Treatment of post-traumatic hematoma and fibrosis using hyaluronidase injection

Patients complaining of swelling and hematoma caused by contusion of the face can be easily seen in the emergency room. Most of the treatments were conservative treatments such as ice bag application, mild compression dressing, and massage. During the follow-up, fibrosis progression due to hematoma was frequently observed in the contusion site. When hematoma or fibrosis is confirmed, hyaluronidase (H-lase) 1,500 IU and 2 mL of normal saline were mixed and subcutaneously injected in crisscross manner. To evaluate the improvement of hematoma before and after hyaluronidase injection, three plastic surgeons evaluated using the Vancouver scar scale and compared preoperative and postoperative images. Hematoma and fibrosis after facial trauma improved after hyaluronidase injection for early treatment.

Reconstruction of the Foot Using a Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Free Flap

When foot reconstruction is performed in the pretibial area, the ankle, or the dorsum of the foot, the need for a reliable flap remains a challenge. We found that the superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) free flap can be used as an alternative tool for this purpose, as it helps to solve the problems associated with other flaps. We describe 2 cases in which we reconstructed the foot using an SIEA free flap, which was pliable enough to fit the contours of the area. Postoperatively, the flaps were intact and showed excellent aesthetic results. Thus, the SIEA free flap can be an alternative tool for patients with a low body mass index who undergo reconstructive surgery involving the pretibial area, ankle, knee, or dorsum of the foot, all of which require a soft and flexible flap.

Early Management of Scars Using a 532-nm Nd:YAG Laser

BACKGROUND: Laser therapy is generally postponed until scar maturation. We speculated that the use of laser therapy at the beginning of the wound healing process might minimize discomfort and problems at an early stage. METHODS: From January 2013 to May 2014, we conducted a study of 50 patients who underwent primary closure or scar revision procedures due to facial scarring. Within 1 to 2 weeks after the removal of all stitches, we performed laser treatments with a 532-nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) laser. To assess the improvement of the scars, we evaluated the scars using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and conducted a photo analysis using a computer graphics program. RESULTS: The mean score on the VSS decreased from 5.99 to 1.49 after the laser treatment. The score for each evaluation item decreased, meaning that the scars improved. The differences showed statistical significance. In the photo analysis that was conducted using Adobe Photoshop, the mean brightness of the pixels located within the scar territory increased from 61.54% to 69.42% after laser treatment, and the mean chroma decreased from 50.65% to 43.12%. These changes were statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: We used a 532-nm Nd:YAG laser at an early stage of scar formation and confirmed improvements in the redness, hyperpigmentation, and hypertrophy of the scars shortly after treatment.

Early Management of Scars Using a 532-nm Nd:YAG Laser

BACKGROUND: Laser therapy is generally postponed until scar maturation. We speculated that the use of laser therapy at the beginning of the wound healing process might minimize discomfort and problems at an early stage. METHODS: From January 2013 to May 2014, we conducted a study of 50 patients who underwent primary closure or scar revision procedures due to facial scarring. Within 1 to 2 weeks after the removal of all stitches, we performed laser treatments with a 532-nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) laser. To assess the improvement of the scars, we evaluated the scars using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and conducted a photo analysis using a computer graphics program. RESULTS: The mean score on the VSS decreased from 5.99 to 1.49 after the laser treatment. The score for each evaluation item decreased, meaning that the scars improved. The differences showed statistical significance. In the photo analysis that was conducted using Adobe Photoshop, the mean brightness of the pixels located within the scar territory increased from 61.54% to 69.42% after laser treatment, and the mean chroma decreased from 50.65% to 43.12%. These changes were statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: We used a 532-nm Nd:YAG laser at an early stage of scar formation and confirmed improvements in the redness, hyperpigmentation, and hypertrophy of the scars shortly after treatment.

The Experimental Effect of High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) being Developed in Korea / 대한비뇨기과학회지

PURPOSE: This project aimed to determine the adequacy and accuracy of high-intensity focused ultrasound(HIFU) for ablating canine model of benign prostate hyperplasia and to assess the therapeutic results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using the developed transrectal type HIFU transducer, exposure time-temperature curves were obtained. In-vitro experiments were performed on calf muscle tissues and characteristics of coagulative lesions were observed. In-vivo experiments were performed on canine prostate, which were evaluated grossly, histologically, and ultrasonographically. Complications and side effects were assessed by blood chemistry and urinalysis. RESULTS: The peak temperature reached to 93.0+/-3.0degrees C within initial 11 seconds at the focused area. The mean thermal elevation was 56.0+/-3.0degrees C. In in-vitro HIFU experiments, the coagulative lesions were observed at the focused areas of muscle tissues. The lesions were ellipsoidal shaped, 5.0+/-2.0mm diameter, well delinated. In animal experiments, the affected canine prostates were shown definite lesions of coagulative necrosis which were confirmed grossly and histologically. Significant side effects or complications were not assessed. CONCLUSIONS: Transrectal HIFU treatment may be considered as safe, effective technique on prostate. It is neccessary to perform long-term animal experiments and clinical trials.