Single and combined impacts of irradiation and surgery on lymphatic vasculature and fibrosis associated to secondary lymphedema.

Lymphedema (LD) refers to a condition of lymphatic dysfunction associated with excessive fluid accumulation, fibroadipose tissue deposition and swelling. In industrialized countries, LD development mainly results from a local disruption of the lymphatic network by an infection or cancer-related surgery (secondary LD). In the absence of efficient therapy, animal models are needed to decipher the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying LD and test putative drugs. In this study, we optimized and characterized a murine model of LD that combines an irradiation of the mice hind limb and a radical surgery (lymph node resection associated to lymphatic vessel ligation). We investigated the respective roles of irradiation and surgery in LD formation by comparing their impacts, alone or in combination (with different intervention sequences), on eight different features of the pathology: swelling (paw thickness), indocyanine green (ICG) clearance, lymphatic vasculature remodeling, epidermal and dermal thickening, adipocyte accumulation, inflammatory cell infiltration and collagen deposition. This study supports the importance of radiation prior to surgery to experimentally induce a rapid, severe and sustained tissue remodeling harboring the different hallmarks of LD. We provide the first experimental evidence for an excessive deposition of periostin (POSTN) and tenascin-C (TNC) in LD. Through a computerized method of digital image quantification, we established the spatial map of lymphatic expansion, as well as collagen, POSTN and TNC deposition in papillary and reticular dermis of lymphedematous skins. This mouse model is available to study the patho-physiology of LD and test potential therapeutic targets.

[Landscape and evolution of the transgender demand in the maxillo-facial surgery: the CHU of Liège as reference center]. / Évolution de la demande transgenre en chirurgie maxillo-faciale : le CHU de Liège comme centre de référence.

The history of transgenderism is reaching a new turning point. From the medical beginnings of the 1940's to the real innovations of the last decade, surgery can, more than ever, contribute to the gender reassignment process. This article will firstly describe the evolution of the transgender demand, and will then review the specificities of male and female facial anatomy. We will conclude by defining the maxillofacial surgical field and the new role of the reference center at the University Hospital of Liège in this promise of treatment, that is both intimate and innovative.

L'histoire du transgendérisme prend un nouveau tournant. Des balbutiements médicaux des années 1940 aux véritables innovations du dernier lustre, la chirurgie peut, plus que jamais, prendre place dans le processus de réassignation de genre. Cet article visera tout d'abord à retracer le cheminement de la demande transgenre, et rappellera ensuite les spécificités de l'anatomie faciale des genres féminin et masculin. Nous terminerons par définir l'horizon interventionnel maxillo-facial et la place nouvelle du centre de référence du CHU de Liège dans cette promesse de prise en charge, aussi intime qu'innovante.

[Mastectomy, the initial surgical procedure in transgender patients]. / Mastectomie, procédure chirurgicale initiale chez les patients transgenres.

In our society, the number of gender affirming surgeries is increasing. Mastectomy is usually the initial surgical procedure performed for the treatment of gender dysphoria in transgender men. It has been shown to improve quality of life and to promote assimilation into the new genre. Creating an aesthetic male chest requires adjustment of the breast tissue volume, proper placement of nipple areola complex, and removal of the inframammary fold. Although many papers have been published on this topic, there is still no consensus as to which surgical technique should be preferred. This article deals with the procedures performed in our plastic surgery department at CHU in Liège and reviews the literature relating to the various surgical techniques, postoperative complications as well as patient satisfaction.

Dans notre société, le nombre de chirurgies d'affirmation de genre est en augmentation. La mastectomie est généralement la procédure chirurgicale initiale réalisée dans le traitement de la dysphorie de genre chez l'homme transgenre. Il a été démontré qu'elle améliore la qualité de vie et favorise l'assimilation au nouveau genre. La création d'une poitrine masculine esthétique nécessite un ajustement du volume du tissu mammaire, un placement approprié de la plaque aréolo-mamelonnaire et la suppression du pli infra-mammaire. Bien que de nombreux articles aient été publiés sur le sujet, il n'y a pas encore de réel consensus quant à la technique chirurgicale à privilégier. Cet article fait le bilan des interventions réalisées au sein du Service de Chirurgie plastique au CHU de Liège et revoit la littérature relative aux différentes techniques chirurgicales utilisées, aux complications postopératoires ainsi qu'à la satisfaction des patients.

[Use of honey dressings in wound healing]. / Utilisation des pansements à base de miel dans le traitement des plaies.

Honey is used as therapeutic in traditional medicine for a long time ago for a wide range of wounds. It has known a revival in modern care since the bacterial resistance against antibiotics appeared. Honey is known to have antibacterial activity, enhance wound healing and modulate immune response. While biological processes and bioactive compounds aren't well understood, honey seems to be an effective therapeutic agent in wound healing. Medical graded honey dressings were recently developed. The present article describes properties of medical graded honey dressings and their use for wound healing.

Le miel est utilisé en médecine traditionnelle depuis longtemps pour un grand nombre de lésions. Il a bénéficié d'un regain d'intérêt pour un usage médical depuis l'émergence de résistances bactériennes aux antibiotiques. Il est connu, notamment, pour ses propriétés antibactériennes, pro-cicatrisantes et immunomodulatrices. Bien que les mécanismes et composés bioactifs à l'origine de ces propriétés soient encore mal compris, le miel apparaît comme un agent thérapeutique dans la prise en charge d'une grande variété de plaies. Depuis peu, des pansements à base de miel médical ont été développés. Cet article décrit les principales propriétés attribuées aux pansements à base de miel et leur utilisation dans le traitement des plaies.

[Contribution of 3D technology for maxillofacial surgery]. / Apport de la technologie 3D en chirurgie maxillo-faciale.

In recent years, 3D design and printing technology has been successfully used in maxillofacial bone reconstruction procedures. We had the opportunity to observe its benefits in the manufacture of custom facial implants. The production is so precise that perfect anatomical congruence and biocompatibility are possible. Within the plastic and maxillofacial surgery department of the University Hospital of Liège, we had the opportunity to perform two operations requiring facial skeleton redefinition implants. The purpose of this article is to highlight the current possibilities of facial prostheses via new 3D techno¬logies, but also the advantages and possible complications of this type of surgery.

Depuis quelques années, la technologie dite «conception et impression 3D¼ s'utilise avec succès dans les interventions de reconstruction osseuse maxillo-faciale. Nous en avons apprécié les bénéfices dans la confection d'implants faciaux sur mesure. La finesse de leur réalisation permet d'obtenir une parfaite congruence anatomique avec la meilleure biocompatibilité. Au sein du service de Chirurgie plastique et maxillo-faciale du CHU de Liège, nous avons effectué deux interventions avec implants 3D redéfinissant le squelette facial. Le but de cet article est de mettre en évidence les possibilités actuelles des implants faciaux via les nouvelles technologies 3D, mais également les avantages et les complications éventuelles de ce type de chirurgie.

[Sleep bruxism : state of the art and management]. / Bruxisme nocturne : actualités et prise en charge.

Although well studied since the 50's, bruxism remains a largely unknown pathology. Its origin is complex, mixing psychological as well as neurological, odontological and hypnic aspects. However, the few analyzes performed on this topic have allowed to set convincing etiopathological hypotheses, including central dysregulation of the dopaminergic system as well as of the neuro-masticatory system. To avoid harmful consequences as headaches, temporomandibular disorders and premature dental scuffs / fractures, it is mandatory to diagnose bruxism as early as possible. For this purpose, and in addition to anamnestic and clinical data, the practitioner can confirm diagnosis with polysomnography, including electromyographic study of masticatory muscles and audiovisual recording. Some orthodontic, pharmacological and psychological solutions have already proved efficient. Nevertheless, a better knowledge of causative neurobiological mechanisms would allow to foresee etiology-based treatments.

Le bruxisme reste, à l'heure actuelle, une pathologie relativement mal connue, bien que déjà étudiée depuis le début des années 50. Son origine est complexe, impliquant des composantes psychologiques, neurologiques, odontologiques et hypniques. Les quelques analyses réalisées à ce sujet ont, toutefois, permis de mettre en avant certaines hypothèses étiopathogéniques convaincantes, notamment un dérèglement central du système dopaminergique et du système neuromasticateur. Un diagnostic rapide de l'affection permettra de réduire ses complications (céphalées, désordres temporomandibulaires, abrasion et fractures dentaires prématurées). Au-delà de l'anamnèse et de l'examen clinique, le praticien pourra confirmer le diagnostic par polysomnographie, incluant une étude électromyographique des muscles masticateurs et un enregistrement audiovisuel. Certaines solutions orthodontiques, pharmacologiques et psychologiques ont déjà prouvé leur efficacité. Néanmoins, une meilleure connaissance des mécanismes neurobiologiques incriminés permettrait d'envisager un traitement étiologique.

[How I treat... minor superficial wounds]. / COMMENT JE TRAITE ... des plaies mineures superficielles.

Superficial minor wounds represent frequent events in daily practice. Their evolution is often favourable and without any mishap. However, they possibly evolve to some serious episodes. Normal healing develops in three successive phases. They correspond to the inflammatory, proliferative and remodeling phases, respectively. Their treatments are distinct. The major active agents are cleaning products, antiseptics, corticosteroids and silicone gels. By contrast products claiming some healing properties are disappointing in most cases, and in some instances, they are of no use.

[Metabolic and cardiovascular consequences of suction-assisted lipectomy: Systematic review]. / Conséquences métaboliques et cardiovasculaires de la lipoaspiration : revue systématique de la littérature.

BACKGROUND: Suction-assisted lipectomy is one of the most frequent procedures in plastic surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate whether suction-assisted lipectomy causes changes in the carbohydrates and lipid metabolism and the potential effects on cardiovascular risk factors. METHODS: We interrogated five databases: Medline, American College of Physicians Journal Club Database, Cochrane central register of controlled trials, Cochrane database of systematic reviews, Database of abstracts of reviews of effects. A systematic review of the literature was performed in order to compare results of randomized controlled trials and observational studies concerning changes in weight, metabolism, endocrinology, inflammatory markers and cardiovascular risk factors after suction-assisted lipectomy. All articles were assessed by criteria from Oxford Center For Evidence Based Medicine (OCEBM). RESULTS: The search resulted in 40 articles: 12 experimental animal studies and 28 human studies. CONCLUSION: Different metabolic parameters are affected by suction-assited lipectomy. First, all articles point out a decrease of body weight after suction-assisted lipectomy. Weight lost only affects fat mass without any change of lean mass. The potential compensatory growth of visceral fat seems to be counteracted by physical activity. Then, resting energy expenditure seems to be stable or decrease after the surgery. This reduction is significantly related to the decrease of leptin levels and also seems to be counteracted by physical activity. About adipocytokines, leptin level decreases after suction-assisted lipectomy while results are contradictory about adiponectin and resistin levels. However adiponectin seems to tend to increase after surgery. Inflammatory markers seem to increase within first hours after surgery. Then they seem to decrease or remain at the preoperative levels. Fasting insulin level decreases and is linked to the aspirated volume. So insulin sensitivity seems to be improved. Concerning lipid profil, it tends to remain the same or to be improved by suction-assisted lipectomy. In conclusion, regarding all the literature, there is still debate about metabolic effect of suction-assisted lipectomy. Prospective clinical studies are needed to confirm or invalidate some hypotheses. These studies must consider some potential biases as physical activity, diet and medical treatment modifications (statins).

[How I explore a dento-maxillofacial dysmorphosis]. / Comment j'explore une dysmorphose dento-maxillo-faciale.

Dento-maxillofacial dysmorphoses represent a considerable area of maxillofacial surgery. Their incidence has constantly been on the rise since the beginning of the century. This can be explained by variations in the food and society habits.We will first discuss the various causes (congenital and environnemental) and the pathophysiology of these disorders. Then, we will separate them according to the skeletal and Angle's classifications. We will examine the predictive criteria of these dysmorphoses from the youngest age and consider their clinical and cephalometrical diagnosis. We will envisage their functional and aesthetic consequences and expose the preventive options. Finally, we will describe the orthodontic and surgical treatment available today and conclude that surgery remains the gold standard by restoring the conventional axis.

Les dysmorphoses dento-maxillo-faciales (DDM) occupent un volet important de la chirurgie maxillo-faciale. Elles constituent un problème en constante progression depuis le début du siècle, s'expliquant notamment par des modifications des habitudes alimentaires et sociétales (1). Nous discuterons les diverses causes, congénitales et environnementales, ainsi que les aspects physiopathologiques de ces affections et ferons le point sur leur classification grâce à la classe squelettique et la classe dentaire d'Angle. Nous discuterons des critères prédictifs de ces dysmorphoses dès le plus jeune âge ainsi que de leur diagnostic clinique et céphalométrique. Nous détaillerons leurs conséquences esthétiques et fonctionnelles et exposerons les mesures préventives visant à éviter leur développement. Enfin, nous évoquerons la thérapeutique à la fois orthodontique et chirurgicale que nous pouvons actuellement proposer pour restaurer les fonctions masticatoires, phonétiques et respiratoires tout en harmonisant le tiers inférieur de la face.

[New paradigms and metaphors in cutaneous melanoma treatment]. / Nouveaux paradigmes et métaphores du traitement du mélanome cutané.

In recent years, new drugs have been designed for treating advanced cutaneous malignant melanoma, in particular the metastases. They afford modest benefits despite the fact they are commonly heralded as breakthroughs in the lay press and by some medical opinion leaders. Unfortunately, the use of inflated descriptors of the drug efficacy leads to misunderstandings among the clinicians in charge of patients. Currently, vemurafenib, ipilimumab, pembrolizumab and nivolumab have demonstrated their relative activity in the control of advanced malignant melanoma. The results expected from surrogate markers of efficacy are magnified and idealized regarding the expectations from many patients. The recent therapeutic advance improves the median overall survival for a few months. Some combined treatments could possibly boost the current beneficial effects.

Au cours des récentes années, de nouveaux médicaments ont été offerts pour le traitement du mélanome cutané avancé et, en particulier, de ses métastases. Ils apportent des bénéfices qualifiés de modestes par certains malgré leur présentation en tant qu'innovations par divers médias et par quelques médecins et biologistes élevés au rang de leaders d'opinion. Malheureusement, l'emploi de descripteurs inflationnistes de l'efficacité des médicaments entraîne certaines incompréhensions parmi les cliniciens en charge de ces patients. A ce jour, le vémurafénib, l'ipilimumab, le pembrolizumab et le nivolumab ont démontré leurs activités relatives dans le contrôle du mélanome avancé. Le bénéfice escompté par certains marqueurs de substitution de l'efficacité est magnifié et idéalisé par rapport aux attentes de beaucoup de patients. Les avancées thérapeutiques récentes procurent un accroissement de quelques mois à la survie médiane. Des traitements combinés pourraient améliorer le bénéfice dès à présent atteint.

[How I Treat. An Anterior Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation]. / la luxation condylienne mandibulaire antérieure.

Anterior dislocation of the temporomandibular joint is not uncommon and requires prompt management. A defect of dislocation reduction can lead to severe functional impairment of a complex, and often active joint. The diagnosis is clinical and relatively obvious. It is made by the frontline medical team, general practitioner or emergency doctor. Recurrent cases are a matter for maxillofacial surgeons. This article describes a conventional technique for anterior dislocation reduction, to achieve urgently. The second part of the article deals with the specialized surgical treatment of relapsing forms.

Oncological and surgical outcome after oncoplastic breast surgery.

BACKGROUND: Oncoplastic surgery combines breast-conserving treatment and plastic surgery techniques. The aim of the study was to identify breast and tumor-related characteristics that contribute to the rate of complications and recurrence. METHODS: This retrospective study included 72 patients with a median follow-up of 32 months. For each patient, a comprehensive set of data was collected, including epidemiology, tumor characteristics, preoperative information, detailed pathology reports, radiotherapy treatment and type of surgical technique. The rate of complications, recurrence and survival were studied. RESULTS: Complete tumor removal was performed with clear margins in all patients but in 25 of them margins were less than 2 mm. One patient had local recurrence and another developed distant metastases. The study showed that the size of the margin was not predictive of recurrence as long as not positive; the greater the resection volume, the larger the excision margin. The resection size was the only factor influencing complications and no specific tumor-related factor significantly increased the complication rate. Surgical complications did not delay the initiation of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first oncoplastic study where both tumor and breast characteristics were analyzed using the most recent criteria of the literature. Oncoplastic surgery can be considered as oncologically safe. The resection size was the sole significant risk factor for postoperative complications. Complications after oncoplastic breast surgery did not differ neoadjuvant therapy. Long-term event-free survival was excellent (96% at 7 years).

[Management of breast cancer in a woman with breast implants]. / Prise en charge d'un cancer du sein chez une femme porteuse de prothèses mammaires.

The incidence of breast cancer, currently one woman on eight, also concerns patients who underwent augmentation surgery. Breast implants have already been the subject of numerous publications concerning the risk of inducing breast cancer or of delaying its diagnosis; however, no significant causal relationship has been established. The purpose of this article is to assess the diagnostic and therapeutic consequences when breast cancer is identified in a patient with breast implants.

Oncological and Surgical Outcome after Oncoplastic Breast Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Oncoplastic surgery combines breast-conserving treatment and plastic surgery techniques. The aim of the study was to identify breast and tumor-related characteristics that contribute to the rate of complications and recurrence. MATERIAL & METHODS: This retrospective study included 72 patients with a median follow-up of 32 months. For each patient, a comprehensive set of data was collected, including epidemiology, tumor characteristics, preoperative information, detailed pathology reports, radiotherapy treatment and type of surgical technique. The rate of complications, recurrence and survival were studied. RESULTS: Complete tumor removal was performed with clear margins in all patients but in 25 of them margins were less than 2 mm. One patient had local recurrence and another developed distant metastases. The study showed that the size of the margin was not predictive of recurrence as long as not positive; the greater the resection volume, the larger the excision margin. The resection size was the only factor influencing complications and no specific tumor-related factor significantly increased the complication rate. Surgical complications did not delay the initiation of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. CONCLUSION: This is the first oncoplastic study where both tumor and breast characteristics were analyzed using the most recent criteria of the literature. Oncoplastic surgery can be considered as oncologically safe. The resection size was the sole significant risk factor for postoperative complications. Complications after oncoplastic breast surgery did not differ neoadjuvant therapy. Long-term event-free survival was excellent (96% at 7 years).

[How I treat.... Nasal reconstruction]. / COMMENT JE TRAITE... LA RECONSTRUCTION DU NEZ.

Reconstruction of the nose is a common condition in plastic surgery, mainly after skin cancer excision. Outcomes must meet high aesthetic and functional requirements. This necessitates a thorough analysis of the defect to assess the anatomical and aesthetic deficits. Any loss of bone, cartilage or mucosa needs to be replaced. Small defects can be resurfaced by local flaps. The forehead flap remains the gold standard for complex defect.

A methodological evaluation of volumetric measurement techniques including three-dimensional imaging in breast surgery.

Breast surgery currently remains very subjective and each intervention depends on the ability and experience of the operator. To date, no objective measurement of this anatomical region can codify surgery. In this light, we wanted to compare and validate a new technique for 3D scanning (LifeViz 3D) and its clinical application. We tested the use of the 3D LifeViz system (Quantificare) to perform volumetric calculations in various settings (in situ in cadaveric dissection, of control prostheses, and in clinical patients) and we compared this system to other techniques (CT scanning and Archimedes' principle) under the same conditions. We were able to identify the benefits (feasibility, safety, portability, and low patient stress) and limitations (underestimation of the in situ volume, subjectivity of contouring, and patient selection) of the LifeViz 3D system, concluding that the results are comparable with other measurement techniques. The prospects of this technology seem promising in numerous applications in clinical practice to limit the subjectivity of breast surgery.

[Diagnosis and evolution of a keloid]. / Diagnostic et évolution d'une chéloïde.

Keloid is a protruding hypertrophic fibrous formation of the dermis. It corresponds to a tough lesion at palpation. Two clinical types are distinguished. They correspond either to a peculiar evolution of a scar, or to a seemingly spontaneous event. Such lesion is characterized by massive deposits of collagen bundles. This aspect is distinct from hypertrophic scars primarily representing an accumulation of fibroblasts and small vessels.

[Bilateral prophylactic mastectomy for women at very high risk for breast cancer: beyond the technique]. / Mastectomie bilatérale prophylactique chez les patientes à très haut risque de cancer mammaire: au-delà de la technique...

Bilateral prophylactic mastectomy is the most efficient risk management strategy for women at very high risk for breast cancer. Different methods can be used. The implementation of such a strategy must respond to the request of a well informed patient.

[Breast oncoplastic surgery]. / La chirurgie oncoplastique du sein.

Oncoplastic surgery combines large lumpectomy and defect remodeling by different plastic surgery methods. These procedures improve the cosmetic result after partial mastectomy and widens the possibilities for conservative treatment. Different techniques are used from simple glandular remodeling to more difficult techniques for breast plasties with or without simultaneous controlateral symetrisation procedure. The surgical option depends especially on the ratio between the volume of the tumor and the volume of the breast and the position of the tumor. This more effective conservative treatment facilitates also postoperative radiotherapy, reduces the sequellae and the psychological impact of breast cancer treatment.