achieved satisfaction appearance in all patients. All the donor sites healed at stage I. Two patients showed significant early scar hypertrophy in the donor site, which then gradually stabilised 12 months later. All patients had good functional recovery. Before surgery, a total of 38 perforators were discovered and 40 perforators were found intraoperatively. Of the 40 perforators, 3 were not explored before operation, which were located in the proximal part of Zone Ⅰ, Zone Ⅲ and Zone Ⅳ, respectively. The sensitivity of infrared thermography was found at 92.5% in preoperative detection and location of perforators, with a positive prediction at 97.3%.Conclusion:IRTI combined with the method of "two longitudinal and five transverse lines" in locating perforators is safe and reliable in the design of ALTPFs in children. It provides an additional and reliable option for location of perforator in the design and harvesting of ALTPFs in children.
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Objective:To explore the feasibility and clinical effectiveness of preoperative positioning grid combined with CTA assisted design of anterolateral thigh perforator flap (ALTPF) in reconstruction of soft tissue defects around foot and ankle.Methods:From May 2018 to December 2021, a total of 18 cases with soft tissue defects around foot and ankle were admitted to the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University. The patients were 11 males and 7 females, aged from 32 to 78 years old, with an average age of 57.5 years old. Among them, 10 had chronic ulcer wounds, 6 had traumatic wounds, and 2 had postoperative wounds after malignant tumor resection. The sizes of soft tissue defect ranged from 6.0 cm×8.0 cm to 9.0 cm×13.0 cm, and the flap sizes ranged from 8.0 cm×10.0 cm to 11.0 cm×15.0 cm. Preoperative positioning grid combined with CTA three-dimensional reconstruction were used to mark the exit point of the perforator vessels in digital format, in order to restore the course of vessels and calculate the length of the vascular pedicles. ALTPFs were accurately designed based on the digitally reconstructed images, and then the ALTPFs were used to repair the soft tissue defects around the ankle. The flap donor sites were directly closed in stage Ⅰ. After the operation, all the patients were included in scheduled follow-ups at the outpatient department to observe the appearance of the recipient flaps and donor sites. The functional evaluation of the affected feet were assessed according to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score.Results:All 18 flaps survived, and the wounds in both the recipient and donor sites healed in stageⅠ. Postoperative follow-up for the 18 patients were 5 to 36 months, with an average of 13 months. At the last follow-up, the appearances of the flaps were good without swelling, the donor sites had good recovery, and there was no obvious scar hypertrophy. The function evaluation of the affected feet were found at excellent in 10 cases, good in 6 cases, and fair in 2 cases.Conclusion:Preoperative position grid combined with CTA three-dimensional reconstruction can digitally mark the exit points and running courses of the perforator vessels. It is an effective method for accurate position of perforator vessels before surgery. It can effectively reduce the operation time, lower the surgical risks, and achieve a high survival rate of the flap, thus holding considerable clinical value.
ABSTRACT
Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most frequent forms of knee sports injuries. Nowadays, ACL reconstruction is commonly performed to help patients restore their rotational stability. However, in patients with high risk factors, the risk of ACL reconstruction failure remains high, primarily because of continuous postoperative anterolateral rotational instability. This rotational instability after ACL reconstruction has prompted researchers to focus on the anterolateral complex of the knee, such as iliotibial tract and anterolateral ligament (ALL). Among them, ALL has remained largely unappreciated for more than a century since its discovery in 1879. Even though it is still controversial, most studies in recent years have supported the anterolateral ligament as an independent ligament and a crucial anatomical component for preserving the rotational stability of the knee joint. Although augmentation of the anterolateral complex has experienced twists and turns, the anatomic ALL reconstruction, which can be performed minimally invasively and has a low risk of complications and minimal injury, is reappearing as a key strategy to address this problem. Currently, the majority of scholars believe that the need for combined ALL reconstruction during ACL reconstruction should be taken into account when there is severe rotational instability present, such as high-grade pivot shift test preoperatively, ACL revision surgery, and high requirements for rotational stability, such as age less than 25 years and the need to participate in pivoting sports. The corresponding suggested criteria are also put forth in the authoritative consensus of both domestic and foreign sources. However, the surgical indications chosen by different experts based on their individual experiences are not all consistent. Due to conflicting reports on the actual impact of ALL reconstruction on improving rotational stability and whether it will excessively restrict knee's internal rotation function, there is still much debate among researchers regarding whether ALL reconstruction and ACL reconstruction should be combined. Currently, there are two main reconstruction techniques: ALL single bundle reconstruction and Y-construct ALL double bundle reconstruction. Y-construct ALL double bundle reconstruction has a better ability to restore the original anatomy and is recommended in the consensus, but there is still a lack of randomized controlled trials between the two techniques. Therefore, the combination of ALL reconstruction at the time of ACL reconstruction has been clinically started in recent years for patients who are susceptible to failure after ACL reconstruction, which also raises many controversies.
ABSTRACT
Objective:To explore the feasibility of an "ABC" three line perforator locating method in design and harvest of free anterolateral perforator flap of calf.Methods:Between March 2021 and November 2021, 42 patients with 62 wounds on hand and foot were treated in the Department of Hand Surgery, Suzhou Ruihua Orthopaedic Hospital. The "ABC" three line perforator locating method was applied to determine the location and source of perforating branch before operation and to guide the design and harvest of flap during operation in wound reconstruction. Among the 42 patients, 24 had the injury of single digit, 7 had the injuries with 2 digits, 4 with 3 digits, 1 with 4 digits, 1 of the first web, 1 in the wrist, 2 of the great toe, 1 of second toe and 1 in dorsal foot. The sizes of soft tissue defect were 1.5 cm×2.0 cm-3.0 cm×14.0 cm. The sizes of the flaps were 2.0 cm×2.5 cm-3.5 cm×15.0 cm. All donor sites were sutured directly. In the follow-up, sensations of flaps were evaluated following the sensory function evaluation standard of British Medical Research Council(BMRC), and the recovery of the donor and recipient sites was evaluated by the flap comprehensive evaluation scale. Regular follow-up were scheduled at outpatient clinic.Results:A total of 162 perforators were located before operation. There were 95 perforating branches being explored in the operation, of which 5 patients had 1 extra perforating branch than that located before surgery. Seventy-six perforating branches were found consistent with preoperative localisation, with a coincidence rate of 84.4%(76/90). Sixty-four perforating branches were found consistent with the preoperative source with an accuracy rate of 84.2%(64/76). All the 62 flaps survived without a vascular compromise. Follow-up lasted for 6-10(mean 7.1) months. The colour and texture of the flaps were excellent. The flaps were thin and wear-resistant. The sensory function of the flaps was evaluated at S 1-S 3 by BMRC. Comprehensive evaluation scale of flap was excellent in 38 patients and good in 4 patients. Conclusion:"ABC" three line perforator locating method in design of free anterolateral calf flap is a feasible and an ideal auxiliary method in surgical practice. It combines anatomical knowledge, clinical experience and Doppler ultrasound localisation as well as accurately guides the location and source prediction of perforator before surgery.