Application of skin and soft tissue expansion in repairing pediatric patients with superficial defects / 中华烧伤杂志

Skin and soft tissue expansion can provide skin tissue similar to the recipient area in color and texture, which is one of the ideal methods in the repair of superficial defects. However, due to the long treatment cycle and relatively high complications rate in pediatric patients, expansion still faces many challenges. Based on the clinical practice and the current progress in skin and soft tissue expansion, this paper briefly discusses the change of skin after expansion, and the application, prevention and treatment of complications in the application of expansion in pediatric patients, aiming to provide reference for expansion in pediatric patients.

Reconstrucción de cuero cabelludo, por quemadura química extensa, en tiempos de COVID / Scalp reconstruction, from extensive chemical burn, in time of COVID

Las quemaduras químicas en cuero cabelludo, que se producen en lugares públicos como salones de belleza o peluquerías causadas por mezclas de sustancias activas como persulfatos y peróxido de hidrógeno, secundarias a la decoloración de cabellos, producen graves secuelas de alopecias en pacientes jóvenes. Se trata de un caso clínico, de quemadura química, espesor completo, extensa, en cuero cabelludo. Productos utilizados en forma cotidiana en salones de belleza, peluquerías o domicilios, que tiene estrecha relación con el daño. Resolución del caso con colgajos locales, con tiempos de internación y quirúrgicos cortos, en tiempos de COVID. Enfoque de la falta de control de sustancias usadas en peluquerías, pocos casos publicados y secuelas psicosociales importantes, con pronta mejoría de calidad de vida y reinserción social

Chemical burns in scalp after hair bleaching are produced in public places such as hairdressing salons and are caused by the combination of active agents like persulfate and hydrogen peroxide. The burns leave severe sequels of alopecia in young patients. This is about a clinical case of a chemical burn in the sculp which is full thickness and has a great large. Products used on a daily basis in hairdressing salons or in the domiciles have a close connection with the hurt. In times of COVID the case was resolved with local flaps, and short period of hospitalization and surgical. Focus on the lack of control in the usage of substances made by hairdressing salons, the existence of few published cases and the main psychosocial sequels, a speedy recovery in the quality of life and social reintegration

Complications using tissue expanders in burn sequelae treatment at a reference university hospital: a retrospective study / Complicações com o uso de expansores teciduais para tratamento de sequela de queimaduras em um hospital universitário de referência: estudo retrospectivo

ABSTRACT Background: tissue expanders have high relevance in plastic surgery and among indications it is worth mentioning their use in the treatment of burn reconstruction. Although it shows good results, its use requires special care because some complications can interrupt the reconstruction process. The objective of this study was to report the experience of the Clinics Hospital (University of Sao Paulo) with the use of tissue expanders to treat burn sequelae, establishing the incidence of complications, and identifying risk factors for their occurrence. Methods: a retrospective, observational, and analytical study, evaluating the use of expanders in burns sequelae treatment from 2009 to 2018. Results: 245 expanders were placed in 84 patients, 215 were female, with a mean age of 19.96 years, being 40% in the trunk and 20% in the scalp, with a predominance of rectangular shape in 76.7% of cases. Complications were classified as major and minor.Complications occurred in 17.95% of cases, and extrusion and infection were the most common. There was a higher incidence of complications in expanders used in the upper and lower limbs as well as in those who did not undergo concomitant expansion (p <0.05), with an even higher chance of major complications in patients submitted to additional expansion. From 2009 to 2018, we observed a decrease in the incidence of complications. Conclusion: the complication rate (17.95%) is similar to other studies of the literature, there was a higher rate of complication with expanders placed in the limbs and a higher rate of major complications when additional expansion was done.

RESUMO Introdução: os expansores teciduais são de importante relevância na cirurgia plástica, e dentre suas indicações destaca-se seu uso no tratamento de sequelas de queimaduras. Ainda que apresente bons resultados, seu uso requer cuidados especiais pois a incidência de complicações não é desprezível. Objetivo: relatar a experiência do Hospital das Clínicas da FMUSP com a utilização de expansores teciduais para tratamento de sequelas de queimaduras, estabelecendo a incidência de complicações e identificando possíveis fatores de risco para ocorrência das mesmas. Método: estudo retrospectivo, observacional e analítico, avaliando o uso de expansores no tratamento de sequelas de queimaduras no período de 2009 a 2018 no Hospital das Clínicas da FMUSP. Resultados: no período de análise estabelecido, foram colocados 245 expansores, sendo 215 em pacientes do sexo feminino, com idade média de 19,96 anos, sendo 40% em tronco e 20% em couro cabeludo, predominando uso do retangular em 76,7% dos casos. As complicações foram divididas em maiores e menores. As complicações ocorreram em 17,95% dos casos, sendo extrusão e infecção as de maior incidência. Houve maior incidência de complicação em expansores utilizados nos membros superiores e inferiores bem como naqueles que não realizaram expansão concomitante (p<0,05), havendo ainda maior chance de complicações absolutas nos pacientes submetidos à expansão adicional. Observou-se também diminuição no número de complicações entre 2009 e 2018. Conclusão: a taxa de complicação (17,95%) é semelhante a da literatura, observando-se maior taxa de complicação nos expansores colocados em membros e maior taxa de complicações absolutas quando realizada expansão adicional.

Exposición compleja de placa craneal / Complex exposure of cranial plate

Es recomendable que los pacientes con antecedentes de trauma craneal moderado o grave, con pérdida de fragmentos de calota, que deben reparar con posterior craneoplastia, la realicen luego de 3 a 6 meses, reduciendo el riesgo de infección y de hipertensión endocraneana. Los materiales a utilizar son diversos; y para evitar la reapertura es fundamental un cierre sin tensión, en dos planos y sin tejido desvitalizado. Las infecciones son raras; son más frecuentes cuando la craneopatía se realizó dentro del 1er año del trauma. Otra complicación es la úlcera crónica, de manejo muy complejo. Material y métodos. Paciente de 58 años, sufrió un traumatismo encefalocraneano con pérdida de conocimiento en el año 2011, por accidente de tránsito; craneoplastia realizada a 8 meses del trauma, posterior ulceración sobre líneas de incisión en dos oportunidades, reparado en ambas con colgajos locales, conservando la placa craneal. La paciente consultó presentando nueva ulceración parietal izquierda y adelgazamiento del cuero cabelludo y translucencia del material frontoparietal izquierdos; sin infección local; y múltiples cicatrices remanentes. Se retiró la placa craneal, y a dos años se realizó expansión con insuflados lentos controlados con la signosintomatología que presentaba la paciente. Al 3er mes se recolocó nueva placa de titanio y cobertura con colgajos del cuero cabelludo. Discusión. La expansión tisular del cuero cabelludo es un método simple, con baja frecuencia de complicaciones si la técnica es delicada y atendemos la signosintomatología del paciente. Conclusión. El trabajo conjunto multidisciplinario, es la piedra angular para obtener resultados óptimos en la reconstrucción de lesiones complejas.

Patients with a history of moderate or severe skull trauma, with loss of shell fragments, which must be repaired with subsequent cranioplasty, it is recommended to perform it after 3 to 6 months, reducing the risk of infection and endocranial hypertension. The materials to use are diverse; and to avoid reopening, a tension-free closure is essential, in two planes and without devitalized tissue. Infections are rare, being more frequent when the craniopathy took place within 1 year of the trauma. Another complication is the chronic ulcer, very complex to handle. Material and methods. Fifty eight year-old patient, suffered a traumatic brain injury with loss of consciousness in 2011, due to a traffic accident; craneoplasty performed 8 months after trauma, subsequent ulceration on incision lines on two occasions, both repaired with local flaps, preserving the cranial plate. The patient consulted presenting a new left parietal ulceration, and thinning of the scalp and translucency of the left fronto-parietal material; no local infection; and multiple remaining scars. The cranial plate was removed, and two years later, expansion was performed with slow insufflants controlled with the patient's symptom sign. At the 3rd month, a new titanium plate was replaced and covered with flaps of the scalp. Discussion. Tissue expansion of the scalp is a simple method, with little frequency of complications if the technique is delicate, and we attend to the patient's sign-symptomatology. Conclusion. Multidisciplinary joint work is the cornerstone for obtaining optimal results in the reconstruction of complex injuries.

Manejo de la cresta maxilar atrófica con la técnica de Ridge Split / Management of the Athrofic Maxilar Crest with the Ridge Split Technique

Resumen 14. Introducción: la atrofia ósea del reborde maxilar siempre es una limitante para instalar implantes dentales. El procedimiento de Ridge Split demuestra ser una técnica exitosa para realizar el manejo de los defectos horizontales, aumentando las dimensiones del reborde atrófico para instalar de forma inmediata implantes dentales. Objetivo: describir el uso clínico de la técnica de Ridge Split como tratamiento del aumento óseo en sentido horizontal del maxilar atrófico. Presentación del caso: se presentó el caso de una paciente femenina de 61 años de edad, edéntula parcial, que busca recuperar sus dientes superiores. Al examen clínico presenta solo dos dientes y al examen radiográfico-tomográfico se observó reabsorción ósea severa y neumatización de los senos maxilares. Se planifica instalar dos implantes para realizar una sobre dentadura, utilizando la técnica de Ridge Split e instalación inmediata de los implantes. Cinco meses posteriores, se realiza un control tomográfico evidenciando aumento horizontal del reborde alveolar y se rehabilita con una sobredentadura, con lo que se logró la conformidad estética y funcional de la paciente. Conclusión: el caso presentado revela que esta técnica incrementa el reborde oseo en sentido horizontal y permite instalar en forma simultánea los implantes. Es un tratamiento predecible, seguro y cómodo, y acorta el tiempo de tratamiento, por lo que es una alternativa viable para el manejo de los defectos óseos alveolares.

Abstract 20. Introduction: the bony atrophy of the maxillary ridge is always a limitation to install dental implants. The Ridge Split procedure proves to be a successful technique to perform the management of horizontal defects, increasing the dimensions of the atrophic ridge to immediately install dental implants. Aim: to describe the clinical use of the Ridge Split technique as a treatment for bone augmentation in the horizontal direction of the atrophic maxilla. Case presentation: the case of a female patient of 61 years of age, partially edentulous, who seeks to recover her upper teeth was presented. The clinical examination shows only two teeth and the radiographic-tomographic examination showed severe bone resorption and pneumatization of the maxillary sinuses. It is planned to install two implants to make an over denture, using the Ridge Split technique and immediate installation of the implants. Five months later, a tomographic control was performed evidencing a horizontal increase of the alveolar ridge and it was rehabilitated with an overdenture, with which the patient's aesthetic and functional compliance was achieved. Conclusion: the presented case reveals that this technique increases the bone ridge in horizontal direction and allows to install the implants simultaneously. It is a predictable, safe and comfortable treatment, and shortens the treatment time, making it a viable alternative for the management of alveolar bone defects.

FxClear, A Free-hydrogel Electrophoretic Tissue Clearing Method for Rapid De-lipidation of Tissues with High Preservation of Immunoreactivity

Over the last two decades, several tissue clearing methodologies have been established that render tissues optically transparent and allow imaging of unsectioned tissues of significant volumes, thus improving the capacity to study the relationships between cell and 3D tissue architecture. Despite these technical advances, the important unsolved challenges that these methods face include complexity, time, consistency of tissue size before and after clearing, and ability to immunolabel various antibodies in cleared tissue. Here, we established very simple and fast tissue clearing protocol, FxClear, which involves acrylamide-free electrophoretic tissue clearing (ETC). By removal of the acrylamide infusion step, we were able to achieve fast reaction time, smaller tissue expansion, and higher immunoreactivity. Especially, immunoreactivity and fluorescence intensity were increased in FxClear-processed tissues compared to un-cleared tissues. Our protocol may be suitable for small-sized biopsy samples for 3D pathological examinations.

Cryptotia recurrence lowering technique with additional acellular dermal matrix graft

BACKGROUND: Cryptotia is a congenital anomaly in which the upper part of the retroauricular sulcus is absent and buried underneath the temporal skin. Various surgical techniques have been reported for the correction of cryptotia following Kubo’s V-Y plasty in 1933. Conventional methods using a local skin flap, skin grafting, tissue expansion, Z-plasty, and any of these combined approaches can result in skin deficiency of the upper auricle. The aim of this study was to develop a new method that improves cosmetic results and has fewer complications. METHODS: This study involved four patients in whom five cryptotia deformities were corrected using V-Y plasty and Z-plasty. After elevation of the flap, acellular dermal matrix (ADM; MegaDerm) that was over 5 mm in thickness was applied to the cephalo-auricular angle and positioned to enhance the projection of the ear. Lastly, the flap was transposed to complete the repair. RESULTS: Between January 2014 and February 2018, cryptotia correction with ADM graft was performed in four patients. None of the patients developed a recurrence of cryptotia, and there were no postoperative complications such as wound infection, seroma formation, and dehiscence. In addition, the procedures resulted in a favorable cosmetic appearance. CONCLUSION: Based on these findings, i.e., no recurrence and a favorable cosmetic result, when using an ADM graft, it is suggested that this technique could be an alternative method of cryptotia correction. It could also lessen donor-site morbidity when compared to autologous cartilage grafting and be more cost-effective than using cartilage from a cadaver.

Serially expanded flap use to treat large hairless scalp lesions

Hairless scalp areas can occur due to trauma, tumors, or congenital disease. This aesthetically unpleasing condition can lead to psychosocial distress, and thin skin flaps may be prone to scarring. Treating the hairless scalp by simple excision is challenging because of skin tension. Tissue expanders are a good option for hairless scalp resurfacing. However, a single expansion may be inadequate to cover the entire defect. This report describes good results obtained using a serial resurfacing method involving re-expansion of the flap with a tissue expander to treat two patients with large lesions: one due to aplasia cutis congenital and another who underwent dermatofibrosarcoma protuberance resection. The results suggest that scalp resurfacing by serial tissue expansion using a tissue expander can be used for extensive lesions.

Um infusor autônomo para um expansor de pele subcutâneo / An autonomous infuser for a subcutaneous skin expander

Introdução: A expansão da pele é um processo fisiológico definido como a capacidade de aumentar sua área superficial em resposta a uma tensão ou a uma dada deformação. Para realizar a cirurgia reconstrutiva, os expansores de pele são implantados sob a pele e periodicamente infiltrados com uma solução salina para fornecer um retalho extra de pele. Quando o volume interno prescrito do expansor é alcançado, a cirurgia reconstrutiva é realizada. Métodos: Foi desenvolvido um dispositivo semiautomático e portátil para facilitar um procedimento de expansão da pele. O dispositivo tem como objetivo simplificar o processo de infiltração, proporcionando mobilidade e independência para o paciente, e assegurando ao médico a qualidade e a precisão das infiltrações realizadas. O dispositivo também permite expansão contínua em pacientes hospitalizados. Resultados: Usando um código, o médico tem acesso ao menu do dispositivo e define a pressão máxima e/ou o valor máximo para cada expansor do paciente. O paciente pode realizar a infiltração e ter acesso ao controle da velocidade de infiltração, reverter ou parar a operação. Todos os dados são gravados em um SIM Card e incluem data, hora, volumes inicial e final, e pressão inicial e final de cada procedimento para cada expansor. Conclusões: O dispositivo automatiza e otimiza a expansão, de modo que o que o médico possa prescrever um limite para cada expansão, seja uma pressão máxima ou voluma infiltrado. Todos os dados são gravados, fornecendo um importante banco de dados sobre o comportamento de pele relacionado a gênero, raça, idade e local da expansão.

Introduction: Skin expansion is a physiological process defined as the ability of human skin to increase its superficial area in response to a stress or given deformation. In reconstructive surgery, skin expanders are implanted beneath the skin and periodically infiltrated with a saline solution to provide an extra flap of skin. When the prescribed internal volume of the expander is reached, reconstructive surgery is performed. Methods: A semiautomatic and portable device was developed and built to facilitate a skin expansion procedure. The device aims to simplify the infiltration process, providing mobility and independence to the patient and assuring the physician of the infiltration quality and precision. The device also enables continuous expansion in hospitalized patients. Results: Using a code, the doctor accesses the menu of the device and sets the maximum pressure and/or value for each expander of the patient. The patient can control the infiltration velocity and reverse or stop the operation. All data are recorded on a simcard and include date, time, initial and final volumes, and initial and final pressures of each procedure for each expander. Conclusions: The device motorizes and optimizes the expansion, allowing the doctor to prescribe a maximum infiltration pressure or volume. All data are recorded to provide an important database of skin behavior related to sex, race, age, and expansion site.

Avaliação histológica do músculo grande dorsal submetido à expansão tecidual pós-infiltração com toxina botulínica: estudo experimental em ratas / Histological evaluation of latissimus dorsi muscle subjected to tissue expansion after infiltration with botulinum toxin: an experimental study in rats

Os autores descrevem as alterações histológicas no músculo grande dorsal submetido à expansão após relaxamento com toxina botulínica e as possíveis correlações dos achados com os benefícios práticos como, por exemplo, aumento da complacência muscular e melhor acomodação da prótese. Foi empregado o modelo experimental, com dez ratas com peso médio de 300 g, mesma faixa etária, da cepa Wistar (Rattus norvegicus) e o músculo grande dorsal. Biópsias musculares foram feitas antes e após as expansões, no músculo normal, no grupo controle (apenas com expansores) e no grupo com expansores e toxina botulínica. Expansores de 3 centímetros cúbicos eram posicionados abaixo do músculo e expandidos com 0,3 mililitros de soro fisiológico semanalmente, por 10 semanas. Os cortes histológicos foram corados segundo as técnicas de Hematoxilina-eosina, para avaliação geral, e tricrômio de Masson para avaliação do tecido conjuntivo. As fibras musculares submetidas à expansão sob a ação da toxina botulínica apresentaram focos de fibrose e proliferação de vasos sanguíneos menos intensos que no grupo sem toxina botulínica e a diminuição do número de fibras musculares e a atrofia eram menores que no grupo que não utilizou a toxina. Os achados nos permitem presumir que a expansão muscular associada ao relaxamento com toxina botulínica preserva as características da musculatura esquelética, oferecendo melhor acomodação e proteção da prótese e facilitando a dinâmica da expansão, além de diminuir a dor.

The authors describe histological changes in the latissimus dorsi muscle submitted to expansion after relaxation with botulinum toxin. The possible practical benefits include increased muscle compliance and better accommodation of a prosthesis. The experimental model involved 10 Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) of the same age, with average weight of 300 g. Muscle biopsies before and after expansion were performed in normal muscle, in a control group (with expanders alone), and in a group with expanders and botulinum toxin. Expanders measuring 3 cm3 were positioned below the muscle and expanded with 0.3 ml of saline weekly, for 10 weeks. Histological sections were stained using hematoxylin-eosin for general evaluation and Masson's trichrome for evaluation of connective tissue. The muscle fibers submitted to expansion under the action of botulinum toxin showed less fibrosis and less intense proliferation of blood vessels than in the group without botulinum toxin, and the atrophy and reduction in the number of muscle fibers were less prominent than in the group that did not receive botulinum toxin. The findings suggest that muscle expansion associated with botulinum toxin relaxation preserves skeletal muscle characteristics by providing better accommodation and protection for a prosthesis and facilitating expansion dynamics; this method may also reduce pain.

New economical and simple device for intraoperative expansion on small and medium sized soft tissue defects

Intraoperative expansion has been used to cover small to large defects without disadvantages of the conventional tissue expanders. Various materials, for example, expanders and Foley catheters are being used. We introduce a new, convenient and economical device immediately available in the operating room, according to the defect size for intraoperative expansion, with latex gloves or balloons. The retrospective study was done with 20 patients who presented with skin and soft tissue defects. During the operation, expansion was done with latex gloves or balloons inflated with saline through an intravenous line and a three-way stopcock. After the inflation, the glove was removed and skin was covered with expanded tissue. A careful decision was made regarding the inflation volume and placement of the expander according to the defect size. There were no postoperative complications. The skin contracture and tension was minimal with a texture similar to the adjacent tissue. The new intraoperative expansion devices with latex gloves and balloons were cheap and made easily right in the operation room. The reconstruction of small to large sized skin defects can be done successfully, functionally and aesthetically without using expensive commercial materials.

Oral tissue response to soft tissue expanders prior to bone augmentation: in vitro analysis and histological study in dogs

PURPOSE: To determine whether the swelling and mechanical properties of osmotic self-inflating expanders allow or not the induction of intraoral soft tissue expansion in dogs. METHODS: Three different volumes (0.15, 0.25, and 0.42 mL; referred to respectively as the S, M, and L groups) of soft tissue expanders (STEs) consisting of a hydrogel core coated with a silicone-perforated membrane were investigated in vitro to assess their swelling behavior (volume swelling ratio) and mechanical properties (tensile strength, tensile strain). For in vivo investigations, the STEs were subperiosteally inserted for 4 weeks in dogs (n=5). Soft tissue expansion was clinically monitored. Histological analyses included the examination of alveolar bone underneath the expanders and thickness measurements of the surrounding fibrous capsule. RESULTS: The volume swelling ratio of all STEs did not exceed 5.2. In tensile mode, the highest mean strain was registered for the L group (98.03±0.3 g/cm), whereas the lowest mean value was obtained in the S group (81.3±0.1 g/cm), which was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). In addition, the S and L groups were significantly different in terms of tensile strength (1.5±0.1 g/cm for the S group and 2.2±0.1 g/cm for the L group, P < 0.05). Clinical monitoring showed successful dilatation of the soft tissues without signs of inflammation up to 28 days. The STEs remained volumetrically stable, with a mean diameter in vivo of 6.98 mm, close to the in vitro post-expansion findings (6.69 mm). Significant histological effects included highly vascularized collagen-rich fibrous encapsulation of the STEs, with a mean thickness of 0.67±0.12 mm. The bone reaction consisted of resorption underneath the STEs, while apposition was observed at their edges. CONCLUSIONS: The swelling and mechanical properties of the STEs enabled clinically successful soft tissue expansion. A tissue reaction consisting of fibrous capsule formation and bone loss were the main histological events.

Full Thickness Skin Expansion ex vivo in a Newly Developed Reactor and Evaluation of Auto-Grafting Efficiency of the Expanded Skin Using Yucatan Pig Model

BACKGROUND: Skin grafts are required in numerous clinical procedures, such as reconstruction after skin removal and correction of contracture or scarring after severe skin loss caused by burns, accidents, and trauma. The current standard for skin defect replacement procedures is the use of autologous skin grafts. However, donor-site tissue availability remains a major obstacle for the successful replacement of skin defects and often limits this option. The aim of this study is to effectively expand full thickness skin to clinically useful size using an automated skin reactor and evaluate auto grafting efficiency of the expanded skin using Yucatan female pigs. METHODS: We developed an automated bioreactor system with the functions of real-time monitoring and remote-control, optimization of grip, and induction of skin porosity for effective tissue expansion. We evaluated the morphological, ultra-structural, and mechanical properties of the expanded skin before and after expansion using histology, immunohistochemistry, and tensile testing. We further carried out in vivo grafting study using Yucatan pigs to investigate the feasibility of this method in clinical application. RESULTS: The results showed an average expansion rate of 180%. The histological findings indicated that external expansion stimulated cellular activity in the isolated skin and resulted in successful grafting to the transplanted site. Specifically, hyperplasia did not appear at the auto-grafted site, and grafted skin appeared similar to normal skin. Furthermore, mechanical stimuli resulted in an increase in COL1A2 expression in a suitable environment. CONCLUSION: These findings provided insight on the potential of this expansion system in promoting dermal extracellular matrix synthesis in vitro. Conclusively, this newly developed smart skin bioreactor enabled effective skin expansion ex vivo and successful grafting in vivo in a pig model.

Incisional and Ventral Hernia Repair

Incisional or ventral hernia is a very common multifactorial disease that requires surgery to prevent complications, including pain, discomfort, bowel obstruction, incarceration, and strangulation. To perform herniorrhaphy, it is essential to understand the pathogenesis of hernia, the anatomy and physiology of the abdominal wall, and surgical techniques. Several repair methods are available, including open suture repair, open mesh repair, the component separation technique, and tissue expansion assisted closure. Currently, laparoscopic incisional or ventral hernia repair is commonly used with the major advantage being the lower recurrence and all defects can be addressed at the time of surgery as well as reduced postoperative pain and length of hospital stay. On the other hand, to do it properly, a full understanding and appropriate selection of mesh and management of probable complications, such as seroma, bowel injury, enteric fistula, and recurrence, is essential. Therefore, the surgeon and the techniques used are of paramount importance in the repair of incisional ventral hernias.

Effect of the mixing method on the dimensional stability of dental stones / Efeito do método de mistura na estabilidade dimensional de gessos odontológicos

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of mixing method and the empiric water/powder ratio on the dimensional change of two types of dental stones (type III and type IV) at different setting times: baseline, loss of brightness, initial and final setting (1/4 and 1pound Gilmore´s needle, respectively) and, after 48 hours at 37°C. Material and Methods: Five mixing methods were used: Gc ­ manufacturer´s recommendation, G1 ­ weighed powder/ empiric water volume and powder on water, G2 - weighed powder/ empiric water volume and water on powder, G3 ­ empiric powder volume, graduated water and powder on water, G4 - empiric powder volume, graduated water and water on powder. The linear expansion was measured according to ISO 6873. The expansion values (x10-2mm) were analyzed by Two-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD test (α=0.05). Results: For type III, the results showed significance for both factors and for interaction; for type IV, only the time were significant ( p<0.05). Limited by methodology, it could be concluded that both dental stones expanded more than the recommended by ISO. Conclusion: The expansion of type III was dependent on the mixing method, and once correct consistency is reached with type IV, there is no influence of mixing method on dimensional stability. (AU)

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência do método de mistura e da relação empírica de água/pó na alteração dimensional de dois tipos de gessos odontológicos (tipo III e tipo IV) em diferentes tempos de trabalho: baseline, perda de brilho, inicial e final (agulha de Gilmore de 1/4 e 1 libra, respectivamente) e, após 48 horas a 37 ° C. Material e Métodos: Cinco métodos de mistura foram utilizados: Gc - recomendação do fabricante, G1 - pó pesado / volume empírico de água e pó na água, G2 - pó pesado / volume empírico de água e água no pó, G3 - volume empírico de pó, água graduada e pó na água, G4 - volume de pó empírico, água graduada e água no pó. A expansão linear foi medida de acordo com a norma ISO 6873 (1998). Os valores de expansão (x10-2mm) foram analisados pelo teste ANOVA dois fatores e teste de Tukey HSD (α = 0,05). Resultados: Para o tipo III, os resultados mostraram significância para ambos os fatores e para interação; para o tipo IV, apenas o tempo foi significativo (p < 0,05). Limitado pela metodologia, pode-se concluir que ambos os gessos odontológicos expandiram mais do que o recomendado pela ISO. Conclusão: A expansão do tipo III foi dependente do método de mistura e, uma vez atingida a consistência correta com o tipo IV, não há influência do método de mistura na estabilidade dimensional. (AU)

Expansão prévia no tratamento de dermatofibrossarcoma protuberante envolvendo o osso frontal / Preceding expansion in the treatment of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans involving the frontal bone

Introdução: Dermatofibrossarcoma protuberante é um tumor cutâneo raro de malignidade intermediária e potencial metastático baixo, apresentando, entretanto, alta taxa de recorrência após tratamento cirúrgico. O tratamento cirúrgico clássico é a ressecção alargada com margens variadas. Métodos: Os pacientes foram submetidos à expansão prévia dos tecidos da região frontal utilizando dois expansores convencionais. Margens laterais de 3 cm de tecido de aparência normal foram tatuadas com tinta nanquim. Os expansores foram incluídos em uma cirurgia anterior, através de incisões cutâneas distantes dessas marcas, em um plano cirúrgico logo acima do periósteo, preservando a área de ressecção alargada previamente delimitada. Os tecidos laterais foram expandidos e, posteriormente, os pacientes foram submetidos à ressecção do tumor. A margem profunda incluiu da lâmina externa do osso frontal. O período médio de expansão foi de 45 dias. Resultados: Foram relatados três casos de dermatofibrossarcoma protuberante da região frontal com envolvimento da lâmina externa do osso frontal. Os retalhos expandidos fecharam facilmente os defeitos. O acompanhamento pós-operatório médio foi de 194 meses, sem nenhuma recorrência tumoral. Conclusão: A expansão tecidual prévia da região frontal no tratamento do dermatofibrossarcoma protuberante, invadindo o osso frontal, usando margens laterais de 3 cm com remoção da lâmina externa, permitiu facilmente o fechamento do defeito, em três pacientes. O tempo de acompanhamento médio de 194 meses sem nenhuma recorrência tumoral mostrou a eficiência do método.

Introduction: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is a rare skin tumor with intermediate malignancy and low metastatic potential, but a high recurrence rate after surgical treatment. Treatment involves extended resection with variable margins. Methods: Patients were managed with preceding expansion of tissues of the forehead using two conventional expanders. The lateral margins of normal-appearing tissue 3-cm apart were tattooed with China ink. In a preceding operation, expanders were inserted through skin incisions at a distance from the marks, by undermining the surgical plane just above the periosteum, while preserving the area of wide resection previously delimited. After the lateral tissues were expanded, the patients underwent surgical resection. The deep margin included the outer table of the frontal bone. The expansion period averaged 45 days. Results: Three cases of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the forehead with involvement of the outer table of the frontal bone are described. The expanded flaps easily closed the defects. The average follow-up was 194 months without tumor recurrence. Conclusion: Preceding expansion of forehead tissue in the treatment of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans with invasion of frontal bone, using 3-cm lateral margins and removal of the outer table of the frontal bone, allowed easy closure of the defect in 3 different patients. Average follow-up of 194 months with no recurrence of the lesion showed the effectiveness of the method.

Avaliação volumétrica das mamas em pacientes submetidas à lipoenxertia com uso de expansão pré-operatória (BRAVA®): experiência da Santa Casa de São Paulo / Volumetric assessment of breasts in patients undergoing fat grafting with pre-operative expansion (BRAVA®): experience of Santa Casa de São Paulo

Introdução: O enxerto autólogo de tecido adiposo exibe qualidades desejáveis para utilização como material de preenchimento. Contudo, a grande barreira para o seu maior desenvolvimento foram os resultados pouco previsíveis e o alto índice de absorção da gordura enxertada ao longo do tempo. O objetivo é realizar avaliação volumétrica das mamas de pacientes submetidas à lipoenxertia com uso de expansão pré-operatória (BRAVA®). Métodos: Foram operadas 19 pacientes no período entre março de 2012 e junho de 2015 na disciplina de Cirurgia Plástica da Santa Casa de São Paulo. Os parâmetros avaliados por ressonância nuclear magnética (pré e 6 meses pós-operatório) foram: Volume Aumentado=Volume Pós-operatório - Volume Pré operatório; Percentual de Aumento=Volume Aumentado/ Volume Pré operatório x100; Percentual de Integração=Volume Aumentado/Volume Enxertado x 100. Resultados: O volume médio das mamas no pré-operatório foi de 294,73 ml e de 458,42 ml no pós-operatório. O volume médio de enxerto foi de 274,4 ml (150-350 ml). Em relação aos parâmetros avaliados, o volume médio de aumento foi de 168,42 ml (90-270 ml), o percentual médio de aumento foi de 58,98% (23-90%) e o percentual médio de integração foi de 62,36% (30-80%). Conclusão: A utilização da expansão externa (BRAVA®) na mama mostrou-se um método efetivo nas taxas de integração do enxerto de gordura, bem como no aumento global do volume mamário.

Introduction: Autologous fat graft possesses the desired qualities of a filling material. However, the largest barriers to its further development are unpredictable results and high rate of absorption of the grafted fat over time. The objective is to perform a volumetric assessment of the breasts in patients undergoing fat grafting using pre-operative external expansion (BRAVA®). Methods: Nineteen patients were operated between March 2012 and June 2015 in the Service of Plastic Surgery, Santa Casa de São Paulo. The parameters evaluated using nuclear magnetic resonance (pre-operatively and 6 months post-operatively) were the following: augmented volume=postoperative volume - pre-operative volume; percentage of augmentation=augmented volume/pre-operative volume x 100; percentage of integration=augmented volume/volume grafted x 100. Results: The average volume of the breasts in the pre- and post-operative periods were 294.73 ml and 458.42 ml, respectively. The average graft volume was 274.4 ml (150-350 ml). The following parameters were assessed: average volume augmentation, 168.42 ml (90-270 ml); average percentage of augmentation, 58.98% (23-90%); and average percentage of integration, 62.36% (30-80%). Conclusion: The use of external expansion (BRAVA®) in breasts was effective in increasing the rates of integration of the fat grafts and the overall augmentation in breast volumes.

Serial Tissue Expansion at the Same Site in Pediatric Patients: Is the Subsequent Expansion Faster?

BACKGROUND: Serial tissue expansion is performed to remove giant congenital melanocytic nevi. However, there have been no studies comparing the expansion rate between the subsequent and preceding expansions. In this study, we analyzed the rate of expansion in accordance with the number of surgeries, expander location, expander size, and sex. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed in pediatric patients who underwent tissue expansion for giant congenital melanocytic nevi. We tested four factors that may influence the expansion rate: The number of surgeries, expander location, expander size, and sex. The rate of expansion was calculated by dividing the ‘inflation amount’ by the ‘expander size’. RESULTS: The expansion rate, compared with the first-time group, was 1.25 times higher in the second-or-more group (P=0.04) and 1.84 times higher in the third-or-more group (P < 0.01). The expansion rate was higher at the trunk than at other sites (P < 0.01). There was a tendency of lower expansion rate for larger expanders (P=0.03). Sex did not affect the expansion rate. CONCLUSIONS: There was a positive correlation between the number of surgeries and the expansion rate, a positive correlation between the expander location and the expansion rate, and a negative correlation between the expander size and the expansion rate.

Large facial defect reconstruction with partition pre-expanded cervico-scapulo-dorsal flaps based on the superficial cervical artery / 中华整形外科杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To assess the outcome of large facial defect reconstruction with "partition" pre-expanded cervico-scapulo-dorsal flaps (CSDF) based on the superficial cervical artery (SCA).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Surgical course consisted of 3 stages. In stage I, a skin flap was designed along the axis of SCA according to the facial defect and an expander was implanted in the cervico-scapulo-dorsal region by means of "partition" expansion. The expanders were implanted beside the flap axis and beneath the posterior half of flaps so as to expand only half area of the flap. During the stage II, expanders were injected with saline regularly for continuous expansion. In stage III, the pre-expanded CSDFs were transferred to cover the facial defect of which the CSDFs included about half of non-expanded area.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>From November of 2008 to December of 2013, 15 patients with facial hypertrophic scar or scar contracture were reconstructed with pre-expanded CSDF based on the SCA. The expansion lasted for 3 to 4 months, and the expanded volume varied from 680 to 960 ml. One case of 4.0 cm x 1.5 cm epidermal flap necrosis occurred and healed subsequently with superficial scar; and another case of blister formation in the distal part of flap was found, which recovered without scar; the other 13 flaps survived without complications. After a follow-up for 12 to 38 months( average 26. 2 months), patients regained satisfactory appearance of face, with no obvious hypertrophic scar in the donor site.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Partition preexpanded CSDF based on the SCA is a good choice for large facial defect reconstruction, and the partition expansion is an effective strategy for prevention of venous congestion.</p>

Two-Stage Latissimus Dorsi Flap with Implant for Unilateral Breast Reconstruction: Getting the Size Right

BACKGROUND: The aim of unilateral breast reconstruction after mastectomy is to craft a natural-looking breast with symmetry. The latissimus dorsi (LD) flap with implant is an established technique for this purpose. However, it is challenging to obtain adequate volume and satisfactory aesthetic results using a one-stage operation when considering factors such as muscle atrophy, wound dehiscence and excessive scarring. The two-stage reconstruction addresses these difficulties by using a tissue expander to gradually enlarge the skin pocket which eventually holds an appropriately sized implant. METHODS: We analyzed nine patients who underwent unilateral two-stage LD reconstruction. In the first stage, an expander was placed along with the LD flap to reconstruct the mastectomy defect, followed by gradual tissue expansion to achieve overexpansion of the skin pocket. The final implant volume was determined by measuring the residual expander volume after aspirating the excess saline. Finally, the expander was replaced with the chosen implant. RESULTS: The average volume of tissue expansion was 460 mL. The resultant expansion allowed an implant ranging in volume from 255 to 420 mL to be placed alongside the LD muscle. Seven patients scored less than six on the relative breast retraction assessment formula for breast symmetry, indicating excellent breast symmetry. The remaining two patients scored between six and eight, indicating good symmetry. CONCLUSIONS: This approach allows the size of the eventual implant to be estimated after the skin pocket has healed completely and the LD muscle has undergone natural atrophy. Optimal reconstruction results were achieved using this approach.