Predicting the Degree of Breast Size in Augmentation with Cohesive Gel Implant

PURPOSE: Predicting the change in breast size for a specific patient's need is a challenging problem in breast augmentation. We intended to investigate the post-augmentation degree of breast size according to the size of cohesive silicone gel implant. METHODS: To predict post-augmentation breast size, we measured 100 patients' pre-and postoperative 3 month's bust circumference. All patients were performed by total subfascial breast augmentation with moderate profile cohesive silicone gel implant through areolar omega (transareolar-perinipple) incision. RESULTS: According to this study, each additional one pair of 100mL in implant size yielded an approximate 1.5cm increase in bust circumference(p=0.006). CONCLUSION: From this result, we conclude that each additional one pair of 100mL in implant volume yielded about 1.5cm increase in bust circumference. Although this result may not be applied to every patient, we believe that it yields a practical chart that can help to predict the amount of increase in breast size with the use of cohesive silicone gel implant of a specific size preoperatively.

Capsular Flaps for Correcting Implant Palpability in Secondary Augmentation Mammoplasty

PURPOSE: Among reasons for reoperations in augmentation mammoplasty, palpable implant, due to thin skin is relatively common, but not easy to correct, especially if thin skin area is wide. The capsule around the implant is a physiologic response to foreign body, naturally formed, and suitable for use as a flap because of its high vascularity. Authors report that capsular flap is very effective and successful method for correction of implant palpability in secondary breast augmentation. METHODS: From September 2007 to September 2008, the capular flaps were performed on 5 patients having palpable and wrinkling breast implants due to very thin skin among the cases on whom secondary augmentation mammaplasty had been performed. After the capsular flap was elevated according to thin skin area, the capsular flap was turned down or over to cover the thin skin area and made the thin skin area thick. RESULTS: Post-implant palpable breast wrinkling had been successfully corrected by capsular flaps and breast implants were not palpable any more during the follow-up period (average 9.2 months). All patients who suffered from deformed breast were satisfied. CONCLUSION: Authors suggest that the capsular flap be a ideal, effective and useful method in management of implant palpability.

A Case of Forearm Muscle Herniation after Radial Forearm Sensory Tendocutaneous Free Flap

PURPOSE: Although muscle hernia has been well described in the lower-extremity, muscle hernias in the upper extremity are extremely rare. As with lower extremity muscle hernias, the forearm muscle hernia may result from forced exertion of strenuous activity or following blunt trauma. The objective of this paper is to report an extraordinary case of forearm muscle hernia after radial forearm sensory tendocutaneous free flap with references. METHODS: A 58-year-old male patient received wide excision and radical neck dissection and lower lip reconstruction with radial forearm sensory tendocutaneous free flap for squamous cell cancer on the lower lip. 16 weeks after the operation, he complained of protruding mass on the forearm and the size was increasing. In postoperative 18 weeks, MRI showed herniation of flexor digitorum superficialis. For unaesthetic cause and preventing progress, the authors performed direct fascial closure and Mesh graft. RESULTS: In 12 months after the surgery there was no recurrence and the patient remained symptom-free. CONCLUSION: Pain on extremity exertion and unaesthetic buldge of forearm due to forearm muscle hernia were the primary indications for surgery which consist of direct closure, fasciotomy, fascia lata onlay graft, fascia lata inlay graft, etc. The authors experienced uncommon forearm muscle hernia after radial forearm free flap and satisfying result of treatment.

Anatomical Study for Vascular Distribution of the Perforator of Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery in Koreans

PURPOSE: The pedicle of transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous(TRAM) flap and deep inferior epigastric arterial perforator flap is deep inferior epigastic artery (DIEA) and accurate anatomic knowledge about perforator of DIEA is very important for the elevation of these flap. The authors investigated a detailed vascular network of perforator of DIEA in Koreans. METHODS: 24 fresh cadavers were studied. Among them, 15 were examined based on the plain X-ray examination for the distribution and location of perforator of DIEA. And 9 fresh cadavers were examined based on the 3-dimensional computed tomography(CT) study for the distance between ending point of perforator of DIEA and mother artery, the distance between most medial mother artery and midline, the distance between most lateral mother artery and midline, and the running type of perforators of DIEA. RESULTS: Based on the plain X-ray examination, suitable(external diameter> or =0.5mm) perforators of DIEA are located between the level of umbilicus and 8cm below it. Based on the 3D-CT study, average distance between the ending point of perforator of DIEA and the mother artery is 30.26mm on the left, 28.62mm on the right, respectively. The average distance between most medial mother artery and midline is 17.13mm on the left, 15.76mm on the right, respectively. The average distance between most lateral mother artery and midline is 56.31mm on the left, 50.90mm on the right, respectively. The main running course of suitable perforators of DIEA is type a, which is a direct musculocutaneous perforator vessel from main vascular axis passing outward to join the subdermal plexus, directly. CONCLUSION:3-dimensional computed tomography study as well as plain X-ray examination provided more accurate and detail informations about perforators of DIEA in Koreans. These informations will help us understand the detailed vascular anatomy and operation with ease and safe in the lower abdomen of Koreans.

Neuronal Phenotypes and Gene Expression Profiles of the Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Stromal Cells in the Neuronal Induction

PURPOSE: Human adipose tissue-derived stromal cells(hADSCs) can be expanded in vitro and induced to differentiate into multiple mesenchymal cell types. In this study we have examined various neuronal phenotypes and gene expression profiles of the hADSCs in the neuronal induction. METHODS: The hADSCs were isolated from human adipose tissue and they were characterized by the flow cytometry analysis using CD13, CD29, CD34, CD45, CD49d, CD90, CD105 and HLA-DR cell surface markers. We differentiated the hADSCs into the neuronal lineage by using chemical induction medium and observed the cells with contrast microscopy. The immunocytochemistry and western blotting were performed using the NSE, NeuN, Trk-A, Vimentin, N-CAM, S-100 and beta-Tubulin III antibodies. RESULTS: The hADSCs were positive for CD13(90.3+/-4%), CD29(98.9+/-0.7%), CD49d(13.6+/-6%), CD90 (99.4+/-0.1%), CD105(96%+/-2.8%) but negative for CD34, CD45 and HLA-DR. The untreated cultures of hADSCs predominately consisted of spindle shaped cells and a few large, flat cells. Three hours after the addition of induction medium, the hADSCs had changed morphology and adopted neuronal-like phenotypes. The result of immunocytochemistry and western blotting showed that NSE, NeuN, Trk-A, Vimentin, N-CAM, S- 100 and beta-Tubulin III were expressed. However, NSE, NeuN, Vimentin were weakly expressed in the control. CONCLUSION: Theses results indicate that hADSCs have the capabillity of differentiating into neuronal lineage in a specialized culture medium. hADSCs may be useful in the treatment of a wide variety of neurological disorders.

A Case of Metastatic Hepatocellular Harcinoma to the Skull

PURPOSE: Hepatocellular carcinoma is a highly malignant disorder that carries a poor prognosis. It is a fatal disease with a high incidence, especially in areas with an already high prevalence of hepatitis types B & C. The primary sites for extrahepatic metastases include the lung and adrenal glands, while bone, especially the skull, is rarely affected. This paper notes a rare case of extrahepatic metastasis to the skull. METHODS: A 62-year-old male, with a previous history of hepatitis B, developed hepatocellular carcinoma. The patient received several treatments of TACE(Transarterial chemoembolization) and PEI(Percutaneous ethanol injection) with no resolution, which prompted a hepatology follow-up. Recently, patient requested to have an enlarging mass on the forehead removed, for which an incisional biopsy was perfomed since the mass involved bone. Pathologic findings confirmed metastatic HCC. RESULTS: The only complication encountered during the incisional biopsy was profuse bleeding from the incision site. There was some difficulty in controlling the bleeding, but hemostasis was achieved using Gelfoam. There were no postoperative complications. The patient was treated with radiotherapy and follow-up CONCLUSION: Patients with cranial metastasis of HCC presents with a subcutaneous mass and a headache while simple X-rays show osteolytic lesions, computed tomography studies are needed for a definitive diagnosis. Treatement options include radiotherapy, surgery and chemotherapy. In this case the patient received radiotherapy. Skull metastases should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients who present with a subcutaneous mass and an osteolytic defect on X-ray films of the skull.

Prevention of Pressure Ulcer using the Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment Based on Braden Scale

PURPOSE: Active prevention is an essential component in reducing the development of pressure sores. For the high-risk patient group, following the certified pressure sore screening scale as well as educating the patient and the nurses who care for them can lead to optimal management of these patients. Applying a risk assessment scale along with a prevention strategy can reduce medical costs and length of stays at the hospital. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a new pressure sore risk assessment scale based on the universally recommended Braden scale and our prevention program. METHODS: From June to August, 2003, our pressure ulcer risk assessment scale was applied to a total of 1882 patients admitted to the experimental group (intensive care unit, neurosurgery, general surgery, and oncology units). It was based on Braden scale. We analysed sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value and ROC curve to evaluate its efficacy. Pressure ulcer prevention program was composed of patient's education using protocol and specific nursing care. The incidence of pressure ulcers was also measured during the 3 months period, and those were compared to the control group of 1789 patients from March to May, 2002. RESULTS: 118(6.27%) of the experimental group were high-risk with an incidence of pressure ulcers measuring 4 (0.21%). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value of our scale were 100%, 94%, 4%, 100%, respectively, and AUC(area under the curve) was 0.992. In the control group, the incidence of pressure ulcers was 11(0.61%). Statistical analyses using chi- squared tests with a significance level of 5%, the results were such that chi-square=3.6482(p=0.0561). The results proved to be statistically significant in borderline. CONCLUSION: The results from this study proved that pressure sore risk assessment scale based on Braden scale has an excellent efficacy, and shows that our pressure ulcer prevention program is partially effective in reducing pressure ulcer incidence.

Chest Wall and Breast Reconstruction in Poland's Syndrome

PURPOSE: As a rare congenital anomaly, Poland's syndrome has been known to show hypoplasia in breast and nipple, absence of pectoralis major muscle, and aplasia or deformity of rib or costal cartilage which has been reported to be more common in male. However, most patients who are seeking operation are female patients having one-side deformity. In the field of plastic surgery, the major surgical indications could be asymmetric chest wall depression in man or breast hypoplasia in woman. There are many reconstruction options according to the degree of patient's deformity: a prosthetic implant, breast implant with or without tissue expander, latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous pedicled flap with or without implant and/or tissue expander, and free tissue transfer with or without tissue expander. METHODS: The authors have treated 4 patients(2 male, 2 female) who had a diagnosis of Poland's syndrome. According to the degree of patient's deformity, all patients underwent correction of breast asymmetry and unilateral anterior thoracic hypoplasia with one-staged or two-staged reconstruction. RESULTS: All patents were satisfied with the results and there occurred no specific complications. CONCLUSION: The authors propose the treatment plan for patient with Poland's syndrome, according to the degree of patient's deformity. In case of male patient with mild deformity, the prosthetic implant or latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous pedicled flap will simulate the missing pectoralis and improve the contour deformity. In case of female patient with moderate to severe breast asymmetry and upward displaced nipple areolar complex (NAC), NAC can be lowered with tissue expander, breast can be enlarged with autologous free flaps or latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous pedicled flap with implant.

Transareolar-Perinipple Dual Pockets Breast Augmentation

PURPOSE: Many options are available for the incision and pocket selection in breast augmentation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. To leave an invisible operation scar and to achieve easier pocket dissection by the central location of the incision on the breast, we made a transareolar-perinipple incision. To overcome the disadvantages of the transareolar incision, originally advocated by Pitanguy in 1973, we modified the direction of incision line and dissection plane. METHODS: To avoid the injury of 4th intercostal nerve responsible for nipple sensation, we made perinipple incision on the medial side of the nipple instead of trans-nipple incision and made the transareolar incision as 11-5 o'clock on the left side and 1-7 o'clock on the right side instead of 3-9 o'clock on both sides. To avoid the possible infection and breast feeding problem caused by the injury to the lactiferous duct, and the possible implant hernia caused by the incisions lying on a same plane of pocket dissection, we made a subcutaneous dissection just above the breast tissue medially down to the bottom of breast tissue and made a subglandular or subfascial pocket, which may avoid the injury of lactiferous duct and create different planes for skin incision and pocket dissection. Other advantages of the transareolar-perinipple incision include easier pocket dissection, less chance of hematoma, and as a result less postoperative pain because of the central location of the approach which allow finger dissection and meticulous bleeding control with direct vision, without any specialized instrument such as an endoscope or long mammary dissectors. As for pocket selection, we made dual pockets. We prefer subglandular or subfascial pocket. Also, we made a subpectoral pocket in the upper 1/4 of the pocket to add more volume on the upper part of the augmented breast, which can make aesthetically more desirable breasts in thin Asian women with small breasts. Possible disadvantages of our method are subclinical infection and scar widening, which could be overcome by meticulous operation techniques, antibiotic therapy, and intradermal tattooing. RESULTS: From September, 2003 to August, 2005, 12 patients underwent breast augmentation using round smooth surface saline implants by our method. During the mean follow-up period of 13 months, there were no complications such as infection, hematoma, capsular contracture, and sensory change of nipple, and results were satisfactory. CONCLUSION: We suggest breast augmentation via transareolar-perinipple incision and dual pockets(subpectoral-subglandular or subfascial) as a valuable method in thin oriental women with small breasts.

Transareolar-Perinipple Dual Pockets Breast Augmentation

PURPOSE: Many options are available for the incision and pocket selection in breast augmentation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. To leave an invisible operation scar and to achieve easier pocket dissection by the central location of the incision on the breast, we made a transareolar-perinipple incision. To overcome the disadvantages of the transareolar incision, originally advocated by Pitanguy in 1973, we modified the direction of incision line and dissection plane. METHODS: To avoid the injury of 4th intercostal nerve responsible for nipple sensation, we made perinipple incision on the medial side of the nipple instead of trans-nipple incision and made the transareolar incision as 11-5 o'clock on the left side and 1-7 o'clock on the right side instead of 3-9 o'clock on both sides. To avoid the possible infection and breast feeding problem caused by the injury to the lactiferous duct, and the possible implant hernia caused by the incisions lying on a same plane of pocket dissection, we made a subcutaneous dissection just above the breast tissue medially down to the bottom of breast tissue and made a subglandular or subfascial pocket, which may avoid the injury of lactiferous duct and create different planes for skin incision and pocket dissection. Other advantages of the transareolar-perinipple incision include easier pocket dissection, less chance of hematoma, and as a result less postoperative pain because of the central location of the approach which allow finger dissection and meticulous bleeding control with direct vision, without any specialized instrument such as an endoscope or long mammary dissectors. As for pocket selection, we made dual pockets. We prefer subglandular or subfascial pocket. Also, we made a subpectoral pocket in the upper 1/4 of the pocket to add more volume on the upper part of the augmented breast, which can make aesthetically more desirable breasts in thin Asian women with small breasts. Possible disadvantages of our method are subclinical infection and scar widening, which could be overcome by meticulous operation techniques, antibiotic therapy, and intradermal tattooing. RESULTS: From September, 2003 to August, 2005, 12 patients underwent breast augmentation using round smooth surface saline implants by our method. During the mean follow-up period of 13 months, there were no complications such as infection, hematoma, capsular contracture, and sensory change of nipple, and results were satisfactory. CONCLUSION: We suggest breast augmentation via transareolar-perinipple incision and dual pockets(subpectoral-subglandular or subfascial) as a valuable method in thin oriental women with small breasts.

Modified Three-Square-Flap for Moderate to Minor Syndactyly

PURPOSE: The main goals of correcting syndactyly of the hand are to form normal web appearance and to prevent motor dysfunction. We modified the original three-square-flap to improve interdigital web space and to reduce the wound healing problem due to tension. METHODS: From July 2005 to February 2006, three cases of moderate to minor syndactyly were treated using modified three-square-flap. These flaps were made in such as way that the A flap from dorsal side, the B flap from the interdigital surface, and the C flap from the volar side. We modified the design of dorsal A flap as a hourglass shape instead of square shape to make normal hourglass shaped interdigital web and to reduce the tension of closure with other two flaps(B and C flap). The B and C flap were made as square shape. RESULTS: During 4 to 10 months follow-up period, acceptable esthetic results were obtained without any specific complication, using our modification of the three-square-flap. CONCLUSION: Our method showed more satisfactory web appearance and was safe to use even in the cases of syndactyly secondary to burns and post- traumatic scars because of excellent blood circulation.

Glomus Tumor in Soleus Muscle : A Case Report

PURPOSE: Glomus tumors are uncommon benign neoplasms arising from the neuromyoarterial apparatus, usually seen in the nail bed of fingers. Most of this mass presents typical symptoms such as severe pain, point tenderness and hypersensitivity to cold like neuroma, gout or causalgia. Concerning about the origin, there were few written reports about extra-digit glomus tumor, especially that occurred in the skeletal muscule. METHODS: A 48-year-old female complained of painful tender mass in her right calf aggravated several months ago. Her MRI and femoral angiogram showed a well defined hypervascular tumor such as hemagioma or hemagioendothelioma in the right calf. Surgical treatment was performed, and it proved glomus tumor in soleus muscle histologically. RESULTS: After the operation, patient didn't complain of her symptoms any more and there was no evidence of recurrence during 1 year follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Authors have found only eight cases of intramuscular glomus tumor reported in the literature and present here the ninth case of an intramuscular glomus tumor and first case of soleus muscle.

Nipple Reconstruction with Dermis(Scar Tissue) Graft and C-V Flap

Nipple reconstruction is an important step in breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The authors' preferred reconstructive technique is the local C-V flap in case that a small opposite nipple is not adequate for composite graft. This flap produces an excellent reconstruction, but it is not easy to produce an adequate projection and firmness of the nipple. This article describes the technique and experience in nine patients treated over two years with dermis(scar tissue) graft for nipple reconstruction. This is the first report of application of autologous dermis(scar tissue) grafting to reconstruct a nipple primarily after breast mound reconstruction, decreasing the absorption of the reconstructed nipple and increasing the hardness. The dermis(scar tissue) is taken from scar revision and/or dog-ear correction in the second stage operation after free TRAM flap breast reconstruction. And the dermis(scar tissue) graft is inserted vertically between the local flaps and horizontally under the reconstructed nipple base. Between September 2002 and February 2005, nine patients underwent C-V flap with dermis(scar tissue) graft as a part of their nipple reconstruction. The patient's ages ranged from 28 to 55 years old (mean, 41.1 years old). The follow-up period ranged from 5 to 35 months, with an average of 14.5 months. None of the nipples showed skin flap necrosis or local infection, and uneventful wound healing. Our result showed good nipple projection with less absorption and enough firmness. Our experiences shows that dermis(scar tissue) grafts in C-V flap is a very useful method for nipple reconstruction.

New Approach to the Care of Suction Drain Insertion Site by Using Occlusive Transparent Film Dressing

The closed suction drain is commonly inserted after various surgical procedures. It has an important role to prevent possible hematoma or seroma that can cause postoperative wound problems. But there is still no consensus on managing the insertion site of suction drain after operation. Suture-tie fixation of drain to skin and classical Y shape gauze dressing is a usually accepted method, but it has many limitations. We introduce a new approach to the care for the insertion site of suction drain by using occlusive transparent film dressing, IV3000(R)(Smith & Nephew, London, UK). By using transparent film, insertion site of drain can be easily checked without removal of dressing. Because it can reduce the tension of suture-tie fixation, it helps to prevent skin injury. Furthermore, occlusive film dressing can block air leakage from insertion site of drain, and the water-proof character of film allows patients to take a shower without dressing change. This new method is more convenient, more efficient, and less harmful to skin than classic one.

Single Transconjunctival Incision and Two-point Fixation for the Treatment of Noncomminuted Zygomatic Complex Fracture

The ultimate goal in treating zygomatic complex fracture is to obtain an accurate, stable reduction while minimizing external scars and functional deformity. The present authors present our experiences with a single transconjunctival incision and two-point (inferior orbital rim and frontozygomatic suture) fixation in 53 patients with zygomatic complex fracture which were not comminuted. All patients had transconjunctival approaches with lateral canthal extensions, and six out of 53 patients also had an additional small (about less than 2 cm) gingivobuccal incision to achieve an accurate reduction. There were 3 minor complications, and the overall esthetics and functional results were satisfactory with a long term follow-up. Our method has the following advantages in the reduction of zygomatic complex fracture; It leaves only an inconspicuous lateral canthal scar. In addition, it provides excellent simultaneous visualization of the inferior orbital rim and frontozygomatic suture area. Hence, twopoint fixation through a single incision can be performed with a satisfactory stability.

Recent Knowledge of Breast Reconstruction

Breast is one of the most important organ which characterize the femininity and the maternity. As growing not only in numbers of breast cancer patients but also concerns about the quality of life, breast reconstruction after mastectomy turns into hot topics in the area of plastic surgery. Historically, numerous operation techniques have been introduced for breast reconstruction using prosthesis (tissue expander and breast implant) and autologous tissues (various pedicled flaps and free flaps). The most ideal method for breast reconstruction is to make a natural soft breast with less complications and morbidities, and no single technique can be universally accepted in every cases. However, in terms of making a natural, good-looking breast autologous tissue is more superior to tissue expander and breast implant in breast reconstruction. Usually a breast reconstruction is performed in 3 stages; 1st stage is breast mound reconstruction using autologous tissue or tissue expander and implant. 2nd stage is revision of the reconstructed breast and donor site such as abdomen (scar revision, volume adjustment using suction-assisted lipectomy and excision), nipple reconstruction, and surgery of the opposite normal breast (augmentation, mastopexy, or reduction) for maximizing cosmetic results. 3rd stage is a intradermal tattooing for nipple-areolar complex. In this article, various techniques are presented with their indications, methods, advantages and disadvantages. For the choice of best modality, many factors should be considered including an extent of mastectomy, the size and shape of opposite breast, the condition of possible donor sites, postoperative adjuvant therapy (radiation, chemotherapy), patient's age, and patient's preferance.

Clinical Characteristics of Thermal Injuries Following Free TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction

Following a transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous(TRAM) flap breast reconstruction, denervated state of the flap causes the flap skin prone to thermal injury, calling for special attention. During the last 5 years, 69 breast reconstruction with 72 free TRAM flaps, were performed. Four out of thesse 69 patients sustained burn injury. Heat sources were a warm bag(n=2), heating pad(n=1) and warming light (n=1). The thermal injuries occured from 2 days to 3 months following the reconstruction. Three patients healed with conservative treatment, but one patient required debridement and skin graft. Initially 3 out of 4 patients with the burn had shown superficial 2nd degree burn with small blebs or bullae. However all 4 patients healed with scars. Mechanism of burn injuries of the denervated flap are known to be resulting from; 1) loss of behavioral protection due to denervation of flap with flap elevation and transfer, 2) loss of autonomic thermoregulatory control with heat dissipation on skin flap vasculature contributing to susceptibility of burn injury. 3) changes of immunologic and normal inflammatory response increasing thromboxane, and a fall in substance P & NGF (nerve growth factor). Including the abdominal flap donor site, sensory recovery of the reconstructed breast varies individually from 6 month even to 5 years postoperatively. During this period, wound healing is delayed, resulting in easier scarring compared to that observed in the sensate skin. Patients should be carefully informed and warned of possible burn injuries and taught to avoid exposure to heat source at least until 3 years postoperatively.

Clinical Experience of Foreign Body Granuloma in the Apex of Orbit

It is often difficult to identify and localize intraorbital foreign bodies despite of modern high-resolution imaging investigation. Especially, posteriorly located foreign bodies have increased risks of morbidity that surgical approach is often complicated. No matter how trivial it seems, retained foreign body, particularly organic in nature, may give rise to severe orbital and cerebral complications. High clinical suspicion, proper diagnostic studies, timely referral to a skilled orbital surgeon are mandatory. We report a case of intraorbital wooden foreign body that required two separate exploration for removal. Initial exploration failed to identify and locate the foreign body completely. After the operation, fistula formation and purulent discharge were developed and the imaging investigation results were equivocal, complicating the management. A second exploration yielded multiple intraorbital wooden foreign body in the apex of orbit. The patient fully recovered without complication. The evaluations and the details of management strategy are discussed.

A Case of Primary Reconstruction using Fibular Osteocutaneous Free Flap after Total Maxillectomy Due to Rhabdomyosarcoma

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare malignancy of head and neck region. When rhabdomyosarcoma occurs in maxillary area, total maxillectomy is necessary. Total maxillectomy causes defects of orbital floor, palate, gingiva, and alveolar bone, causing severe facial deformity and functional impairment. Immediate maxillary reconstruction has to cover both bone and soft tissue to minimize cosmetic and functional problems. The fibular osteocutaneous free flap can provide paranasal, gingiva, oral mucosal lining and foundation for dental prosthesis, thus ensuring good cosmetic results and mastication, phonation function. We have experienced a reconstruction case of a 19-year-old man with rhabdomyosarcoma of the left maxillary sinus. The patient underwent total maxillectomy and neck dissection. We designed a fibular free flap that had a vascularized bone segment and a double skin paddle. Surgical outcomes were excellent in cosmetic and functional aspects.

Clinical Experience of Exposed Pacemakers

In the cases of severe arrythmia and conduction failure, a permanent implanted pacemaker is considered an essential treatment modality with less complication rate, broad indications and low morbidity. However, some pacemakers needs to be removed or replaced due to infection, in need of a lead upgrade, elective replacement, conduction failure or insulation failure. The most common indication for pacemaker extraction is infection. Conservative treatments such as administration of intravenous antibiotics and limitation of debridement are not effective and the removal of the entire pacing system is considered to be the best approach to pacemaker pocket infection. Although a locking stylet, a laser sheath and other newer methods of transvenous lead extraction have been proven to be effective, all leads cannot be removed. Moreover, major complications such as, cardiac tamponade and respiratory arrest during leads extraction procedure should not be ignored. We experienced two cases of exposed pacemakers in the subclavicular region. After removing the pacemaker body, exposed proximal lead was pulled out and cut off. The end of remnant external insulation tube was tied to prevent infection propagation between external insulation tube and inner metalic coil. Wounds were covered by local flap coverage. No other problems were detected during the one-year follow-up. Since there are few reports on lead-preserving method of treating limited infection of exposed pacemakers, we would like to present our new method for treating exposed pacemakers.