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.

Treatment of multiple craniofacial osteomas by endoscopic approach

Osteomas are benign osteogenic neoplasms that usually occur as solitary craniofacial lesions. Multiple osteomas are rare, particularly those that do not occur as part of an associated syndrome. We report a case of a 72-year-old woman who presented with multiple bony protrusions over the forehead and scalp. She denied any diagnosis of syndromes that are known to be associated with osteomas. Surgical excision was performed by endoscopically resecting more than 30 osteomas of the frontal and bilateral parietal bones. Compared with conventional surgical excision through a direct incision, endoscopic-assisted surgery is a simple and effective method for the treatment of multiple craniofacial osteomas and is associated with excellent cosmetic outcomes and no neurovascular complications.

Delayed formation of sterile abscess after zygomaticomaxillary complex fracture treatment with bioabsorbable plates

We present a patient who showed a sterile abscess after facial bone fixation with bioabsorbable plates and screws. He had zygomaticomaxillary complex and periorbital fracture due to falling down. The displaced bones were treated by open reduction and internal fixation successfully using bioabsorbable plate system. However, at postoperative 11 months, abrupt painless swelling was noted on the previous operation sites, left lateral eyebrow and lower eyelid. By surgical exploration, pus-like discharge and degraded materials were observed and debrided. The pathologic analysis revealed foreign body reaction with sterile abscess. This complication followed by bioabsorbable device implantation on maxillofacial bone surgery has been rarely reported in which we call attention to the maxillofacial plastic surgeons.

Early Coverage with Advancement Flap in Laser Induced Dermal Injury on Neck: A Case Report

Burn injury is one of the most common complications associated with laser procedure. A 38-year-old woman underwent laser procedure for skin rejuvenation on her neck at a local aesthetic clinic. At that time, the cooling system installed in the laser machine was out of order without known origin. The patient complained of pain during the procedure, but it was neglected. It resulted in 3(rd)-degree burn involving the subcutaneous fatty layer on her neck. On the fifth day after injury, early debridement and advancement flap was done under local anesthesia. After 7 days postoperatively, total stitch out was done and a 6cm-length linear and transverse scar remained. When deep dermal injury occurs, it will take a long time to heal on its own. Early debridement and advancement flap will be helpful to prevent wide burn scar.