Novel Studies in the Designs of Natural, Synthetic, and Compound Hydrogels with Biomedical Applications / Novedosos Estudios en el Diseño de Hidrogeles Naturales, Sintéticos y Compuestos con Aplicaciones Biomédicas

ABSTRACT Hydrogels are gaining widespread popularity in the biomedical field due to their extraordinary properties, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, zero toxicity, easy processing, and similarity to physiological tissue. They have applications in controlled drug release, wound dressing, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. Among these applications, hydrogels as a controlled drug delivery system stands out, which releases active substances in precise amounts and at specific times. To explore the latest advances in the design of hydrogels, a literature review of articles published in indexed scientific journals, in Scopus and Science Direct, was carried out. This review aimed to discover and describe the most innovative hydrogel research with applications in the biomedical field; hydrogels synthesized with polymers of different origins were selected, such as; i. Natural (dextran, agarose, chitosan, etc.); ii. Synthetic (polyacrylamide, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, etc.); iii. Composites (interpenetrants, hybrid crosslinkers, nanocomposites, etc.). Comparative analysis revealed that hydrogels with composite materials show the most promise. These composite hydrogels combine the advantages of different polymers or incorporate additional components, offering enhanced properties and functionalities. In summary, hydrogels are versatile biomaterials with immense potential in biomedicine. Their unique properties make them suitable for diverse applications. However, innovative designs and formulations must continue to be explored to further advance the capabilities of hydrogels and expand their biomedical applications.

RESUMEN Los hidrogeles están ganando una extensa popularidad en el campo biomédico gracias a que presentan propiedades extraordinarias como biocompatibilidad, biodegradabilidad, nula toxicidad, fácil procesamiento, y similitud con el tejido fisiológico. tienen aplicaciones en la liberación controlada de fármacos, el vendaje de heridas, la ingeniería de tejidos y la medicina regenerativa. Entre estas aplicaciones, destaca el uso de hidrogeles como sistema de administración controlada de fármacos, que liberan sustancias activas en cantidades precisas y en momentos concretos. Para explorar los últimos avances en el diseño de hidrogeles, se realizó una revisión bibliográfica de artículos publicados en revistas científicas indexadas, en Scopus y Science Direct. El objetivo de esta revisión fue descubrir y describir las investigaciones de hidrogeles más innovadoras con aplicaciones en el campo biomédico, se seleccionaron hidrogeles sintetizados con polímeros de diferente índole como; i. Naturales (dextrano, agarosa, quitosano, etc.); ii. Sintéticos (poliacrilamida, polietilenglicol, alcohol polivinílico, etc); iii. Compuestos (interpenetrantes, reticulantes híbridos, nanocompuestos, etc.). El análisis comparativo reveló que los hidrogeles que utilizan materiales compuestos son los más prometedores. Estos hidrogeles compuestos combinan las ventajas de distintos polímeros o incorporan componentes adicionales, ofreciendo propiedades y funcionalidades mejoradas. En resumen, los hidrogeles son biomateriales versátiles con un inmenso potencial en biomedicina. Sus propiedades únicas los hacen adecuados para diversas aplicaciones, sin embargo, se debe seguir explorando diseños y formulaciones innovadores para seguir avanzando en las capacidades de los hidrogeles y ampliar sus aplicaciones biomédicas.

Guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic refractory wounds in orthopedic trauma patients (version 2023) / 中华创伤杂志

Chronic refractory wound (CRW) is one of the most challengeable issues in clinic due to complex pathogenesis, long course of disease and poor prognosis. Experts need to conduct systematic summary for the diagnosis and treatment of CRW due to complex pathogenesis and poor prognosis, and standard guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of CRW should be created. The Guideline forthe diagnosis and treatment of chronic refractory wounds in orthopedic trauma patients ( version 2023) was created by the expert group organized by the Chinese Association of Orthopedic Surgeons, Chinese Orthopedic Association, Chinese Society of Traumatology, and Trauma Orthopedics and Multiple Traumatology Group of Emergency Resuscitation Committee of Chinese Medical Doctor Association after the clinical problems were chosen based on demand-driven principles and principles of evidence-based medicine. The guideline systematically elaborated CRW from aspects of the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, postoperative management, complication prevention and comorbidity management, and rehabilitation and health education, and 9 recommendations were finally proposed to provide a reliable clinical reference for the diagnosis and treatment of CRW.

Preparation and preliminary evaluation of sodium alginate/agarose/carboxymethyl chitosan spray film dressing carrying platelet rich plasma for wound repair / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To develop a spray-on membrane dressing for wound repair containing platelet rich plasma (PRP) sodium alginate (SA)/agarose(AG)/carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS). 【Methods】 SA/AG/ CMCS were mixed in different proportions to prepare biodegradable quick setting spray (BQSS) by blending film method, and the film-forming time, moisture retention and compression resistance of the prepared BQSS were tested. Then PRP and BQSS were mixed in the proportion of 3∶7, 4∶6, 5∶5, 6∶4 and 7∶3 to prepare PRP-BQSS spray film dressings. The film-forming time, moisture retention, compressive strength, porosity and slow-release effect of growth factors of PRP-BQSS spray film dressings were studied. 【Results】 In the preparation of BQSS compound spray film solution, when SA, AG, CMCS and sterile distilled water were 0.6∶0.6∶0.6∶98.2g, the film-forming time (7.73±0.31) s, moisture retention (75. 54±3.03) % and compression resistance (791.00±68.02) g of the spray-film dressing were the best. The basic properties of PRP-BQSS spray-on film dressings and the release of growth factors show that PRP-BQSS spray-on film dressings can exist in different forms, and with the decrease of PRP concentration percentage, its film-forming time, moisturizing performance and compressive strength showed an upward trend. When the PRP content is 30%, the porosity of the dressing is the highest, about(84.34±0.90)%. The release of platelet-derived growth factor-AA(PDGF-AA), platelet factor-4(PF-4) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) was in a slow upward trend, and the release of the three growth factors was higher than that of PRP group in 48 hours. 【Conclusion】 The preparation method of PRP-BQSS spray film dressing designed in this study is simple and mild, and can form a film quickly, with good biological properties and better growth factor inhibition and sustained-release effect.

Repair of soft tissue defect of the middle and lower leg with island flap / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective:To investigate the methods and effect of wound repair after partial skin and soft tissue necrosis of middle and lower leg fracture surgery.Methods:Three kinds of island flaps were used to repair the wound after skin and soft tissue necrosis of middle and lower leg fracture surgery in 22 patients. Nine patients were repaired with sural neurotrophic fascial flaps, 7 patients with posterior tibial artery perforator flaps, and 6 patients with peroneal artery perforator flaps. The area of wound defect was 3.0 cm×3.8 cm to 12.0 cm×9.0 cm. The donor area was directly sutured, or free skin grafted.Results:All patients were the cases after partial skin and soft tissue necrosis of middle and lower leg fracture surgery, with bone, internal fixation plate or tendon exposed. The skin flaps in 21 patients were survived, and the wound healed by first intention. The sural neurotrophic fascial flap necrosis in one patient was due to hematoma and entrapment in vascular pedicle. After 5 to 24 months (mean 9 months) follow-up, texture of flaps was good, no ulcer occured, and outlook of the repaired wound was satisfied. The sutured wound of donor site and skin-grafting had healed by first stage intention.Conclusions:Repair with island flap is an ideal way to the defect wound after skin and soft tissue necrosis of middle and lower leg fracture surgery.

Repair of scalp defect with anterolateral thigh perforator flap after revascularisation of moyamoya disease: a report of 7 cases / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical effect of free anterolateral thigh perforator flap(ALTPF) in reconstruction of temporal scalp defect after blood circulation reconstruction surgery for moyamoya disease.Methods:From May 2020 to July 2022, 7 patients with scalp defect after revascularisation of moyamoya disease were treated in Department of Hand and Foot Microsurgery, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital (People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University). The patients were 4 males and 3 females, aged 33-59 years old, at 43 years old in average. There were 5 defects in left tempus and 2 in right tempus. The sizes of scalp defect were 4.5 cm × 5.5 cm-7.5 cm × 9.5 cm. Debridement and VSD management were primarily performed. After wounds were stabilised, ultrasound location of perforator vessels of ALTPFs was performed. Having confirmed that the perforator vessels were suitable for the surgical requirements, flap transfers were then performed. The descending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex artery was end-to-side anastomosed with the superficial temporal artery, and the descending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex vein was end-to-end anastomosed with the superficial temporal vein. Postoperative follow-up was conducted through outpatient clinic visits, telephone and WeChat reviews. Appearance, texture of ALTPFs and the flap donor sites were observed in follow-ups. Comparisons of the changes of nervous system before and after surgery were made. Cognitive function of the patients was assessed with the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), together with the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) .Results:All 7 flaps survived. One flap had vascular compromise 6 hours after surgery, and was rectified after surgical intervention. All the patients were included in the postoperative follow-up for 7-33 (average 19) months. All flaps had good appearance with soft texture. There was no obvious difference in colour comparing with the skin around the recipient region. The donor sites healed well without hypertrophic scar. Examinations of nervous system of the patients were found the same as that before surgery. Using Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), the average limb muscle strength of the patients was 4 before surgery and 4 after surgery, without change; Using the Ashworth assessment scale, the average preoperative and postoperative limb muscle tension in this group of patients was 1, without change; The Berg balance scale was used to evaluate the patient's balance function, with an average score of 42 before surgery and 42 after surgery, without any changes; There was no change in limb sensation before and after surgery; Using the MMSE, the average preoperative score and postoperative score of this group of patients were 25 points, without any change. Using the modified Barthel index scoring standard, the average preoperative score for this group of patients was 75 points, and the average postoperative score was 79 points, and the ADL of the patient had improved to various levels.Conclusion:Reconstruction of scalp defect with free ALTPF after revascularisation of moyamoya disease has obvious advantages, such as it closes the wound quickly, prevents infection and achieves a good appearance. This surgical procedure can produce a good clinical effect.

Curative effect of wide pedicled double-vessel flap of posterolateral calf in repair of soft tissue defect in hind foot / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To explore the curative effect of wide pedicled with double-vessel flap of posterior lateral calf in repair of soft tissue defect in hind foot.Methods:From January 2018 to June 2021, 12 patients with soft tissue defects on hind foot were reconstructed with double-vessel flaps pedicled perforator of peroneal artery and sural nerve nutrient vessels in the Department of Trauma Orthopaedics, No.940 Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army Joint Service Support Force. The patients were 8 males and 4 females, aged 9-45(27.17±12.14) years old. Time after injury to admission was 6-24(10.17±4.80) hours. Six patients were with simple soft tissue defects, 2 with tendon defects, 3 with bone defects and 1 with postoperative infection due to an open fracture. The sizes of soft tissue defect ranged from 4 cm×5 cm-8 cm×12 cm. Soft tissue defects were reconstructed by transfer of posterolateral calf flaps, and the bone defects were repaired by phase I or phase II bone grafts or antibiotic cement and membrane induction according to the wound surface. For larger bone defects, stage-II bone transport was carried out to restore the length of the hind foot. Defects of Achilles tendon were reconstructed by direct suture or tendon transposition. Foot functions were evaluated by American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgery(AOFAS) ankle-posterior sufficient scale, visual analogue scale(VSA) score and flap healing. All patients were included in postoperative follow-up regularly through outpatient clinic or via WeChat.Results:All 12 patients had postoperative follow-up that lasted for 6-24(12.92±6.22) months. One flap developed dark purple colour with swelling at the distal end of the flap 3 days after surgery. It eventually healed after removed some sutures from the pedicle together with blood-letting on the flap surface. Three flaps developed local infection, and they were cured after debridement, dressing change and the use of sensitive antibiotics. The remaining 8 patients had achieved good appearance of flaps and normal ankle function. According to AOFAS, scores of ankle-posterior sufficiency scale increased from 14-45(25.25±5.42) before surgery up to 65-96(75.92±7.73) at the final follow-up. Of the 12 patients, 8 were in excellent, 2 in good and 2 in fair. The VAS scores decreased from 5-8(6.55±1.13) before surgery down to 0-4(1.55±1.37) at the final follow-up. The difference had statistics significance( P<0.01). All patients had satisfactory recovery of ankle function, with the extension at 15-20 degrees and plantar flexion of 30-40 degrees. The donor site healed well and all skin grafts survived. Conclusion:The double-vessel flap pedicled with perforating branch of peroneal artery and nutrient vessels of sural nerve can be used for reconstruction of soft tissue defect of hind foot. It achieved good surgical effects with reliable blood supply, smooth venous return, strong anti-infection ability, satisfactory appearance at donor site and flap itself, as well as a good recovery of foot function.

Nanosilver alleviates foreign body reaction and facilitates wound repair by regulating macrophage polarization / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Foreign body reactions induced by macrophages often cause delay or failure of wound healing in the application of tissue engineering scaffolds. This study explores the application of nanosilver (NAg) to reduce foreign body reactions during scaffold transplantation. An NAg hybrid collagen-chitosan scaffold (NAg-CCS) was prepared using the freeze-drying method. The NAg-CCS was implanted on the back of rats to evaluate the effects on foreign body reactions. Skin tissue samples were collected for histological and immunological evaluation at variable intervals. Miniature pigs were used to assess the effects of NAg on skin wound healing. The wounds were photographed, and tissue samples were collected for molecular biological analysis at different time points post-transplantation. NAg-CCS has a porous structure and the results showed that it could release NAg constantly for two weeks. The NAg-CCS group rarely developed a foreign body reaction, while the blank-CCS group showed granulomas or necrosis in the subcutaneous grafting experiment. Both matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) were reduced significantly in the NAg-CCS group. The NAg-CCS group had higher interleukin (IL)-10 and lower IL-6 than the blank CCS group. In the wound healing study, M1 macrophage activation and inflammatory-related proteins (inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), IL-6, and interferon-‍γ (IFN-‍γ)) were inhibited by NAg. In contrast, M2 macrophage activation and proinflammatory proteins (arginase-1, major histocompatibility complex-II (MHC-II), and found in inflammatory zone-1 (FIZZ-1)) were promoted, and this was responsible for suppressing the foreign body responses and accelerating wound healing. In conclusion, dermal scaffolds containing NAg suppressed the foreign body reaction by regulating macrophages and the expression of inflammatory cytokines, thereby promoting wound healing.

Effectiveness of fascial tissue flaps and skin flaps with layered sutures for repair of wounds after excision of sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of fascial tissue flaps and skin flaps with layered sutures for repairing wounds after excision of sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus.@*METHODS@#Between March 2019 and August 2022, 9 patients with sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus were admitted, including 7 males and 2 females with an average age of 29.4 years (range, 17-53 years). The disease duration ranged from 1 to 36 months, with a median of 6 months. There were 7 cases with obesity and dense hair, 3 cases with infection, and 2 cases with positive bacterial culture of sinus secretion. The wound area after excision ranged from 3 cm×3 cm to 8 cm×4 cm, with a depth of 3-5 cm, reaching the perianal or caudal bone; there were 2 cases with perianal abscess formation and 1 case with caudal bone inflammatory edema. Enlarged resection was performed during operation, and the fascial tissue flap and skin flap were designed and excised at both left and right sides of the buttock, ranging from 3.0 cm×1.5 cm to 8.0 cm×2.0 cm. A cross drainage tube was placed at the bottom of the wound, and the fascial tissue flap and skin flap were advanced and sutured in three layers, namely, 8-string sutures in the fascial layer, barbed wire reduction sutures in the dermis, and interrupted skin sutures.@*RESULTS@#All 9 patients were followed up 3-36 months, with an average of 12 months. All incisions healed by first intention, and no complication such as incisional dehiscence or infection in the operative area occurred. There was no recurrence of sinus tracts, the shape of gluteal sulcus was satisfactory, both sides of buttocks were symmetrical, local incision scar was concealed, and the shape disruption was minimal.@*CONCLUSION@#Fascial tissue flaps and skin flaps with layered sutures for repairing wounds after excision of sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus can effectively fill the cavity and reduce the incidence of poor incision healing, with the advantages of small trauma and simple operation.

Effectiveness of temporal island flap pedicled with perforating branch of zygomatic orbital artery to repair the defects after periocular malignant tumor resection / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To summarize the effectiveness of the temporal island flap pedicled with the perforating branch of zygomatic orbital artery for repairing defects after periocular malignant tumor resection.@*METHODS@#Between January 2015 and December 2020, 15 patients with periocular malignant tumors were treated. There were 5 males and 10 females with an average age of 62 years (range, 40-75 years). There were 12 cases of basal cell carcinoma and 3 cases of squamous carcinoma. The disease duration ranged from 5 months to 10 years (median, 2 years). The size of tumors ranged from 1.0 cm×0.8 cm to 2.5 cm×1.5 cm, without tarsal plate invasion. After extensive resection of the tumors, the left defects in size of 2.0 cm×1.5 cm to 3.5 cm×2.0 cm were repaired with the temporal island flap pedicled with the perforating branch of zygomatic orbital artery via subcutaneous tunnel. The size of the flaps ranged from 3.0 cm×1.5 cm to 5.0 cm×2.0 cm. The donor sites were separated subcutaneously and sutured directly.@*RESULTS@#All flaps survived after operation and the wounds healed by first intention. The incisions at donor sites healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 6-24 months (median, 11 months). The flaps were not obviously bloated, the texture and color were basically the same as the surrounding normal skin, and the scars at recipient sites were not obviously. There was no complication such as ptosis, ectropion, or incomplete closure of the eyelids and recurrence of tumor during follow-up.@*CONCLUSION@#The temporal island flap pedicled with the perforating branch of zygomatic orbital artery can repair the defects after periorbital malignant tumors resection and has the advantages of reliable blood supply, flexible design, and good morphology and function.

Repair of degloving injury of distal thumb with innervated reversed dorsal digital artery island flap / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective:To investigate the clinical outcomes of homodigital reversed dorsal digital artery island flap innervated by the dorsal digital nerve to repair degloving injury of distal thumb.Methods:From July 2016 to June 2019, a total of 15 cases (15 thumbs) with degloving injury of distal part were admitted to the Department of Hand Surgery, the Second Hospital of Tangshan. Nine males and six females were involved, with an average age of 49 years (range, 41 to 69 years). There were twist injury in eight cases and crush injury in seven cases, with four cases of distal phalanx fracture. The defect dimensions after debridement ranged from 3.5 cm×1.8 cm to 4.6 cm×2.4 cm, and the dimension of the flaps ranged from 3.8 cm×2.1 cm to 5.0 cm×2.7 cm. All defects were repaired using homodigital reversed dorsal digital artery island flap innervated by the dorsal digital nerve. The survival, appearance and sensory recovery of the flaps and function of the injured fingers were observed at the follow-up after operation.Results:All the flaps survived without wound infection and blood supply disorder. The follow-up times ranged from 9 to 22 months (mean, 16 months). There was satisfactory appearance of the flaps with similar color and texture to the surrounding tissue. Fracture healing ranged from 4 to 6 weeks. At final follow-up, the values of static 2-PD test of the flaps ranged from 5 to 10 mm (mean, 7.8 mm). The results of range of motion of injured thumb joints were excellent in nine cases and good in five cases. There was slight linear scar left at the donor area of dorsal thumb.Conclusions:The innervated reversed dorsal digital artery island flap has a simple procedure and minimal donor-site cost, which is especially suitable for elderly patients who refuse to free toe transfers.

A novel skin-stretching device for skin-soft tissue defects and bone exposure after internal fixation of calcaneal fracture / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of a novel self-designed skin-stretching device for skin-soft tissue defects and bone exposure after internal fixation of calcaneal fracture.Methods:From July 2018 to January 2021, 9 patients were treated at Orthopedic Hospital, Southeast Hospital Affiliated to Xiamen University for skin-soft tissue defects and bone exposure after internal fixation of calcaneal fracture. They were 6 males and 3 females, aged from 19 to 61 years (mean, 42.6 years). The interval between their initial internal fixation and the present operation ranged from 14 to 75 days (average, 47.3 days). Of them, one developed wound dehiscence due to fat liquefaction, 2 necrosis of skin and soft tissue along the wound edges, and 6 incision infection. Their fusiform skin and soft tissue defects had formed after routine expansion of the wound, with an area of 5.0 cm×2.0 cm to 7.0 cm×3.5 cm, and all their wounds were positive by Pinch test. After a Kirschner wire with a diameter of 2.0 was placed on both sides of the wound, our novel self-designed skin-stretching device was installed. Intraoperatively, depending on the soft tissue conditions on both sides, the wound was closed acutely by about 5 mm in width. The threaded rod of the skin-stretching device was adjusted every day after operation to gradually reduce the wound surface until the wound edge was closed and sutured without tension. During wound stretch, the visual analogue scale (VAS), wound approaching time, stretch speed, wound healing time, complications and the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) for the wound scar at the last follow-up were recorded.Results:All the 9 patients were followed up for 8 to 18 months (average, 12.5 months). The wounds were successfully closed in all the patients. The time for wound closure (till the suture) ranged from 8 to 15 d, averaging 12.1 d; the stretch rate from 1 to 3 mm/d, averaging 2 mm/d; the time for complete wound healing (to the suture removal) from 22 to 30 d, averaging 26.8 d; the VAS score during the stretch from 3 to 7 points, averaging 4.9 points; the VSS score from 2 to 7 points, averaging 4.1 points. There was no recurrence of surgical site infection, skin re-necrosis or reoperation in the patients.Conclusions:In the treatment of skin-soft tissue defects and bone exposure caused by various reasons after internal fixation of calcaneal fracture, our novel self-designed skin-stretching device is an effective in situ wound repair instrument, showing advantages of simple operation, less trauma and high safety. It is suggested that the stretch speed should average 2 mm/d, which is well tolerated by patients.

Free quadruple paddled posterior interosseous artery flaps combined with free hallux nail flap in repair of defects of 5 digits in one hand: A case report / 中华显微外科杂志

A patient who suffered soft tissue defects of all 5 digits of left hand was referred to the Department of Hand and Foot Surgery, Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China in January 2020. A quadruple paddled posterior interosseous artery flaps was used to cover the defect in index, middle, ring and little fingers and a free hallux nail flap was used to repair the defect in thumb. Two years after operation, the appearance and texture of the flaps of all digits in the left hand were good. The function of the digits was good as well. There were slightly noticeable scars left in both the donor sites of left forearm and right foot.

Effect of hallux toe nail flap and adjacent island flap of the middle and ring fingers in repair of degloving injury of distal thumb / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To summarise the clinical efficacy and surgical indications for free hallux toe nail flap and adjacent island flap of the middle and ring fingers in repair of distal thumb degloving injuries.Methods:From May 2009 to May 2021, a total of 24 patients (24 digits) with degloving injury of distal thumbs were treated in the Department of Hand and Microsurgery of Baoji Third Hospital. The flap was selected according to the patient's wishes and occupation. Of the 24 patients, 13 were repaired by free hallux toe nail flap transfer (group of hallux toe nail flap), and 11 were repaired by combining the proper palmar digital artery island flap of middle (ulnar side) and ring (radial side) fingers with the same volar common digital artery vascular pedicle (group of tile combined flap). Follow-up was performed at the 1st, 3rd, 6th,12th and 18th months after surgery respectively through outpatient clinic and telephone or WeChat interviews. The follow-ups focused on the appearance, colour, texture and two-point discrimination (TPD) of the flap, as well as thumb flexion, extension, opposition and grasping functions. Functional recovery evaluated according to the Evaluation Standard of Upper Limb Partial Functional of Hand Surgery of Chinese Medical Association.Results:All the 24 flaps survived and all were included in the follow-up. The follow-up lasted 12-60 and 6-18 months, with an average of (18.5±0.5) months and (6.8±0.3) months in group of hallux toe nail flap and group of tile combined flap, respectively. Appearance of thumb body and function at the last follow-up showed: in the group of hallux toe nail flap, the nails, thumbtips and fine sensations were restored, with the TPD at 5-8 mm. The thumb flexion, extension, opposition and grasping functions were good. Apart from without nails and fingerprint, the flaps in the group of tile combined flap had good appearance and texture, and the protective feeling was restored with the TPD at 6-11 mm. The affected thumbs also recovered the basic functions of flexion, extension, opposition and grasping. According to the Trial Standard of Upper Limb Function Evaluation of the Chinese Medical Association Hand Surgery Society, 7 cases were excellent, 5 cases were good, and 1 case was poor in the group of hallux toe nail flap. In the group of tile combined flap, 3 cases were in excellent, 5 in good, and 3 in poor. Appearance of flaps (such as nails and thumbtip fingerprint), fine sensory recovery, and the accuracy and stability of the grasping function, the group of hallux toe nail flap was significantly better than that of the group of tile combined flap. There was no functional impact on the donor site.Conclusion:Both types of flap are classic surgical procedures for repair of distal thumb degloving injury. In order to meet the individual requirement and to improve the efficacy of the treatment, such as for those who have high expectation for digit restoration, especially those who are young with aesthetical or professional requirement, free hallux toe nail flap repair is used to restore the perfect shape and function. And for those who are reluctant to sacrifice their toes or for the middle-aged and elderly people who do not have high expectation for the shape of thumb, a tile combined flap repair is used to restore thumb function.

Rehabilitation therapy with insulin-like growth factor after acute skeletal muscle injury / Terapia de reabilitação com fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina após lesão muscular esquelética aguda / Terapia de rehabilitación con factor de crecimiento semejante a la insulina después de una lesión aguda del músculo esquelético

ABSTRACT Introduction Skeletal muscle injuries account for 10% to 50% of treadmill sports injuries. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) is a family of polypeptides with both insulin-like anabolic and growth-promoting effects. Sports play a vital role in the recovery of skeletal muscle injuries. Objective The paper analyzes the ability of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) to repair skeletal muscle injury caused by treadmill exercise. Method We injected drugs under the wound after exercise-induced injury in rats. The control group was injected with saline, and the experimental group was injected with an insulin-like growth factor. We conduct histological and electron microscopic structural analysis of rats, Results: After an injury, the experimental group formed a basal lamina protective film earlier than the control group, activated myoblasts, formed myofilaments, formed myotubes, and fused into muscle fibers earlier than the control group. The healing quality was also better. The experimental group was endogenous. The mRNA content of sex IGF-1 and IGF-2 both increased earlier than the control group. Conclusion Local injection of exogenous insulin-like growth factor-1 can stimulate the proliferation of myoblasts and accelerate the post-traumatic repair process of skeletal muscle caused by treadmill sports. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.

RESUMO Introdução As lesões do músculo esquelético representam de 10% a 50% das lesões em esteira esportiva. O fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina (IGF) é uma família de polipeptídeos com efeitos anabólicos e de promoção do crescimento semelhantes à insulina. Os esportes desempenham um papel vital na recuperação de lesões musculares esqueléticas. Objetivo o artigo analisa a capacidade do fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina 1 (IGF-1) em reparar lesões musculares esqueléticas causadas por exercícios em esteira. Método Injetamos drogas sob a ferida após lesão induzida por exercício em ratos. O grupo controle foi injetado com solução salina e o grupo experimental foi injetado com um fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina. Realizamos análises histológicas e microscópicas eletrônicas estruturais de ratos. Resultados Após a lesão, o grupo experimental formou um filme protetor da lâmina basal mais cedo do que o grupo controle, mioblastos ativados, miofilamentos formados, miotubos formados e fundidos em fibras musculares mais cedo do que o grupo controle. A qualidade da cura também foi melhor. O grupo experimental era endógeno. O conteúdo do sexo IGF-1 e IGF-2 mRNA aumentou mais cedo do que no grupo de controle. Conclusão A injeção local de fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina 1 exógeno pode estimular a proliferação de mioblastos e acelerar o processo de reparo muscular esquelético pós-traumático causado por esportes em esteira. Nível de evidência II; Estudos terapêuticos: investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción Las lesiones del músculo esquelético representan del 10% al 50% de las lesiones deportivas en cinta. El factor de crecimiento semejante a la insulina (IGF) es una familia de polipéptidos con efectos anabólicos y estimulantes del crecimiento semejantes a la insulina. Los deportes juegan un papel vital en la recuperación de las lesiones del músculo esquelético. Objetivo El artículo analiza la capacidad del factor de crecimiento semejante a la insulina 1 (IGF-1) para reparar la lesión del músculo esquelético causada por el ejercicio en cinta. Método inyectamos drogas debajo de la herida después de una lesión inducida por el ejercicio en ratas. Al grupo de control se le inyectó solución salina y al grupo experimental se le inyectó un factor de crecimiento semejante a la insulina. Realizamos análisis estructurales histológicos y microscópicos electrónicos de ratas, Resultados: Después de una lesión, el grupo experimental formó una película protectora de la lámina basal antes que el grupo de control, activó mioblastos, formó miofilamentos, formó miotubos y se fusionó en fibras musculares antes que el grupo de control. La calidad de curación también fue mejor. El grupo experimental fue endógeno. El contenido de ARNm de IGF-1 e IGF-2 de sexo aumentaron antes que en el grupo de control. Conclusión La inyección local de factor de crecimiento semejante a la insulina 1 exógeno puede estimular la proliferación de mioblastos y acelerar el proceso de reparación postraumático del músculo esquelético causado por los deportes en cinta. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos: investigación de los resultados del tratamiento.

Effect of donor age on biological characteristics of adipose-derived stem cells / 中华医学美学美容杂志

Objective:To identify the influence of age factors on biological characteristics of human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), and to compare the differences in morphology, aging characteristics, differentiation potential, surface marker expression, and proliferation ability of human ADSCs with different ages and the effect of human ADSCs of different ages on proliferation and migration of fibroblasts.Methods:Adipose tissues from 27 individuals of healthy beauty treatments, aged 0-59 years, were collected from Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, the 940th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force from January 2020 to December 2020. According to the age of the donor, they were divided into 6 groups. 0-9 years old group (4 cases), 10-19 years old group (4 cases), 20-29 years old group (5 cases), 30- 39 years old group (5 cases), 40-49 years old group (5 cases), and 50-59 years old group (4 cases). We obtained and cultured the ADSCs of each group, subcultured to obtain the ADSCs, and observed the morphological characteristics of each group; the proliferation ability of each group of ADSCs was detected by CCK-8 method; the differentiation potential of each group of ADSCs was detected by in vitro adipogenesis and osteogenic induction. Flow cytometry was used to detect the surface marker expression levels of each group of ADSCs, and qPCR was used to detect the expression levels of HGF, PPAR-γ, type Ⅲ collagen and DbX2 in each group. We also collected the skin tissues of a healthy person from Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery of the 940th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force in 2020, obtained and cultured fibroblasts, subcultured to obtain the second generation of fibroblasts, and prepared each group of ADSCs conditioned medium (ADSCs-CM); the proliferation ability of fibroblasts cultured in each group of ADSCs-CM was detected by CCK-8 method, and the migration ability of fibroblasts cultured in each group of ADSCs-CM was detected by cell scratch method. SPSS 21.0 software was used for data analysis and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results:The cells of all age groups were in a typical spindle shape. The cells of the younger age group showed small nuclei and the cell morphology were uniform and similar; the cells of the older age group had larger nuclei and uneven morphology. With aging, the proliferation ability of ADSCs gradually decreased. In vitro adipogenic differentiation induction results showed that with the increase in age, the ability of ADSCs to differentiate into adipocytes gradually decreased. In vitro osteogenic differentiation induction results also demonstrated that with the increase in age, the ability of ADSCs to differentiate into osteoblasts gradually decreased. The expression rates of positive surface markers of ADSCs in each group of ADSCs were all above 93%. With aging, the expression levels of PPAR-γ, HGF, and type Ⅲ collagen decreased, and the expression levels of DbX2 showed an upward trend with age. The number of β-galactosidase staining positive cells increased with age, while the difference between groups A, B and C was not statistically significant, and the difference between groups A and D, E, and F was statistically significant ( P<0.05). The ADSCs conditioned medium of each group was able to promote the proliferation of fibroblasts, but the difference between the groups was not statistically significant. With aging, the ability of ADSCs conditioned medium to promote the migration of fibroblasts gradually decreased. Conclusions:The proliferation ability and multidirectional differentiation ability of human ADSCs and the ability to secrete a variety of cytokines that promote the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts show a downward trend, but the adipogenic differentiation ability of ADSCs declines significantly after the age of 40 years. ADSCs in all age groups could promote the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts.

Comparison of the effect of perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery and hallex fibular flap in repair of soft tissue defect of fingers / 中华显微外科杂志

Objective:To compare the clinical effect of perforator flap of proper palmar digital and hallex fibular flap in repair of soft tissue defect of fingers.Methods:A total of 52 patients with finger soft tissue injury were reviewed from January, 2017 to January, 2019. Twenty-seven patients were repaired by perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery, and 25 by hallex fibular flaps. Both groups of patients had only soft tissue defects without phalangeal fracture. Postoperative follow-up were conducted by phone, WeChat and visit of outpatient clinic. The recovery of finger sensory function was evaluated according to the Trial Standard for Replantation Evaluation of Severed Digit by the Hand Surgery Society of Chinese Medical Association. The flaps were evaluated according to the shape, patient satisfaction and finger function and classified in excellent, good, fair and poor. Data of the 2 groups of patients were collected and statistically analysed by SPSS 22.0. P<0.05 was statistically significant. Results:Both groups entered follow-up for 12-16 months. All flaps in both groups survived. There was statistically significant difference of TPD between the 2 groups[TPD were 4-7(5.3±1.2) mm and 6-10(8.4±1.7)mm, respectively]( t=7.642, P=0.000). According to the Evaluation Criteria of the Hand Surgery Society of the Chinese Medical Association. In the group repaired by perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery, 17 fingers were excellent, 6 good, and 4 fair, with a 85.1% of excellent and good rate. In the group repaired by hallex fibular flap, 8 fingers were excellent, 5 good, 9 fair, and 3 poor, with a 52.0% of excellent and good rate. The difference between 2 groups was statistically significant ( t=6.710, P=0.009). There was a 3.7% incidence of complications in the group repaired by perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery, and 25.9% in the group repaired by hallex fibular flap. The difference between the 2 groups was statistically significant( t=4.167, P=0.032), and there was a higher incidence of complications in the group repaired by hallex fibular flap. Conclusion:The perforator flap of proper palmar digital artery and the hallex fibular flap are good choices in the repair of finger soft tissue defect. However, the postoperative complication of the hallux fibular flap is relatively high. Therefore, it is necessary to make a decision in the choice of flap according to the actual situation in clinical work.

A novel draw-bar skin stretcher for repair of full-thickness skin defects / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate a new type of draw-bar skin stretcher in repair of full-thickness skin defects.Methods:From May 2015 to January 2019, 52 patients with full-thickness skin defects were repaired with a new type of draw-bar skin stretcher at Daping Hospital, Army Medical University. They were 40 males and 12 females, aged from 4 to 61 years (average, 37.1 years). Their skin was stretched for primary wound closure. When primary wound closure failed, skin stretching was performed again to close the wound depending on the wound condition. When the Pinch test was negative after skin stretching, the wound was sutured directly. In cases of positive Pinch test, a skin graft or flap was used to repair the remaining wound. At 12 months after surgery, scar contracture and size of skin graft or flap were observed and wound healing after skin stretching was evaluated in comparison with the original wound.Results:After skin stretching, one-stage wound closure was achieved in 36 cases and multi-stage wound closure in 8 cases; of the remaining 8 cases, 2 were repaired by skin graft and 6 by skin flap after their wounds were reduced by skin stretching. In one-stage closed wounds, infection occurred in 3 cases and marginal necrosis in 5 cases; in the wounds repaired by skin graft or flap, no infection or necrosis was observed. The 12-month follow-up for all the patients showed fine healing of all the wounds after one-stage or multi-stage closure, linear scar, absence of scar contracture, and smaller wound sizes than the original ones after skin graft or flap repair.Conclusions:Skin stretching using our new type of draw-bar skin stretcher is an effective treatment for skin wounds. It can replace traditional skin grafting and flap surgery in some cases, but its indications should be strictly followed to avoid related complications.

National expert consensus on the application of natural dermal matrix in wound repair (2020 version) / 中华烧伤杂志

Natural dermal matrix has good biocompatibility and can serve as " biological template" in wound repair. According to the source of material, natural dermal matrix can be divided into acellular dermal matrix (ADM), denatured dermal matrix, and scar dermal matrix. ADM is a biological material prepared by removing cellular components from the skin and retaining extracellular matrix (ECM) of the dermis. ADM possesses abundant natural biological information, low immunogenicity, and excellent regenerative capacity, which has greatly promoted the development of wound healing specialty as dermal substitute. Denatured dermis matrix is a layer of dermal tissue made by superficial tangential excision or dermabrasion on deeply burned wounds. The retained denatured dermis can recover gradually after transplantation of autologous skin on its surface, with similar structure, morphology, and biomechanics to healthy dermis. Scar dermal matrix is a kind of dermal scaffold made of autologous split-thickness scar tissue, possessing the characteristics of high survival rate, good texture, and slight scar reaction. Scar dermal matrix can effectively reduce secondary damage to the donor site when repairing scar contracture deformity. Based on the research progress at home and abroad and the opinions of domestic experts, this paper summarizes the indications, application methods, contraindications, and considerations of different types of natural dermal matrix in application of wound repair.

Progress in human epidermal growth factor research / 生物工程学报

Human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) is a typical member of the growth factor family that activates epidermal growth factor receptors. It is synthesized and secreted by multiple tissues and organs of the human body, regulating the cell proliferation, differentiation and migration via binding to receptors and activating a series of signaling pathways. In recent years, the research on hEGF has been extended to its role in human physiology and pathology, especially in tissue regeneration and wound healing. This paper reviews the research progress of hEGF, briefly describes its gene and protein structure and characteristics, mechanisms and biological effects, with the emphasis on the roles and influences in the healing of gastrointestinal ulcers, skin wound repair and tumor pathology.

Anterior tibial artery perforator propeller flap relay peroneal artery terminal perforator propeller flap for foot and ankle defect / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the clinical application of the anterior tibial artery perforator propeller flap relay peroneal artery terminal perforator propeller flap in repair of foot and ankle defects. Methods: Between October 2014 and October 2018, 18 cases with foot and ankle defects were treated. There were 12 males and 6 females with an average age of 32.8 years (range, 8-56 years). There were 11 cases of traffic accident injuries, 3 cases of falling from height injuries, and 4 cases of heavy objects injuries. The wound was at the dorsum of the foot in 9 cases, the heel in 4 cases, the lateral malleolus in 5 cases. The time from injury to flap repair was 7-34 days (mean, 19 days). The size of wound ranged from 6.0 cm×2.5 cm to 11.0 cm×6.0 cm. The foot and ankle defects were repaired with the peroneal artery terminal perforator propeller flap in size of 6 cm×3 cm-18 cm×7 cm, which donor site was repaired with the anterior tibial artery perforator propeller flap in size of 8 cm×3 cm-16 cm×6 cm. Results: One patient had a hemorrhagic swelling in the peroneal artery terminal perforator propeller flap, and survived after symptomatic treatment. All recipient and donor sites healed by first intention. Eighteen patients were followed up 6-15 months (mean, 12.5 months). At last follow-up, the shape, color, texture, and thickness of the flaps in the donor sites were similar with those in the recipient sites. There were only linear scars on the donor sites. The two-point discrimination of the peroneal artery terminal perforator propeller flap ranged from 10 to 12 mm (mean, 11 mm). According to American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score criteria, the results were excellent in 15 cases and good in 3 cases, with an excellent and good rate of 100%. Conclusion: The foot and ankle defects can be repaired with the anterior tibial artery perforator propeller flap relay peroneal artery terminal perforator propeller flap. The procedure is not sacrificing the main vessel and can avoid the skin grafting and obtain the good ankle function.