ABSTRACT
Internationally, telemedicine is finding its way into common day plastic surgery practice as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, no data about its practice in the Gulf region are available to date. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional survey-based study that was sent online to the plastic surgeons practicing in the Gulf region. The study aimed to look into the integration of telemedicine into the practice and the surgeons' attitude and future vision about it. Participation was voluntary, and confidentiality was preserved. Results: A total of 229 plastic surgeons enrolled in this study in mid-2020. There were 192 male participants (83.8%) and 37 female participants (16.2%). Of these, 99 (43.2%) practiced in Saudi Arabia, 85 (37.1%) in the United Arab Emirates, 24 (10.5%) in Oman, 18 (7.9%) in Kuwait, and three (1.3%) in Bahrain. In total, 85 (37.1%) used telemedicine during lockdown, and 144 (62.9%) thought that its usage will remain beneficial in the future. There was no significant difference in practicing telemedicine in different plastic surgery subspecialties, varying level of experience, and country of practice. Among those who used virtual consultations, 62 (72.9%) did not charge for consultation fees. Conclusion: The tendency toward telemedicine integration in plastic surgery practice is growing worldwide, especially after COVID-19. Its limitations are outweighed by its advantages and, with time, many of these will be bypassed. New innovations driven by advancement in technology will further embed telemedicine into the practice.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Heterotopic ossification is defined as the formation of trabecular bone that forms outside the normal sites of the skeletal structure, materializing in soft tissue where it does not usually exist. Methods/Case Report: This is a case report of a 27-day-old baby with a diagnosis of DiGeorge syndrome who developed heterotopic ossification on the dorsum of his right hand. Discussion: Heterotopic ossification in the pediatric population is a rare finding. Very few cases were published in the literature, and we find it important to increase the knowledge on such cases and discuss possible causes with the treatment used with our patient. Results: General treatments of heterotopic ossification include ruling out superimposed infection, physiotherapy to prevent joint involvement, warm compressors during the active phase of development of heterotopic ossification. If the swelling persists to the point that it interferes significantly with the functional capacity of the patient or becomes a cosmetic concern, the only treatment option remaining would be surgery.
