Bridge flap repair of the lower limb: A hybrid alternative to the keystone.

Surgery of the lower limb to remove skin cancer often requires the use of skin grafting due to tightness of the surrounding tissues and poor dermal integrity. We present a retrospective case review of our experience with the bridge flap as an alternative for lower leg reconstruction. The techniques of executing this hybrid flap are detailed.

Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus in patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery is an important risk factor for postoperative surgical site infection: a prospective randomised study.

BACKGROUND: Surgical site infection (SSI) can be a problematic complication of Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Previous reports have cited nasal Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) carriage as a risk factor for SSI, but none thus far in dermatologic surgery. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to determine the difference in infection rates between nasal carriers of S. aureus and non-carriers, and whether decolonisation with intranasal mupirocin ointment and chlorhexidine wash would reduce the infection rate in nasal carriers. METHODS: In all, 738 patients presenting for MMS at the Oxford Day Surgery and Dermatology underwent a nasal swab to determine their S. aureus carriage status. S. aureus carriers were randomised for decolonisation with intranasal mupirocin ointment and chlorhexidine body wash. Non-carriers were untreated. All patients were followed up for SSI. RESULTS: The rate of SSI was 11 per cent in untreated S. aureus carriers, 4 per cent in treated carriers, and 3 per cent in non-carriers. The difference in infection rate between carriers and non-carriers was significant (P < 0.001). The difference between treated and untreated carriers was also significant (P = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Nasal S. aureus carriage is an important risk factor for SSI in MMS, conferring an over threefold increase in SSI risk. A pre-operative nasal swab provides a simple and effective risk stratification tool. The use of a topical decolonisation regimen reduces the infection rate in carriers to a level approaching non-carriers without exposure to systemic antibiotics.

Assessment and management of chemical exposure in the Mohs laboratory.

BACKGROUND: The correct handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals used in the processing of tissue for Mohs micrographic surgery are essential. OBJECTIVES: To identify the chemicals involved in the preparation of Mohs frozen sections and assess the associated occupational health risks. To quantify exposure levels of hazardous chemicals and ensure that they are minimized. METHODS: A risk assessment form was completed for each chemical. Atmospheric sampling was performed at our previous laboratory for formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds. These data were used in the design of our new facility, where testing was repeated. RESULTS: Twenty-five chemicals were identified. Ten were classified as hazardous substances, 10 were flammable, six had specific disposal requirements, four were potential carcinogens, and three were potential teratogens. Formaldehyde readings at our previous laboratory were up to eight times the national exposure standard. Testing at the new laboratory produced levels well below the exposure standards. CONCLUSION: Chemical exposure within the Mohs laboratory can present a significant occupational hazard. Acutely toxic and potentially carcinogenic formaldehyde was found at high levels in a relatively standard laboratory configuration. A laboratory can be designed with a combination of physical environment and operational protocols that minimizes hazards and creates a safe working environment.

Osler's nodes and Janeway lesions.

The pathogenesis of Osler's nodes and Janeway lesions remains a mystery despite vigorous debate over the last 113 years. They are given great emphasis among the clinical signs of bacterial endocarditis but are seldom seen in practice. Two cases of subacute bacterial endocarditis are presented. A 66-year-old woman with Bartonella henselae endocarditis developed Osler's nodes on the hands postoperatively, and a 23-year-old man with Streptococcus oralis endocarditis developed tender macules with an appearance suggestive of Janeway lesions on one heel. The dermatopathology was similar in the two cases, consisting of a leukocytoclastic vasculitis without micro-abscess formation or visible organisms. Although the appearance is usually consistent, it is not always possible to distinguish Osler's nodes from Janeway lesions based purely on clinical presentation. Furthermore, the histology of both clinical signs can look similar. Further reports are needed before more firm conclusions can be drawn, however, it may be that the histological appearance of Osler's nodes and Janeway lesions is primarily determined by the nature of the causative organism, while the clinical appearance may be determined by anatomical site.