Ventral abdominal wall defect correction in rats with contaminated meshes

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To investigate whether there is a difference between Marlex(r) and Dynamesh PP-light Marlex(r) meshes, in the abdominal wall defect correction, on rats in contaminated surgical site. METHODS: Twenty-eight Wistar rats were divided into two groups of 14, and four subgroups of seven animals. All subgroups underwent similar surgical procedure. One group received the mesh Marlex(r) and the other Dynamesh PP-light(r) for correction of the defect. Before implanting, the meshes went through a contamination process, on which was used standard solution containing 10 UFC of Escherichia coli. Fragments of the animal's abdominal wall received macroscopic, microscopic and microbiological analysis. RESULTS: There was no statistical significance in the analysis of macroscopic variables. Accentuated inflammatory process was shown in all subgroups. The foreign body type reaction was mild in all subgroups, except Dynamesh(r)-14, which was moderate with no statistical significance. The microbiological analysis of the meshes was also similar between the subgroups. CONCLUSION: There was no difference between the meshes of Marlex(r) and Dynamesh PP-light(r) in the ventral abdominal wall defect correction on rats in contaminated surgical site.

Characteristics of the fibroplasia and collagen expression in the abdominal wall after implant of the polypropylene mesh and polypropylene/polyglecaprone mesh in rats

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To compare fibroplasia and the resistance of the abdominal wall when polypropylene meshes and polypropylene/poliglecaprone are used. METHODS: Seventy-seven male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: Control Group (for resistance); Group E (polypropylene mesh); and Group U (polypropylene/poliglecaprone mesh). The animals in Groups E and U had a standard muscular and aponeurotic defect, with integral peritoneum, and correction with the mesh. Measurements were taken 4, 7, 14, 28 and 56 days after surgery. The resistance, and collagen density were studied. RESULTS: Resistance on the 56th day was similar in both meshes. The gain in resistance described an ascending curve for the polypropylene mesh and was irregular in the case of the polypropylene/poliglecaprone. Fibroplasia showed a gain in type I and type III collagen in both groups (p<0.001). Collagen III stabilized in the 14th day and collagen I continued to ascend. CONCLUSIONS: The gain in resistance of the polypropylene mesh is regular and ascending, whereas the polypropylene/poliglecaprone is not regular. The final resistance of both meshes is similar; the collagen density increases over time, and show the same inflammatory potential.

Mamoplastia pós-cirurgia bariátrica usando suporte protético complementar de contenção glandular / Breast augmentation after bariatric surgery by using complementary prosthetic support for glandular containment

INTRODUÇÃO: A pele de pacientes emagrecidas pós-cirurgia bariátrica apresenta alterações estruturais e proteômicas e não resiste ao peso das mamas, levando-as à flacidez residual precoce, exigindo suporte auxiliar. O objetivo é aplicar suporte auxiliar de lâmina de polipropileno não absorvível mais poliglecaprone absorvível ou lâmina de silicone de bustos, em forma de "soutien interno" como auxiliar de sustentação da pele, para manutenção da forma das mamas, e flacidez no mínimo comparável a outras pacientes sem emagrecimento pela cirurgia bariátrica. MÉTODOS: Nove pacientes foram submetidas à mamoplastia em T invertido com modelagem dos tecidos mamários, com redução do volume e envolvidos com lâmina de sustentação auxiliar. RESULTADOS: Não houve flacidez precoce e em observação de até 4 anos ela era aceitável. Uma delas apresentou seroma, drenado com boa resolução. Serão operadas outras 24 pacientes dentro do protocolo, acompanhadas e observadas por 2 anos com controle mamográfico, ultrassônico e ressonância magnética. CONCLUSÃO: A mamoplastia redutora pós-cirurgia bariátrica requer suporte extra à glândula mamária. A pele estruturalmente alterada não suporta o seu peso e haverá flacidez precoce.

INTRODUCTION: The skin presents structural and proteomic changes after bariatric surgery and cannot withstand the weight of the breasts, which leads to early residual flaccidity, requiring auxiliary support. The goal is to apply a nonabsorbable polypropylene-poliglecaprone absorbable auxiliary mesh support or Bustos silicone sheet, in the form of an "internal brassiere," to support the skin in order to maintain the shape and flaccidity of the breasts comparable with those of normal breasts. METHODS: Nine patients underwent mammoplasty in inverted T with modeling of tissue implants, reduction of breast volume, and wrapping with an auxiliary support mesh. RESULTS: Flaccidity was not observed at an early stage and the condition was acceptable for up to 4 years of follow-up. One of the patients had a seroma, which was drained with good resolution. Another 24 patients will be operated according to the protocol and observed for 2 years by using mammography, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging. CONCLUSION: Reduction mammoplasty after bariatric surgery requires additional support for the mammary gland. The structurally altered skin could not support the weight of the breasts, resulting in early flaccidity.

Colposuspensión anterior con fijación a malla transobturatriz: una nueva técnica para el tratamiento del colpocele anterior / Anterior colposuspension with transobturator mesh fixation: a new technique for the treatment of anterior colpocele

Introducción: la zona crítica de sostén apical de la fascia vesicovaginal es el anillo pericervical, el cual no existe en el caso de mujeres histerctomizadas. Por lo tanto, el análisis y el desarrollo de posibilidades terapéuticas para el cistocele con menores recidivas posteriores es un tema crítico en la cirugía uroginecológica. Objetivo: presentar una nueva técnica quirúrgica para el tratamiento del colpocele anterior. Material y método: se presentan los primeros diez casos de pacientes operadas con una nueva técnica quirúrgica en el tratamiento por vía vaginal del colpocele anterior. La técnica denominada CATO (C-colposuspensión, A-anterior, TO-transobturatriz) se basa en la reparación del defecto del colpocele anterior (sea este central, medial o pericervical) mediante tejido propio, el cual se fija a una neoestructura dada por el emplazamiento de una cinta de malla de prolene por vía obturatriz posterior. Resultados: no se registraron complicaciones intraoperatorias; hubo un hematoma vesicovaginal posoperatorio inmediato. En cuanto a los resultados funcionales, no se registraron disfunciones vesicales. En el seguimiento se destaca que todas las pacientes presentan puntos Aa y Ba normales. No se registran complicaciones de la malla utilizada. La técnica resulta segura, respeta la anatomía funcional y es reproducible para el ginecólogo vaginalista entrenado y con conocimiento del abordaje transobturatriz posterior. El seguimiento a largo plazo demostrará si esta nueva técnica desarrollada por nuestro equipo tiene un lugar que ocupar en el arsenal quirúrgico del tratamiento de la patología del piso pélvico.

Abstract Introduction: the critical area of apical support for the vesicovaginal fascia is the peri-cervical ring, which does not exist in women who have undergone hysterectomies. Thus, the analysis and development of new therapies for colpocele with smaller posterior relapse is critical for urogynecologic surgery. Objective: to present a new surgical technique for treatment of anterior colpocele Method: the study presents the first ten cases of women who were operated with a new surgical technique in treatment for anterior colpocele through the vagina. The technique under the name CATO (following the Spanish words: CATO (C-colposuspension, A-anterior, TO-transobturator) is based on repairing the anterior colpocele defect (central, medium or peri-cervical) using her own tissue, which is fixed to a new structure created by placing a mesh ribbon through a posterior transobturator. Results: no intraoperative complications were recorded; there was one case of immediate postoperative vesicovaginal hematoma. As to functional results, no vesical dysfunctions were recorded. Upon follow up, it is worth pointing out all patients show normal Aa and Bb stitches. Nos complications arose for the mesh used. The technique is safe, it respects functional anatomy and may be replicated by trained gynecologists who are familiar with the posterior transobturator approach. Long term follow up will reveal whether this new technique developed by our team may become part of the surgical toolkit for treating pelvic floor pathology.

Resumo Introdução: a zona crítica do suporte apical da fáscia vesicovaginal é o anel pericervical, que não existe nas mulheres histerectomizadas. Portanto, a análise e o desenvolvimento de possibilidades terapêuticas para o cistocele com menores recidivas posteriores é uma tema crítico na cirurgia uroginecológica. Objetivo: apresentar uma nova técnica cirúrgica para o tratamento do colpocele anterior. Material e método: apresentam-se os dez primeiros casos de pacientes operadas com uma nova técnica cirúrgica para tratamento por via vaginal da colpocele anterior. A técnica denominada CATO (Colpossuspensão, A-anterior, TO-transobturatoria) está baseada na reparação do defeito do colpocele anterior (seja central, medial ou pericervical) utilizando tecido próprio, que se fixa a uma neoestrutura dada pela colocação de uma tira de malla de prolene por via obturatriz posterior. Resultados: não foram registradas complicações intra-operatórias ou hematoma vesicovaginal pós-operatório imediato. Com relação aos resultados funcionais, não foram registradas disfunções vesicais. No seguimento se destaca que todas as pacientes apresentam pontos Aa e Ba normais. Não foram registradas complicações da malha utilizada. A técnica é segura, respeita a anatomia funcional e é reproduzível por ginecologista vaginalista treinado e com conhecimento da abordagem transobturatoria posterior. O seguimento em longo prazo demonstrará se esta nova técnica desenvolvida por nosso grupo de trabalho tem um lugar no arsenal cirúrgico no tratamento da patologia do piso pélvico.

Laparoscopic repair of congenital pleuroperitoneal hernia using a polypropylene mesh in a dog / Correção laparoscópica de hérnia pleuroperitoneal utilizando malha de polipropileno em cão

Pleuroperitoneal hernias are the most uncommon type of diaphragmatic hernias in dogs and cats. The treatment of choice is surgery and may involve the use of prosthetic implant through celiotomy. In the current report, laparoscopic repair of a congenital pleuroperitoneal hernia using polypropylene mesh in a dog is described. The surgery was feasible. Appropriate reduction of the hernia was carried out and no complications were noted.

Hérnias pleuroperitoneais são o tipo mais incomum de hérnias diafragmáticas em cães e gatos. O tratamento de escolha é cirúrgico e pode envolver o uso de implantes protéticos na abordagem via laparotomia. No presente relato, é descrito o reparo de uma hérnia pleuroperitoneal congênita através de laparoscopia com utilização de malha de polipropileno. A cirurgia foi viável. Houve redução apropriada da hérnia sem observação de complicações.

Experimental use of a cellulosic biopolymer as a new material for suburethral sling in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence

Purpose: To analyze the interaction between the cellulose exopolysaccharide (CEC) and urethral tissue when used as a pubovaginal sling. Materials and Methods: Forty Wistar rats were divided into four groups. In groups A and B the cellulose exopolysaccharide (CEC) was implanted around the urethral tissue (bladder neck below the upper margin) and the rats were sacrificed at 30 and 90 days. Similar procedure was used in groups C and D using a polypropylene mesh. After sacrifice bladder and urethra were sent for histological analysis. The histological parameters (inflammatory reaction) by evaluated by quantitative analysis. For collagen deposition analysis it was used stereological method. Results: The cellulose exopolysaccharide (CEC) was inert and well preserved at the implanted region at the time of examination. Morphologic alterations were not found at the CEC implant but some reactions of foreign body type were observed at the adjacent structures. In some areas a process of neovascular formation was observed. Stereological analysis at the suburethral area showed a significant difference in collagen presence in favor of CEC. Conclusions: The CEC implant showed adequate results when used as a suburethral sling with good integration to the host tissue, preserving its architecture.

Uso de duas telas de polipropileno na área doadora do TRAM para reconstrução mamária: avaliação na incidência de hérnia e abaulamento abdominal / Use of a double-layer polypropylene mesh in the donor area of a TRAM flap for breast reconstruction: evaluation of the incidence of hernia and abdominal bulging

Introdução: O retalho transverso do músculo reto abdominal (TRAM) é um método bem estabelecido para reconstrução mamária. Apresenta como principal desvantagem o grande defeito da área doadora, podendo causar fraqueza da parede abdominal, hérnias e abaulamentos. Diversas táticas de fechamento do defeito da área doadora foram descritas, incluindo fechamento direto da aponeurose do músculo reto abdominal e uso de telas de polipropileno. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os índices de abaulamento e hérnia no pós-operatório de TRAM utilizando a tática cirúrgica de fechamento da área doadora com duas telas de polipropileno. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo em 24 pacientes submetidos à reconstrução mamária unilateral com TRAM monopediculado ou bipediculado e reparo da área doadora com duas telas de polipropileno. Os pacientes foram avaliados quanto à incidência de hérnia e abaulamento no pós-operatório de 3, 6 e 12 meses. Resultados: Ocorreu um caso (4,16%) de abaulamento abdominal e nenhum caso de hérnia. Não houve casos de infecção ou extrusão da tela. Conclusão: O uso de duas telas de polipropileno na área doadora do TRAM propiciou baixa incidência de hérnias e abaulamentos abdominais.

Introduction: The transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap is a well stablished surgery for breast reconstruction. Its main disadvantage is a large defect in its donor site, leading to weakness in the abdominal wall. Many surgical tactics has been described to address the donor site defect, including direct closure of the muscular aponeurotic and use of polypropylene mesh. The purpose of this study was to assess abdominal hernia and bulge after TRAM flap breast reconstruction using two layers of polypropylene mesh in the donor site defect. Methods: Prospective study in 24 patients who had unilateral TRAM flap breast reconstruction with two layers of polypropylene mesh to close the donor site defect. The patients were evaluated in 3.6 and 12 months of postoperative time for incidence of abdominal hernia and bulge. Results: It was observed one case of abdominal bulge (4.16%) and no case of abdominal hernia. There were no cases of mesh infection or extrusion. Conclusion: The use of two layers of polypropylene mesh in the donor site defect of TRAM flap breast reconstruction resulted in low incidence of abdominal hernia and bulge.

Acute systemic response to intraperitoneal implantation of polypropylene mesh/chitosan-based film composite in pigs

PURPOSE:To assess the systemic response of pigs to the intraperitoneal implantation of polypropylene mesh associated with chitosan-based film with a degree of deacetylation of 95%.METHODS:Blood samples were collected 24 hours before, and two and seven days after surgery. Systemic reactions were evaluated based on white blood cell count, C-reactive protein, and total serum protein, albumin and globulin levels.RESULTS:The systemic response was proportional to the composite response induced by polypropylene mesh, and the tissue inflammatory response was higher in the PP group (p=0.0033).CONCLUSION:The polypropylene mesh/chitosan-based film composite did not elicit a systemic response in pigs.

Effects of nitrofurazone on correction of abdominal wall defect treated with polypropylene mesh involved by fibrous tissue

PURPOSE:Toevaluate the effects of nitrofurazone on the correction of abdominal wall defect treated with polypropylene mesh involved by fibrous tissue in rats.METHODS: A defect in the abdominal wall was created and corrected with polypropylene mesh in 20 rats. They were randomly distributed into four groups: control, fibrous mesh, nitrofurazone and nitrofurazone dip in the mesh. Euthanasia was performed in 21 post-operative days. The healing process was analyzed regarding the meshes and macroscopic and microscopic aspects.RESULTS:All animals had adhesions. However, no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) when compared between groups. Similarly microscopic analysis, in which there was no statistical significance level for the evaluated parameters such as mono and polymorphonuclear lymphocytes, granuloma, fibrosis, necrosis and collagen proliferation.CONCLUSION:There was no significant effect on the abdominal wall defect repair with polypropylene mesh surrounded by fibrous tissue when dipped in nitrofurazone 2%.

Polypropylene and polypropylene/polyglecaprone (Ultrapro(r)) meshes in the repair of incisional hernia in rats

PURPOSE: To compare the inflammatory response of three different meshes on abdominal hernia repair in an experimental model of incisional hernia. METHODS: Median fascial incision and skin synthesis was performed on 30 Wistar rats. After 21 days, abdominal hernia developed was corrected as follows: 1) No mesh; 2) Polypropylene mesh; and, 3) Ultrapro(r) mesh. After 21 days, the mesh and surrounding tissue were submitted to macroscopic (presence of adhesions, mesh retraction), microscopic analysis to identify and quantify the inflammatory and fibrotic response using a score based on a predefined scale of 0-3 degrees, evaluating infiltration of macrophages, giant cells, neutrophils and lymphocytes. RESULTS: No significant difference was seen among groups in adherences, fibrosis, giant cells, macrophages, neutrophils or lymphocytes (p>0.05). Mesh shrinkage was observed in all groups, but also no difference was observed between polypropylene and Ultrapro mesh (7.0±9.9 vs. 7.4±10.1, respectively, p=0.967). Post-operatory complications included fistula, abscess, dehiscence, serohematic collection and reherniation, but with no difference among groups (p=0.363). CONCLUSION: There is no difference between polypropylene (high-density) and Ultrapro(r) (low-density) meshes at 21 days after surgery in extraperitoneal use in rats, comparing inflammatory response, mesh shortening, adhesions or complications. .

Laparoscopic Sacral Uteropexy with Cravat Technique--Experience and Results

Objective The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a “Cravat’’ technique for the management of uterine prolapse in patients who want to preserve uterus, involving suspension of the uterus from the sacral promontory by using polypropylene mesh. Materials and Methods A prospective observational study between January 2011 and September 2013 was conducted. Prior to surgery, prolapse assessment was undertaken with Baden-Walker halfway system to grade the degree of prolapse at all sites. Patients with severe uterine prolapse (stage II-IV) who want to preserve uterus, were operated with Cravat technique. All patients were evaluated at 2 weeks and 6 weeks after surgery and followed for 6 months. Outcomes were evaluated objectively by vaginal examination using Baden-Walker halfway classification, and subjectively classifying patients as ‘very satisfied’, ‘satisfied’ and ‘not satisfied’ at the 6th month postoperatively. Results Sacral uteropexy was successfully performed by laparoscopy in 32/33 patients (one needed to be converted to laparotomy). Nine patients also had a concurrent procedure as colporaphy anterior, colporaphy posterior or transobturator tape. Postoperative recovery has been uneventful with subjective and objective cure rates were 96.9% and 93.9%, respectively at six month. One recurrence of total prolapse needed to be reoperated and two patients with sacrouteropexy still remained at stage 2 prolapse. There have been no cases of graft exposure, rejection or infection with a median follow-up of 23.9 months. Conclusions Laparoscopic sacral uteropexy with “Cravat technique” was found to be safe and simple procedure. .

Técnica de crawford en el tratamiento de la ptosis palpebral congénita / Crawford´s technique in the treatment of congenital palpebral ptosis

OBJETIVO: evaluar los resultados quirúrgicos de la técnica de Crawford mediante el empleo de silastic y polipropileno 4.0 y las complicaciones presentadas. MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio descriptivo y prospectivo de 12 pacientes (16 párpados) con ptosis palpebral congénita desde enero 2009 a diciembre 2010 en la consulta de Oculoplastia del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer". Fueron excluidos los que tenían cirugía anterior de dicha enfermedad. RESULTADOS: el 83,3 % fueron del sexo masculino y el 91,6 % menores de 9 años de edad; de ellos, 4 casos de 0 a 2 y de 6 a 8, respectivamente; 3 casos en el grupo de 3 a 5 y solo 1 caso mayor de 9 años. El 75 % fueron ptosis congénita simple y el 56 % severas. La ptosis resultó corregida en 13 párpados para el 81 %. Con el uso desutura polipropileno 4.0, dos párpados se encontraron hipocorregidos (12,6 %) y seis corregidos (37,5 %); con silastic, un párpado quedó hipocorregido, (6,3 %) y siete corregidos (43,7 %). Se presentó el 25 % de complicaciones, 3 párpados hipocorregidos y un granuloma supraciliar. CONCLUSIONES: la ptosis resultó más frecuente en menores de 8 años del sexo masculino. Predominó la ptosis congénita simple, unilateral y severa. La técnica de Crawford resultó efectiva en la mayoría de los casos y similar con los dos materiales empleados.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the surgical outcomes of the Crawford technique through the use of silastic and polypropylene 4.0 materials and the identified complications. METHODS: a prospective and descriptive study of 12 patients (16 eyelids) with congenital ptosis conducted from January 2009 to December 2010 in the oculoplasty surgery in "Ramón Pando Ferrer" Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology. Those patients with prior surgery to treat this disease were excluded. RESULTS: in the study group, 83,3 % were males and 91,6 % were younger than 9 years old, 4 cases aged 0-2 and 6 8 years, respectively, 3 cases aged 3 to 5 and only one case older than 9 years. Seventy five percent of treated cases had simple congenital ptosis and 56 % suffered the severe form. Ptosis was corrected in 13 eyelids for 81 %. Using polypropylene sutures 4.0, two eyelids were undercorrected (12,6 % ) and 6 corrected (37,5 %) whereas the use of silastic resulted in one undercorrected eyelid (6,3 %) and 7 corrected ( 43,7 %). There was a 25 % complication rate, three undercorrected eyelids and one superciliary granuloma. CONCLUSIONS: ptosis was more frequent in male children younger than 8 years. Simple congenital ptosis predominated, either unilateral or severe. Crawford technique was effective in most cases and with similar results using both materials.

Reparação da parede abdominal com tela dupla de polipropileno e poliglecaprone pós-retalho TRAM em reconstrução mamária / Abdominal wall repair with double-mesh polypropylene/ polyglecaprone after TRAM flap surgery for breast reconstruction

INTRODUÇÃO: A reparação da parede abdominal após reconstrução mamária com retalho TRAM representa um desafio para o cirurgião, ainda sem consenso na literatura em relação à melhor técnica. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficiência da tela Ultrapro® em dois planos anatômicos distintos para reparação da parede abdominal pós-retalho TRAM. MÉTODO: Um estudo retrospectivo foi realizado por meio da revisão de prontuários de 24 pacientes submetidas à reconstrução de mama com retalho TRAM pediculado e reparo da área doadora abdominal com tela dupla de polipropileno e poliglecaprone - Ultrapro® pela Divisão de Cirurgia Plástica do HCFMRP-USP. Foram avaliados fatores de risco para hérnias ou abaulamentos abdominais, momento da reconstrução de mama; complicações pós-operatórias, incluindo hérnias ou abaulamentos abdominais, e tempo de seguimento pós-operatório. RESULTADOS: Do total de 24 pacientes com idade média de 51 anos, 10 (41,6%) apresentavam alguma comorbidade. Em 95,8% das pacientes a reconstrução mamária foi tardia e o retalho TRAM foi unipediculado em 58,4% dos casos. As complicações pós-operatórias mais frequentes foram deiscência de sutura (25%) e seroma (21%). Duas pacientes (8,4%) tiveram diagnóstico de hérnia abdominal e três pacientes (12,5%) apresentaram abaulamento abdominal. O tempo de seguimento pós-operatório variou de 5 a 48 meses (média 23,4 meses, DP: 13,28). CONCLUSÃO: O uso da tela híbrida Ultrapro® em dois planos anatômicos demonstrou ser mais uma alternativa para o reparo da parede abdominal pós retalho TRAM em reconstrução mamária, com baixa morbidade da área doadora abdominal e índices de complicações semelhantes aos dados da literatura.

INTRODUCTION: The repair of the abdominal wall after breast reconstruction with a transverse rectus myocutaneous (TRAM) flap is a challenge for the surgeon, and there is still no consensus in the literature about which is the best technique. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of the Ultrapro® mesh in two different anatomical planes for the repair of the abdominal wall after TRAM flap surgery. METHOD: This is a retrospective study conducted through a medical records review of 24 patients who underwent breast reconstruction with a pedicle TRAM flap, and repair of abdominal donor site with a dual mesh of polypropylene and polyglecaprone - Ultrapro, at the Plastic Surgery Division of the Clinics Hospital of the Medicine Faculty of Ribeirão Preto - University of São Paulo. We evaluated the risk factors for abdominal hernias or bulges, time of breast reconstruction, postoperative complications (including abdominal hernias or bulges), and postoperative follow-up. RESULTS: Of the 24 patients with a mean age of 51 years, 10 (41.6%) had a comorbidity. In 95.8% of the patients, breast reconstruction was late; the TRAM flap was a single pedicle in 58.4% of cases. The most frequent postoperative complications were suture dehiscence (25%) and seroma (21%). Two patients (8.4%) were found to have abdominal hernia, and three patients (12.5%) had abdominal bulging. The postoperative follow-up ranged from 5 to 48 months (average, 23.4 months, SD = 13.28). CONCLUSION: The use of the Ultrapro hybrid mesh at two anatomical planes proved to be an alternative for the repair of the abdominal wall after TRAM flap surgery for breast reconstruction, with low morbidity of the abdominal donor site and complication rates similar to literature data.

Reconstrução da parede torácica após a ressecção de extensos tumores / Reconstruction of chest wall after resection of large tumors

INTRODUÇÃO: Nos estágios finais da reconstrução torácica, consequente a exéreses tumorais, são necessários procedimentos complexos e implantes. O que requer cuidados multidisciplinares, com a participação dos cirurgiões torácicos, plástico, radiologista e fisioterapeuta. O objetivo foi descrever as opções de reconstrução torácica após ressecção de neoplasia, realizado no Hospital Sarah Brasília. MÉTODO: Estudo retrospectivo de reconstrução torácica em tempo único, após excisão de tumor, fisioterapia respiratória com ventilação não invasiva e exercícios. RESULTADOS: Entre 2007 a 2012 foram operados 10 pacientes, sete homens e três mulheres; idade 10 a 31 anos; oito apresentavam tumores torácicos metastáticos (osteosarcoma, sinoviosarcoma, Fibrosarcoma epitelioide esclerosante e Rabdomiosarcoma) e dois originários da parede torácica (fibromatose e condrosarcoma). Observou-se boa evolução no pós-operatório imediato, com extubação ao final da cirurgia, retirada do dreno torácico entre 5° e 8° PO. As complicações foram: atelectasia (10%), recorrência tumoral (10%), e óbito em 3 (30%) casos . CONCLUSÃO: Foi possível a reconstrução torácica em tempo único utilizando tela de polipropileno, polimetilmetacrilato e retalhos musculares, com recuperação precoce da função pulmonar e baixo índice de complicações imediatas.

INTRODUCTION: Complex procedures and implants are required in the final stages of chest wall reconstruction after tumor excision. This process requires multidisciplinary care with participation from thoracic and plastic surgeons, a radiologist, and a physical therapist. The goal of this study was to describe the options for chest wall reconstruction after neoplasm resection at Hospital Sarah Brasilia. METHOD: A retrospective study of one-time chest wall reconstruction after tumor excision, respiratory physical therapy with noninvasive ventilation, and exercises was conducted. RESULTS: Between 2007 and 2012, 10 patients underwent surgery (seven men, three women; age range: 10-31 years); eight patients had metastatic thoracic tumors (e.g., osteosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma) and two had tumors originating from the chest wall (fibromatosis and chondrosarcoma). The outcomes were good after the immediate postoperative period, with extubation occurring at the end of surgery and chest tube removal between the fifth and eighth postoperative day. Three cases (30%) involved complications of atelectasis (10%), tumor recurrence (10%), or death. CONCLUSION: One-time chest wall reconstruction using polypropylene mesh, polymethylmethacrylate, and muscle flaps was possible and was associated with early recovery of pulmonary function and a low rate of immediate complications.

Reconstrução mamária com TRAM: uma técnica alternativa para o fechamento do defeito abdominal / Breast Reconstruction with the transverse rectus abdominis flap: an alternative technique for the closure of abdominal defects

INTRODUÇÃO: O retalho do músculo reto abdominal, descrito por Drever em 1977, foi posteriormente modificado e, desde então, se tornou rapidamente uma importante alternativa para reconstrução da mama. Dentre as complicações do TRAM, citam-se os abaulamentos e hérnias abdominais na área doadora. Este estudo vem propor uma técnica alternativa de reparo do defeito abdominal, com o objetivo de minimizar tais inconvenientes e proporcionar melhores resultados. MÉTODO: O estudo é de caráter retrospectivo, totalizando 120 mulheres submetidas à reconstrução mamária com TRAM com colocação de tela abdominal, e seguimento mínimo de seis meses, entre Maio de 2003 e Novembro de 2012. As pacientes foram divididas em dois grupos: Grupo 1 (53 casos) reconstruídos com tela de polipropileno posicionada entre os folhetos aponeuróticos dos músculos oblíquo externo e interno, e Grupo 2 (67 casos) realizado fechamento da linha arqueada de Douglas e o remanescente inferior da aponeurose do músculo reto abdominal e reforço com tela. RESULTADOS: As pacientes foram avaliadas pelo mesmo cirurgião, obedecendo aos mesmos critérios. Os resultados obtidos foram 18,9% de abaulamentos no grupo 1 e 3% no grupo 2, estatisticamente significativo. Abaulamentos e hérnias no hipogástrio variam de 20% a 44% e 12,5% a 20% respectivamente, quando fechados primariamente. Quando associado a aplicações de telas sintéticas, esses percentuais diminuem para 1,5% a 6%. O aprimoramento técnico e a comparação de resultados têm a finalidade de minimizar tais complicações. CONCLUSÃO: A técnica descrita mostra-se vantajosa, pois permitiu significativa diminuição da complicação mais comum, permitindo satisfação estética e funcional das pacientes.

INTRODUCTION: The transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flap, described by Drever in 1977, was subsequently modified and since then, has rapidly become an important alternative for breast reconstructions. However, bulges and abdominal hernias in the donor area are some of the complications arising from the TRAM flap. This study proposes an alternative technique for the repair of the abdominal defect that minimizes complications and provides better results. METHOD: The retrospective included 120 women who underwent breast reconstruction with TRAM with placement of an abdominal mesh between May 2003 and November 2012, with follow-up of at least six months. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (53 cases) underwent reconstruction with polypropylene mesh positioned between the aponeurotic layers of the external and internal oblique muscles and Group 2 (67 cases) underwent closure of the arcuate Douglas' line and the remaining lower aponeurosis of the rectus abdominis muscle and reinforcement with mesh. RESULTS: The patients were evaluated by the same surgeon, according to the same criteria. The rate of bulging was 18.9% in group 1 and 3% in group 2, a statistically significant difference. Bulges and hernias in the hypogastrium varied from 20% to 44% and 12.5% to 20% respectively, when closed primarily. When synthetic mesh was used, these percentages decreased to 1.5% to 6%. The technical improvement and comparison of results aims to minimize such complications. CONCLUSION: The technique described is advantageous in that, it significantly reduced the occurrence of the most common complication, and increased the aesthetic and functional satisfaction of the patients.

Adhesion prevention in reabsorbable polyethylene glycol hydrogel (Coseal®) coated polypropylene mesh in rabbits

PURPOSE: To evaluate of postoperative adhesion prevention and inflammatory response to polypropylene mesh, coated with reabsorbable hydrogel of polyethylene glycol (Coseal®) in contact with small bowel in an experimental model in rabbits. METHODS: Twenty female rabbits underwent laparotomy to implant two polypropylene meshes, 2x1cm, in the right and left flanks. The right mesh was protected with Coseal® spray (Group 1) and the left mesh received no treatment after implantation (Group 2). Thirty days after implantation, the rabbits underwent laparoscopy for adhesion analysis; the prosthesis were removed en bloc with the adjacent tissue for microscopic analysis of inflammation. Statistical analysis used the Mann-Whitney test. RESULTS: There was adhesion formation in five meshes (36%) from Group 1 and in 14 meshes (100%) from Group 2, with statistical significance (p<0.01). There were no differences in the inflammatory response, fibrosis, foreign body reaction, presence of collagen and type of inflammatory cells between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Polypropylene mesh coated with Coseal® showed a significantly lower rate of adhesion formation when compared with uncoated meshes, without interfering with inflammatory response.

Aspectos clínicos y quirúrgicos de las hernias incisionales complejas / Clinical and surgical aspects of the complex incisional hernias

El diagnóstico y tratamiento de las hernias incisionales complejas constituye un tema obligado para todos los cirujanos, cuyo desafío es prevenir las complicaciones y disminuir las recurrencias, lo que justifica la realización de este estudio con el objetivo de identificar sus aspectos clínicos y quirúrgicos más relevantes. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo de serie de casos correspondiente a 320 pacientes operados electivos por hernias incisionales complejas en el servicio de cirugía del Hospital Universitario Dr Juan B Zayas de Santiago de Cuba durante 15 años (1994-2009). Resultados: predominó el sexo femenino y el grupo etario de 31 a 60 años. Las hernias suprapúbicas fueron las más frecuentes en ambos sexos; en mujeres con intervenciones ginecológicas previas y en hombres, prostáticas. El neumoperitoneo progresivo preoperatorio y la antibioticoterapia profiláctica se aplicaron a todos los pacientes. Las técnicas quirúrgicas más utilizadas fueron las de Jean Rives y Robert Bendavid y la bioprótesis de polipropileno. Índice de recurrencia de 6,5 por ciento con predominio del sexo masculino. El tiempo quirúrgico fluctuó de 1 a 2 horas y la estadía hospitalaria entre 1 y 3 días. Fallecieron 4 pacientes, el 1,3 por ciento de la serie. Conclusiones: el único tratamiento efectivo para las hernias incisionales complejas radica en la técnica quirúrgica sin tensión con aplicación correcta de la bioprótesis indicada y su fijación con la sutura de su mismo material, por lo que se recomienda la protocolización y clasificación de estas hernias para unificar criterios con respecto a su diagnóstico y tratamiento(AU)

Diagnosis and treatment of complex incisional hermias is a compulsory topic for all surgeons. The challenge ahead is to prevent complications and to reduce relapses, which warrants the conduction of a study with the objective of identifying their most relevant clinical and surgical aspects. Methods: Observational and descriptive study of a case series involving 320 patients operated on from complex incisional hernias at the surgery service of Dr Juan B Zayas university hospital in Santiago de Cuba during 15 years (1994-2009). Results: Females and 31-60 years age group predominated. The suprapubic hernias were the most frequent in both sexes; in females who underwent previous gynecological interventions and in men who underwent prosthatic procedures. Preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum and prophylactic antibiotic therapy were applied to all patients. The most used surgical techniques were Jean Rives' and Robert Bendavid's and the polypropylene bioprothesis. The relapse index was 6.5 percent and males predominated. The surgical time ranged 1 to 2 hours and the stay at hospital lasted one to 3 days. Four patients died, which accounted for 1.3 percent of the case series. Conclusions: The only effective treatment for complex incisional hernias lies in non-tensile surgical technique with correct application of the indicated bioprothesis and its fixing with a suture of the same material, so protocoling and classification of these hernias are recommended in order to unify criteria with respect to their diagnosis and treatment(AU)

Treatment of anterior vaginal wall prolapse with and without polypropylene mesh: a prospective, randomized and controlled trial - Part I

Objective To compare the use of polypropylene mesh (PM) and the traditional anterior vaginal wall colporraphy in women with anterior vaginal wall prolapse (AVWP) using objective and subjective tests and evaluation of quality of life (QoL). Materials and Methods One hundred women were randomly distributed in two preoperatory groups. The first group (mesh) (n = 45) received a PM implant and the control group (n = 55) was submitted to traditional colporraphy. Postoperatory follow-up was done after 12 months. The primary objective was the correction of the Ba point ≤ -2 POP-Q (Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System) and the secondary objective was the improvement of vaginal symptoms and QoL through ICIQ-VS (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Vaginal Symptoms). Complications related to the use of PM or not were also described. Results There was a significant difference between all POP-Q measures of pre- and postoperatory periods of each group in particular. There was a significant difference of the Ba point of the postoperatory period between the Mesh and Control group. The mean of Ba point in the Mesh group was statistically lower than of the Control group, depicting the better anatomical result of the first group. Both techniques improved vaginal symptoms and QoL. The most frequent complication of the Mesh group was prepubic hematoma in the perioperative period. In 9.3% of the cases treated with mesh it was observed PM exposition at the anterior vaginal wall after 12 months, being most of them treated clinically. Conclusion The treatment of AVWP significantly improved the Ba point in the Mesh group in comparison to the Control group. There were no differences of the vaginal symptoms and QoL between the two groups after 12 months. There were few and low grade complications on both groups. .

Treatment of anterior vaginal wall prolapse with and without polypropylene mesh: a prospective, randomized and controlled trial - Part II

Objective To compare the effects of two surgical procedures for the correction of anterior vaginal wall prolapse (AVWP) on the lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) using symptom questionnaires and quality of life (QoL). Materials and Methods One hundred women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification stage (POP-Q) ≥ 2 were randomly distributed in two preoperatory groups. The first group (mesh) (n = 45) received a polypropylene mesh (PM) implant and the control group (n = 55) was submitted to anterior colporraphy with or without synthetic sling. Postoperatory follow-up was done after 12 months. The primary objective was to compare the effect of the surgeries on LUTS using the final scores of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF) and Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB-V8), as well as the analysis of the incapacitating urinary symptoms and “de novo” urinary symptoms after 12 months of surgery in both groups. Results Although there was a different number of women in each group, randomization was adequate, resulted in homogeneous groups that could be compared regarding socio demographic, clinical and gynecological (POP-Q) variables. Patients of both groups showed improvements regarding LUTS and QoL, whether using polypropylene mesh or not, based on the final scores of the ICIQ-UI SF and OAB-V8 questionnaires after 12-month follow-up. There were few incapacitating and “de novo” urinary symptoms, without any significant statistical difference between both groups after 12 months of surgery. Conclusion There was a general improvement of LUTS and QoL in both groups after 12-month follow-up. However, there was no significant difference of LUTS, as well as the more incapacitating and “de novo” urinary symptoms between both groups after 12 months of surgery. .

Long-Term Follow-up of Polypropylene Bone Anchored Slings

Introduction The transvaginal bone anchored polypropylene sling (BAS) has proven to be a successful treatment for patients with SUI. However, there is limited data on long-term outcomes following BAS with polypropylene mesh. We report our series of patients who had at least 3 years of follow-up after placement of BAS. Materials and Methods A retrospective review of prospectively collected data of patients undergoing BAS for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) with minimum 3 year follow-up was performed. Outcomes and complications were determined from annual mailed post-operative questionnaires. Results 142 patients who had undergone BAS and had answered post-operative questionnaires at a minimum of 3 years were identified. Average follow-up was 58 months (range 36-97 months). The overall success rate was 71% with a dry rate of 27%. Complications occurred in 9% of patients, more commonly in patients without a history of anti-incontinence procedure. Conclusions Although less commonly used, BAS with polypropylene mesh is associated with an acceptable success rate at long term follow-up but a low completely dry rate. .