Clinical application of neurovascular staghorn flap for repairing of defects in fingertips / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the effectiveness of neurovascular staghorn flap for repairing defects in fingertips.@*METHODS@#Between August 2019 and October 2021, a total of 15 fingertips defects were repaired with neurovascular staghorn flap. There were 8 males and 7 females with an average age of 44 years (range, 28-65 years). The causes of injury included 8 cases of machine crush injury, 4 cases of heavy object crush injury, and 3 cases of cutting injury. There were 1 case of thumb, 5 cases of index finger, 6 cases of middle finger, 2 cases of ring finger, and 1 case of little finger. There were 12 cases in emergency, and 3 cases with finger tip necrosis after trauma suture. Bone and tendon exposed in all cases. The range of fingertip defect was 1.2 cm×0.8 cm to 1.8 cm×1.5 cm, and the range of skin flap was 2.0 cm×1.5 cm to 2.5 cm×2.0 cm. The donor site was sutured directly.@*RESULTS@#All flaps survived without infection or necrosis, and the incisions healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 6-12 months, with an average of 10 months. At last follow-up, the appearance of the flap was satisfactory, the wear resistance was good, the color was similar to the skin of the finger pulp, and there was no swelling; the two-point discrimination of the flap was 3-5 mm. One patient had linear scar contracture on the palmar side with slight limitation of flexion and extension, which had little effect on the function; the other patients had no obvious scar contracture, good flexion and extension of the fingers, and no dysfunction. The finger function was evaluated according to the total range of motion (TAM) system of the Hand Surgery Society of Chinese Medical Association, and excellent results were obtained in 13 cases and good results in 2 cases.@*CONCLUSION@#The neurovascular staghorn flap is a simple and reliable method to repair fingertip defect. The flap has a good fit with the wound without wasting skin. The appearance and function of the finger are satisfactory after operation.

Diagnosis and treatment of finger flexion contracture caused by forearm flexor disease / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To summarize the clinical characteristics, differential diagnosis, and treatment methods of finger flexion contracture caused by three kinds of forearm flexor diseases.@*METHODS@#Between December 2008 and August 2021, 17 patients with finger flexion contracture were treated, including 8 males and 9 females, aged 5-42 years, with a median of 16 years. The disease duration ranged from 1.5 months to 30 years, with a median of 13 years. The etiology included 6 cases of Volkmann's contracture, all of which were flexion deformity of the 2nd to 5th fingers, accompanied by limitation of thumb dorsiflexion in 3 cases and limitation of wrist dorsiflexion in 3 cases; 3 cases of pseudo-Volkmann's contracture, including 2 cases of flexion deformity of middle, ring, and little fingers, and 1 case of flexion deformity of ring and little fingers; 8 cases of ulnar finger flexion contracture caused by forearm flexor disease or anatomical variations, all of which were flexion deformity of middle, ring, and little fingers. Operations such as slide of flexor and pronator teres origin, excision of abnormal fibrous cord and bony prominence, and release of entrapped muscle (tendon) were performed. Hand function was evaluated according to WANG Haihua's hand function rating standard or modified Buck-Gramcko classification standard, and muscle strength was evaluated according to British Medical Research Council (MRC) muscle strength rating standard.@*RESULTS@#All patients were followed up 1-10 years (median, 1.5 years). At last follow-up, 8 patients with contracture caused by forearm flexor disease or anatomical variations and 3 patients with pseudo-Volkmann's contracture achieved excellent hand function, with muscle strength of grade M5 in 6 cases and grade M4 in 5 cases. One patient with mild Volkmann's contracture and 3 patients with moderate Volkmann's contracture without severe nerve damage had excellent hand function in 2 cases and good in 2 cases, with muscle strength of grade M5 in 1 case and grade M4 in 3 cases. Two patients with moderate or severe Volkmann's contracture had poor hand function, with 1 case of muscle strength of grade M3 and 1 case of grade M2, which improved when compared with those before operation. The overall excellent and good rate of hand function and the proportion of patients with muscle strength of grade M4 and above were 88.2% (15/17), respectively.@*CONCLUSION@#The finger flexion contracture caused by different etiology can be differentiated by analyzing the history, physical examination, radiographs, and intraoperative findings. After different surgical treatments, such as resection of contracture band, release of compressed muscle (tendon), and downward movement of flexor origin, most patients have a good outcome.

"Proximal to distal" sequence of the release of the upper extremity post-burn contracture: Rule or case-based approach? / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

Post-burn contractures are common entities seen in developing countries. There are multiple reasons for the development of contractures, most are preventable. In extensive contractures, a strategic plan is necessary to release all contractures and yet not antagonize post-operative positions. It is also necessary to be cost-effective and minimize the number of surgeries needed. Conventionally the release sequence in extensive burn contractures is proximal to distal. In this case report, we discuss an unusual sequence where we released distal contractures before the proximal to achieve optimum results. A 3-year-old child with post-burn contracture of hand, wrist, elbow, and axilla was treated in 2 stages, with the release of wrist contracture and cover with pedicled abdominal flap in the first stage and division of pedicled flap with the release of axilla and elbow contracture in the second stage. Thus, the release of all contractures was achieved without antagonizing post-operative positions and minimized the number of surgeries. A case-based approach may be crucial in making a strategic surgical plan to minimize the rehabilitation phase, rather than following known dictums.

Long-term clinical outcomes following total knee arthroplasty in patients with hemophilic arthropathy: a single-surgeon cohort after a 10- to 17-year follow-up / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can reduce severe joint pain and improve functional disability in hemophilia. However, the long-term outcomes have rarely been reported in China. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes and complications of TKA in Chinese patients with hemophilic arthropathy.@*METHODS@#We retrospectively reviewed patients with hemophilia who underwent TKA between 2003 and 2020, with at least 10 years of follow-up. The clinical results, patellar scores, patients' overall satisfaction ratings, and radiological findings were evaluated. Revision surgery for implants during the follow-up period was recorded.@*RESULTS@#Twenty-six patients with 36 TKAs were successfully followed up for an average of 12.4 years. Their Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Score improved from an average of 45.8 to 85.9. The average flexion contracture statistically significantly decreased from 18.1° to 4.2°. The range of motion (ROM) improved from 60.6° to 84.8°. All the patients accepted patelloplasty, and the patients' patellar score improved from 7.8 preoperatively to 24.9 at the last follow-up. There was no statistically significant difference in clinical outcomes between the unilateral and bilateral procedures, except for a better ROM at follow-up in the unilateral group. Mild and enduring anterior knee pain was reported in seven knees (19%). The annual bleeding event was 2.7 times/year at the last follow-up. A total of 25 patients with 35 TKAs were satisfied with the procedure (97%). Revision surgery was performed in seven knees, with 10- and 15-year prosthesis survival rates of 85.8% and 75.7%, respectively.@*CONCLUSIONS@#TKA is an effective procedure for patients with end-stage hemophilic arthropathy, which relieves pain, improves knee functions, decreases flexion contracture, and provides a high rate of satisfaction after more than ten years of follow-up.

Clinical effects of free transplantation of expanded thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps in reconstructing cervical cicatrix contracture deformity after burns / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: To explore the clinical effects of free transplantation of expanded thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps in reconstructing cervical cicatrix contracture deformity after burns. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From May 2018 to April 2021, 11 patients with cervical cicatrix contracture deformity after burns who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University, including 3 males and 8 females, aged 5 to 46 years, with a course of cervical cicatrix contracture deformity of 5 months to 8 years. The degree of cervical cicatrix contracture deformity was degree Ⅰ in one patient, degree Ⅱ in nine patients, and degree Ⅲ in one patient. In the first stage, according to the sizes of neck scars, one rectangular skin and soft tissue expander (hereinafter referred to as expander) with rated capacity of 200 to 600 mL was placed in the back. The expansion time was 4 to 12 months with the total normal saline injection volume being 3.0 to 3.5 times of the rated capacity of expander. In the second stage, free expanded thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps with areas of 10 cm×7 cm to 24 cm×13 cm were cut out to repair the wounds with areas of 9 cm×6 cm to 23 cm×12 cm which was formed after cervical cicatectomy. The main trunk of thoracodorsal artery and vein were selected for end-to-end anastomosis with facial artery and vein, and the donor sites were directly closed. The survival of flaps and healing of flap donor sites were observed on the 14th day post surgery. The appearances and cicatrix contracture deformity of the flaps, recovery of cervical function, and scar hyperplasia of donor sites were followed up. Results: On the 14th day post surgery, the flaps of ten patients survived, while ecchymosis and epidermal necrosis occurred in the center of flap of one patient and healed 2 weeks after dressing change. On the 14th day post surgery, the flap donor sites of 11 patients all healed well. During the follow-up of 6-12 months post surgery, the flaps of ten patients were similar to the skin around the recipient site in texture and color, while the flap of one patient was slightly swollen. All of the 11 patients had good recovery of cervical function and no obvious scar hyperplasia nor contracture in the flaps or at the donor sites. Conclusions: Application of expanded thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps can restore the appearance and function of the neck, and cause little damage to the donor site in reconstructing the cervical cicatrix contracture deformity after burns, which is worthy of clinical reference and application.

Clinical effects of free transplantation of expanded ilioinguinal flaps in the reconstruction of severe scar contracture deformity after extensive burns / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: To investigate the clinical effects of free transplantation of expanded ilioinguinal flaps in the reconstruction of severe scar contracture after extensive burns. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From August 2017 to October 2021, 7 patients with severe scar contracture deformity caused by extensive burns were hospitalized in Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University & Wuhan Third Hospital, including 5 males and 2 females, aged 26-65 years, with scar area of 20 cm×4 cm-34 cm×14 cm. In the first stage, the rectangular skin and soft tissue expander (hereinafter referred to as the expander) with rated capacity of 500-600 mL were embedded above the inguinal ligament, and then normal saline was injected after stitch removal for expansion to meet the needs of repair surgery. In the second stage, the scar was removed by surgical excision to correct the deformity and release the adhesion and contracture; after the removal of the expanders, the expanded ilioinguinal free flaps were harvested. When a larger flap was needed, the paraumbilical perforator flap was harvested at the same time, and the flaps were transplanted to the secondary wound after scar resection. The number of embedded expanders, the total amount of injected normal saline, the expansion time, the complications of skin and soft tissue expansion, the number, area, thickness, and anastomotic vascular pedicles of the expanded ilioinguinal flaps being resected, the type of flaps used, the repair method of flap donor sites, and the survival of flaps after operation were observed and recorded. The long-term repair effect and donor site condition were followed up. At the last follow-up, the patients' satisfaction with the curative effect of each surgical site was investigated according to the grade 5 score of Likert scale. Results: A total of 10 expanders were embedded in 7 patients, of which 4 patients had 1 each and 3 patients had 2 each. The total volume of normal saline injected was 800-1 800 (1 342±385) mL, and the expansion time was 4-24 (11±5) months. One patient had the expander exposed due to infection after the expander being inserted, while the other patients had no complications of skin and soft tissue expansion. Totally 10 expanded ilioinguinal flaps with the area of 22 cm×6 cm-36 cm×16 cm ((326±132) cm2) and the thickness of 0.6-1.1 (0.77±0.16) cm were harvested. Among the 10 expanded ilioinguinal flaps, 5 were pedicled with the superficial circumflex iliac artery, 3 with the superficial abdominal artery with relatively large caliber, 1 with the common trunk of the superficial circumflex iliac artery and the superficial abdominal artery, and 1 flap was anastomosed with the superficial circumflex iliac artery and bridged the superficial abdominal artery for intra-arterial supercharge. Unilateral expanded ilioinguinal flap combined with ipsilateral paraumbilical perforator flap were harvested in 4 cases, bilateral expanded ilioinguinal flaps were harvested in 1 case, and unilateral expanded ilioinguinal flap was harvested in 2 cases. Except for 1 case being transplanted with autologous split-thickness scalp to repair the flap donor site after combined resection of bilateral expanded ilioinguinal flaps, the donor sites of the other patients were sutured directly. All the flaps survived after operation without tip necrosis or wound residue. Follow-up for 3-30 (15±10) months showed that the flap was soft and not bloated, the function and appearance of the recipient area were significantly improved compared with those before operation, and the appearance of the donor sites was good. At the last follow-up, the patients' satisfaction with the treatment effect of the surgical site scored 4-5 (4.5±0.4). Conclusions: The expanded ilioinguinal flap can be obtained in a large area. It has the advantages of rich blood supply, less damage to the donor site, concealed location, and being convenient to be resected and transplanted in combination with the paraumbilical perforator flap. It is suitable for the clinical reconstruction and treatment of severe scar contracture deformity after extensive burns.

Aesthetic reconstruction of the scar contracture deformity in chin and neck with expanded flaps based on the "MRIS" principle / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: The surgical reconstruction strategy for scar contracture deformity in chin and neck was explored, aiming to obtain better aesthetic outcome. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From December 2017 to April 2021, 34 patients with scar contracture deformity in chin and neck after burns were hospitalized in the Department of Plastic Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University (the Third Military Medical University), aged 12-54 years, including 13 males and 21 females, 4 cases with chin affected only, 7 cases with neck affected only, and 23 cases with both chin and neck affected. The scar areas were 48-252 cm2. All the patients were treated by operation with expanded flaps, following the "MRIS" principle of matching of the color and thickness of the repair flaps (match), reconstructing of the aesthetic features of subunits (reconstruction), design of incision according to the plastic principle (incision), and prevention of the surgical incision scar (scar). The rectangular or kidney shaped skin and soft tissue expander (hereinafter referred to as the expander) with rated capacity of 80-400 mL was embedded in the first stage, which was routinely expanded to 3-5 times of the rated capacity of the expander. In the second stage, scar resection and expanded flap excision were performed to repair the secondary wound, and the flap donor site was sutured directly. The expansion ratio of the expander (with average value being calculated), the type of flaps used, the reconstruction of local aesthetic morphology, the appearance of postoperative incision, the survival of flap, and the situation of donor and recipient sites observed during follow-up were recorded. Results: Among the 34 patients, the average expansion ratio of the implanted expander was 3.82 times of the rated capacity of the expander. Three cases were repaired by the expanded local pedicled flap only, 19 cases by the expanded shoulder and/or chest perforator pedicled flap only, 10 cases by the expanded local pedicled flap combined with the expanded shoulder and/or chest perforator pedicled flap, and 2 cases by the expanded local pedicled flap combined with the expanded free flap of the second intercostal perforator of internal thoracic artery. After scar resection, the shapes of lower lip and chin-lip groove were reconstructed in 10 cases, chin process reconstruction and chin lengthening were performed in 16 cases, and the cervico-mental angle and mandibular margin contour were reconstructed in 28 cases. The surgical incision was concealed, most of which were located at the natural junction or turning point of the chin and neck subunits. The vertical incision of neck was Z-shaped or fishtail-shaped. All the expanded flaps in 34 patients survived after operation, of which 8 patients had minor necrosis at the edge or tip of the expanded flaps 1-3 days after operation and healed after dressing change. During the follow-up of 3-18 months, little difference in color and thickness between the expanded flap and the skin of chin and neck was observed, and the aesthetic shape of chin and neck was significantly improved, with mild scar hyperplasia of surgical incision. Conclusions: Reconstruction of scar contracture deformity in chin and neck by using expanded flaps based on the "MRIS" principle is beneficial to improve the quality of surgery and achieve better aesthetic outcome.

Severe hand contracture treated by external fixation after proximal row carpectomy and awake tenolysis after general anesthesia: A case report / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

Wide-awake local anesthesia has many advantages. We describe a new method to use wide-awake local anesthesia with more flexibility. A 32-year-old man with a severe right-hand contracture after an iatrogenic tourniquet accident during an anterolateral thigh flap for a partial hand amputation underwent contracture release using external fixation after proximal row carpectomy and subsequent tenolysis. We performed most of the tenolysis procedure under general anesthesia and the final stage with an intraoperative assessment of active finger movement and dissection under local anesthesia. He regained his grip strength 2.5 years post-injury. General anesthesia is useful to treat a surgical site with extensive hard scars, whereas local anesthesia is useful for adjusting tension in an awake patient. The indication for wide-awake surgery is yet to be established; our method of combining general and local anesthesia in the tenolysis procedure illustrates the possibilities in expanding this method.

Effects of expanded frontal-parietal pedicled flap in reconstructing cervical scar contracture deformity in children after burns / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: To explore the effects of expanded frontal-parietal pedicled flap in reconstructing cervical scar contracture deformity in children after burns. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From January 2015 to December 2020, 18 male children with cervical scar contracture deformity after burns who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to Zhengzhou First People's Hospital, aged 4 to 12 years, including 10 cases with degree Ⅱ cervical scar contracture deformity and 8 cases with degree Ⅲ scar contracture deformity, and were all reconstructed with expanded frontal-parietal pedicled flap. The surgery was performed in 3 stages. In the first stage, a cylindrical skin and soft tissue expander (hereinafter referred to as expander) with rated capacity of 300 to 500 mL was placed in the frontal-parietal region. The expansion time was 4 to 6 months with the total normal saline injection volume being 2.1 to 3.0 times of the rated capacity of expander. In the second stage, expander removal, scar excision, contracture release, and flap transfer were performed, with the flap areas of 18 cm×9 cm to 23 cm×13 cm and the secondary wound areas of 16 cm×8 cm to 21 cm×11 cm after scar excision and contracture release. After 3 to 4 weeks, in the third stage, the flap pedicle was cut off and restored. The rated volume of placed expander, total normal saline injection volume, type of vascular pedicle of flap, survival of flap and reconstruction of scar after the second stage surgery were recorded. The neck range of motion and cervico-mental angle were measured before surgery and one-year after surgery. The appearance of neck, occurrence of common complications in the donor and recipient sites of children, and satisfaction of children's families for treatment effects were followed up. Data were statistically analyzed with paired sample t test. Results: All the patients successfully completed the three stages of operation. The rated volume of implanted expander was 300 mL in 6 children, 400 mL in 9 children, and 500 mL in 3 children, with the volume of normal saline injection being 630 to 1 500 mL. The type of vascular pedicle of flap was double pedicle in 13 cases and was single pedicle in 5 cases. All the flaps in 17 children survived well, and the secondary wounds after neck scar excision and contracture release were all reconstructed in one procedure. In one case, the distal blood supply of the single pedicled flap was poor after the second stage surgery, with necrosis of about 2.5 cm in length. The distal necrotic tissue was removed on 10 days after the operation, and the wound was completely closed after the flap was repositioned. In the follow-up of 6 months to 3 years post operation, the cervical scar contracture deformity in 18 children was corrected without recurrence. The flap was not bloated, the texture was soft, and the appearances of chin and neck were good. The range of motion of cervical pre-buckling, extension, left flexion, and right flexion, and cervico-mental angle in one year after operation were improved compared with those before operation (with t values of 43.10, 22.64, 27.96, 20.59, and 88.42, respectively, P<0.01). The incision in the frontal donor site was located in the hairline, the scar was slight and concealed. No complication such as cranial depression was observed in expander placement site, and the children's families were satisfied with the result of reconstruction. Conclusions: Application of expanded frontal-parietal pedicled flap in reconstructing the cervical scar contracture deformity in children after burns can obviously improve the appearance and function of neck, with unlikely recurrence of postoperative scar contractures, thus it is an ideal method of reconstruction.

Zetaplastia na retração axilar: técnica e tática para facilitar o aprendizado dos residentes / Z-plasty in axillary retraction: techniques and strategies to facilitate learning by medical residents

Introdução: São apresentados dois casos de retração em região axilar após queimadura em que a correção cirúrgica foi realizada empregando-se zetaplastias múltiplas. Apresentamos uma tática de marcação que visa facilitar o aprendizado desse procedimento pelos residentes de Cirurgia Plástica. Métodos: Dois pacientes com retrações axilares e de membros superiores após queimadura com líquido aquecido foram submetidos à correção cirúrgica empregando-se a zetaplastia múltipla. A tática de planejamento proposta nesse estudo preconiza primeiro a marcação do retalho triangular localizado no ponto médio da retração axilar, o qual irá avançar e cruzar o eixo da cicatriz, e a partir daí o desenho dos retalhos subsequentes com ângulo de 60° entre si. Acreditamos que essa sistematização da marcação facilita o planejamento e aprendizado da plástica em Z. Resultados: Os pacientes apresentaram adequadas amplitude de movimento e recuperação funcional do membro acometido no pós-operatório. Não houve necrose das extremidades dos retalhos, que preconizamos serem cuidadosamente trabalhadas e um pouco arredondadas; e a execução do procedimento foi simples devido à tática de marcação que aplicamos. Conclusão: A tática de marcação que apresentamos é reprodutível e de fácil aprendizado. A zetaplastia múltipla foi eficaz em restabelecer a amplitude de movimento das áreas com sequela de queimadura tratadas com esse método.

Introduction: Herein, we present two cases of post-burn retraction of the axillary region, which were subsequently surgically corrected using multiple Z-plasties. We present a marking strategy to facilitate the learning of this procedure by plastic surgery residents. Methods: Two patients with axillary and upper limb retractions due to burns with hot liquids were surgically treated using multiple Z-plasties. The strategy proposed in this study recommends the marking of the triangular flap located at the midpoint of the axillary retraction, which then advances and crosses the axis of the scar. Then, subsequent flaps are made at an angle of 60° to each other. We believe that this systematization of marking facilitates the planning and learning of Z-plasty. Results: The study patients achieved an adequate range of motion and functional recovery of the affected limb postoperatively. We observed no cases of necrosis of the flap ends, which should be carefully worked and slightly rounded. The execution of the procedure was simple using the suggested marking strategy. Conclusion: The presented marking strategy was reproducible and easy to learn. Multiple Z-plasties were effective in restoring the range of motion of the areas affected by burns that were treated using this method.

Comparação entre implantes anatômicos e redondos por via periareolar em aumentos mamários primários / Comparison of anatomic and round implants using periareolar access in primary breast augmentation

INTRODUÇÃO: Aumentos mamários exigem planejamento com critérios objetivos e rigorosos, que foram padronizados pelo sistema High Five, de Tebbetts. Existe um grande número de combinações possíveis, entre via de acesso, plano e tipo de implante, o que permite proporcionar o melhor resultado para cada paciente. MÉTODO: 100 pacientes operadas, 30 com implantes anatômicos e 70 com redondos, por via retromuscular ou subglandular, com a realização de roundblock ou não. Todos os casos foram operados pela via periareolar. A avaliação pré-operatória foi realizada conforme a sistematização High Five. RESULTADOS: Roundblock foi mais utilizado no grupo de implantes anatômicos, representando 43% da amostra neste caso. O plano subglandular foi o mais utilizado, representando 76,6% da amostra total. Com relação ao implante anatômico, 86,7% dos implantes foram colocados no plano subglandular. Dos anatômicos, 71,4% foram colocados no plano subglandular. Ocorreram quatro casos de contratura capsular graus III e IV, mais comum com o uso de implante redondo. O índice de rotação do implante anatômico foi de 10%, com três casos no total. CONCLUSÃO: Ocorreu baixo índice de complicações, em conformidade com a incidência da literatura. O acesso periareolar proporcionou bons resultados em todos os casos. O paciente deve ser informado sobre a possibilidade da rotação do implante anatômico.

INTRODUCTION: Breast augmentation requires planning with objective and rigorous criteria, which were standardized by the High Five system of Tebbetts. There are a many possible combinations based on access route, implant plane, and type of implant, enabling the best outcome for each patient. METHOD: Of 100 patients studied, 30 received anatomic implants and 70 received round implants in the retromuscular or subglandular position, with or without round block technique. All cases used periareolar access. Preoperative evaluation was performed according to the High Five system. RESULTS: The round block technique was used more often with anatomic implants (43%). The subglandular plane was most commonly used (76.6%). Of 30 anatomic implants, 86.7% were placed in the subglandular plane. Of 70 round implants, 71.4% were placed in the subglandular plane. There were 4 cases of grade III and IV capsular contracture, which is more common with the use of round implants. The rate of rotation among anatomic implants was 10%, with 3 cases. CONCLUSION: There was a low complication rate, in accordance with published data. Periareolar access provided good results in all cases. The patient should be informed about the possibility of rotation with use of anatomic implants.

Opções a capsulotomia e capsulectomia no tratamento da contratura capsular: existem alternativas medicamentosas ao tratamento cirúrgico? Revisão de literatura / Options for capsulotomy and capsulectomy in the treatment of capsular contracture: are there clinical treatment alternatives to surgery? A literature review

INTRODUÇÃO: A contratura capsular é uma das principais complicações em cirurgias envolvendo implantes mamários. A classificação mais usada para avaliar o grau de contratura é a de Baker, que a divide em graus I, II, III e IV, sendo as de grau III e IV consideradas significativas. Apesar de existirem diversas teorias, a etiologia da contratura capsular permanece incerta. O tratamento convencional para os casos de contratura é a abordagem cirúrgica com realização de capsulotomia ou capsulectomia. Estes procedimentos, no entanto, não estão isentos de morbidades, com complicações como deiscências, hematomas, seromas, pneumotórax, assimetrias e recidiva da contratura. Este estudo faz uma revisão sobre as alternativas ao tratamento cirúrgico convencional, descritas na literatura. MÉTODOS: Foi realizada pesquisa nas bibliotecas da Pubmed e da Cochrane, utilizando-se os termos: 'capsular contracture', 'capsular contracture treatment' e 'capsular contracture breast treatment'. Foram identificados 991 artigos e selecionados os que discutiam opções medicamentosas para o tratamento de contratura, diferentes de capsulectomia e capsulotomia. RESULTADOS: Foram encontrados vårios estudos utilizando drogas com o fim de reduzir a contratura capsular, das quais o Zafirlucaste é apresentado em maior número de trabalhos. CONCLUSÃO: Dentre as várias drogas utilizadas, o Zafirlucaste apresentou boa eficácia, com baixos índices de complicação; a Triancinolona parece ser também uma boa opção, no entanto precisa de profissional habilitado para realizar as infiltrações. As demais drogas necessitam de maiores estudos.

INTRODUCTION: Capsular contracture is among the main complications of surgeries involving breast implants. The most commonly used classification to assess the degree of contracture is the Baker grading system, which divides contractures into grades I, II, III, and IV. Of these, grade III and IV contractures are considered significant. Although several causes have been postulated, the etiology of capsular contracture remains uncertain. Conventional treatment for contracture is based on a surgical approach, specifically capsulotomy or capsulectomy. These procedures, however, are not exempt from morbidity, and patients may develop complications such as dehiscence, hematoma, seroma, pneumothorax, asymmetry, and contracture recurrence. This study provides a review of alternatives to conventional surgery described in the literature. METHODS: We researched the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases using the following keywords: "capsular contracture", "capsular contracture treatment", and "capsular contracture breast treatment". We identified 991 articles from which we selected those discussing medication options for contracture treatment other than capsulectomy and capsulotomy. RESULTS: We identified several studies in which drugs, most commonly zafirlukast, were used to reduce capsular contracture. CONCLUSION: Among the various reported drugs, zafirlukast exhibited good efficacy and a low rate of complication. Triamcinolone also appears to be a good option, although professional assistance would be needed for drug administration via infiltration. The other drugs described would require further investigation.

Cistectomia com reconstrução de neobexiga ortotópica ileal para tratamento de bexiga contraída após aplicação de bacilo de Calmette-Guérin intravesical / Cystectomy with orthotopic ileal neobladder reconstruction for treatment of bladder contracture after intravesical bacillus Calmette-Guerin therapy

O câncer de bexiga é um importante problema de saúde mundial, tanto pelas elevadas taxas de prevalência, quanto pelos custos relacionados ao tratamento. Desde a introdução da imunoterapia intravesical adjuvante com bacilo Calmette-Guérin, vem sendo observada diminuição na taxa de recorrência. As principais complicações são de pequeno porte e simples resolução a partir de medidas locais e orientações. A bexiga contraída, uma complicação local rara e grave, mas incapacitante em alguns casos, é observada principalmente em doentes com um programa de manutenção. Relatamos aqui o caso de um paciente masculino submetido a ressecção transuretral da bexiga por um carcinoma urotelial T1 de alto grau, que desenvolveu tal complicação durante tratamento com bacilo Calmette-Guérin, sendo portanto submetido à cistoprostatectomia com realização de neobexiga ortotópica ileal.

Bladder cancer is an important health problem worldwide due to high prevalence rates and costs related to treatment. A reduction in recurrence rates has been observed since the introduction of adjuvant intravesical immunotherapy with bacillus Calmette-Guerin. There are mild complications that are easily solved by local measures and orientations. Bladder contracture, a rare and severe local complication, in some cases leading to disability, is observed primarily in patients in a maintenance program. In this article we reported the case of a male patient who underwent transurethral resection of the bladder because of a high-grade T1 urothelial carcinoma and developed this complication during treatment with bacillus Calmette-Guerin. For this reason he was submitted to cystoprostatectomy with orthotopic ileal neobladder reconstruction.

Uso de matriz dérmica associado ao curativo por pressão negativa na abordagem da contratura em pacientes queimados / Use of dermal matrix and negative pressure dressings for the treatment of contractures in burn patients

INTRODUÇÃO: O aperfeiçoamento no tratamento inicial do paciente queimado, por meio da reposição volêmica e, principalmente, com excisão e enxertia precoce das lesões, resultou em profundo impacto na evolução dos indivíduos queimados, ocorrendo aumento da taxa de sobrevida. Com a maior sobrevida desses pacientes surgiu um novo desafio para a cirurgia reparadora, o tratamento das sequelas de queimaduras, principalmente compostas pelas contraturas. O objetivo deste estudo é demonstrar o uso da matriz dérmica artificial associado a terapia por pressão negativa no tratamento de sequelas de queimaduras. MÉTODO: Foram selecionados 10 pacientes com contratura por queimadura. Os pacientes selecionados foram submetidos a liberação da contratura cicatricial e colocação de matriz dérmica artificial (Integra®), conforme técnica padrão, e curativo por pressão negativa para cobertura. A cada 5 dias, foram realizadas trocas do curativo até completar período de 3 semanas a 4 semanas. Após esse período, o leito foi submetido a enxertia de pele. Os pacientes foram questionados, no pré e pós-operatório, quanto a sua satisfação com os aspectos estético e funcional da região abordada. RESULTADOS: Houve integração de cerca de 98% da matriz de regeneração dérmica na área em que a contratura foi ressecada. Também ocorreu integração de aproximadamente 85% dos enxertos utilizados. Todos os pacientes abordados referiram significativa melhora estética e, principalmente, funcional da região abordada. CONCLUSÕES: O uso da matriz de regeneração dérmica associado a terapia por pressão negativa promove maior taxa de sucesso na abordagem da contratura cicatricial, proporcionando melhor resultado tanto funcional como estético nos pacientes com sequelas graves de queimadura.

BACKGROUND: Burn patients are initially treated with volume replacement and, importantly, subsequent excision and early grafting of their injuries. These first aid measures improve the progress and survival rates of burned individuals. However, this treatment creates a new challenge in reparative surgery with regard to the management of burn sequelae, which mainly include contractures. In this study, we aimed to assess the effect of artificial dermal matrix application and negative pressure therapy on the treatment of burn sequelae. METHODS: Ten patients with burn contractures were selected for this study and underwent scar contracture release, wound coverage with an artificial dermal matrix (Integra®), and negative pressure dressing according to the standard procedures. Dressing changes were performed every 5 days for 3-4 weeks. A skin graft was then laid on the wound bed. In the pre- and postoperative period, the patients were asked to rate their satisfaction with the aesthetic and functional aspects of the treated region. RESULTS: In the areas in which the contractures were resected, integration of almost 98% of the dermal regeneration matrix was observed. Also integration was observed in 85% of the grafts used. All the patients reported a significant aesthetic and, in particular, functional improvement of the treated region. CONCLUSIONS: The use of dermal regeneration matrix and negative pressure therapy for the treatment of scar contractures improves the success rate and the aesthetic and functional outcomes of patients with severe burn sequelae.

Tratamento artroscópico da rigidez pós-traumática do cotovelo / Arthroscopic treatment of post-traumatic elbow stiffness

OBJETIVO: Avaliar pacientes submetidos à artroscopia para liberação do cotovelo rígido, discutindo a técnica, possíveis dificuldades e riscos. MÉTODOS: Foram realizadas 24 artroscopias de cotovelos. Todos os pacientes foram avaliados usando goniometria pré e seis meses pós-cirurgia e pontuados com o escore de cotovelo Mayo. RESULTADOS: Operados 15 homens e nove mulheres, 14 cotovelos direitos e 10 esquerdos, média de idade de 34,58 anos e de tempo de seguimento de 38,41 meses. A média do ganho do arco de movimento foi de 43,3º e MES de 85,4. CONCLUSÃO: A liberação artroscópica pode viabilizar melhor visualização e aumento das opções de mudança de estratégia durante a cirurgia, diminuição do trauma cirúrgico e possibilidade de reabilitação precoce, podendo atingir resultados similares ou melhores que os da cirurgia aberta. Contra a artroscopia há a grande curva de aprendizado e o maior custo do procedimento. Ambas as técnicas relatam complicações neurovasculares. Para evitar tais problemas, o protocolo para realização dos portais deve ser rigorosamente seguido. A liberação artroscópica mostrou ser opção segura e eficaz no ganho da ADM no cotovelo rígido pós-traumático.

To evaluate patients undergoing arthroscopic release of a stiff elbow, with discussion of the technique, possible difficulties and risks. METHODS: Twenty-four elbow arthroscopy procedures were performed. All the patients were evaluated using goniometry before the operation and six months after wards and were rated using the Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS). RESULTS: Fifteen men and nine women underwent surgery (14 right elbows and ten left elbows). Their mean age was 34.58 years and length of follow-up, 38.41 months. Their mean gain of range of motion was 43.3º and of MEPS, 85.4. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic liberation might enable better intrarticular visualization and enhance options to change strategy during surgery, reduction of surgical trauma and possibility of early rehabilitation, and this technique can reach similar or better results than open surgery. Disadvantages of arthroscopy are lack of ability of surgeons and higher cost of procedure. Both techniques report neurovascular complications, to avoid such problems the arthroscopic portals protocols must be rigorously followed. Arthroscopic release of the stiff elbow can enable range of motion gain, and also promotes high level of satisfaction by the decrease of pain and good cosmetic appearance. Some cases might demand adjuvant treatments. When correctly indicated, arthroscopy may be a safe surgical option with satisfactory outcomes.

Inflammatory and oxidative stress after surgery for the small area corrections of burn sequelae / Estresse inflamatório e oxidativo após cirurgia para correção de pequenas áreas de sequela de queimaduras

PURPOSE: To compare vitamin levels, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers before and after skin autograft surgery to correct burn scar areas. METHODS: This prospective study was conducted with 8 patients with a median age of 28 years (range, 16 to 40 years) that had burn sequelae and were admitted to a Burn Unit for correction of small burn scar areas [3.3 (1.0-5.0) percent of the corporal surface]. The volunteers were evaluated before and 48 hours after excision of scar tissue and skin autograft. Routine laboratory data, along with a food questionnaire and anthropometry were collected in the preoperative period. Serum vitamin A, C, E, B12 and folic acid levels, inflammatory markers (C-protein reactive, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, ferritin) and oxidative stress markers (reduced glutathione - GSH and Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances - TBARS) were determined at preoperative and postoperative phases. Data were analyzed with two-sample Wilcoxon test. RESULTS: All volunteers were clinically stable and had adequate nutritional status at admission. After surgery, C-reactive protein serum levels increased [0.4 (0.01-1.0) vs. 2.5 (0.6-4.7) mg/dL, p=0.01] and vitamin A levels decreased [3.4 (2.1-4.2) vs. 2.4 (1.6-4.1) µmol/L, p=0.01]. No changes occurred in other vitamins, ferrritin, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, GSH and TBARS levels. CONCLUSION: Minimal metabolic changes were produced after skin autograft in small areas of well-nourished patients without active infection or inflammation.

OBJETIVO: Comparar os níveis séricos de vitaminas e dos marcadores de estresse oxidativo e inflamatório antes e após enxerto cutâneo para correção de pequenas áreas de cicatrizes hipertróficas de queimaduras. MÉTODOS: O estudo prospectivo foi conduzido com oito pacientes com mediana de idade de 28 anos (variação de 16 a 40 anos) que apresentavam cicatrizes fibróticas decorrentes de queimaduras. Todos os pacientes foram admitidos em Unidade de Queimados para serem submetidos a enxertos autólogos [3,3 (1,0 a 5,0) por cento da superfície corporal]. Os voluntários foram avaliados antes e 48 horas após a excisão do tecido cicatricial e do enxerto autólogo. Exames laboratoriais de rotina, além do questionário alimentar e da antropometria foram obtidos no período pré-operatório. Os níveis séricos das vitaminas A, C, E, B12 e ácido fólico, os marcadores inflamatórios (proteína C reativa, alfa-1-glicoproteína ácida e ferritina) e marcadores de estresse oxidativo (glutationa reduzida - GSH e Substâncias Reativas do Ácido Tiobarbitúrico - TBARS) foram determinados nas fases pré e pós-operatórias. Os dados foram analisados pelo teste de Wilcoxon pareado. RESULTADOS: Todos os voluntários estavam clinicamente estáveis e apresentavam estado nutricional adequado à admissão hospitalar. Após a cirurgia, houve aumento dos níveis séricos de proteína C reativa [0,4 (0,01-1,0) vs 2,5 (0,6-4,7) mg/dL, p=0,01], enquanto houve redução nos níveis de vitamina A [3,4 (2,1-4,2) vs 2,4 (1,6-4,1) µmol/L, p=0,01]. Não houve mudanças nos níveis séricos de outras vitaminas, ferritina, alfa-1-glicoproteína ácida, GSH e TBARS. CONCLUSÃO: Em pacientes com bom estado nutricional e sem evidência de atividade inflamatória ou infecciosa ocorrem mudanças metabólicas mínimas após enxerto autólogo de pequenas áreas de cicatrizes de queimadura.

Contractura axilar por quemadura tratada con Integra® / Axillary burn contracture treated with Integra®

Introduction: Severe axillary burn is an unusual accident that frequently evolves to contracture generating important cosmetic and functional deficiencies. Contracture scars in this region are difficult to treat because of the anatomic characteristics of the area that has multiple power vectors. Functional restoration has to be one of the main goals in the management of burns in the axilla and flaps have shown high rate of morbidity. Integra® provides satisfactory elasticity and dermal resistance which results in positive functional results. Objective: Analyze the results of the use of Integra® in axillary burn contracture scars at a specialized Burns Center. Materials and Methods: There were 4 patients who underwent reconstructive surgery using Integra® for axillary burn contractures between January 2002 and March 2006. Follow-up was divided into perioperative and late. Early follow-up checked general post-operative evolution and late follow-up was focused on functionality and patient independence evaluated using Barthel's index of daily living activities. Results: There were 3 males and 1 female, average age 27 (18-41) with a minimum follow up of 9 months. There were no perioperative complications and good or very good range of motion results. Conclusions: Our results are similar to artificial skin substitutes used in other anatomical regions.

Las quemaduras axilares severas son un accidente infrecuente que evolucionan a la retracción generando deficiencias cosméticas y funcionales. Estas cicatrices son difíciles de tratar por las características anatómicas del área, donde la corrección de un vector de movimiento puede alterar otro. Objetivo: Mostrar nuestros resultados utilizando el sustituto cutáneo Integra® en el tratamiento de cicatrices retráctiles axilares por quemadura. Pacientes y Métodos: Se recolectaron antecedentes médicos y fotográficos de pacientes portadores de cicatrices retráctiles axilares por quemadura entre enero de 2002 y marzo de 2006 en el Hospital del Trabajador de Santiago. Se evaluó pre y postoperatoriamente a los pacientes en forma subjetiva por fisiatra y con el Test de Barthel. Resultados: Se incluyeron 4 pacientes en el estudio (3 mujeres y 1 hombre), edad media 27 años (18-41). Todas las quemaduras fueron producidas por fuego. Índice de Barthel preoperatorio fue de 87,5 (levemente dependiente para las actividades de la vida diaria) y rango de movimiento moderadamente afectado. En el postoperatorio los pacientes fueron catalogados como independientes según el Test de Barthel y el rango de movimiento fue descrito como bueno o muy bueno por el fisiatra. No hubo complicaciones peri operatorias, Integra® prendió adecuadamente en todos los casos. Los pacientes fueron seguidos en promedio 16 meses (9-22). Conclusiones: Los sustitutos dérmicos han sido usados para la corrección de cicatrices de quemaduras con buenos resultados, pero no hay reportes en la axila. El pequeño número de pacientes que presentamos tienen un excelente resultado funcional, lo que nos estimula a seguir trabajando en este rumbo.

Tratamento cirúrgico de retrações axilares e mento-torácica com zetaplastia / Surgical treatment of axillary and chest-ment retraction with Z-plasty

Introdução: As queimaduras de espessura total e suas sequelas permanecem como uma das mais complexas doenças com que o cirurgião plástico tem se deparado nos tempos atuais. As sequelas pós-queimadura de espessura total, nas regiões mento-torácica e axilares, sempre levam a retrações, determinando grandes alterações funcionais e estéticas. A correção destas deformidades ainda se constitui num dilema da medicina atual. A operaçãode Zetaplastia é uma ferramenta essencial e poderosa do arsenal do cirurgião para a reconstrução de queimadura. Relato de caso: Os autores descrevem um caso de sequela de queimadura extensa em paciente do sexo masculino, de 8 anos, com retrações axilares e mento-torácica, tratado com a técnica de zetaplastia, que demonstrou mais uma vez sua eficácia e versatilidade no tratamento dessas sequelas.

Introduction: The full-thickness burns and their deformities remain as one of the most complex diseases to which the plastic surgeon has encountered in current times. The full thickness deformity post burn, in the axillary and chest-ment, always lead to retractions, causing some major function and aesthetic changes. The correction of these deformities is still a dilemma of current medicine. The operation of Zetaplastia is an essential and powerful arsenal of the surgeon for the post burn reconstruction. Case report: The authors describe a case of sequelae of extensive burn in male, 8 years, with axillary and chest-ment retractions, which was treated with the technique of zetaplasty, once again demonstrating its effectiveness and versatility in the treatment of burn sequelae.

Avaliação dos resultados do tratamento cirúrgico da rigidez pós-traumática do cotovelo de pacientes esqueleticamente maturos / Evaluation of the results of surgical treatment of posttraumatic stiffness of the elbow in skeletally mature patients

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os resultados do tratamento cirúrgico da rigidez pós-traumática do cotovelo em pacientes esqueleticamente maturos. MÉTODOS: Entre outubro de 2000 e outubro de 2007, 45 cotovelos de 45 pacientes foram submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico pelo Grupo de Cirurgia de Ombro e Cotovelo do Departamento de Ortopedia e Traumatologia da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo. Dez pacientes foram tratados por via artroscópica e o restante por via aberta. O seguimento mínimo foi de seis meses, com média de 22 meses. A idade variou de 17 a 72 anos, com média de 36 anos e três meses. Houve predomínio do sexo masculino em 60 por cento dos casos. O membro dominante foi acometido em 56,5 por cento. A avaliação clínica dos resultados foi feita pelos critérios da American Medical Association (AMA), modificada por Bruce, e os do Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), além da mensuração do ganho do arco de flexoextensão e do arco final de movimento. RESULTADOS: Pelos critérios de AMA, modificados por Bruce, obtivemos 42,2 por cento de resultados satisfatórios, contra 77,8 por cento pelos de MEPS. O arco de flexoextensão médio pós-operatório foi de 106º, e média de ganho de amplitude de 46º. A avaliação das variáveis mostrou que pacientes com flexão inicial maior que 90º obtiveram arco de flexoextensão final maior e, aqueles com extensão inicial menor ou igual a 60º ganharam maior arco de movimento. CONCLUSÃO: O tratamento cirúrgico da rigidez pós-traumática do cotovelo em indivíduos esqueleticamente maturos mostrou-se satisfatório pelo método de avaliação do MEPS, mas insatisfatório pelo da AMA. Observamos que os pacientes com flexão maior que 90º no período pré-operatório evoluíram com arco de flexoextensão maior após o tratamento cirúrgico, enquanto que os que tinham contratura com extensão menor ou igual a 60º ganharam maior arco de movimento.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the surgical treatment of posttraumatic stiffness of the elbow in skeletally mature patients. METHODS: Between October 2000 and October 2007, 45 elbows of 45 patients underwent surgical treatment by the Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Group, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medical Sciences of the Santa Casa de São Paulo. Ten patients were treated by arthroscopy and the remainder by open surgery. Minimum follow-up was six months, with an average of 22 months. Age ranged from 17 to 72 years, with a mean of 36 years and three months. Male were predominant, accounting for 60 percent of cases. The dominant limb was involved in 56.5 percent of cases. Clinical evaluation of the results was done by the criteria of the American Medical Association (AMA), modified by Bruce, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), and by measuring the gain of the flexo-extension arc and the final range of movement. RESULTS: According to the AMA criteria, modified by Bruce, we have obtained satisfactory results of 42.2 percent, in contrast to 77.8 percent according to the MEPS. The mean postoperative arc of flexo-extension was 106º, with a 46º mean range gain. The evaluation of the variables showed that patients with an initial flexion arc greater than 90º obtained higher end flexo-extension, and those with an initial extension less than or equal to 60º gained a greater range of motion. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment of posttraumatic stiffness of the elbow in skeletally mature individuals was satisfactory for the MEPS, but poorly according to the AMA. We observed that patients with flexion greater than 90º preoperatively evolved with a higher arc of flexo-extension after surgical treatment, while those who had extension contracture of less than or equal to 60º gained a wider range of motion.