Endoscopic cartilage tympanoplasty: full thickness and partial thickness tragal graft / Timpanoplastia endoscópica com enxerto de cartilagem tragal de espessura parcial ou total

Abstract Introduction: Cartilage is the grafting material of choice for certain disorders of the middle ear. The indications for its routine use remain controversial due to the possible detrimental effect on post-operative hearing. Objective: The present study was carried out to report a personal experience with "tragal cartilage shield" tympanoplasty to compare the results, in terms of graft uptake and hearing improvement, of endoscopic cartilage shield technique using either partial thickness or full thickness tragal cartilage for type 1 tympanoplasty and to highlight the tips for single-handed endoscopic ear surgery. Methods: Fifty patients with safe chronic suppurative otitis media, assisted at out-patient department from February 2014 to September 2015 were selected. They were randomly allocated into two groups, 25 patients were included in group A where a full thickness tragal cartilage was used and 25 patients included in group B where a partial thickness tragal cartilage was used. Audiometry was performed 2 months after the surgery in all cases and the patients were followed for one year. Results: Out of the total of 50 patients 39 (78%) had a successful graft take up, amongst these 22 belonged to group A and 17 belonged to the group B. The hearing improvement was similar in both groups. Conclusion: This study reveals that endoscopic tragal cartilage shield tympanoplasty is a reliable technique; with a high degree of graft take and good hearing results, irrespective of the thickness. Furthermore, the tragal cartilage is easily accessible, adaptable, resistant to resorption and single-handed endoscopic ear surgery is minimally invasive, sutureless and provides a panoramic view of the middle ear.

Resumo Introdução: A cartilagem é o material de enxerto de escolha no tratamento cirúrgico de certas condições clínicas da orelha média. Devido ao possível efeito prejudicial na audição pós-operatória, as indicações para seu uso rotineiro ainda são controversas. Objetivo: Relatar a experiência dos autores com a timpanoplastia tipo 1 endoscópica usando cartilagem tragal e comparar os resultados entre a cartilagem tragal com espessura parcial e espessura total, em termos de integração do enxerto e melhoria da audição. O estudo também buscou apresentar sugestões para cirurgia endoscópica de orelha média com uma única mão (single-handed endoscopic ear surgery). Método: Foram selecionados 50 pacientes com otite média crônica supurativa, atendidos neste ambulatório entre fevereiro de 2014 e setembro de 2015, alocados aleatoriamente em dois grupos: 25 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo A, no qual uma cartilagem tragal de espessura total foi usada e outros 25 pacientes foram incluídos no grupo B, no qual foi usada uma cartilagem tragal de espessura parcial. Em todos os casos, uma audiometria foi feita dois meses após a cirurgia; os pacientes foram acompanhados por um ano. Resultados: Dos 50 pacientes, o enxerto foi bem-sucedido em 39 (78%), entre os quais 22 pertenciam ao grupo A e 17 pertenciam ao grupo B. A melhoria da audição em ambos os grupos foi muito semelhante. Conclusão: O estudo indicou que a timpanoplastia endoscópica com cartilagem tragal é uma técnica confiável, com alto grau de integração do enxerto e bons resultados de audição, independentemente da espessura usada. Além disso, a cartilagem tragal é facilmente acessível, adaptável e resistente à reabsorção; a cirurgia endoscópica é minimamente invasiva, sem sutura e proporciona uma visão panorâmica da orelha média.

A Comparative Study of Endoscopic versus Microscopic Cartilage Type I Tympanoplasty

Abstract Introduction The use of endoscope is rapidly increasing in otological and neuro- otological surgery in the last 2 decades. Middle ear surgeries, including tympanoplasty, have increasingly utilized endoscopes as an adjunct to or as a replacement for the operative microscope. Superior visualization and transcanal access to diseases normal- ly managed with a transmastoid approach are touted as advantages with the endoscope. Objectives The present study aimed to compare the outcomes of endoscopic and microscopic cartilage tympanoplasty (Type I) Methods This was a retrospective comparative study of 70 patients (25 males and 45 females) who underwent type I tympanoplasty between March 2015 and April 2016. The subjects were classified into 2 groups: endoscopic tympanoplasty (ET, n = 35), and microscopic tympanoplasty (MT, n = 35). Tragal cartilage was used as a graft and technique used was cartilage shield tympanoplasty in both groups. Demographic data, perforation size of the tympanic membrane at the preoperative state, operation time, hearing outcome, and graft success rate were evaluated. Results The epidemiological profiles, the preoperative hearing status, and the perforation size were similar in both groups. The mean operation time of the MT group (52.63 ± 8.68 minutes) was longer than that of the ET group (48.20 ± 10.37 minutes), but the difference was not statistically significant. The graft success rates 12 weeks postoperatively were 91.42% both in the ET and MT groups, that is, 32/35; and these values were not statistically significantly different. There was a statistically significant improvement in hearing within the groups, both pre- and postoperatively, but there was no difference between the groups. Conclusion Endoscopic tympanoplasty is a minimally invasive surgery with similar graft success rate, comparable hearing outcomes and shorter operative time period as compared to microscopic use.

Total Endoscopic Transcanal Cartilage Myringoplasty: A Prospective Study

Introduction: Middle ear surgeries, including myringoplasty, have increasingly utilized endoscopes as an adjunct to or as a replacement for the operative microscope. Objectives: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the graft uptake rate and to evaluate the hearing results. Methods: This is a prospective study. We have analyzed 139 patients who underwent surgery for chronic otitis media (COM) of the mucosal type. All of the surgeries were performed exclusively under total endoscopic transcanal approach using tragal cartilage as graft, underlay technique. We have evaluated the postoperative graft uptake and performed a hearing evaluation at 6 weeks, at 12 weeks, and at 6 months. Results: During the study period, 139 patients were included, out of which 13 were lost to follow-up; therefore, only 126 patients were assessed. All of the cases were performed under total endoscopic approach. As for the surgical outcome at the postoperative otoscopy, 3 cases had initial uptake at 3 months and failed later; therefore, complete closure of the perforation was observed in 97.6% ( n = 123) of the patients 6 months after the intervention. Four patients presented with preoperative anacusis; therefore, only 122 patients were included for hearing evaluation. The preoperative air conduction threshold (ACT) and airbone gap (ABG) were 43.34 ± 11.53 and 24.73 ± 7.89, respectively. Postoperatively, the ACT and ABG closure were 28.73 ± 15.75 and 11.91 ± 8.41, respectively. This difference was statistically significant ( p < 0.001). Conclusion: The endoscopic approach for myringoplasty offers excellent visualization; avoids postaural approach, enables a faster recovery, requires less hospital stay, with excellent graft closure rate and improved functional outcomes (AU)

Reconstrucción postraumática de una pérdida parcial auricular / Posttraumatic reconstruction of a partial ear loss

RESUMEN Introducción: Los objetivos de la reconstrucción auricular son mantener la permeabilidad del canal auditivo externo y restaurar la forma general y la proyección. Objetivo: caracterizar un caso clínico de reconstrucción postraumática de una pérdida parcial auricular, enfatizando en la importancia de la secuencia terapéutica empleada. Presentación del caso clínico: Acude a consulta externa un paciente masculino de 26 años. Refiere haber sido tratado en el cuerpo de guardia 10 días atrás, al haber perdido un fragmento de oreja por una mordida en una riña. Al examen físico se constata la existencia de una pérdida parcial irregular de la oreja derecha. Se decide esperar tres semanas, e indicar chequeo preoperatorio. Al cabo de este tiempo se realiza el primer tiempo reconstructivo quirúrgico, con injerto autólogo de cartílago auricular de la oreja izquierda, que fue colocado en forma de "bolsillo" en la región temporal. A las tres semanas del primer tiempo quirúrgico, se realiza, bajo anestesia local, el segundo tiempo reconstructivo con la liberación de la región auricular del "bolsillo" creado, el avance de un colgajo posterior y la colocación de un injerto libre de piel. El paciente refirió una gran satisfacción por los resultados estéticos obtenidos. Principales comentarios: se empleó una secuencia terapéutica ante un defecto traumático parcial del pabellón auricular en sus tercios superior y medio. Este tipo de secuela traumática requirió el empleo de procederes quirúrgicos en varios tiempos operatorios que garantizaran un buen aporte sanguíneo de los tejidos, ausencia de tensión y adecuados resultados estéticos finales(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: The aims of auricular reconstruction are to maintain the permeability of the external auditory canal and restore general shape and projection. Objective: Characterize a clinical case of posttraumatic reconstruction of a partial ear loss, highlighting the importance of the therapy sequence followed. Clinical case presentation: A male 26-year-old patient attends outpatient consultation. He reports that he was treated in the emergency service 10 days before upon having lost a section of his ear due to a bite in a fight. Physical examination reveals irregular partial loss of the right ear. It is decided to wait three weeks and indicate preoperative checkup. At the end of that period the first surgical reconstruction session is conducted, with autologous graft of auricular cartilage from the left ear, which was placed in the form of a "pocket" in the temporal region. Three weeks after the first surgical session, the second reconstruction is performed under local anesthesia, with release of the "pocket" from the auricular region, advancement of a posterior flap and placement of a free skin graft. The patient reported great satisfaction with the esthetic results obtained. Main remarks: A therapy sequence was followed in response to a partial traumatic defect of the outer ear in its upper and middle thirds. This type of traumatic sequel required the performance of surgical procedures at several operative moments, ensuring good blood supply to tissues, absence of tension and appropriate final esthetic results(AU)

Effect of Incudostapedial Reconstruction Using Conchal Cartilage Interposition Graft on Hearing Outcome

Abstract Introduction Chronic otitis media is a widely prevalent condition in developing countries and is a cause of correctable hearing loss. The most frequent ossicular chain defect found during surgery for chronic otitis media has been a discontinuity of the incudostapedial joint. This study observes the effect of incudostapedial reconstruction using conchal cartilage on the hearing of the patient. Objectives To evaluate improvement in hearing by incudostapedial reconstruction using conchal cartilage interposition graft in tympanoplasty and to identify the independent factors associated with erosion of the long process of incus among patients with chronic suppurative otitis media tubotympanic type. Methods This study was conducted in the department of ear, nose and throat (ENT) amongst 22 patients with tubotympanic-type chronic suppurative otitis media who were found to have erosion of the long process during tympanoplasty. These patients underwent incudostapedial reconstruction using conchal cartilage. Their hearing was again reassessed at 12 weeks postsurgery, and the changes were observed. Results A statistically significant improvement in air conduction by 15.14 dB was found after undergoing incudostapedial reconstruction using conchal cartilage (p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant change in bone conduction (p value > 0.05). A total of 59.1% of patients in the study had an improvement in hearing ranging from11 to 20 dB. It was also found that 50% of the patients had a postoperative hearing of 10 to 20 dB. Conclusion Conchal cartilage interposition graft effectively improved hearing when used for the reconstruction of the incudostapedial joint during tympanoplasty in patients of chronic suppurative otitis media.

Impact of cartilage graft size on success of tympanoplasty / Impacto do tamanho do enxerto de cartilagem no sucesso da timpanoplastia

Abstract Introduction: In the last decade, there has been an increasing use of cartilage grafts in the primary repair of tympanic membrane perforations. The major advantages of cartilage are its stiffness and its very low metabolic requirements, which make it particularly suitable for difficult conditions, such as subtotal perforations, adhesive otitis and reoperation. Objective: To analyze the impact of different perforation sizes requiring different sizes of cartilage on the anatomical and functional outcome after tympanoplasty. Methods: Through this prospective non-controlled, non-randomized study, 50 patients underwent cartilage type 1 tympanoplasty (20 females and 30 males), with a mean age of 19.3 ± 9.8 years. According to size of perforation, patients were subdivided into three groups, Group I had perforation >50% of tympanic membrane area, in Group II patients the perforations were 25-50% of tympanic membrane area, and in Group III the perforations were ≤25% of tympanic membrane. All patients had pre and postoperative Pure Tone Average and Air Bone Gap frequencies (0.5, 1, 2, 4 kHz). All patients were followed up at least 12 months after operation. Results: The anatomical success rate among all patients was 92%, all groups showed statistical significant improvement between pre and postoperative air bone gap, no significant correlation between size of cartilage graft and degree of air bone gap improvement was noticed among the three groups. Conclusion: Size of a cartilage graft has no impact on degree of hearing improvement or anatomical success rate after tympanoplasty.

Resumo Introdução: Na última década, tem havido um interesse crescente no uso de enxertos de cartilagem como opção para o reparo de perfurações primárias de membrana timpânica. As principais vantagens da cartilagem são a sua rigidez e o metabolismo braditrófico, o que a torna particularmente adequada para condições difíceis, tais como perfurações subtotais, otite adesiva e reoperações. Objetivo: Analisar o impacto de diferentes tamanhos de perfuração, portanto diferentes tamanhos de cartilagem, sobre o desfecho anatômico e funcional da timpanoplastia. Método: Através deste estudo prospectivo, não controlado, não randomizado, 50 pacientes foram submetidos a timpanoplastia de cartilagem tipo 1 (20 mulheres e 30 homens), com idade média de 19,3 ± 9,8 anos. De acordo com o tamanho da perfuração, os pacientes foram subdivididos em três grupos, Grupo I com perfuração > 50% da área da membrana timpânica, Grupo II com perfuração de 25%-50% da área da membrana timpânica, Grupo III com perfuração ≤ 25% da membrana timpânica. Todos apresentavam Audiometria tonal pura pré e pós-operatório - gap Aéreo-Ósseo para frequências testadas (0,5, 1, 2, 4 kHz). Todos os pacientes foram acompanhados por pelo menos 12 meses após a cirurgia. Resultados: A taxa de sucesso anatômico entre todos os pacientes foi de 92%, todos os grupos apresentaram melhoria estatisticamente significante entre pré e pós-operatório nos três grupos, não houve correlação significante entre o tamanho do enxerto de cartilagem e observou-se algum grau de melhoria do gap nos 3 grupos. Conclusão: O tamanho do enxerto de cartilagem não tem impacto sobre o grau de melhoria da audição ou na taxa de sucesso anatômico após timpanoplastia.

Tratamento de fratura de assoalho orbital com cartilagem conchal / Treatment of orbital floor fracture with conchal cartilage

Introdução: A reconstrução dos defeitos no assoalho orbital após fraturas constitui um desafio ao cirurgião plástico, pois além da expectativa estética e reconstrutora do paciente, cabe o tratamento de possíveis complicações funcionais, como diplopia e parestesias faciais. O objetivo é demonstrar uma série de casos utilizando cartilagem auricular conchal para reposição volumétrica orbital e estrutural do assoalho. Métodos: Foram avaliados 24 pacientes, operados pelo autor deste trabalho no período de 2013 a 2016, por motivo de fraturas de assoalho orbital pura (blow-out) ou impura (conjugadas a lesões de margem orbital, como zigoma e maxila). A técnica de estruturação do assoalho utilizou enxerto cartilaginoso autólogo conchal em todos os casos. Os pacientes foram catalogados quanto à presença de queixas pré-operatórias, como parestesia e diplopia, e sintomas, como enoftalmia, assim como resultados pós-operatórios. Resultados: A presença de lesões concomitantes como fratura de complexo zigomático e fratura maxilar pode influenciar no sucesso da reconstrução, assim como as fraturas com maior área de descontinuidade no assoalho orbital. Poucos pacientes apresentaram queixas pós-operatórias e somente dois casos (9,2%) necessitaram de nova abordagem cirúrgica. Conclusão: A cartilagem conchal auricular autóloga é um material adequado à reconstrução de defeitos no assoalho orbital pós-fratura, apresentando como vantagens a fácil obtenção, baixa morbidade, cicatriz inconspícua, excelente adaptação ao formato do assoalho da órbita e consequente reposição volumétrica.

Introduction: The reconstruction of defects in the orbital floor after fractures poses a challenge to the plastic surgeon because besides the patient's aesthetic and reconstructive expectations, possible functional complications such as diplopia and facial paresthesia must be treated. This study aimed at reporting a series of cases in which conchal auricular cartilage was used for volumetric orbital and structural replacement of the floor. Methods: Twenty-four patients, with surgery performed by the author, between 2013 and 2016, for pure (blow-out) or impure (conjugated to orbital margin injuries, such as zygoma and maxilla) orbital floor fractures, were evaluated. The repair technique involved autologous conchal cartilage graft in all cases. Patients were classified for the presence of preoperative complaints, including paresthesia and diplopia, and symptoms such as enophthalmia, as well as postoperative outcomes. Results: The existence of concomitant lesions, such as zygomatic complex and maxillary fracture, as well as fractures with greater discontinuity in the orbital floor, may influence the success of reconstruction. Few patients exhibited postoperative complaints and only two (9.2%) required a new surgical approach. Conclusion: Autologous conchal auricular cartilage is a suitable material for reconstruction of defects in the post-fracture orbital floor, possessing various advantages, including ease of attainment, low morbidity, inconspicuous scar, and excellent adaptation to the shape of the orbital floor and consequent volumetric replacement.

Comparison of temporalis fascia muscle and full-thickness cartilage grafts in type 1 pediatric tympanoplasties / Comparação de enxertos com fáscia do músculo temporal e cartilagem de espessura total em timpanoplastias tipo 1 em crianças

Abstract Introduction: Various graft materials have been used to close tympanic membrane perforations. In the literature, there are few studies in pediatric populations comparing different graft materials. To our knowledge, there is no reported study that measured the thickness of the tragal cartilage in pediatric tympanoplasties. The tragal cartilage is not of uniform thickness in every patient. Objective: To compare anatomical and functional outcomes of temporalis fascia muscle and full-thickness tragal cartilage in type 1 pediatric tympanoplasties. Methods: In total, 78 patients (38 males, 40 females; average age 10.02 ± 1.98 years; range, 7-18 years) who underwent type 1 tympanoplasties in our clinic were included. Demographics, anatomical, and functional outcomes were collected. Temporalis fascia muscle and tragal cartilage were used as graft materials. Tragal cartilage was used without thinning, and the thickness of tragal cartilage was measured using a micrometer. Anatomical and functional outcomes of cartilage and fascia were compared. Audiometric results comparing the cartilage and fascia groups were conducted at 6 months, and we continued to follow the patients to 1 year after surgery. An intact graft and an air-bone gap ≤ 20 dB were regarded as a surgical success. Results with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The graft success rate was 92.1% for the cartilage group compared with 65.0% for the temporal fascia group. In the fascia group, the preoperative air-bone gap was 33.68 ± 11.44 dB and postoperative air-bone gap was 24.25 ± 12.68 dB. In the cartilage group, the preoperative air-bone gap was 35.68 ± 12.94 dB and postoperative air-bone gap was 26.11 ± 12.87 dB. The anatomical success rate in the cartilage group was significantly better than that for the fascia group (p < 0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in functional outcomes between the fascia and cartilage groups (p > 0.05). The average thickness of tragal cartilage in the pediatric population was 0.693 ± 0.094 mm in males and 0.687 ± 0.058 mm in females. Conclusions: Our data suggest that the anatomical success rate for a cartilage tympanoplasty was higher than for a fascia tympanoplasty. Functional results with cartilage were not different than with fascia, even though we did not thin the tragal cartilage. However, further studies should focus on the interaction between the thickness of the tragal cartilage and the tympanoplasty success rate.

Resumo Introdução: Vários materiais de enxerto foram usados para o fechamento da perfuração da membrana timpânica. Há poucos estudos na literatura que comparam diferentes materiais de enxerto em populações pediátricas. De acordo com nossa pesquisa, não há estudo que tenha medido a espessura da cartilagem tragal em timpanoplastia pediátrica. A espessura da cartilagem tragal não é uniforme em todos os pacientes. Objetivo: Comparar os resultados anatômicos e funcionais da fáscia do músculo temporal e da cartilagem tragal com espessura total em timpanoplastias tipo 1 em crianças. Método: No total, 78 pacientes (38 do sexo masculino, 40 do sexo feminino; média de idade de 10,02 ± 1,98 anos; variação: 7-18 anos) submetidos a timpanoplastia tipo 1 em nossa clínica foram incluídos. Os resultados demográficos, anatômicos e funcionais foram registrados. A fáscia do músculo temporal e a cartilagem tragal foram usadas como materiais de enxerto. A cartilagem tragal foi usada sem fresagem e a sua espessura foi medida com um micrômetro. Os resultados anatômicos e funcionais da cartilagem e da fáscia foram comparados. Os resultados audiométricos comparando os grupos (cartilagem e fáscia) foram avaliados em 6 meses, e o acompanhamento dos pacientes prosseguiu até 1 ano após a cirurgia. Enxerto intacto e um intervalo aéreo-ósseo (gap) ≤ 20 dB foram considerados como sucesso cirúrgico. Os resultados com um valor p < 0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significantes. Resultados: A taxa de sucesso do enxerto foi de 92,1% para o grupo cartilagem e de 65,0% para o grupo fáscia temporal. No grupo fáscia, o gap no pré-operatório foi 33,68 ± 11,44 dB, e 24,25 ± 12,68 dB no pós-operatório. No grupo cartilagem, o gap no pré-operatório foi 35,68 ± 12,94 dB, e 26,11 ± 12,87 no pós-operatório. A taxa de sucesso anatômico no grupo cartilagem foi significantemente melhor que a do grupo fáscia (p < 0,01). Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante nos resultados funcionais entre os grupos fáscia e cartilagem (p > 0,05). A espessura média da cartilagem tragal na população pediátrica foi 0,693 ± 0,094 mm em meninos e 0,687 ± 0,058 mm em meninas. Conclusões: Nossos dados sugerem que a taxa de sucesso anatômico para uma timpanoplastia com enxerto de cartilagem seja maior que a de uma timpanoplastia com enxerto de fáscia. Os resultados funcionais com cartilagem não foram diferentes daqueles com fáscia, embora não tenhamos fresado a cartilagem tragal. Porém, novos estudos devem concentrar-se na relação entre a espessura da cartilagem tragal e a taxa de sucesso da timpanoplastia.

Reconstrucción de una pérdida parcial del pabellón auricular por trauma / Reconstruction of a partial traumatic auricular loss

La posición expuesta de la oreja la hace vulnerable a muchos tipos de lesiones, entre las que se encuentran los traumas. Nuestro propósito es presentar un caso clínico en el que se realizó la reconstrucción de una pérdida parcial del pabellón auricular por trauma. Acude al cuerpo de guardia del Hospital Universitario General Calixto García; un paciente masculino de 42 años refiriendo haber perdido un fragmento de oreja en una riña. Se decide realizar hemostasia y fijación mediante puntos de sutura del pabellón auricular remanente a la región temporal, previa incisión en la zona. A los 3 meses del evento traumático se reevalúa con fines de realizar la planificación preoperatoria reconstructiva. Se decide la realizarla mediante injerto de cartílago costal colocado en forma de bolsillo; en la región temporal. Al mes de esta última intervención quirúrgica se realiza, bajo anestesia local, la liberación de la región auricular, el avance de un colgajo temporal y la colocación de un injerto libre de piel en la cara posterior del área reconstruida. Se observa una excelente evolución posoperatoria. El paciente refirió una gran satisfacción por los resultados estéticos obtenidos. En este caso se empleó una secuencia diagnóstica y terapéutica, según elección de los cirujanos involucrados, ante un defecto traumático parcial del pabellón auricular en sus tercios superior y medio. Este tipo de secuela traumática requirió el empleo de procederes quirúrgicos en varios tiempos operatorios que garantizaran un buen aporte sanguíneo de los tejidos y adecuados resultados estéticos finales(AU)

The exposed position of the ear makes it vulnerable to many types of injuries, including traumas. It is our purpose to present a clinical case in which reconstruction was performed of a partial traumatic auricular loss. A 42-year-old male patient presents at the emergency service of General Calixto García; University Hospital and reports having lost a piece of his ear in a fight. It was decided to perform hemostasis and fixation by stitching the remaining section of the auricle to the temporal region, after making an incision in the area. Three months after the traumatic event re-evaluation was conducted with a view to planning reconstructive surgery. It was decided to carry out the reconstruction placing a pocket-shaped rib cartilage graft in the temporal region. One month after the operation, auricular release, advancement of a temporary flap and placement of a free skin graft on the back of the reconstructed area were performed under local anesthesia. Excellent postoperative evolution was observed. The patient reported great satisfaction with the esthetic results obtained. The case herein presented was based on a diagnostic and therapeutic sequence of actions determined by the surgeons involved with a view to correcting a partial traumatic defect of the upper and middle thirds of the auricle. This type of traumatic sequel required the use of surgical procedures at several operative moments ensuring good blood supply to tissues and appropriate final esthetic results(AU)

Estudo experimental da utilização de cartilagem auricular com e sem Gelfoam® em dorso nasal em coelhos / Experimental study of the use of auricular cartilage with and without Gelfoam® on the nasal dorsum of rabbits

Introdução: Existem inúmeros materiais para reconstrução de deformidades do dorso nasal que Orelha são divididos em quatro categorias: enxertos autólogos, homólogos, heterólogos e aloplásticos. Objetivo: Comparar as condições através do tempo das reações inflamatórias do enxerto de cartilagem auricular com e sem Gelfoam® quando colocadas no dorso nasal de coelhos. Método: Foram estudados 30 coelhos, em dois grupos de 15 coelhos cada (Grupo com cartilagem e Grupo com cartilagem mais Gelfoam®) e em seguida subdivididos em três sub grupos de 7, 30 e 60 dias de seguimento onde os enxertos de 1,5 centímetro de comprimento e 0,5 de largura eram colocados metade com Gelfoam® e outra metade sem Gelfoam® na bolsa de enxertia sobre o dorso nasal de coelhos. Após o período determinado, os coelhos de cada grupo foram submetidos à eutanásia e a seguir os enxertos foram submetidos a estudo histológico. Resultados: O grupo experimental foram os que mais apresentaram neovascularização e formação de tecido de granulação e em relação a presença de processo inflamatório agudo e crônico, os resultados se mostraram praticamente iguais tanto nos coelhos do modelo controle quanto no experimental em todos os três grupos. Conclusão: Não há diferença estatística entre os grupos. .

Introductions: There are several materials for reconstruction of nasal dorsum deformities, which are divided into four categories: autologous, homologous, heterologous, and alloplastic grafts. Objective: To compare experimental conditions through inflammatory time reactions in ear cartilage grafts with and without Gelfoam® when grafted on the nasal dorsum of rabbits. Methods: This study included 30 rabbits, divided into two groups of 15 rabbits each (Gelfoam®and cartilage group and cartilage group), and then divided into three sub-groups of 7, 30, and 60 days of follow-up, where the 1.5 cm long and 0.5 wide grafts were placed in the stock grafting on the nasal dorsum of rabbits, half with and half without Gelfoam®. After the specified period, the rabbits in each group were euthanized, and the grafts were then submitted to a histological study. Results: The experimental group revealed more neovascularization and granulation tissue formation; in terms of the presence of acute and chronic inflammatory process, the results were virtually identical in rabbits from both the control and experimental models in all three groups. Conclusion: There was no statistical difference to justify the use of Gelfoam® surrounding cartilage graft for nasal dorsum reconstruction. .

Reconstrucción de párpado inferior con injerto de cartílago auricular de espesor parcial y colgajo de Laguinge en doble banderín / Eyelid reconstruction lower with graft thick auricular cartilage partial and Laguinge flap in double pennant

El objetivo principal en la reconstrucción de párpados es promover una adecuada protección del globo ocular así como la restitución de sus planos anatómicos. En el caso a presentar, el paciente padecía un carcinoma basocelular en el borde libre del párpado inferior izquierdo, que comprometía su lámina anterior y posterior (Figura 1). Para poder obtener una correcta estabilidad se decidió utilizar un injerto de cartílago auricular de espesor parcial con pericondrio para la reconstrucción del tarso (Matsuo, 1987; Friedhofer, 1999 y un colgajo en doble banderín de Laguinge para su cobertura. Se obtuvo la epitelización del injerto en tiempos estándares según la literatura y un buen resultado estético y funcional.

Autologous Tragal Perichondrium Transplantation: A Novel Approach for the Management of Painful Bullous Keratopathy

PURPOSE: To introduce autologous tragal perichondrium transplantation as a novel surgical modality for the management of intractable symptomatic bullous keratopathy. METHODS: In three eyes of three patients with painful bullous keratopathy, autologous tragal perichondria were transplanted on the corneal surface with the human amniotic membrane transplanted above. We included an additional three eyes of three patients with painful bullous keratopathy who received amniotic membrane transplantation only to serve as controls. Clinical symptom outcomes were assessed using a visual analogue scale at postsurgical months 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9. In addition, transplanted tragal perichondrium and amniotic membrane complex tissue button obtained from one patient who underwent penetrating keratoplasty was evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis of CD34, vimentin, and alcian blue staining. RESULTS: All three patients who underwent autologous tragal perichondrium and human amniotic membrane co-transplantation showed improvements in pain and tearing. However, all three patients in the control group experienced aggravation of tearing and no further improvement of pain 3 months after surgery. In addition, one patient in the control group developed premature degradation of the amniotic membrane. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical analysis showed intact surface epithelization and positive CD34, vimentin and alcian blue staining of transplanted tragal perichondria. CONCLUSIONS: The tragal perichondrium has a high mechanical structural force and high potency due to well-organized epithelization and the presence of mesenchymal stem cells. Autologous tragal perichondrium transplantation may be an effective modality for the management of painful bullous keratopathy.

Ear reconstruction after traumatic injuries / Reconstruções auriculares após lesões traumáticas

BACKGROUND: Congenital or traumatic ear deformities are difficult and complex issues in plastic surgery due to the increasing number of cases and high degree of difficulty involved in surgeries to restore facial harmony. The authors assessed the techniques used in ear reconstruction, their complications, and the degree of esthetic and functional satisfaction. METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed, including cases of post-traumatic ear reconstruction in which costal cartilage graft was employed; the study took place at Hospital Geral de Goiânia Dr. Alberto Rassi and a private clinic from February 2005 to March 2010. Patient satisfaction with respect to esthetic and functional aspects was recorded during postoperative visits. RESULTS: Thirty-four cases were analyzed including 14 (41.1 percent) women and 20 (58.9 percent) men (range, 13-56 years). The average time for reconstruction after trauma was 6-8 months, and the average interval between surgeries was 6 months. Five patients had complications; only 1 required re-intervention due to posterior atrial contraction. Of all patients, 30 reported being satisfied with both the esthetic and functional results; 4 were dissatisfied, and 1 of them underwent subsequent retouching. CONCLUSIONS: Ear reconstruction after trauma is a complex issue in plastic surgery; however, with the standardization and systematization of techniques and a well-established learning curve, the results are very satisfactory; facial harmony can be restored with low complication rates.

INTRODUÇÃO: As deformidades auriculares congênitas ou traumáticas representam um tema de expressividade e complexidade em cirurgia plástica, pelo aumento de casos e pelo alto grau de dificuldade observado nos procedimentos de reparação, necessários para a restauração da harmonia facial do indivíduo. Os autores avaliam a técnica utilizada nas reconstruções auriculares e suas complicações, bem como o grau de satisfação estética e funcional. MÉTODO: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo, transversal, analisando os casos de reconstrução de orelha pós-trauma, operados no Hospital Geral de Goiânia Dr. Alberto Rassi e em clínica particular, de fevereiro de 2005 a março de 2010, em que foi empregado enxerto de cartilage costal. O grau de satisfação dos pacientes foi aferido nas consultas de pós-operatório com relação aos aspectos estéticos e funcionais. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 34 casos, sendo 14 (41,1 por cento) mulheres e 20 (58,9 por cento) homens, com faixa etária entre 13 e 56 anos. O tempo médio para a reconstrução após o trauma foi de cerca de seis meses a oito meses e de um ato cirúrgico para outro, de seis meses. Cinco pacientes apresentaram complicações, e apenas um deles necessitou reintervenção em decorrência de retração auricular posterior. Do total de pacientes avaliados, 30 se definiram como satisfeitos com o resultado tanto estético como funcional e os outros 4, como insatisfeitos, sendo um deles submetido a retoque posterior. CONCLUSÕES: A reconstrução auricular após trauma é um tema complex da cirurgia plástica, mas com a padronização e a sistematização de técnicas e uma curva de aprendizagem bem executada os resultados são muito satisfatórios, devolvendo harmonia facial ao indivíduo, com baixa taxa de complicações.

Reconstrução total de orelha no Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Goiás / Total ear reconstruction on Clinical Hospital of the Federal University of Goiás

Introdução: Reparar ou reconstruir parcial ou totalmente uma orelha constitui-se um desáfio na Medicina e requer engenhosidade técnica e habilidade cirúrgica. A utilização de material autógeno(cartilagem costal) ainda é considerada a melhor opção cirúrgica. O sucesso da reconstruçãoda orelha depende sobremaneira da elaboração do arcabouço cartilaginoso. Método: O estudo é do tipo transversal, retrospectivo. Foram avaliados prontuários de 39 pacientes admitidos no ambulatório de Cirurgia Plástica do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Goiás, durante o período compreendido entre 1997 a 2007. Todos foram submetidos à reconstrução total de orelha pelo mesmo cirurgião, sendo utilizada a cartilagem costal autóloga e realizada a reconstrução em dois tempos cirúrgicos. Observou-se predomínio de crianças e adolescentes(6 a 14 anos), sexo masculino e procedência da capital (Goiânia). Não houve predominância entre microtia direita e esquerda. O tempo médio do primeiro tempo cirúrgico foi de 140 minutos e, do segundo, 120 minutos. Resultados: A dor no local da retirada da cartilagem costal foi a principal complicação. Não houve nenhum caso de extrusão do arcabouço cartilaginoso, infecção e perfuração da pleura. Os resultados desse trabalho são válidos para um melhor conhecimento e caracterização dos pacientes. Conclusão: A padronização da técnica, nesse caso utilizando cartilagem costal para a construção do arcabouço auricular, aliada à experiência do cirurgião, pode trazer grandes benefícios aos pacientes, especialmente no que diz respeito à minimização das complicações advindas das cirurgias realizadas.

Introduction: Repair or rebuild partially or completely an ear is a challenge in medicine and requires technical ingenuity and surgical skill. The use of autogenous material (costal cartilage) is still considered the best surgical option. The success of the reconstruction of the ear depends crucially on the development of the cartilaginous framework. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. We analyzed the records of 39 patients admitted to the clinic of the Plastic Surgery of the Hospital of the Federal University of Goiás, during the period from 1997 to 2007. All patients underwent total ear reconstruction by the same surgeon, using autologous costal cartilage. There construction was performed in two surgical times. About the patients, was observed the predominance of children and adolescents (6 to 14 years), male and from capital cities (Goiânia). There was no predominance of right or left microtia. The average time of the first surgical time was 140 minutes and the second 120 minutes. Resuts: The pain at the site of costal cartilage removal was the main complication. There were no cases of extrusion of the cartilaginous framework, infection and perforation of the pleura. The findings are for a better understanding and characterization of patients. Conclusion: The standardization of the technique, in this case using costal cartilage to build the framework headset, along with experience of the surgeon can bring great benefits to patients, especially regarding to minimize the complications of surgeries performed.

Hernioplastia experimental em coelhos por meio de cartilagem auricular bovina conservada em glutaraldeído / Rabbits experimental hernioplasty by means of bovine auricular cartilage preserved in glutaraldehyde

Avaliou-se a viabilidade do emprego da cartilagem auricular bovina conservada em glutaraldeído a 4 por cento na hernioplastia experimental, empregando-se seis coelhos adultos, machos, da raça Nova Zelândia. Para obtenção da hérnia incisional, removeu-se um segmento elíptico de 3cm de comprimento por 1cm de largura, no ponto central à primeira incisão, envolvendo fáscia e tecido muscular, na região da cicatriz umbilical. Dois animais de cada vez foram sacrificados aos 15, 30 e 45 dias após a cirurgia. Nos sacrificados aos 15 dias, observaram-se áreas focais de inflamação, caracterizadas por abscesso e fístula. À microscopia, observou-se área de inflamação e necrose próxima à periferia do implante. Nas amostras colhidas dos animais sacrificados aos 30 dias, não foram evidenciadas alterações clínicas relevantes. Desses, um animal apresentou à microscopia intensa proliferação fibroblástica, moderada neovascularização e células inflamatórias predominantemente mononucleares. Dos sacrificados aos 45 dias, em um ocorreu aderência de alça intestinal ao implante. É possível inferir que o material implantado apresentou satisfatória compatibilidade com o tecido receptor. Conclui-se que o implante de cartilagem auricular bovina conservada na hernioplastia experimental em coelhos apresentou evidências de boa integração tecidual e cicatrização, não havendo eliminação do material implantado.

The auricular cartilage preserved in 4 percent glutaraldehyde was used for experimental hernioplasty in six male, adult, New Zealand rabbits. To create an incision hernia, an elliptic tissue fragment three centimeter-long and one-centimeter wide was removed at a point centrally located from the first incision, embracing fascia and muscle tissue, from the area of umbilical scar. Animals were euthanized, two at a time, 15, 30, or 45 days after surgery. In the animals euthanized after 15 days focal areas of inflammation were observed, characterized by abscesses and fistulas. The histological section showed areas of inflammation and necrosis next to the periphery of the graft. In the animals euthanized after 30 days, there was no evidence of clinical alterations. Microscopic diagnosis of one of these animals showed intense fibroblastic proliferation, moderate neovascularization and inflammatory cells, predominantly mononuclear. One of the animals submitted to euthanasia at 45 days presented at necropsy adherence of bowel to the graft and impaired reconstitution of the parietal peritoneum. It is possible to infer that the grafted material presented satisfactory compatibility with the receptor tissue. Thus, it may be concluded that auricular bovine cartilage grafts preserved in 4 percent glutaraldehyde in experimental hernioplasty in rabbits presented evidence of good tissue integration and healing, with no elimination of the grafted material.

Implante de cartilagem auricular autóloga no reparo de desvio de pênis de bovinos / Implantation of the autologous auricular cartilagem in the repair of penile deviation in cattle

Dezoito novilhos de diferentes raças, com idade de 18-24 meses foram submetidos a remoção do ligamento apical para ocasionar desvio de pênis. Decorridos 60 dias os animais foram colocados em presença de fêmeas em estro, sendo verificado desvio ventral e lateral direito do pênis, com incapacitade de cópula. Os animais foram submetidos ao transplante autólgo de um segmento da cartilagem do pavilhão auricular, sobre a túnica albugínea, substituindo o ligamento apical do pênis removido. Os bovinos quando em presença de fêmeas em estro não apresentaram desvio de pênis e alteração do comportamento sexual. Notou-se a presença de poucas células mononucleares, polimorfonucleares e células gigantes e formação de tecido conjuntivo fibroso, ocasionando aderências resistentes e capacidade de sustentar a extremidade livre do pênis. O método cirúrgico mostrou-se eficiente para corrigir desvios ventral e lateral de pênis de bovinos.

Eighteen 18 to 24-month-old mixed breed bullocks were submitted to removal of the apical ligament of the penis to induce penile deviation. After 60 days from the surgery the steers were put together with cows in heat. A ventral and right lateral penis deviation leading to incapacity to copulate was observed. The bullocks were then submitted to an autolgous transplant of a cartilage segment from the ear pinna placed on top of the tunica albuginea, replacing the penile ligament apical tha had been removed. The implanted material was well tolerated; histologically with only infiltration few mononuclear cells, polymorpho nucleated cells and giant cells, and fibrosis, which caused strong adherence and provided ability to sustain the free penile extremity. The bullocks that were cows in heat did not show any degree of penile deviation nor any change in sexual behavior. The surgical method described here was shown to be satisfactory as to be indicated for correction of ventral and right lateral penile deviation in bullocks.

Correction of Lower Lid Retraction Combined with Entropion using an Ear Cartilage Graft in the Anophthalmic Socket

PURPOSE: To investigate the surgical results of an ear cartilage graft and supplemental procedures for correcting lower lid retraction combined with entropion in anophthalmic patients. METHODS: We reviewed retrospectively the medical records of 7 anophthalmic patients with lower lid retraction and entropion, who received a posterior lamellar ear cartilage graft and one or both of lateral tarsal strip or eyelash-everting procedure between March 1998 and March 2003. Preoperative and postoperative lid and socket statuses were also investigated. RESULTS: Ear cartilage grafts were performed in all 7 patients, lateral tarsal strips in 6, and eyelash-everting procedures in 5. Postoperative follow-up durations ranged from 4 to 28 months (average 12.6 months). Retractions were corrected during follow-up in all patients. There were no cases of entropion immediately after surgery. However, the eyelashes of the lower lid returned to an upright position in 4 patients, but not so severe as to touch the ocular prosthesis, and thus did not require surgical correction during follow up. CONCLUSIONS: Lower lid retraction combined with entropion in anophthalmic patients can be corrected effectively using an ear cartilage graft with selective, supplemental procedures.

Reconstrucción auricular en microtia / Auricular reconstruction in microtia

Dada la compleja morfología de la oreja, su reconstrucción en una microtia es un verdadero desafío para el cirujano plástico. Se han propuesto muchas alternativas terapéuticas para mejorar su aspecto estético como el uso de prótesis externas, implantes osteo integrados, materiales aloplásticos subdérmicos, colgajos microquirúrgicos, etc., pero sin duda la solución ideal es la reconstrucción auricular con injerto de cartílago costal autólogo a semejanza del pabellón auricular normal. Son varios los factores involucrados en la obtención de un óptimo resultado, como el tipo de microtia, características y posición del remanente, disponibilidad de piel, existencia o no de cirugías previas, así como un buen tallado del injerto y su posición definitiva. En este estudio prospectivo se analiza la reconstrucción auricular realizada a pacientes con microtia, en la Unidad de Cirugía Plástica del Hospital Luis Calvo Mackenna, por un período de 3 años, resolviéndose en 1-2 tiempos quirúrgicos con seguimiento y evaluación de sus características finales. Se analizan 50 casos consecutivos de microtia, 44 con microtia unilateral en distintos grados (I, II y III) según clasificación de Marx y 6 casos bilaterales. La reconstrucción se realizó en un rango de 6 a 19 años (X=9,9). El 48 por ciento de los casos unilaterales sólo han requerido una cirugía, mientras que el 52 por ciento restante 1 o 2 retoques. En el análisis postoperatorio, el 84 por ciento de los casos era del mismo tamaño que la oreja normal; el 96 por ciento se encontraban en buena posición con relación a la comisura y ángulo externo del ojo; la altura fue similar a la normal en el 84 por ciento de los casos, mientras en el 14 por ciento se encontraba más baja, correspondiendo a los casos de microsomía hemifacial severa. Los pacientes expresaron estar satisfechos con su reconstrucción en un 88 por ciento de los casos

Surgical treatment of lagophthalmos in long-standing facial palsy: Ear cartilage graft for elongating the levator palpebrae muscle

Lagophthalmos is a major problem facing any patient with long-standing facial palsy. Unopposed action of the levator palpebrae following orbicularis oculi paralysis gives an unnatural, wide-eyed look compared to the normal side. The resultant corneal exposure produces dryness and cortical keratitis. Many techniques have been described for correcting lagophthalmos in long-standing facial palsy. The aim of this report is to present some clinical experience using the ear cartilage graft for surgical treatment of lagophthalmos in facial palsy. The graft is sutured between the tarsal plate and the levator palpebrae superiorsis. The graft provides elongation of the levator muscle and also decreases its strength, since there is no opposing orbicularis oculi muscle. This technique offers a better dynamic, aesthetic and functional results, improving significantly the eye symptoms in cases of long-standing paralytic lagophthalmos. Some techniqual refinements will be described in this paper to avoid postoperative ptosis and to decrease the residual lagophthalmos

O trago como área doadora de enxerto de cartilagem: estudo anatômico / The tragus as a donor area of cartilage grafts: anatomic study

A orelha externa é uma das principais áreas doadoras de cartilagem. Geralmente, a regiao de retirada de enxertos é a concha da orelha. OBJETIVO. Neste trabalho, propoe-se a retirada de cartilagem também a partir da lâmina do trago, especialmente naqueles casos em que nao dispomos da porçao conchal da cartilagem da orelha. CASUISTICA E MÉTODO. Estudaram-se 40 orelhas de 20 cadáveres, quando foram aferidas as dimensoes da lâmina do trago. RESULTADOS. A cartilagem da lâmina do trago demonstrou ser de bom tamanho para retirada de enxertos, podendo se obter fragmentos de 13,8cm de largura, 21,4cm de altura e 1,6cm de espessura, em média. CONCLUSAO. O enxerto cartilaginoso obtido a partir da lâmina do trago é uma alternativa viável, principalmente para rinoplastias de correçao de dorso e ponta nasal.