Acellular dermal matrix and bone cement sandwich technique for chest wall reconstruction

The authors performed rigid reconstruction using the sandwich technique for full-thickness chest wall defects by using two layers of acellular dermal matrix and bone cement. We assessed six patients who underwent chest wall reconstruction. Reconstruction was performed by sandwiching bone cement between two layers of acellular dermal matrix. In all patients, there was no defect of the overlying soft tissue, and primary closure was performed for external wounds. The average follow-up period was 4 years (range, 2–8 years). No major complications were noted. The sandwich technique can serve as an efficient and safe option for chest wall reconstruction.

Efficacy of breast augmentation using an external breast tissue expander for a shorter period while applying higher pressure: a preliminary study

Background@#Various types of external breast tissue expanders have been found to be effective for aesthetic breast augmentation. However, their use has been limited when compared with implant-based breast augmentation due to the burdensome nature of their application. This article reports the possibility that external breast tissue expanders may be applied safely and effectively with higher pressure and shorter application time. @*Methods@#The participants comprised patients who desired breast augmentation using the EVERA-RAPHA device between January 2020 and March 2020. A double-blinded prospective study was conducted on two groups of eight patients each, with either 60 mmHg or 100 mmHg of pressure applied. Standardized photographs were taken and blinded measurements of volume and circumference were made. The Mann-Whitney and paired t-tests were conducted. @*Results@#Sixteen patients were evaluated after 1 month of treatment. The women in groups 1 and 2 (60 mmHg and 100 mmHg, respectively) used EVERA-RAPHA for 15.400± 0.704 and 15.300±0.477 minutes per day, respectively. The mean volume increases in groups 1 and 2 were 39.000±42.526 cc and 27.700±20.260 cc, respectively. No patients dropped out of the study. All patients reported that the device was tolerable. Mild bruising was found in 62.5% of the patients in group 2. @*Conclusions@#Breast augmentation using external tissue expanders can be a safe, effective, and practical option. Pressures of 60 mmHg or 100 mmHg can be safely applied for a shorter duration. Larger studies are needed to further confirm our findings.

Synergistic Effect of Whitlockite Scaffolds Combined with Alendronate to Promote Bone Regeneration

BACKGROUND@#Due to the increasing aging of society, the number of patients suffering from senile diseases is increasing. Patients suffering from osteoporosis, which is a representative senile disease, take a long time to recover from fractures, and the resulting mortality rate is very high. Alendronate (Ald), which is widely used as a treatment for osteoporosis, alleviates osteoporosis by inhibiting osteoclasts. In addition, whitlockite (WH) promotes the osteogenic differentiation of bone cells and improves bone regeneration. Therefore, we intended to bring about a synergistic effect by using these substances together. @*METHODS@#In this study, a scaffold composed of gelatin/heparin was fabricated and applied to effectively use WH and Ald together. A scaffold was constructed using gelatin and heparin was used to effectively utilize the cations released from WH. In addition, it formed a porous structure for effective bone regeneration. In vitro and in vivo osteoclast inhibition, osteogenic differentiation, and bone regeneration were studied using the prepared scaffolds. @*RESULTS@#The inhibition of osteoclast was much higher when WH and Ald were applied in combination rather than individually. The highest level of osteogenic differentiation was observed when both substances were applied simultaneously. In addition, when applied to bone regeneration through the mouse calvarial defect model, combined treatment showed excellent bone regeneration. @*CONCLUSION@#Therefore, this study showed the synergistic effect of WH and Ald, and it is suggested that better bone regeneration is possible by applying this treatment to bones with fractures that are difficult to regenerate.

Successful umbilicus salvage following concurrent infraumbilical single-port myomectomy and free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap elevation: a case report

Performing a concurrent gynecologic operation and mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction using a free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap may increase the risk of complications such as umbilical necrosis due to vascular compromise. Imaging studies such as preoperative computed tomography angiography and intraoperative indocyanine green testing can provide information regarding the umbilical blood supply, facilitating decision-making for pedicle selection. Therefore, in situations where a coordinated operation is unavoidable, a thorough preoperative and intraoperative evaluation of the umbilical blood supply is recommended to avoid complications.

Efficacy of hyaluronic acid film on perianal wound healing in a rat model

Purpose@#Postoperative pain and delayed wound healing are the main complications following anal surgery associated with poor quality of life. Hyaluronic acid (HA) supports tissue regeneration and rapid wound healing by promoting cell proliferation and migration. We investigated the effects of HA on perianal wound healing in a rat model. @*Methods@#Forty-eight 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats with perianal wounds created by biopsy punch were divided into 3 groups: simple dressing with gauze (control), dressing with topical HA film, and dressing with topical HA gel. HA agents were not reapplied postoperatively. Wound healing was evaluated by measuring the healed area, and histological analyses were randomly performed using hematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome staining. @*Results@#Fewer mean days were required for complete wound healing in the HA film and HA gel groups than in the control group (11.6 vs. 11.9 vs. 13.8 days, respectively; P = 0.010). The healed area in the HA film group on day 11 was larger than that in the HA gel and control groups (80.2% vs. 61.9% vs. 53.2%, respectively; P < 0.001). Histologically, the HA film group showed accelerated reepithelialization, a rapid transition to lymphocyte-predominant inflammation, and increased fibroblastic proliferation and collagen deposition compared to the other groups. There was no treatment-related toxicity in the HA application groups. @*Conclusion@#Topical application of HA film to perianal wounds improves the wound healing rate in a rat model. This finding suggests a potential benefit of HA film application in promoting wound healing after anal surgery in humans.

Effects of low-level laser therapy and adipose-derived stem cells on the viability of autologous fat grafts: a preliminary study

Background@#Autologous fat grafts are commonly used in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and various methods are used to improve their viability. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) can enhance the proliferation, growth, and differentiation of various cell lines, including stem cells. Our study investigated and compared the effects of LLLT and the addition of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) on the viability of fat grafts. @*Methods@#Twenty nude mice were divided into four groups: control (group 1), LLLT irradiation (group 2), ADSC addition (group 3), and LLLT irradiation+ADSC addition (group 4). ADSCs were combined with the fat tissue. LLLT irradiation was performed once daily for 1 week from the day of grafting. After 8 weeks, the weight, volume, histology, and Western blot findings of the grafted fat tissues were evaluated. @*Results@#The retention rate and volume of the fat tissue in groups 2, 3, and 4 were higher than that of group 1, but the difference was not statistically significant. The number of capillaries, histological parameters, and immunofluorescence staining analyses for CD68, CD31, fibroblast growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) showed no significant differences among the four groups. The expression level of VEGF was higher in group 2 than in the other groups, but not to a statistically significant level. @*Conclusions@#LLLT and ADSCs did not significantly improve the viability of autologous fat grafts. Therefore, further study is necessary to develop safe and effective methods to improve the viability of these grafts for clinical application.

Effects of low-level laser therapy and adipose-derived stem cells on the viability of autologous fat grafts: a preliminary study

Background@#Autologous fat grafts are commonly used in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and various methods are used to improve their viability. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) can enhance the proliferation, growth, and differentiation of various cell lines, including stem cells. Our study investigated and compared the effects of LLLT and the addition of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) on the viability of fat grafts. @*Methods@#Twenty nude mice were divided into four groups: control (group 1), LLLT irradiation (group 2), ADSC addition (group 3), and LLLT irradiation+ADSC addition (group 4). ADSCs were combined with the fat tissue. LLLT irradiation was performed once daily for 1 week from the day of grafting. After 8 weeks, the weight, volume, histology, and Western blot findings of the grafted fat tissues were evaluated. @*Results@#The retention rate and volume of the fat tissue in groups 2, 3, and 4 were higher than that of group 1, but the difference was not statistically significant. The number of capillaries, histological parameters, and immunofluorescence staining analyses for CD68, CD31, fibroblast growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) showed no significant differences among the four groups. The expression level of VEGF was higher in group 2 than in the other groups, but not to a statistically significant level. @*Conclusions@#LLLT and ADSCs did not significantly improve the viability of autologous fat grafts. Therefore, further study is necessary to develop safe and effective methods to improve the viability of these grafts for clinical application.

Pathogenesis and prevention of pressure ulcer

The number of pressure ulcer patients is increasing owing to the aging population and increased incidence of elderly illness. This review article aims to introduce the current knowledge on the pathogenesis and prevention of pressure ulcers. The development of a pressure ulcer is associated with external factors such as pressure, shear stress, and friction and internal factors such as age, general condition, skin condition, and nutritional status. Pressure ulcers typically develop over bone protrusions, which are most pressured by weight, but may also be caused by external pressure by medical devices or other objects applied to the patient. This tissue damage is caused by continuous deformation of the tissue due to the pressure acting perpendicular to the tissue surface and shear stress acting parallel to the tissue, either alone or in combination. Limitation of activity and mobility, skin condition, blood circulation and oxygen saturation, nutrition, humidity, body temperature, age, low pain sensitivity, blood count, and general and mental conditions are the primary risk factors for pressure ulcers. A mattress and cushion that reduce pressure and an appropriate posture are necessary to prevent pressure ulcers. In patients with urinary incontinence, contaminated skin should be washed with a mild detergent and absorbent pads and topical protective agents should be used to protect the skin from moisture. Sufficient nutrition may help prevent wounds in patients who are susceptible to pressure ulcers. Furthermore, early screening, individualized management of posture, and regular skin and nutrition monitoring are essential to prevent pressure ulcers.

BellaGel breast implant: 6-Year results of a prospective cohort study

Background@#This is the first clinical study conducted among Asian women using breast implants manufactured by an Asian company. Four-year data regarding the safety and efficacy of BellaGel breast implants have already been published, and we now report 6-year data. @*Methods@#This study was designed to take place over 10 years. It included 103 patients who underwent breast reconstruction or augmentation using BellaGel breast implants. The rates of implant rupture and capsular contracture were measured and analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of the breast implant. @*Results@#At patients’ 6-year postoperative visits, the implant rupture and capsular contracture rates were 1.15% and 2.30%, respectively. The implant rupture rate was 3.77% among reconstruction cases and 0% among augmentation cases. The capsular contracture rate was 5.66% among reconstruction cases and 0.83% among augmentation cases. @*Conclusions@#The 6-year data from this planned 10-year study suggest that the BellaGel cohesive silicone gel-filled breast implant is an effective and safe medical device that can be used in breast reconstruction and augmentation.

Finite element analysis of long-term changes of the breast after augmentation mammoplasty: Implications for implant design

The development of breast implant technology continues to evolve over time, but changes in breast shape after implantation have not been fully elucidated. Thus, we performed computerized finite element analysis in order to better understand the trajectory of changes and stress variation after breast implantation. The finite element analysis of changes in breast shape involved two components: a static analysis of the position where the implant is inserted, and a dynamic analysis of the downward pressure applied in the direction of gravity during physical activity. Through this finite element analysis, in terms of extrinsic changes, it was found that the dimensions of the breast implant and the position of the top-point did not directly correspond to the trajectory of changes in the breast after implantation. In addition, in terms of internal changes, static and dynamic analysis showed that implants with a lower top-point led to an increased amount of stress applied to the lower thorax. The maximum stress values were 1.6 to 2 times larger in the dynamic analysis than in the static analysis. This finding has important implications for plastic surgeons who are concerned with long-term changes or side effects, such as bottoming-out, after anatomic implant placement.

Prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers

Repeated or chronic pressure on the eminent part of the body will cause circulation disorder to the affected part of the body. The lack of circulation will result in damage and necrosis of the tissue. This phenomenon is defined as pressure sore. Due to growth of aging population and chronic disease, incidence and prevalence rate is in-creasing rapidly. This leads to increased duration of hospital stay, and medical expenditure. Hence, prevention of pressure sore and appropriate treatment is essential in order to diminish distress of the patient and health care provider. Prevention of pressure sore can be accomplished by frequent position change of the patient, skin care, and appropriate nutrition care. Frequent position change is known to be the most important and effective method to prevent pressure sore. Skin care can be achieved by choosing proper dressing material, management of exu-date, and protection of the tissue around the wound. In addition, appropriate nutrition care in order to correct protein-calorie imbalance should also be performed. Necrotic tissue can cause inflammation, and it can also be a good source of bacterial growth. Therefore, debridement of necrotic tissue is most fundamental and essential part in the treatment of pressure sore. Meanwhile, when the patient is not a candidate for surgical treatment due to poor general condition, many methods of dressing can be performed. Recently, dressing material with silver component, and vacuum assisted closure dressing is being performed frequently. In case of surgical treatment, after debridement of necrotic tissue, reconstruction can be performed by split-thickness skin grafting, full-thickness skin grafting, or primary closure. However, majority of reconstruction is performed by flap surgery. Rotation or advancement flap is usually performed.

A Multicenter Noncomparative Clinical Study on Midface Rejuvenation Using a Nonabsorbable Polypropylene Mesh: Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety

BACKGROUND: Facial rejuvenation can be achieved using a variety of techniques. Since minimally invasive procedures for face lifting have become popular because of their convenience and short operating time, numerous minimally invasive surgical procedures have been developed. In this study, a nonabsorbable polypropylene mesh is introduced as a new face lifting instrument, with the nasolabial fold as the main target area. In this paper, we report the efficacy and safety of a polypropylene mesh in midface rejuvenation. METHODS: Thirty-three subjects with moderate-to-severe nasolabial folds were enrolled from two medical institutions for a noncomparative single-sample study. A mesh was inserted above the superficial muscular aponeurotic system layer, reaching the nasolabial folds through a temporal scalp incision. After 3 weeks, the temporal end of the mesh was pulled to provide a lifting effect. Then, the mesh was fixed to the deep temporal fascia using nonabsorbable sutures. To evaluate efficacy, we compared the scores on the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale and a visual analog scale for patient satisfaction between the baseline and 7 weeks postoperatively. In addition, we evaluated safety based on the incidence of adverse events. RESULTS: The treatment was deemed effective at improving wrinkles in 23 of 28 cases, and patient satisfaction improved significantly during the study period. There were seven cases of skin or subcutaneous tissue complications, including edema and erythema, but there were no suspected serious adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: Face lifting using a nonabsorbable mesh can improve nasolabial folds without serious adverse effects. Thus, this technique is safe and effective for midface rejuvenation.

A Phase III, Randomized, Multi-Center, Double-Masked, Matched-Pairs, Active-Controlled Trial to Compare the Efficacy and Safety between Neuramis Deep and Restylane in the Correction of Nasolabial Folds

BACKGROUND: We conducted this clinical study to compare the efficacy and safety between Neuramis Deep and Restylane in the correction of nasolabial folds. METHODS: In this phase III, randomized, multi-center, double-masked, matched-pairs, active-controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01585220), we evaluated a total of 67 subjects (n=67). All the subjects underwent Neuramis Deep treatment on one side and Restylane on the contralateral side of the bilateral nasolabial folds at a ratio of 1:1. To compare the efficacy of Neuramis Deep and Restylane, we evaluated the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale scores and those of the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. In addition, we compared the safety of Neuramis Deep and Restylane based on adverse events, physical examination, and clinical laboratory tests. RESULTS: Neuramis Deep was not inferior in improving the nasolabial folds as compared with Restylane. In addition, there was no significant difference in the efficacy between Neuramis Deep and Restylane. There were no significant differences in safety parameters between Neuramis Deep and Restylane. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, our results indicate that Neuramis Deep may be a safe, effective material for improving the nasolabial folds. However, further studies are warranted to compare the tolerability of Neuramis Deep and Restylane based on histopathologic findings.

A Phase III, Randomized, Double-Blind, Matched-Pairs, Active-Controlled Clinical Trial and Preclinical Animal Study to Compare the Durability, Efficacy and Safety between Polynucleotide Filler and Hyaluronic Acid Filler in the Correction of Crow's Feet: A

The Rejuran(R) is a new filler product made from purified polynucleotides. Here we present data from an animal study and a clinical trial to examine the durability, efficacy and safety of the Rejuran(R) on crow's feet. For the animal study, 25 mice were divided into three groups: Group 1 received phosphate buffered saline (PBS); Group 2 were treated with Yvoire(R); and Group 3 were treated with Rejuran(R). The durability and efficacy of each treatment were assessed by microscopy and staining. In the clinical trial, 72 patients were randomized to receive Rejuran(R) treatment for crow's feet on one side and Yvoire-Hydro(R) on the contralateral side, at a ratio of 1:1. Repeated treatments were performed every two weeks for a total of three times, over a total of 12 weeks' observation. All injections and observations of efficacy and safety were performed by the same two investigators. In the animal study, the Rejuran(R) group showed similar durability and inflammatory response to the Yvoire(R) group. Upon efficacy assessment, the Rejuran(R) group showed the greatest elasticity and collagen composition, and a significant difference in skin surface roughness and wrinkle depth. In the clinical trial, the primary and secondary objective efficacy outcome measure showed no statistical significance between the two groups, and in safety outcomes there were no unexpected adverse effects. Our data suggest that the Rejuran(R), as a new regenerative filler, can be useful to reduce wrinkles, by showing evidence for its efficacy and safety.

Effects of Polydeoxyribonucleotide in the Treatment of Pressure Ulcers

This study aimed to examine the positive effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) on the wound-healing process in pressure ulcers. In this randomized controlled trial, the effects of PDRN were compared over time between an experimental group (n=11) and a control group (n=12). The former was administered the same dose of PDRN intramuscularly (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, for 5 days) for 2 weeks and perilesionally (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, twice a week) for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint for determining efficacy was wound healing in the pressure ulcers, which was reflected by the wound surface area determined using VISITRAK Digital (Smith & Nephew, Largo, FL). The secondary endpoint was the pressure ulcer scale for healing score, determined using pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH Tool 3.0 developed by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel). After the 4-week treatment period, PDRN therapy was found to significantly reduce the wound size and PUSH score, without adverse effect during the treatment. The findings indicate that PDRN can positively modify the wound healing process in pressure ulcers, and its use could improve the clinical outcomes of patients and lower the need for additional therapies or hospital stay.

Book Review: Oncoplastic Surgery of the Breast

No abstract available.

The Effect of Phosphatidylcholine and Deoxycholate Compound Injections to the Localized Adipose Tissue: An Experimental Study with a Murine Model

BACKGROUND: Phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and deoxycholate (DCA) compound has been recently used for the purpose of partial lipolysis and is valued for its efficacy and lower invasiveness compared to liposuction and dermolipectomy used previously. In this article, the authors discuss the efficacy of the PPC dissolved in DCA via an experimental rat study model, along with suggesting a useful animal experimental model for the study of adipose tissue and lipolysis. METHODS: Bilateral inguinal fat pads of an experimental rat were elevated with the deep inferior epigastric vessel as the sole vascular pedicle. Normal saline was injected on one side as a control group and a PPC and DCA compound was injected on the other side. After 4 days, the rats were euthanized for microscopic tissue examination. The pathology was scored by a semiquantitative system in 4 categories: normal fat amount, fat necrosis, inflammatory activity, and stage of fibrosis. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test powered by SPSS packet program was used for statistical analysis and to determine significance. RESULTS: Microscopic examination was performed on the obtained samples, and the experimental data of all four categories showed significant histologic differences compared to the control group. All of the data also showed statistical significance by the Wilcoxon signedrank test (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In the inguinal fat pad rat model, the control group and the experimental group had a differed significantly in the amount of normal fat tissue, inflammation, necrosis, and fibrosis. We recommend the rat inguinal fat pad model used in this study, as it is likely to be useful in related research.

Five-years of Breast Cancer Management in a New Hospital: Analysis Using Clinical Data Warehouse / 한국유방암학회지

PURPOSE: This study is to review the initial 5-years of breast cancer management in a single hospital using the clinical data warehouse (CDW). METHODS: We reviewed the electronic medical records of 754 patients with breast cancer who were treated by a single surgeon between June 2003 and December 2007 in Seoul National University Bundang Hospital. We analyzed the epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic profiles of the breast cancer patients which were encoded and stored at the CDW. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 49.3 years and the peak incidence was in the fifth decade (36.6%). Symptomatic breast cancer was 74.6% and screening-detected breast cancer was 25.4%. Breast conserving surgery (BCS) was performed in 54.1% of all cases and the BCS rate increased annually. Immediate reconstruction after mastectomy was performed in 62 cases (17.7%). Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy for nodal staging was performed in 501 cases (72.1%) and 160 cases (23.0%) underwent complete axillary lymph node dissection. The proportion of in situ and early stage invasive breast cancer was 85.0%. Six hundred and ninety three patients (92.5%) received more than one adjuvant therapy. Thirty one patients experienced local or systemic relapse after surgery and ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) occurred in 6 cases. The median follow-up period was 29.5 months. Two-year and 3-year disease-free survival rates were 95.9% and 94.4%. CONCLUSION: BCS and SLN biopsy continuously increased and immediate reconstruction after mastectomy was performed widely. Most patients received more than one adjuvant therapy. Moreover, we saved the time and human power to review the medical record by using the CDW.

Five-years of Breast Cancer Management in a New Hospital: Analysis Using Clinical Data Warehouse / 한국유방암학회지

PURPOSE: This study is to review the initial 5-years of breast cancer management in a single hospital using the clinical data warehouse (CDW). METHODS: We reviewed the electronic medical records of 754 patients with breast cancer who were treated by a single surgeon between June 2003 and December 2007 in Seoul National University Bundang Hospital. We analyzed the epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic profiles of the breast cancer patients which were encoded and stored at the CDW. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 49.3 years and the peak incidence was in the fifth decade (36.6%). Symptomatic breast cancer was 74.6% and screening-detected breast cancer was 25.4%. Breast conserving surgery (BCS) was performed in 54.1% of all cases and the BCS rate increased annually. Immediate reconstruction after mastectomy was performed in 62 cases (17.7%). Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy for nodal staging was performed in 501 cases (72.1%) and 160 cases (23.0%) underwent complete axillary lymph node dissection. The proportion of in situ and early stage invasive breast cancer was 85.0%. Six hundred and ninety three patients (92.5%) received more than one adjuvant therapy. Thirty one patients experienced local or systemic relapse after surgery and ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) occurred in 6 cases. The median follow-up period was 29.5 months. Two-year and 3-year disease-free survival rates were 95.9% and 94.4%. CONCLUSION: BCS and SLN biopsy continuously increased and immediate reconstruction after mastectomy was performed widely. Most patients received more than one adjuvant therapy. Moreover, we saved the time and human power to review the medical record by using the CDW.

Management of Post-lobectomy Bronchopleural: Cutaneous Fistula with a Rectus Abdominis Free Flap

PURPOSE: The repair of complex chest wall defects presents a challenging problem for the reconstructive surgeon. In particular, a free flap is often required when the defect is large, in which case suitable recipient vessels must be found to insure revascularization. The authors report a case of persistent bronchopleural-cutaneous fistula developed after undergoing lobectomy for lung cancer. METHODS: The defect area was repaired using a free vertical rectus abdominis muscle flap revascularized by microvascular anastomosis to the 6th intercostal pedicle. The flap obliterated the right chest cavity, closed the site of empyema drainage, and aided healing of a bronchopleuralcutaneous fistula. RESULTS: The patient has remained healed for 14 months without any postoperative complications or recurrent infection or fistula. CONCLUSION: We suggest that a rectus abdominis musculocutaneus free flap and intercostal pedicle as a recipient could be a useful method for repair of chest defects.