Colgajo supraclavicular, revisión de la literatura y serie de casos / Supraclavicular flap, literature review and case series

Los procedimientos reconstructivos en cabeza y cuello son todo un desafío debido a que son áreas expuestas, con gran movimiento, y desempeñan funciones esenciales de la vida como el habla, la alimentación y la respiración. El colgajo supraclavicular es un colgajo locorregional, fasciocutáneo, fino, axial a la arteria supraclavicular, versátil, con baja morbilidad, que se usa ampliamente para cubrir defectos en cuello y sector inferior de la cara ya que proporciona tejido similar al de estas regiones, y técnicamente rápido y sencillo.Se puede usar en asociación con otros colgajos para reconstrucciones complejas. Es un colgajo infrautilizado que es una buena alternativa frente a los colgajos tradicionales musculares regionales y libres. Las principales indicaciones son secuelas de quemaduras como las contracturas esternomentonianas, defectos oncológicos ya sea piel o mucosa oral, faringostomas y fístulas traqueocutáneas. Se mencionan 3 casos clínicos en los cuales se llevó a cabo un colgajo supraclavicular en el Hospital Pasteur, Montevideo, Uruguay.

Reconstructive head and neck procedures are challenging because they are exposed areas, are highly mobile, and perform essential life functions such as speaking, eating, and breathing. The supraclavicular flap is a locoregional, fasciocutaneous, thin flap, axial to the supraclavicular artery, versatile, with low morbidity, which is widely used to cover defects in the neck and lower face since it provides tissue similar to that of these regions, and Technically fast and simple. It can be used in association with other flaps for complex reconstructions. It is an underutilized flap that is a good alternative to traditional regional and free muscle flaps. The main indications are sequelae of burns such as sternomental contractures, oncological defects in the skin or oral mucosa, pharyngostomies and tracheocutaneous fistulas. Three clinical cases are mentioned in which a supraclavicular flap was performed at the Pasteur Hospital, Montevideo, Uruguay

Different forms of free radial collateral artery perforator flaps for reconstruction after removal of oral tumors / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the efficacies of different forms of free radial collateral artery perforator flaps in repairing the defects after oral tumor surgeries. Methods: From May 2016 to March 2021, 28 patients (22 males, 6 females, aged 35-62 years) with oral tumors admitted by Hunan Cancer Hospital received the reconstructive surgeries with the free radial collateral artery perforator flaps after removal of oral tumors, including 24 cases of tongue cancer (11 cases of tongue marginal cancer, 9 cases of tongue belly cancer and 4 cases of tongue cancer involved in the floor of the mouth) and 4 cases of buccal and oral cancer. Four forms of radial collateral artery perforator flaps were used: single perforator flaps for 6 cases, double perforators flaps for 7 cases, flaps without perforator visualization for 10 cases and chimeric perforator myocutaneous flaps for 5 cases. The recipient vessels were the superior thyroid artery and superior thyroid vein, and if second concomitant vein available, it was anastomosed with internal jugular vein in end-to-side fashion. SPSS 20.0 statistical software was used to analyze the data. Results: The mean length of flaps was (9.7±0.4) cm, mean width (4.4±0.3) cm and mean thickness (1.1±0.4) cm. The mean length of the vascular pedicles was (7.1±0.6)cm (6.0-8.0 cm), the mean diameter of the radial accessory arteries was (1.1±0.3)mm (0.8-1.3 mm). Eleven cases(39.3%) had respectively one accompanying vein and 17 cases(60.7%) had respectively two accompanying veins, with the mean diameter of (1.1±0.3) mm (0.8-1.3 mm). All the 28 flaps survived, the donor and recipient wounds healed in one stage, the appearances of the flaps were satisfactory, only linear scars remained in the donor sites, and the upper arm functions were not significantly affected. Follow up for 12-43 months showed that the flaps were soft with partially mucosalization, the reconstructed tongue and buccal cavity were in good shape, and the swallowing and language functions were satisfactory. The swallowing and language functions were retained to the greatest extent in 3 cases with near total tongue resection, although the functions were still significantly affected. There was no local recurrence of the tumor during follow-up. One case had regional lymph node metastasis, and further lymph node dissection and comprehensive treatment were performed, with satisfactory outcomes. Conclusions: The vascular pedicle of the radial collateral artery perforator flap has a constant anatomy, which can be prepared in different forms to improve the safety of the operation and minimize the donor site damage. It is an ideal choice for the repair of small and medium-sized defects after oral tumor surgery.

Application of folded transverse superficial epigastric artery perforator flap for large penetrating defect after buccal carcinoma resection / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the effectiveness of folded transverse superficial epigastric artery perforator flap in repairing the large penetrating defect after buccal carcinoma resection.@*METHODS@#Between January 2019 and June 2021, 12 patients with buccal squamous cell carcinoma were treated. There were 6 males and 6 females with an average of 66.9 years (range, 53-79 years). The pathological stage was T3a-T4b, and the preoperative mouth opening was (3.08±0.46) cm. The disease duration ranged from 6 to 24 months, with an average of 15 months. After buccal carcinoma radical resection and neck lymph node dissection, the penetrating defects in size of 8 cm×6 cm to 16 cm×8 cm and in depth of 0.5-1.5 cm were remained. The transverse superficial epigastric artery perforator flap in size of 8 cm×6 cm to 14 cm×8 cm were harvested and folded to repair the penetrating defects. The donor site was sutured directly.@*RESULTS@#All 12 skin flaps survived after operation, and the wounds healed by first intention. No internal or external fistula complications occurred. All incisions at the recipient site healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 12-18 months (mean, 14 months). There was no obvious abnormality in the color and texture of the flap, the oral and facial appearances were symmetrical, and there was no obvious swelling in the cheek. At last follow-up, the patient's mouth opening was (2.89±0.33) cm, which was not significantly different from that before operation ( t=1.879, P=0.087). The subjective satisfaction scores of 12 patients were 6-8 points, with an average of 7.3 points. Significant scars remained at the donor site but concealed in location.@*CONCLUSION@#The folded transverse superficial epigastric artery perforator flap can be used as a surgical method for repairing large penetrating defects after the buccal carcinoma resection, with a good recovery of facial appearance and oral function.

Clinical application of Flow-through bridge anterolateral thigh flap in repair of complex calf soft tissue defects / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effectiveness of Flow-through bridge anterolateral thigh flap transplantation in the treatment of complex calf soft tissue defects.@*METHODS@#The clinical data of the patients with complicated calf soft tissue defects, who were treated with Flow-through bridge anterolateral thigh flap (study group, 23 cases) or bridge anterolateral thigh flap (control group, 23 cases) between January 2008 and January 2022, were retrospectively analyzed. All complex calf soft tissue defects in the two groups were caused by trauma or osteomyelitis, and there was only one major blood vessel in the calf or no blood vessel anastomosed with the grafted skin flap. There was no significant difference between the two groups in general data such as gender, age, etiology, size of leg soft tissue defect, and time from injury to operation ( P>0.05). The lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) was used to evaluate the sufferred lower extremity function of the both groups after operation, and the peripheral blood circulation score of the healthy side was evaluated according to the Chinese Medical Association Hand Surgery Society's functional evaluation standard for replantation of amputated limbs. Weber's quantitative method was used to detect static 2-point discrimination (S2PD) to evaluate peripheral sensation of the healthy side, and the popliteal artery flow velocity, toenail capillary filling time, foot temperature, toe blood oxygen saturation of the healthy side, and the incidence of complications were compared between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#No vascular or nerve injury occurred during operation. All flaps survived, and 1 case of partial flap necrosis occurred in both groups, which healed after free skin grafting. All patients were followed up 6 months to 8 years, with a median time of 26 months. The function of the sufferred limb of the two groups recovered satisfactorily, the blood supply of the flap was good, the texture was soft, and the appearance was fair. The incision in the donor site healed well with a linear scar, and the color of the skin graft area was similar. Only a rectangular scar could be seen in the skin donor area where have a satisfactory appearance. The blood supply of the distal limb of the healthy limb was good, and there was no obvious abnormality in color and skin temperature, and the blood supply of the limb was normal during activity. The popliteal artery flow velocity in the study group was significantly faster than that in the control group at 1 month after the pedicle was cut, and the foot temperature, toe blood oxygen saturation, S2PD, toenail capillary filling time, and peripheral blood circulation score were significantly better than those in the control group ( P<0.05). There were 8 cases of cold feet and 2 cases of numbness on the healthy side in the control group, while only 3 cases of cold feet occurred in the study group. The incidence of complications in the study group (13.04%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (43.47%) ( χ 2=3.860, P=0.049). There was no significant difference in LEFS score between the two groups at 6 months after operation ( P>0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Flow-through bridge anterolateral thigh flap can reduce postoperative complications of healthy feet and reduce the impact of surgery on blood supply and sensation of healthy feet. It is an effective method for repairing complex calf soft tissue defects.

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

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

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

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

The perforator flap of ipsilateral nasolabial sulcus used to repair the defect after the eradication of nasal vestibular squamous cell carcinoma / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the feasibility of only surgical resection for nasal vestibular squamous cell carcinoma and the efficacy of perforator flap of ipsilateral nasolabial sulcus in repairing postoperative defects. Methods: The clinical data of 8 cases with squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule who admitted to Department of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University were analyzed, including 6 males and 2 females, aged from 38 to 75 years. The tumor of the nasal vestibule was eradicated in time after making definite diagnosis of lesions, then the perforators flap of the ipsilateral nasolabial sulcus was used for repairment, without performing further chemotherapy or radiotherapy after surgery. The tumor recurrence, facial appearance, nostril form, donor area scar, nasal ventilation function, and cutaneous sensation were evaluated after surgery. Descriptive analysis was used in this research. Results: There were 2 cases of stage T1 and 6 cases of stage T2 in 8 cases. After 32 to 45 months of following-up, no recurrence accurred and all the flaps survived well. However, there was about 2 mm necrosis of the transplanted flap in the lateral foot of the alar in one case, which was healed well by carrying out wound care after 10 d. And the dark color flap was occurred in another case, showing the flap's backflow trouble, yet it was improved with addressing timely during 5 d postoperation. Pincusion-like deformity of the transplanted flap occurred in 4 cases (50%), which subsided gradually after 6 months. The morphology of the anterior nostril was altered in 4 cases (50%), but there was no ventilation trouble and no need for addressment in any case. The postoperative facial appearance was rated as excellentor good with hidden scar in the donor site, and the sensation of the transplanted flaps was indistinct from the surrounding tissue after 3 months. Conclusions: Surgical resection of nasal vestibular squamous cell carcinoma with tumor stage T1-2 is a feasible treatment. And it is the one of the best reconstructive methods of the perforator flap of the ipsilateral nasolabial sulcus to repair the deformities after the surgery.

Anatomical classification of adductor magnus perforator flap and its application in head and neck reconstruction / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the anatomical classification of adductor magnus perforator flap and its application in head and neck reconstruction. Methods: From January 2017 to January 2020, Hunan Cancer Hospital treated 27 cases of oral tumor patients (15 cases of tongue cancer, 9 cases of gingival cancer and 3 cases of buccal cancer), including 24 males and 3 females, aged 31-56 years old. The course of disease was 1-12 months. Secondary soft tissue defects with the sizes of 5.0 cm × 3.5 cm to 11.0 cm × 8.0 cm were left after radical resection of the tumors, and were repaired with free adductor magnus perforator flaps. The flaps based on the origing locations of perforator vessels were divided into three categories: ① intramuscular perforator: vessel originated between the gracilis muscle and the adductor magnus or passed through a few adductor magnus muscles; ② adductor magnus middle layer perforator: vessel run between the deep and superficial layers of adductor magnus; ③ adductor magnus deep layer perforator: vessel run between the deep layer of adductor magnus and the semimembranous muscle. Descriptive analysis was used in this research. Results: Perforator vessels of adductor magnus were found in all cases, with a total of 62 perforator branches of adductor magnus. The anatomical classification of the perforator vessels was as follows: 12 branches for class ①, 31 branches for class ② and 19 branches for class ③. The vascular pedicles of the free adductor major perforator flaps included type ① for 3 cases, type ② for 16 cases and type ③ for 8 cases. All 27 flaps survived and the donor sites were closed directly. In 18 cases, the perforator arteries and the venae comitan were respectively anastomosed with the superior thyroid arteries and veins. In 9 cases, the pedicle arteries and the venae comitan were respectively anastomosed with the facial arteries and veins. Follow up for 12-40 months showed that the appearances of the flaps and the swallowing and language functions of patients were satisfactory, apart from linear scars were left in the donor sites with no significant affect on the functions of thigh. Local recurrence occurred in 3 cases and radical surgeries were performed again followed by repairs with pedicled pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps. Cervical lymph node metastasis occurred in 2 cases and cervical lymph node dissection was performed again. Conclusions: The adductor magnus perforator flap has soft texture, constant perforator vessel anatomy, flexible donor location and harvesting forms, and less damage to the donor site. It is an ideal choice for postoperative reconstruction in head and neck tumors.

Clinical effects of island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps in the repair of sinus cavity pressure ulcers in the areas of ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: To explore the clinical effects of island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps in the repair of sinus cavity pressure ulcers in the areas of ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter. Methods: The retrospective observational study was conducted. From December 2018 to December 2021, 23 patients with sinus cavity pressure ulcers in the areas of ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to Ganzhou People's Hospital, including 16 males and 7 females, aged 45 to 86 years. The size of pressure ulcers in ischial tuberosity ranged from 1.5 cm×1.0 cm to 8.0 cm×5.0 cm, and the size of pressure ulcers in greater trochanter ranged from 4.0 cm×3.0 cm to 20.0 cm×10.0 cm before debridement. After treatment of underlying diseases, debridement and vacuum sealing drainage for 5 to 14 days were performed. All the wounds were repaired by island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps, with area of 4.5 cm×3.0 cm-24.0 cm×12.0 cm, pedicle width of 3-5 cm, pedicle length of 5-8 cm, and rotation radius of 30-40 cm. Most of the donor site wounds were sutured directly, and only 4 donor site wounds were repaired by intermediate thickness skin graft from the contralateral thigh. The survival of composite tissue flaps, wound healing of the donor and recipient sites and the complications were observed. The recurrence of pressure ulcers, and the appearance and texture of flaps were observed during follow-up. Results: A total of 32 wounds in 23 patients were repaired by island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps (including 3 fascio subcutaneous flaps, 24 fascial flaps+fascio subcutaneous flaps, 2 fascial flaps+fascial dermal flaps, 2 fascial flaps+fascio subcutaneous flaps+femoral biceps flaps, and one fascial flap+fascio subcutaneous flap+gracilis muscle flap). Among them, 31 composite tissue flaps survived well, and a small portion of necrosis occurred in one fascial flap+fascio subcutaneous flap post surgery. The survival rate of composite tissue flap post surgery was 96.9% (31/32). Twenty-nine wounds in the recipient sites were healed, and 2 wounds were torn at the flap pedicle due to improper postural changes, and healed one week after bedside debridement. One wound was partially necrotic due to the flap bruising, and healed 10 days after re-debridement. Thirty-one wounds in the donor sites (including 4 skin graft areas) were healed, and one wound in the donor site was torn due to improper handling at discharge, and healed 15 days after re-debridement and suture. The complication rate was 12.5% (4/32), mainly the incision dehiscence of the flap pedicle and the donor sites (3 wounds), followed by venous congestion at the distal end of flap (one wound). During the follow-up of 3 to 24 months, the pressure ulcers did not recur and the flaps had good appearance and soft texture. Conclusions: The island posterior femoral composite tissue flaps has good blood circulation, large rotation radius, and sufficient tissue volume. It has a high survival rate, good wound healing, low skin grafting rate in the donor site, few postoperative complications, and good long-term effect in the repair of sinus cavity pressure ulcers in the areas of ischial tuberosity and greater trochanter.

Versatilidad del colgajo nasogeniano basado en perforantes de la arteria facial en reconstrucción facial / Versatility of the nasolabial flap based on facial artery perforators in facial reconstruction

Se conocen varios colgajos locales basados en la arteria facial al momento de reconstruir unidades estéticas faciales. Levantar estos colgajos basados en las ramas perforantes de la arteria facial, los hace más finos, móviles, fiables, y adaptables, y la posibilidad de realizarlos en un solo tiempo quirúrgico. El propósito de este estudio es demostrar nuestra experiencia con el colgajo perforante de la arteria facial en reconstrucciones faciales de defectos hasta tamaño de 5x4cm, utilizando su pedículo superior o su pedículo inferior. Método. Realizamos un estudio longitudinal retrospectivo con 15 pacientes de ambos sexos, con edades comprendidas entre 40 a 60 años, a quienes se realizó el colgajo perforante facial en un solo tiempo quirúrgico. Los defectos faciales tratados fueron de tamaño pequeño a mediano, localizados en subunidades de la mejilla, nariz, pliegue nasolabial, labios superior e inferior. Resultados. De los 15 pacientes de nuestro estudio, 13 evolucionaron sin complicaciones (84.6%); 1 paciente concurrió con leve dehiscencia de herida (7.7%) y 1 paciente al que se le realizó un colgajo de 5x4cm concurrió con una mínima necrosis en la parte distal del colgajo (7.7%). Estas complicaciones fueron leves y con resolución ambulatoria, sin requerir otro tiempo quirúrgico. Conclusiones: Gracias a su libertad de movimiento, este colgajo nos permite reconstruir varias unidades estéticas, y por su delgado espesor, mínimas complicaciones y una cicatriz de la zona dadora que se camufla en el surco nasogeniano, los resultados tanto funcionales como estéticos son superiores comparados con los tradicionales colgajos locales miocutáneos nasolabiales.

Several local flaps based on the facial artery are well known when reconstructing facial aesthetic units. Making these flaps based on the perforating branches of the facial artery makes them thinner, more mobile, reliable, and adaptable, and the possibility of performing them in a single surgical time. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate our experience with the perforating vessel of the facial artery flap, in facial reconstructions of defects up to a size of 5x4 cm, using its upper or lower pedicle. Method. We carried out a retrospective longitudinal study with 15 patients of both sexes, aged between 40 and 60 years, who underwent the facial artery perforator flap in a single surgical time. The facial defects treated were small to medium in size, located in subunits of the cheek, nose, nasolabial fold, upper and lower lips. Results. The complications that we obtained when doing this flap were hematoma, partial dehiscence of the suture and slight venous congestion. All of these were mild and with outpatient resolution, without requiring another surgical time. Conclusions. Due to its freedom of movement, this flap allows us to reconstruct several aesthetic units, and due to its thin thickness and with minimal complications, both functional and aesthetic results are superior compared to traditional nasolabial myocutaneous flaps.

Comparative Analysis of the Treatment of Skin Lesions of the Lower Limbs with Sural Flap versus Propeller Flap / Análise comparativa do tratamento de lesões cutâneas dos membros inferiores com retalho sural versus retalho propeller

Abstract Objective The objective of the present study was to prospectively compare the sural and propeller flaps for soft-tissues coverage of the lower extremity. The following variables were evaluated: incidence of complete or partial flap loss and donor area morbidity (primary closure versus skin graft). Methods Prospective and randomized analysis of data collected from all patients presenting with soft tissue defects of the lower third of the leg and heel treated with reverse sural or propeller flaps. Results Twenty-four patients aged between 4 and 60 years old were evaluated between 2011 and 2017. Complete coverage was obtained in 22 of the 24 patients (91.6%). Two flaps failed (8.4%). The sural flap, being the most popular option, continues to represent a safe and versatile alternative for skin defects of the lower third of the leg and heel region. Likewise, the propeller flap was a comparable option to treat these challenging defects. Conclusion Sural and propeller flaps are good options for soft tissues coverage of the lower extremity, with low complication rates (partial or total flap loss).

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar prospectivamente os retalhos sural e propeller para cobertura de partes moles da extremidade inferior. Foram avaliadas as seguintes variáveis: incidência de perda total ou parcial do retalho e morbidade da área doadora (fechamento primário versus enxerto de pele). Métodos Análise prospectiva e randomizada de dados coletados de todos os pacientes apresentando defeitos em tecidos moles da extremidade distal da perna e do retropé submetidos aos retalhos em questão. Resultados Foram avaliados 24 pacientes com idades entre 4 e 60 anos, entre 2011 e 2017. Cobertura completa foi obtida em 22 dos 24 pacientes (91,6%) e observamos falha em 2 retalhos (8,4%). O retalho sural, sendo a opção mais popular, continua a representar uma alternativa segura e versátil para defeitos cutâneos do terço distal da perna e da região do calcanhar. O retalho propeller, da mesma maneira, mostrou-se uma opção comparável para o tratamento destas lesões desafiadoras. Conclusão Os retalhos sural e propeller são boas opções para a cobertura de partes moles da extremidade inferior, demostrando baixas taxas de complicações como perda parcial ou total do retalho.

External Delta Fixator in the Postoperative Management of Microsurgical Flaps in the Lower Limb: Experience of a Tertiary Hospital / Fixador externo tipo delta no manejo pós-operatório de retalhos microcirúrgicos no membro inferior: Experiência de um hospital terciário

Abstract Objective To evaluate the use of external fixators in the delta-type kickstand configuration as an adjuvant method in the postoperative period of patients submitted to free flaps in the lower limbs. Methods A total of 17 external delta fixators were used in patients submitted to free flaps in the lower limbs. The surgical technique was performed in a standardized manner, with the distal pin located 6 cm proximally to the anastomosis, and the proximal pin, 6 cm distally to the anterior tuberosity of the tibia. Results The mean age of the sample was of 34.76 years (range: 15 to 66 years). In total, 11 men and 6 women were selected. The posterior tibial artery was used in 14 cases, and the anterior tibial artery, in 3 cases. The mean time of use of the external fixators was of 3.88 weeks. The rate of reoperation was of 17.64%; that of retail loss was of 11.76%; that of success rate was of 88.23%; and the rate of infection was of 5.9%. Conclusion The use of delta-type fixators as an adjunct method in the postoperative period is reliable; however, more studies are needed to evaluate its true role in the postoperative period.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o uso de fixadores externos, na configuração kickstand do tipo delta, como método adjuvante no período pós-operatório de pacientes submetidos a retalhos livres nos membros inferiores. Métodos Ao todo, 17 fixadores externos do tipo delta foram utilizados em pacientes submetidos a retalhos livres nos membros inferiores. A técnica cirúrgica foi realizada de forma padronizada, com o pino distal localizado 6 cm proximal à anastomose, e o pino proximal, 6cm distal à tuberosidade anterior da tíbia. Resultados A idade média da amostra foi de 34,76 anos (variação: 15 a 66 anos). Foram selecionados 11 homens e 6 mulheres. Utilizou-se a artéria tibial posterior em 14 casos, e a tibial anterior, em 3 casos. O tempo médio de uso dos fixadores externos foi de 3,88 semanas. A taxa de reoperação foi de 17,64%; a de perda do retalho foi de 11,76%; a de sucesso foi de 88,23%; e a taxa de infecção foi de 5,9%. Conclusão O uso de fixadores do tipo delta como método adjuvante no pós-operatório é confiável; porém, mais estudos são necessários para avaliar seu verdadeiro papel no pós-operatório.

Effects of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 4-specific activator on human vascular endothelial cell functions and blood supply of rat perforator flap and its mechanism / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: To analyze the effects of transient receptor potential vanilloid type 4 (TRPV4) activation on the function and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), as well as to explore the effects of TRPV4 activation on blood perfusion and survival of rat perforator flap and the mechanism. Methods: The experimental research methods were used. The 3rd to 6th passages of HUVECs were used for experiments and divided into 0.5 μmol/L 4α-phorbol 12, 13-didecanoate (4αPDD) group, 1.0 μmol/L 4αPDD group, 3.0 μmol/L 4αPDD group, 10.0 μmol/L 4αPDD group, and phosphate buffer solution (PBS) group, which were cultivated in corresponding final molarity of 4αPDD and PBS, respectively. The cell proliferation activity at 6 and 12 h of culture was detected using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8). Another batch of cells was acquired and divided into PBS group, 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group, and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group, which were treated similarly as described before and then detected for cell proliferation activity at 6, 12, 24, and 48 h of culture. The residual scratch area of cells at post scratch hour (PSH) 12, 24, and 48 was detected by scratch test, and the percentage of the residual scratch area was calculated. The number of migrated cells at 24 and 48 h of culture was detected by Transwell experiment. The tube-formation assay was used to measure the number of tubular structures at 4 and 8 h of culture. The protein expressions of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Slug, and Snail at 24 h of culture were detected by Western blotting. All the sample numbers in each group at each time point in vitro experiments were 3. A total of 36 male Sprague-Dawley rats aged 8 to 10 weeks were divided into delayed flap group, 4αPDD group, and normal saline group according to the random number table, with 12 rats in each group, and iliolumbar artery perforator flap models on the back were constructed. The flap surgical delay procedure was only performed in the rats in delayed flap group one week before the flap transfer surgery. Neither rats in 4αPDD group nor normal saline group had flap surgical delay; instead, they were intraperitoneally injected with 4αPDD and an equivalent mass of normal saline, respectively, at 10 min before, 24 h after, and 48 h after the surgery. The general state of flap was observed on post surgery day (PSD) 0 (immediately), 1, 4, and 7. The flap survival rates were assessed on PSD 7. The flap blood perfusion was detected by laser speckle contrast imaging technique on PSD 1, 4, and 7. The microvascular density in the flap's choke vessel zone was detected by immunohistochemical staining. All the sample numbers in each group at each time point in vivo experiments were 12. Data were statistically analyzed with analysis of variance for factorial design, analysis of variance for repeated measurement, one-way analysis of variance, least significant difference t test, and Bonferroni correction. Results: At 6 and 12 h of culture, there were no statistically significant differences in cell proliferation activity in the overall comparison among PBS group, 0.5 μmol/L 4αPDD group, 1.0 μmol/L 4αPDD group, 3.0 μmol/L 4αPDD group, and 10.0 μmol/L 4αPDD group (P>0.05). At 6, 12, 24, and 48 h of culture, there were no statistically significant differences in cell proliferation activity in the overall comparison among PBS group, 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group, and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group (P>0.05). At PSH 12, the percentages of the residual scratch area of cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group were close to that in PBS group (P>0.05). At PSH 24 and 48, compared with those in PBS group, the percentages of the residual scratch area of cells in 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group were significantly decreased (with t values of 2.83 and 2.79, respectively, P<0.05), while the percentages of the residual scratch area of cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group showed no significant differences (P>0.05). At 24 h of culture, the number of migrated cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group were close to that in PBS group (P>0.05). At 48 h of culture, the number of migrated cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD groups were significantly greater than that in PBS group (with t values of 6.20 and 9.59, respectively, P<0.01). At 4 h of culture, the numbers of tubular structures of cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group were significantly greater than that in PBS group (with t values of 4.68 and 4.95, respectively, P<0.05 or <0.01). At 8 h of culture, the numbers of tubular structures of cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD groups were similar to that in PBS group (P>0.05). At 24 h of culture, compared with those in PBS group, the protein expression level of E-cadherin of cells in 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group was significantly decreased (t=5.13, P<0.01), whereas there was no statistically significant difference in the protein expression level of E-cadherin of cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group (P>0.05); the protein expression level of N-cadherin of cells in 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group was significantly increased (t=4.93, P<0.01), whereas there was no statistically significant difference in the protein expression level of N-cadherin of cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group (P>0.05); the protein expression levels of Slug of cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group were significantly increased (with t values of 3.85 and 6.52, respectively, P<0.05 or P<0.01); and the protein expression level of Snail of cells in 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group was significantly increased (t=4.08, P<0.05), whereas there was no statistically significant difference in the protein expression level of Snail of cells in 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group (P>0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the protein expression levels of E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Slug, or Snail of cells between 1 μmol/L 4αPDD group and 3 μmol/L 4αPDD group (P>0.05). The general condition of flaps of rats in the three groups was good on PSD 0. On PSD 1, the flaps of rats in the three groups were basically similar, with bruising and swelling at the distal end. On PSD 4, the swelling of flaps of rats in the three groups subsided, and the distal end turned dark brown and necrosis occurred, with the area of necrosis in flaps of rats in normal saline group being larger than the areas in 4αPDD group and delayed flap group. On PSD 7, the necrotic areas of flaps of rats in the 3 groups were fairly stable, with the area of necrosis at the distal end of flap of rats in delayed flap group being the smallest. On PSD 7, the flap survival rates of rats in 4αPDD group ((80±13)%) and delayed flap group ((87±9)%) were similar (P>0.05), and both were significantly higher than (70±11)% in normal saline group (with t values of 2.24 and 3.65, respectively, P<0.05 or P<0.01). On PSD 1, the overall blood perfusion signals of rats in the 3 groups were basically the same, and the blood perfusion signals in the choke vessel zone were relatively strong, with a certain degree of underperfusion at the distal end. On PSD 4, the boundary between the surviving and necrotic areas of flaps of rats in the 3 groups became evident, and the blood perfusion signals in the choke vessel zone were improved, with the normal saline group's distal hypoperfused area of flap being larger than the areas in delayed flap group and 4αPDD group. On PSD 7, the blood perfusion signals of overall flap of rats had generally stabilized in the 3 groups, with the intensity of blood perfusion signal in the choke vessel zone and overall flap of rats in delayed flap group and 4αPDD group being significantly greater than that in normal saline group. On PSD 7, the microvascular density in the choke vessel zone of flap of rats in 4αPDD group and delayed flap group were similar (P>0.05), and both were significantly higher than that in normal saline group (with t values of 4.11 and 5.38, respectively, P<0.01). Conclusions: After activation, TRPV4 may promote the migration and tubular formation of human vascular endothelial cells via the EndMT pathway, leading to the enhanced blood perfusion of perforator flap and microvascular density in the choke vessel zone, and therefore increase the flap survival rate.

Clinical effects of en bloc resection and debridement combined with gluteus maximus muscle flap in the treatment of ischial tubercle pressure ulcer complicated with chronic osteomyelitis / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: To investigate the clinical effects of en bloc resection and debridement combined with gluteus maximus muscle flap in the treatment of ischial tubercle pressure ulcer complicated with chronic osteomyelitis. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From May 2018 to February 2020, 8 patients with pressure ulcers on the ischial tuberosity combined with chronic osteomyelitis who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to Fuyang Minsheng Hospital, including 5 males and 3 females, aged 38-69 years, with unilateral lesions in 6 patients and bilateral lesions in 2 patients. According to the anatomical classification of Cierny-Mader osteomyelitis, there were 6 patients (7 sides) with focal type, and 2 patients (3 sides) with diffuse type. The wound areas were 3 cm×2 cm to 12 cm×9 cm on admission. The pressure ulcer and chronic osteomyelitis lesions were completely removed by en bloc resection and debridement. The chronic infectious lesions were transformed into sterile incisions like fresh wounds by one surgical procedure, and the gluteus maximus muscle flaps with areas of 10 cm×6 cm to 15 cm×9 cm were excised to transfer and fill the ineffective cavity. The wounds of 5 patients were sutured directly, and the wounds of 3 patients were closed by local flap transfer. The intraoperative blood loss volume and blood transfusion, and length of hospital stay of patients were recorded. The incision healing and flap survival of patients were observed after operation. The recurrence of pressure ulcer and osteomyelitis, the appearance of the affected area, and the secondary dysfunction and deformity of the muscle flap donor site of patients were observed during followed up. Results: The intraoperative blood loss volume of the 8 patients was 220 to 900 (430±150) mL; 5 patients received intraoperative blood transfusion, of which 2 patients received 3 U suspended red blood cells and 3 patients received 2 U suspended red blood cells. The length of hospital stay was 18 to 29 (23.5±2.0) d for the 8 patients. In this group of patients, the incisions of 7 patients healed, while in one case, the incision suture was torn off during turning over and healed after secondary suture. The flaps survived well in 3 patients who underwent local flap transfer. During the follow-up period of 6-20 months, no recurrence of pressure ulcer or osteomyelitis occurred in 8 patients, the affected part had skin with good texture, mild pigmentation, and no sinus tract formation, and no secondary dysfunction or deformity occurred in the donor site. Conclusions: The en bloc resection and debridement combined with gluteus maximus muscle flap has good clinical effects on ischial tubercle pressure ulcer complicated with chronic osteomyelitis. Neither pressure ulcer nor osteomyelitis recurs post operation. The skin texture and appearance of the affected area are good, and the donor site has no secondary dysfunction or deformity.

Clinical application of three-dimensional printed preformed titanium mesh combined with free latissimus dorsi muscle flap in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma with skull defect in the vertex / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: To explore the clinical effects of three-dimensional printed preformed titanium mesh combined with latissimus dorsi muscle flap free transplantation in the treatment of wounds with skull defect after radical surgery of squamous cell carcinoma in the vertex. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted. From January 2010 to December 2019, 5 patients with squamous cell carcinoma in the vertex accompanied with skull invasion who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to the Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University, including four males and one female, aged 50 to 65 years. The original lesion areas ranged from 5 cm×4 cm to 15 cm×8 cm. The titanium mesh was prefabricated via three-dimensional technic based on the result the scope of skull resection predicted with computerized tomography three-dimensional reconstruction before surgery. During the first stage, the soft tissue defect area of scalp (8 cm×7 cm to 18 cm×11 cm) after tumor enlargement resection was repaired with the preformed titanium mesh, and the titanium mesh was covered with latissimus dorsi muscle flap, with area of 10 cm×9 cm to 20 cm×13 cm. The thoracodorsal artery/vein was anastomosed with the superficial temporal artery/vein on one side. The muscle ends in the donor site were sutured together or performed with transfixion, and then the skin on the back were covered back to the donor site. On the 10th day after the first-stage surgery, the second-stage surgery was performed. The thin intermediate thickness skin graft was taken from the anterolateral thigh to cover the latissimus dorsi muscle flap. The duration and intraoperative blood loss of first-stage surgery were recorded. The postoperative muscle flap survival after the first-stage surgery and skin graft survival after the second-stage surgery was observed. The occurrence of complications, head appearance, and recurrence of tumor were followed up. Results: The average first-stage surgery duration of patients was 12.1 h, and the intraoperative blood loss was not more than 1 200 mL. The muscle flaps in the first-stage surgery and the skin grafts in the second-stage surgery all survived well. During the follow-up of 6-18 months, no complications such as exposure of titanium mesh or infection occurred, with good shape in the recipient sites in the vertex, and no recurrence of tumor. Conclusions: Three-dimensional printed preformed titanium mesh combined with latissimus dorsi muscle flap free transplantation and intermediate thickness skin graft cover is an effective and reliable method for repairing the wound with skull defect after extended resection of squamous cell carcinoma in the vertex. This method can cover the wound effectively as well as promote both recipient and donor sites to obtain good function and appearance.

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.

Clinical application of expanded internal mammary artery perforator flap combined with vascular supercharge in reconstruction of faciocervical scar / 中华烧伤杂志

Objective: To summarize the clinical experience of expanded internal mammary artery perforator (IMAP) flap combined with vascular supercharge in reconstruction of faciocervical scar. Methods: The retrospective observational study was conducted. From September 2012 to May 2021, 23 patients with postburn or posttraumatic faciocervical scars who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, including 18 males and 5 females, aged from 11 to 58 years, all of whom were reconstructed with expanded IMAP flaps. At the first stage, one or two skin and soft tissue expander (s) with appropriate rated capacity were implanted in the anterior chest area according to the location and size of the scars. The IMAP, thoracic branch of supraclavicular artery, and lateral thoracic artery were preserved during the operation. The skin and soft tissue expanders were inflated with normal saline after the operation. The flaps were transferred during the second stage. The dominant IMAP was determined preoperatively using color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) blood flow detector. The faciocervical scars were removed, forming wounds with areas of 9 cm×7 cm-28 cm×12 cm, and the perforators of superficial temporal artery and vein or facial artery and vein were preserved during the operation. The flaps were designed according to the area and size of the wounds after scar resection with the dominant IMAP as the pedicle. Single-pedicle IMAP flaps were used to repair small and medium-sized wounds. For larger defects, the blood perfusion areas of vessels in the anterior chest were evaluated by indocyanine green angiography (ICGA). In situations where the IMAP was insufficient to nourish the entire flap, double-pedicle flaps were designed by using the thoracic branch of supraclavicular artery or lateral thoracic artery for supercharging. Pedicled or free flap transfer was selected according to the distance between the donor areas and recipient areas. After transplantation of flaps, ICGA was conducted again to evaluate blood perfusion of the flaps. The donor sites of flaps were all closed by suturing directly. Statistics were recorded, including the number, rated capacity, normal saline injection volume, and expansion period of skin and soft tissue expanders, the location of the dominant IMAP, the total number of the flaps used, the number of flaps with different types of vascular pedicles, the flap area, the flap survival after the second stage surgery, the occurrence of common complications in the donor and recipient areas, and the condition of follow-up. Results: Totally 25 skin and soft tissue expanders were used in this group of patients, with rated capacity of 200-500 mL, normal saline injection volume of 855-2 055 mL, and expansion period of 4-16 months. The dominant IMAP was detected in the second intercostal space (20 sides) or the third intercostal space (5 sides) before surgery. A total of 25 expanded flaps were excised, including 2 pedicled IMAP flaps, 11 free IMAP flaps, 4 pedicled thoracic branch of supraclavicular artery+free IMAP flaps, and 8 free IMAP+lateral thoracic artery flaps, with flap areas of 10 cm×8 cm-30 cm×14 cm. After the second stage surgery, tip necrosis of flaps in three patients occurred, which healed after routine dressing changes; one patient developed arterial embolism and local torsion on the vascular pedicle at the anastomosis of IMAP and facial artery, and the blood supply recovered after thrombectomy and vascular re-anastomosis. Fourteen patients underwent flap thinning surgery in 1 month to 6 months after the second stage surgery. The follow-up for 4 months to 9 years showed that all patients had improved appearances of flaps and functions of face and neck and linear scar in the donor sites of flaps, and one female patient had obvious nipple displacement and bilateral breast asymmetry. Conclusions: The expanded IMAP flap is matched in color and texture with that of the face and neck, and its incision causes little damage to the chest donor sites. When combined with vascular supercharge, a double-pedicle flap can be designed flexibly to further enhance the blood supply and expand the flap incision area, which is a good choice for reconstruction of large faciocervical scar.

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.