The deep inferior epigastric perforator flap for breast reconstruction: Is this the ideal flap for Asian women?

<p><b>INTRODUCTION</b>This study aims to evaluate the outcome and safety of the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap for breast reconstruction in a group of Southeast Asian women treated in our unit and to identify risk factors for breast reconstruction using the DIEP flap in this population.</p><p><b>MATERIALS AND METHODS</b>This is a prospective study on 50 consecutive DIEP flap breast reconstructions by a single surgeon in an academic institution between July 1999 and July 2006. Data on patient demographics, diagnosis, procedure type, adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatments, risk factors and complications were prospectively collected and registered in a clinical database. Outcome variables include total flap loss, partial flap loss, fat necrosis and minor complications related to the donor site or flap. Known risk factors are analysed to determine if they affect outcome in terms of complication rate in this group of patients.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Total flap loss, partial flap loss and fat necrosis complication rates were 6%, 4% and 10%, respectively. Flap complication rates were comparable to those quoted by previous studies done worldwide. Obesity (BMI >27) is a statistically significant factor associated with development of DIEP flap complications in our population.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Breast reconstruction with DIEP flap is a safe and reliable method when used in Southeast Asian women, offering optimal results with less donor -site morbidity. Obesity increases the incidence of flap complication in this group of patients.</p>

Lateral Osteotomy with Sawing Technique in Open Rhinoplasty

PURPOSE: Lateral osteotomy is an essential step in the correction of nasal bony asymmetry. Direct visualization allows accurate repositioning of the nasal bones compared to blind techniques, which require precision and manual dexterity. We propose direct visualization procedures in open corrective rhinoplasty. METHODS: The technique was used on 16 patients. All patients underwent open rhinoplasty with a columellar incision. The marginal incisions were extended on either side to allow access to the piriform aperture. A double hook was used to caudally retract the lower lateral cartilages and the fibrous connections between the upper and lower lateral cartilages were released until the piriform aperture was visualized. Through the incision, lateral osteotomy was performed using a reciprocating saw at that time with direct visualization. Additional procedures including augmentation rhinoplasty, hump resection, septoplasty and tip plasty were performed simultaneously. RESULTS: This method provided excellent exposure to the lateral nasal bones and allowed the lateral osteotomy to be carried out precisely using the reciprocating saw. CONCLUSION: This extended open rhinoplasty method is suitable for most individuals, allowing a wide surgical field.

Patent blue dye in lymphaticovenular anastomosis

<p><b>INTRODUCTION</b>Lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) has been described as a treatment of chronic lymphoedema. This microsurgical technique is new and technically difficult. The small caliber and thin wall lymphatic vessels are difficult to identify and easily destroyed during the dissection.</p><p><b>MATERIALS AND METHODS</b>We describe a technique of performing lymphaticovenular anastomosis with patent blue dye enhancement. Our patient is a 50-year-old lady who suffers from chronic lymphoedema of the upper limb after mastectomy and axillary clearance for breast cancer 8 years ago.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Patent blue dye is injected subdermally and is taken up readily by the draining lymphatic channels. This allows for easy identification of their course. The visualisation of the lumen of the lymphatic vessel facilitates microsurgical anastomosis. The patency of the anastomosis is also demonstrated by the dynamic pumping action of the lymphatic within the vessels.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Patent blue dye staining during lymphaticovenular anastomosis is a simple, effective and safe method for mapping suitable subdermal lymphatics, allowing for speedier dissection of the lymphatic vessels intraoperatively. This technique also helps in the confirmation of the success of the lymphaticovenular anastomosis.</p>