Extraction of agar from Gelidium sesquipedale (Rhodopyta) and surface characterization of agar based films.

The chemical structure of the agar obtained from Gelidium sesquipedale (Rhodophyta) has been determined by (13)C nuclear magnetic resonance ((13)C NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Agar (AG) films with different amounts of soy protein isolate (SPI) were prepared using a thermo-moulding method, and transparent and hydrophobic films were obtained and characterized. FTIR analysis provided a detailed description of the binding groups present in the films, such as carboxylic, hydroxyl and sulfonate groups, while the surface composition was examined using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The changes observed by FTIR and XPS spectra suggested interactions between functional groups of agar and SPI. This is a novel approach to the characterization of agar-based films and provides knowledge about the compatibility of agar and soy protein for further investigation of the functional properties of biodegradable films based on these biopolymers.

The buccal fat pad flap in oral reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to describe the surgical technique, indications, advantages, and possible complications of the buccal fat pad flap and to report our clinical experience with this flap for intraoral reconstruction after tumor removal. METHODS: The flap has been used to reconstruct oral defects after tumor resection in 32 patients, who have been retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: Adequate closure of the defect was achieved during surgery in all cases. In one case, there was partial loss of the flap; this was treated conservatively. In five cases there was some retraction in the reconstructed area. CONCLUSIONS: Buccal fat pad as a flap offers an adequate reconstructive option to be born in mind when reconstructing small to medium defects in the oral cavity. It is a simple and quick surgical technique with a low incidence of complications.

The use of Mitek pins in the mandibular lingual releasing approach to oral and/or oropharyngeal carcinomas: a technical note.

Resection of carcinoma of the oral cavity and oropharynx requires adequate exposure. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the approach employed (mandibular lingual releasing approach) for resection of some oral cavity or oropharyngeal carcinomas and to point out the indications, advantages, complications, and refinements of this technique. The technique was carried out on 23 patients with oral cavity or oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas. A lingual floor-of-mouth flap was created allowing delivery of the tongue and floor of mouth without lip splitting, mandibulotomy, or mandibulectomy. After resection of the tumour and repair of the defect, the musculature of the floor of the mouth was reattached to the lingual cortex of the mandible using Mitek minianchors. There was adequate exposure in all the patients. Wound margin dehiscence occurred in four patients resulting in an orocervical fistula in three patients. Mandibular osteotomy and subsequent osteosynthesis were avoided. Thus instability and infection of the osteotomy site were avoided. However, additional mandibular osteotomy is feasible.