Avaliação da linguagem em cirurgia de craniotomia com paciente acordado: relato de caso / Language assessment in awake craniotomy: case report

RESUMO O objetivo deste relato foi descrever o caso de um paciente submetido à craniotomia, acordado, para a ressecção neurocirúrgica de um glioma e a avaliação linguística pré-operatória, intraoperatória e pós-operatória. Paciente do gênero masculino, 27 anos, escolaridade nível superior incompleto, apresentando vômitos, confusão mental e crise convulsiva tônico-clônica. Após a avaliação do paciente pela equipe e devidas orientações pré-operatórias, a proposta de excisão da lesão em estado de vigília foi esclarecida e aceita. Ao iniciar o procedimento, os campos foram ajustados para manter as vias aéreas e os olhos acessíveis para mapeamento com estimulação elétrica e avaliação da linguagem no período intraoperatório. Devido à localização do tumor próximo à área motora da fala, foram propostas tarefas para a avaliação da linguagem em quatro momentos: pré-operatório, intraoperatório, pós-operatório imediato e pós-operatório mediato. As habilidades linguísticas testadas nas quatro avaliações foram: compreensão e expressão da linguagem oral, transposição linguística, linguagem associativa, nomeação, discriminação visual, fluência e organização da sintaxe. Com o objetivo de controlar e eliminar o efeito de aprendizagem da testagem, foram solicitadas as mesmas tarefas, porém, com diferentes conteúdos para a testagem das habilidades nas quatro fases. A cirurgia com o paciente acordado permitiu a ressecção completa e segura do tumor, sem prejuízo motor ou linguístico. O engajamento da equipe, a interação interdisciplinar e o planejamento cirúrgico detalhado constituem um pilar para o bom resultado de um procedimento tão complexo e delicado.

ABSTRACT The purpose of this report is to describe the case of a patient who underwent awake craniotomy for neurosurgical resection of a glioma and pre, intra and postoperative linguistic assessment. Male patient, 27 years old, incomplete higher education presenting vomiting, mental confusion and tonic-clonic seizures. After the evaluation of the patient by the team and due preoperative guidance, the proposal of excision of the lesion while awake was clarified and accepted. At the start of the procedure, the fields were adjusted to keep the airway and eyes accessible for mapping with electrical stimulation and intraoperative language assessment. Due to the location of the tumor close to the speech motor area, tasks were proposed for the assessment of language in four moments: preoperative, intraoperative, immediate postoperative and mediate postoperative. The language skills tested in the four assessments were: comprehension and expression of oral language, linguistic transposition, associative language, naming, visual discrimination, fluency and syntax organization. In order to control and eliminate the learning effect of testing, the same tasks were requested, but with different contents for testing skills in the four phases. Surgery with the patient awake allowed the complete and safe resection of the tumor, without motor or linguistic damage to the patient. Team engagement, interdisciplinary interaction and detailed surgical planning constitute the pillar for the good result of such a complex and delicate procedure

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.

Platelet-concentrated and platelet poor-plasma promote different pattern on immunohistochemical expression of TGF-β1, however they impairs the osteoneogensis in calvarial defects treated with autograft due suppression of osteocalcin

ABSTRACT Purpose Herein we evaluated the effects of platelet concentrate (PC) and platelet-poor plasma (PPP) on bone repair using noncritical defects in the calvaria of rabbits and compared them to the presence of TGF-β1 and osteocalcin on reparative sites. Methods Five noncritical defects of 8.7 mm in diameter were created on the calvaria of 15 animals. Each defect was treated differently, using autograft (ABG), ABG associated with PC (ABG + PC), ABG with PPP (ABG + PPP), isolated PPP, and blood clot (control). The animals were submitted to euthanasia on the second, fourth and sixth week post-surgery. Results The defects that received ABG+PC or PPP demonstrated lower bone formation when compared to specimens that received ABG in the same period. These results coincided to significant higher immunopositivity for TGF-β1 for specimens that received PC, and lower presence of cytokine in the group PPP. However, either higher or lower presence of TGF-β1 were also correlated to lower presence of osteocalcin. Likewise, these results were similar to findings in specimens treated only with PPP when compared to control. Conclusions PC and PPP were not effective when applied in association with ABG. Similarly, isolated use of PPP was not beneficial in optimizing the bone repair.

Effect of rhBMP-2 applied with a 3D-printed titanium implant on new bone formation in rabbit calvarium

Abstract Objective This study sought to compare the biocompatibility of a three-dimensional (3D)-printed titanium implant with a conventional machined titanium product, as well as the effect of such implant applied with recombinant human Bone Morphogenetic Protein Type 2 (rhBMP-2) for guided bone regeneration. Methodology Disk-shaped titanium specimens fabricated either by the conventional machining technique or by the 3D-printing technique were compared by MC3T3-E1 cells cytotoxicity assay. New bone formation was evaluated using a rapid prototype titanium cap applied to the calvaria of 10 rabbits, which were divided into two groups: one including an atelopeptide collagen plug on one side of the cap (group I) and the other including a plug with rhBMP-2 on the other side (group II). At six and 12 weeks after euthanasia, rabbits calvaria underwent morphometric analysis through radiological and histological examination. Results Through the cytotoxicity assay, we identified a significantly higher number of MC3T3-E1 cells in the 3D-printed specimen when compared to the machined specimen after 48 hours of culture. Moreover, morphometric analysis indicated significantly greater bone formation at week 12 on the side where rhBMP-2 was applied when evaluating the upper portion immediately below the cap. Conclusion The results suggest that 3D-printed titanium implant applied with rhBMP-2 enables new bone formation.

Simulation method of skull remodellingsurgeryfor infant with craniosynostosis / 生物医学工程学杂志

Craniofacial malformation caused by premature fusion of cranial suture of infants has a serious impact on their growth. The purpose of skull remodeling surgery for infants with craniosynostosis is to expand the skull and allow the brain to grow properly. There are no standardized treatments for skull remodeling surgery at the present, and the postoperative effect can be hardly assessed reasonably. Children with sagittal craniosynostosis were selected as the research objects. By analyzing the morphological characteristics of the patients, the point cloud registration of the skull distortion region with the ideal skull model was performed, and a plan of skull cutting and remodeling surgery was generated. A finite element model of the infant skull was used to predict the growth trend after remodeling surgery. Finally, an experimental study of surgery simulation was carried out with a child with a typical sagittal craniosynostosis. The evaluation results showed that the repositioning and stitching of bone plates effectively improved the morphology of the abnormal parts of the skull and had a normal growth trend. The child's preoperative cephalic index was 65.31%, and became 71.50% after 9 months' growth simulation. The simulation of the skull remodeling provides a reference for surgical plan design. The skull remodeling approach significantly improves postoperative effect, and it could be extended to the generation of cutting and remodeling plans and postoperative evaluations for treatment on other types of craniosynostosis.

Craneosinostosis, una perspectiva pediátrica / Craniosynostosis, a pediatric perspective

La craneosinostosis se define como el cierre prematuro de una o más suturas del cráneo, que se manifiesta por una forma anormal de la cabeza. Es una condición infrecuente, pero requiere ser reconocida y derivada oportunamente a Neurocirugía para prevenir complicaciones. El objetivo de esta revisión es describir las características clínicas y genéticas más frecuentes de esta patología, su clasificación de acuerdo a la forma del cráneo y los signos más característicos para lograr reconocerla oportunamente. Se realizó una búsqueda de artículos científicos en bases de datos Pubmed, Scielo y EMBASE con las palabras craneosinostosis, plagio, escafo y braquicefalia. Se seleccionaron artículos en español e inglés que describieran las características de la patología y su manejo, optando por revisiones sistemáticas o recomendaciones de sociedades científicas cuando estuvieran disponibles. La craneosinostosis puede presentarse en forma aislada o asociada a otras deformidades. Su clasifi cación depende de la(s) sutura(s) afectada(s), lo que lleva a la forma característica del cráneo y de la presencia de otras malformaciones. Suele diagnosticarse y derivarse de forma tardía, lo que se asocia a complicaciones como hipertensión endocraneana y alteración del desarrollo encefálico. La cirugía precoz tiene menor comorbilidad y mejores resultados estético. En conclusión, la forma anormal del cráneo debe hacer sospechar la presencia de craneosinostosis, aunque se presente en forma aislada. El manejo quirúrgico antes del año de vida se asocia a mejor pronóstico.

Craniosynostosis is defined as the premature fusion of one or more skull sutures, characterized by an abnormal shape of the head. It is a rare condition but should be recognized and timely referred to Neurosurgery in order to prevent complications. The objective of this review is to describe the most frequent clinical and genetic characteristics of this pathology, its classification according to the shape of the skull, and the most characteristic signs to achieve timely recognition. A search for scientific articles in Pubmed, Scielo, and EMBASE databases was performed using the terms craniosynostosis, plagiocephaly, scaphocephaly, and brachycephaly. We selected articles in Spanish and English that described the characteristics of the pathology and about its management, choosing systematic reviews or recommendations from scientific societies when available. Craniosynostosis may occur in isola tion or associated with other deformities. Its classification depends on the affected suture(s), leading to the characteristic shape of the skull and the presence of other malformations. This condition is usually diagnosed and referred late, which is associated with complications such as intracranial hy pertension and impaired brain development. Early surgery has less comorbidity and better esthetic results. In conclusion, the abnormal shape of the skull must raise the suspicion of craniosynostosis, even if it occurs in isolation. Surgical management before one year of life is associated with a better prognosis.

5-aminolevulinic Acid and Surgical Margin Analysis in Calvarial Metastasis with Pericranium or Dural Extension: Technical Note

Metastasis to the calvarium with direct pericranium or dural infiltration may be treated with radical surgical removal in selected cases. We describe microsurgical resection of calvarial metastases with fluorescence-guided technique using 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) in two female patients with breast cancer. Fluorescence findings were positive in both cases. Margins in the scalp and dural layer were 5-ALA negative at the end of surgical removal. Intraoperative pathology was performed in all cases to confirm if oncological limits were free of disease. One case was 5-ALA positive in the outer layer of the dura-mater and another in the pericranium. At the end of the removal in both cases, the surgicalmargins were 5-ALA fluorescence-free. Intraoperative pathology confirmed oncological limits of the resection. 5-aminolevulinic acid fluorescence-guided surgery for calvarial metastases with pericranium and/or dural extension seems to be a safe and reliable method to aid the surgical margins for complete removal, possibly delaying or avoiding adjuvant irradiation for progression control.

Research Progress and Prospect of Facial Reconstruction in Forensic Science / 法医学杂志

Facial reconstruction is a way to recover facial morphology by restoring soft tissues based on unidentified skulls using the knowledge of anatomy, anthropology, aesthetics, and computer science. It is applied in forensic science, oral plastic surgery and archeology, and especially plays an important role in the identification of the origin of the unknown corpses in forensic science. Facial reconstruction is the supplementary means of identification when other approaches （such as DNA comparison, imaging matching, dental records comparison, etc.） cannot identify individual identity. Facial soft tissue thickness （FSTT） is the basis of facial reconstruction and with the development of imaging and computer science, the techniques for measuring FSTT are improving rapidly and many related researches have appeared. This paper summarizes the application of facial reconstruction in forensic science, the accuracy of different methods and the research progress of this field to provide reference to this field.

Local effect of simvastatin combined with different osteoconductive biomaterials and collagen sponge on new bone formation in critical defects in rat calvaria

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the local effect of simvastatin (SVT) combined with deproteinized bovine bone (DBB) with hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate biphasic ceramics (HA/TCP) and with collagen sponge (CS) on bone repair in critical size defects (CSDs) in rat calvaria. Methods Forty-two 5-mm diameter CSDs were made bilaterally in the calvaria of 18 rats. The animals were allocated according to the type of biomaterial and associations used to fill the CSD. After 8 weeks, the animals were euthanized, and their calvaria were evaluated for repaired tissue composition using histologic and histometric analyses. Results In the histometric analysis, the use of SVT showed to increase bone formation in the CSDs when combined with all the bone substitutes tested in this study (p<0.05). Greater bone formation was observed in the groups with SVT compared to the groups without SVT. Conclusions The use of SVT without the need for a vehicle and combined with a commercially available biomaterial may be a cheaper way to potentiate the formation of bone tissue without the need to produce new biomaterials. Therefore, SVT combined with DBB induced significantly greater new bone formation than did the other treatments.

Short-term use of resveratrol in alloplastic graft material applied with calvarial bone defects in rats

Abstract Purpose: The effects of resveratrol administration on calvarial bone defects with alloplastic graft material was investigated for osteoinductive reaction and bone development in rats. Methods: Healthy male rats were randomly divided into 3 groups consisting of 10 rats. Groups were as follows: control (defect) group, defect + graft group, and defect + graft + resveratrol group. A calvarial bone defect was created in all groups, alloplastic bone grafts were applied to the defect in the 2nd and 3rd group, resveratrol (5 mg/kg/day) was added to the drinking water of the animals following graft application for 28 days in the 3rd group. Results: Increase in osteoclasts and necrotic changes were observed histopathologically in the control group. In the 2nd group, reduction of inflammation, congestion of blood vessels, increased osteblastic activity, osteoinductive effect, progression of osteocyte development and increased collagen fibers in connective tissue were observed. In the 3rd group, osteoblasts seemed to secrete bone matrix and accelerate osteoinductive effect with increased osteopregenitor activity and positive osteopontin and osteonectin expressions. Conclusion: Resveratrol treatment was thought to be an alternative and supportive drug for implant application by inducing new bone formation in the calvaral defect region as a result of short-term treatment.

Ganoderma lucidum, a promising agent possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects for treating calvarial defects with graft application in rats

Abstract Purpose: Ganoderma lucidum, a kind of mushroom used for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities, was investigated in the present study for its possible healing effect on calvarial defects with bone grafts. Methods: Wistar male rats (n = 30) were divided into 3 groups: 1) the control (defect) group (n = 10), 2) defect and graft group (n = 10), and 3) defect, graft, and G. lucidum treated group (n = 10). The G. lucidum was administered to the rats at 20 mL/kg per day via gastric lavage. Results: In the defect and graft group, osteonectin positive expression was observed in osteoblast and osteocyte cells at the periphery of the small bone trabeculae within the graft area. In the defect, graft, and G. lucidum treated group, osteonectin expression was positive in the osteoblast and osteocyte cells and positive osteonectin expression in new bone trabeculae. The expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) was positive in the inflammatory cells, fibroblast cells, and degenerated collagen fibril areas within the defect area. Conclusion: This study shows that, with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, G. Lucidum is an important factor in the treatment of calvarial bone defects.

Effect of local application of alendronate and parathyroid hormone on craniofacial bone repair - a preliminary study

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two methods of local application of alendronate and parathyroid hormone (PTH) on bone repair and the systemic implications. A critically sized defect (5 mm) was created in the cranial region of twenty-five male Wistar rats, and the bone removed was particulated, and grafted back to the defect with different treatments. The animals were randomly divided into five groups: A1- bone graft immersion in alendronate solution (3 mg/kg) for 5 minutes; P1- bone graft immersion in PTH solution (20 µg); A2- weekly local applications of alendronate 1 mg/kg; P2- weekly local applications of PTH (20 µg); C- no drugs were used. The animals were euthanized 60 days after surgery. Cranial bone blocks were removed for histological, histomorphometric, and immunohistochemical analyses. MMP-2 and MMP-9 were used for immunolabeling. The kidneys, liver, and brain were also removed from all the rats for histological analysis. The data were submitted for statistical analysis with a level of significance of 0.05 (One-way ANOVA). The group C and group P2 presented a higher quantity of viable bone particles than the remaining groups. Groups A1, A2, and P1 presented with fewer viable bone particles than the control group, with a predominance of non-mineralized connective tissue. The histomorphometric analysis revealed no differences in relative bone area or MMP-2 or MMP-9 immunolabeling between the groups (p>0.05). Group A2 showed presence of fat in the liver consistent with hepatic steatosis. Changes in brain tissue were observed in groups A1 and P1.

Resumo Este estudo visou avaliar o efeito de dois métodos de aplicação local de alendronato e de paratormônio (PTH) no reparo ósseo e avaliar as implicações sistêmicas. Um defeito de tamanho crítico (5 mm) foi criado na calota craniana de vinte e cinco ratos Wistar machos, e o osso removido foi particulado e enxertado de volta no defeito com diferentes tratamentos. Os animais foram divididos aleatoriamente em cinco grupos: A1: imersão do enxerto ósseo em solução de alendronato (3 mg/kg) durante 5 min; P1- imersão do osso em solução de PTH (20 μg); A2- aplicações locais semanais de alendronato 1 mg/kg; P2- aplicações locais semanais de PTH 20 μg; C: não foram utilizados medicamentos. Os animais foram eutanasiados 60 dias após a cirurgia. Foram removidos os blocos ósseos envolvendo a região do defeito para realização das análises histológica, histomorfométrica e imuno-histoquímica. MMP2 e MMP9 foram as imunomarcações utilizadas. Os rins, fígado e cérebro também foram removidos de todos os ratos para análise histológica. Os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística com um nível de significância de 0,05 (One-way ANOVA). A análise histológica revelou que o grupo C e o grupo P2 apresentaram maior quantidade de partículas ósseas viáveis do que as apresentadas pelos demais grupos. Os grupos A1, A2 e P1 apresentaram menos partículas ósseas viáveis em comparação com o grupo controle com predominância de tecido conjuntivo não mineralizado. A análise histomorfométrica não revelou diferenças entres os grupos na área óssea relativa ou em MMP2 e MMP9 (p>0,05). O grupo A2 mostrou presença de gordura no fígado consistente com esteatose hepática. Alterações no tecido cerebral foram observadas nos grupos A1 e P1.

Deformidades craneales sinostósicas y no sinostósicas / Synostosic and non-synostosic cranial deformities

Las alteraciones de la forma del cráneo han aumentado en las últimas décadas a expensas de las plagiocefalias, como consecuencia de las recomendaciones de la Academia Americana de Pediatría de dormir al lactante en decúbito supino. El clínico debe diferenciar entre plagiocefalia posicional y craneosinostosis, ya que la conducta terapéutica será potencialmente neuroquirúrgica de comprobar una sinostosis craneal. Si bien la tomografía de cráneo tridimensional con ventana ósea es el estudio de mayor sensibilidad y especificidad diagnóstica, la mayoría de los casos pueden confirmarse por la clínica, reservando la radiografía simple o de preferencia la ecografía con enfoque de suturas para casos dudosos. Las craneosinostosis deben derivarse tempranamente a un equipo craneofacial para definir la indicación, oportunidad y técnica quirúrgica más adecuada para evitar futuras complicaciones neurocognitivos y psicosociales. Los niños con plagiocefalias posicionales, independientemente del tratamiento de la deformidad craneal, pueden tener más riesgo de retraso del desarrollo motor. Para su corrección se sugiere reposicionamiento y fisioterapia en formas leves a moderadas, reservando el uso de ortésis craneal en formas graves.

In the last decades alterations in the skull shape have increased at the expense of plagiocephaly, as consequence of the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations to sleep the infant in the supine position. The clinician must differentiate between positional plagiocephaly and craniosynostosis, since if a cranial synostosis is proven, the therapeutic behavior will be potentially neurosurgical. Although three-dimensional skull tomography with bone window is the study of greater sensitivity and diagnostic specificity, the majority of cases can be confirmed by the clinic, reserving the radiography or ultrasound with a suture approach for doubtful cases. Craniosynostosis must be early referral to a craniofacial team to define the indication, opportunity and most appropriate surgical technique, in order to avoid future neurocognitive and psychosocial complications. Children with positional plagiocephaly regardless of the treatment of cranial deformity may have a higher risk of motor development delay. For correction, repositioning and physiotherapy are suggested in mild to moderate forms, reserving the use of cranial orthesis in severe forms.

Presentation of the trepanned skull labelled MO-90, found in the Avar cemetery on the territory of settlements Ómoravica-Kopláló in Serbia / Presentación de cráneo trepanado etiquetado MO-90, encontrado en el cementerio de Avar en territorio de los asentamientos Ómoravica-Kopláló en Serbia

SUMMARY: The most prominent issues in paleopathology concerning skull lesions are skull trepanation and artificial deformation of the skull. From the very beginnings of this scientific field, these two groups of alterations have been the focus of interest. Since the second half of the 19th century, countless pathologists, surgeons and ethnologist have dealt with this issue. The interest is still great. Nevertheless, numerous questions regarding skull trepanation and artificial deformation are yet to be answered. The first trepanned skull finds were discovered in France and Hungary. The finds in Hungary are interesting because a large number of trepanned skulls were found in a relatively small area. On the skull remains found in the grave discovered in the Òmoravica-Koplaló cemetery and labelled MO-90, left of the Sutura sagittalis there is a hole about 1cm in diameter. There are no pathological lesions along the edge or around the hole.

RESUMEN: Los temas más destacados en la paleopatología con respecto a las lesiones del cráneo son la trepanación y la deformación artificial éste. Desde los comienzos en esta área científica, estos dos grupos de alteraciones han sido el foco de interés. Desde la segunda mitad del siglo XIX, un número importante de patólogos, cirujanos y etnologistas se han enfocado e interesado en este tema. Sin embargo, aún existen preguntas y numerosas dudas sobre la trepanación del cráneo y la deformación artificial. Los primeros hallazgos de cráneos trepanados se descubrieron en Francia y Hungría. Los hallazgos en Hungría son interesantes debido a que es un área relativamente pequeña, pero fueron encontrados una gran cantidad de cráneos trepanados. En los restos de cráneos encontrados en la tumba del cementerio Òmoravica-Koplaló y etiquetados como MO-90, a la izquierda de la sutura sagital se observó un foramen de aproximadamente 1 cm de diámetro. No hay lesiones patológicas a lo largo del margen, tampoco alrededor del foramen.

Complications with PMMA compared with other materials used in cranioplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) has been considered a suitable material for cranioplasty. However, no consensus has been reached concerning the best material for cranioplasty with regard to minimizing complications. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the complication rates of PMMA with those of autologous bone and titanium mesh. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42016042725). Systematic searches were conducted on PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. The focus question was, "Do PMMA prostheses used in cranioplasty have complications rates similar to those of autologous bone and titanium mesh?" A meta-analysis of complication rates was performed on the basis of dichotomous outcomes assessed by risk ratio (RR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). From 1014 data sources, 11 articles were selected according to eligibility criteria. These articles involved 1,256 individuals and 1,278 cranioplasties using autologous bone (n = 408), PMMA (n = 379), or titanium (n = 151). The follow-up period ranged from 63 days to 54.3 months. No difference was observed between the complication rates of PMMA and autologous bone (p = 0.94; RR, 0.98; 95%CI, 0.54-1.75) or between PMMA and titanium (p = 0.38; RR, 1.59; 95%CI, 0.57-4.48). Sub-analysis of the reasons for craniotomy (trauma/non-trauma) was conducted, which revealed no significant difference (p = 0.91; RR, 0.95; 95%CI, 0.37-2.42). The meta-analysis indicated that the use of PMMA yields complication rates that are near those of autologous bone and titanium mesh.

Evaluation of photobiomodulation therapy associated with guided bone regeneration in critical size defects. In vivo study

Abstract The repair of bone defects raises the interest of investigators in several health specialties. Grafting techniques with bone substitutes and laser therapies have been investigated to replace autogenous bone and accelerate the bone healing process. Objective To evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) associated with guided bone regeneration (GBR) in critical size defects. Material and Methods The study was conducted on 80 male rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus, Wistar) submitted to surgical creation of a critical size defect on the calvaria, divided into eight study groups: group C (control - only blood clot); group M (collagen membrane); group PBMT (photobiomodulation therapy); group AB (autogenous bone); group AB+PBMT; group AB+M; group PBMT+M; group AB+PBMT+M. The animals were killed 30 days postoperatively. After tissue processing, bone regeneration was evaluated by histomorphometric analysis and statistical analyses were performed (Tukey test, p<0.05). Results All groups had greater area of newly formed bone compared to group C (9.96±4.49%). The group PBMT+M (achieved the greater quantity of new bone (64.09±7.62%), followed by groups PBMT (47.67±8.66%), M (47.43±15.73%), AB+PBMT (39.15±16.72%) and AB+PBMT+M (35.82±7.68%). After group C, the groups AB (25.10±16.59%) and AB+M (22.72±13.83%) had the smallest quantities of newly formed bone. The area of remaining particles did not have statistically significant difference between groups AB+M (14.93±8.92%) and AB+PBMT+M (14.76±6.58%). Conclusion The PBMT utilization may be effective for bone repair, when associated with bone regeneration techniques.

Customized acrylic implants for reconstruction of extensive skull defects: an exception approach for selected patients / Implantes de acrílico customizados para a reconstrução de defeitos extensos da calota craniana: uma abordagem de exceção para pacientes selecionados

ABSTRACT Objective: to present our experience in the surgical treatment of extensive skullcap defects with customized acrylic implants. Methods: we conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with extensive skull defects undergoing acrylic cranioplasties between 2004 and 2013. We carefully selected all patients and classified surgical results based on three scales (craniofacial esthetics, improvement of facial symmetry and need for additional surgery). Results: fifteen patients underwent cranioplasty with intraoperative acrylic implants, whether manually customized (46.67%) or made with prototyped three-dimensional biomodels (53.33%). There were two (13.33%) complications (one infection with implant withdrawal and one seroma). We considered the craniofacial aesthetics excellent (50%), the degree of improvement of craniofacial symmetry satisfactory (57.14%), and the overall mean of surgical results according to the need for new surgeries was 1.5±0.52. Conclusion: cranioplasties of patients with extensive skullcap defects should obey careful and predetermined criteria, both for selection and for the acrylic implant customization method.

RESUMO Objetivo: apresentar nossa experiência no tratamento cirúrgico dos defeitos extensos da calota craniana com implantes de acrílico customizados. Métodos: análise retrospectiva de pacientes com defeitos extensos da calota craniana submetidos à cranioplastias com acrílico entre 2004 e 2013. Todos os pacientes foram criteriosamente selecionados e os resultados cirúrgicos foram classificados com base em três escalas (estética craniofacial, melhora da simetria facial e necessidade de cirurgia adicional). Resultados: Quinze pacientes foram submetidos à cranioplastia com implantes de acrílico customizados manualmente no intraoperatório (46,67%) e confeccionados com base em biomodelos tridimensionais prototipados (53,33%). Mesmo respeitando critérios de seleção, houve duas (13,33%) complicações (infecção com retirada do implante e seroma). A estética craniofacial foi considerada excelente (50%), o grau de melhora da simetria craniofacial foi considerado satisfatório (57,14%) e a média global dos resultados cirúrgicos de acordo com a necessidade de novas cirurgias foi 1,5±0,52. Conclusão: as cranioplastias dos pacientes com defeitos da calota craniana extensos devem ser criteriosamente indicadas, obedecendo a critérios pré-determinados de seleção dos pacientes, bem como, do método de customização do implante de acrílico.

Reconstrução de calota craniana com prótese customizada de PMMA após craniectomias descompressivas / Skull reconstruction with PMMA customized prostheses after decompressive craniectomies

Introdução: A craniectomia descompressiva é uma cirurgia indicada no tratamento da hipertensão intracraniana em situações graves de traumas cranioencefálicos. Esta cirurgia confere uma aparência bizarra ao paciente, como se "parte da cabeça" houvesse sido retirada. Após a regressão do edema cerebral e quando o paciente reunir boas condições clínicas, a reconstrução craniana está indicada. A reconstrução da calota craniana poderá ser realizada com osso autólogo ou com materiais aloplásticos. Este estudo objetiva apresentar a experiência do autor com reconstruções de calota craniana utilizando próteses customizadas de PMMA. Métodos: Foram selecionados 14 pacientes submetidos à craniectomia descompressiva que, após serem liberados clinicamente pela Neurocirurgia, realizaram a reconstrução da calota craniana com próteses de PMMA customizadas por prototipagem entre os anos de 2014 e 2015 e com, no mínimo, 6 meses de pós-operatório. Sinais e sintomas de síndrome do Trefinado, tomografia computadorizada e aparência estética dos pacientes foram analisadas no pré e no 6º mês pós-operatório. Resultados: Todos os pacientes apresentaram melhora sintomatológica, melhora estética e expansão cerebral após a cirurgia. Conclusão: A reconstrução da calota craniana com prótese customizada de PMMA promoveu a melhora dos sinais e sintomas e da aparência estética de todos os 14 pacientes operados. A utilização de protótipos para customizar próteses cranianas facilitou a técnica operatória e possibilitou a recuperação de um contorno craniano muito próximo da normalidade.

Introduction: Decompressive craniectomy is indicated for the treatment of intracranial hypertension in cases of serious traumatic brain injury. This surgery results in a bizarre appearance, as if "part of the head" had been. After regression of cerebral edema and when the patient is in good clinical condition, the reconstruction of the skull is indicated. Reconstruction of the skull can be performed with autologous bone or with alloplastic materials. This study sought to present the experience of the author with skull reconstructions using custom PMMA prostheses. Methods: In between 2014 and 2015, fourteen patients with previous (longer than 6 months) decompressive craniectomies were selected after Neurosurgery medical clearance and underwent skull reconstruction with customized PMMA prototyped prostheses. Signs and symptoms of syndrome of the trephined, computed tomography, and aesthetic appearance of the patients were analyzed preoperatively and at 6 months after reconstruction. Results: All patients presented with improved symptomatology, aesthetic improvement and expansion of the brain after surgery. Conclusion: Reconstruction of the skull with customized prototyped PMMA prostheses improved the signs and symptoms and the aesthetic appearance in all 14 patients of this series. The use of prototypes to customize cranial prostheses facilitates the operative technique and enables patients to develop a nearly normal cranial contour.

Is the combination of fat grafts and platelet rich plasma effective in rats?

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To investigate if the association of fat grafts and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) improves graft viability in female rats. METHODS: This is an experimental, randomized and blinded study, which involved 47 rats. Fat was harvested from the inguinal region and grafted to the cranial region. The experimental group consisted of PRP-enriched fat grafts (n=22) whilst the control group consisted of fat graft only (n=25). After a 100-day period, the animals were euthanised and the fat grafts were analyzed using scores from 0 (absent) to 4 (abundant), in optical microscopy by two independent and blinded pathologists. RESULTS: Regarding fat graft cell viability, the PRP group scored moderate/abundant in 63% of cases and the fat graft only group scored absent/slight in 72% of cases (p=0.03). The PRP group also presented lower fat necrosis scores when compared to the fat graft only group (p=0.03). Tumors (dermoid cysts) within the fat grafts were observed in three animals in which the grafts were mixed with PRP. CONCLUSION: Platelet-rich plasma improves the viability and integration of fat grafts in rats, but more studies are needed to fully understand the exact mechanisms that lead to this improvement and assess the safety of the method for use in humans.

Effects of a buried magnetic field on cranial bone reconstruction in rats

ABSTRACT The understanding of bone repair phenomena is a fundamental part of dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. Objective The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of buried magnetic field stimulation on bone repair in rat calvaria after reconstruction with autogenous bone grafts, synthetic powdered hydroxyapatite, or allogeneic cartilage grafts, with or without exposure to magnetic stimulation. Material and Methods Ninety male Wistar rats were divided into 18 groups of five animals each. Critical bone defects were created in the rats’ calvaria and immediately reconstructed with autogenous bone, powdered synthetic hydroxyapatite or allogeneic cartilage. Magnetic implants were also placed in half the animals. Rats were euthanized for analysis at 15, 30, and 60 postoperative days. Histomorphometric analyses of the quantity of bone repair were performed at all times. Results These analyses showed significant group by postoperative time interactions (p=0.008). Among the rats subjected to autogenous bone reconstruction, those exposed to magnetic stimulation had higher bone fill percentages than those without magnetic implants. Results also showed that the quality of bone repair remained higher in the former group as compared to the latter at 60 postoperative days. Conclusions After 60 postoperative days, bone repair was greater in the group treated with autogenous bone grafts and exposed to a magnetic field, and bone repair was most pronounced in animals treated with autogenous bone grafts, followed by those treated with powdered synthetic hydroxyapatite and allogeneic cartilage grafts.