Preventing nasal airway collapse with irradiated homologous costal cartilage versus expanded polytetrafluoroethylene: a novel animal model for nasal airway reconstruction.

Airway collapse can occur when the forces of inhalation overpower the strength of the nasal lining flap. The authors established an animal model of the reconstructed nasal airway, and examined mechanical properties of tissue composites based on various materials. Twenty-three Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three experimental groups: control (n = 5), irradiated homologous costal cartilage (IHCC, n = 10), and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE, n = 8). Two dorsal skin flaps represented nasal lining and skin envelope. No framework, an IHCC or ePTFE rim graft was used as framework. At three weeks, changes in the cross-sectional area of the lining flap were measured when negative pressure was applied. En-bloc specimens containing the graft and soft tissue were examined for histological change and tissue ingrowth. Reduction of cross-sectional area with simulated inhalation was 87.74% in the control group, 82.76% (IHCC), and 67.29% (ePTFE). Cross-sectional reduction was significantly less in ePTFE group than control group (p = 0.004) and IHCC group (p = 0.001). The difference was not significant in the control and IHCC groups. There was histologic evidence of tissue ingrowth in the ePTFE group. This novel animal model of nasal airway reconstruction supports the use and potential benefit of using ePTFE for prevention of airway collapse.

Computer-aided design and three-dimensional printing improves symmetry in heminasal reconstruction outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Symmetry and balance in nasal reconstruction can be hard to achieve. Traditionally, a foil template modeled after the unaffected contralateral side is used in the design of a forehead flap. Crude two-dimensional models often generate underwhelming results. To better simulate complex nasal topography, three-dimensional printing technology was applied to nasal reconstruction. METHODS: Between May 2012 and October 2016, twenty patients underwent forehead flap nasal reconstruction for heminasal deformities. Ten reconstructions were guided with prefabricated three-dimensional templates (CAD/CAM), and ten patients underwent traditional nasal reconstruction without CAD/CAM. In the CAD/CAM group, two templates were printed: contour guide and framework guide. These were a reference for skin flap design and cartilage framework design, respectively. Photographic records and photogrammetry was used to evaluate results. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 19.3 months (range, 6 months to 38 months) in the control group and 17.4 months (range, 7 months to 35 months) in the CAD/CAM group. Without CAD/CAM, there was asymmetry in alar width, alar area, nostril height, width and area (p < 0.05) between reconstructed and native structures. In the CAD/CAM group, there were asymmetries of nostril-related parameters only. After quantifying asymmetries as a percentage, the CAD/CAM group demonstrated more symmetric reconstructions, particularly in alar width (p = 0.043) and alar area (p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: When CAD/CAM guidance and three-dimensional printing was used, there was greater symmetry between reconstructed and native structures of the nose.

Refinements in flap design and inset for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction with free thigh flaps.

BACKGROUND: Complications arising from anastomotic failure may occur after pharyngoesophageal reconstruction. In this report we present results of pharyngoesophageal reconstruction with free thigh flaps using a refined design and inset strategy in a series of patients. METHODS: From May 2011 to December 2012, pharyngoesophageal oncologic defects were reconstructed in 12 men using thigh flaps. Flaps were designed to exceed defect circumference to allow draping of the excess over injury-prone vessels (so-called delta-inset). Patients were 39- to 68-years-old (mean, 51.8-years-old) at the time of surgery. BMI ranged from 17 to 28 kg/m2 (average, 21.5 kg/m2 ). The sites of defects were the hypopharynx in 11 cases and the pharynx in 1 case. Ten anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps and 2 anteromedial thigh (AMT) flaps were used. All patients underwent radiation therapy. RESULTS: The average flap size was 22 × 9 cm (range: 16-26 × 7-11 cm2 ). There were no partial or total flap losses, and no donor site complications. Follow-up was 19.3 months (range: 2.4-21.6 months) including 8 patients (75%) who succumbed to disease in the follow-up period. Oral intake was achieved in all patients. Recipient site complications occurred in 50% of cases and included fistula (2 cases), fistula and stricture (2 cases), stricture (1 case), and lymphocele (1 case). Four patients required revision for fistula. CONCLUSIONS: A refined thigh flap design and inset method in pharyngoesophageal reconstruction may circumvent complications arising from toxic drainage and vascular injury. However, there are insufficient data to make meaningful comparisons to alternative methods. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 37:112-118, 2017.

Silicone-Polytetrafluoroethylene Composite Implants for Asian Rhinoplasty.

BACKGROUND: Silicone and Gore-Tex implants are mainstays of Asian rhinoplasty. Silicone implants are inexpensive and wieldy, but may elicit a foreign-body reaction and are prone to migration. Gore-Tex implants are more biocompatible and capable of ingrowth but expensive. Silicone-polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites have a silicone core and PTFE liner. Composite implants have been marketed for several years, but are not yet established alternatives for rhinoplasty because of a lack of relevant reports. METHODS: From February 2012 to June 2015, 177 Asian patients underwent primary (n = 63) or secondary (n = 114) rhinoplasty using an I-shaped composite implant. One hundred fifty-nine women and 18 men were 19 to 72 years old (mean, 34 years) at the time of surgery. Composite implants were 1.5 to 5 mm thick and 3.8 to 4.5 cm long. Autologous cartilage from the septum, concha, or both was used for tip refinement in every case. Glabellar augmentation was performed in 19 (10.7%) cases. RESULTS: Follow-up was 6.0 months (range, 1-36 months). There were 19 (10.7%) complications including malposition/deviation (4.5%), erythema (2.3%), and infection (1.1%). Four patients were unsatisfied, citing inadequate dorsal height correction. There was an 8.8% revision rate; 7 of 12 revisions were for malposition/deviation. We did not observe implant step-offs or extrusion. There were no differences in outcomes after primary or secondary rhinoplasty, although there was a trend toward higher infection rate after primary rhinoplasty (P = 0.06). CONCLUSIONS: I-shaped silicone-PTFE composite implants are feasible for both primary and secondary augmentation rhinoplasty in Asians. Early outcomes data suggest an overall complication rate that is comparable to PTFE alone.

Nasolabial and forehead flap reconstruction of contiguous alar-upper lip defects.

BACKGROUND: Defects of the nasal ala and upper lip aesthetic subunits can be challenging to reconstruct when they occur in isolation. When defects incorporate both the subunits, the challenge is compounded as subunit boundaries also require reconstruction, and local soft tissue reservoirs alone may provide inadequate coverage. In such cases, we used nasolabial flaps for upper lip reconstruction and a forehead flap for alar reconstruction. METHODS: Three men and three women aged 21-79 years (average, 55 years) were treated for defects of the nasal ala and upper lip that resulted from cancer (n = 4) and trauma (n = 2). Unaffected contralateral subunits dictated the flap design. The upper lip subunit was excised and replaced with a nasolabial flap. The flap, depending on the contralateral reference, determined accurate alar base position. A forehead flap resurfaced or replaced the nasal ala. Autologous cartilage was used in every case to fortify the forehead flap reconstruction. RESULTS: Patients were followed for 25.6 months (range, 1-4 years). All the flaps survived, and there were no complications. Satisfactory aesthetic results were achieved in every case. With the exception of a small vertical cheek scar and a vertical forehead scar, all incisions were concealed within the subunit borders. CONCLUSION: From preliminary experience, we advocate combining nasolabial flap reconstruction of the upper lip with a forehead flap reconstruction of the ala to preserve normal facial appearance. This combination addresses an important void in the algorithmic approach to central facial reconstruction.

Double forehead flap reconstruction of composite nasal defects.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Composite nasal defects require skin, framework, and lining reconstruction. The forehead flap is an ideal donor for skin coverage because of good color match and excellent donor-site healing. Intranasal flaps and grafts are reserved for lining reconstruction of small defects. Locoregional and free flaps are used for larger lining defects, but these may not be ideal or safe. The authors advocate the double forehead flap for large composite defects of the nose in a subset of patients. METHODS: Three men and three women aged 55-87 years (average 74.7 years) were treated for composite nasal defects that resulted from cancer (n = 5) and trauma (n = 1). Skin and lining defects were >2 cm in every dimension. Double forehead flaps were raised in stages (n = 1) or simultaneously (n = 5), and nasal reconstruction was performed in two (n = 1) or three stages (n = 5). RESULTS: Patients were followed for 19.3 months (range 13-24 months). Donor sites of flaps raised in stages healed after 3 months. When flaps were raised together, healing required 5-13 months (average 7.6 months). There were no partial or complete flap losses. None of the patients had infection, hematoma, or nerve injury. Satisfactory aesthetic results were achieved in every case. CONCLUSION: The authors advocate the double forehead flap for large composite nasal defects in patients who are not suitable candidates for nasolabial flaps and those who may not tolerate free tissue transfer. The advantages of this method must be weighed against the drawbacks, which include prolonged donor-site healing and elimination of the contralateral forehead flap.

Scaphoid Proximal Pole Fracture Following Headless Screw Fixation.

Background Headless screw fixation of scaphoid fractures and nonunions yields predictably excellent outcomes with a relatively low complication profile. However, intramedullary implants affect the load to failure and stress distribution within bone and may be implicated in subsequent fracture. Case Description We describe a posttraumatic fracture pattern of the scaphoid proximal pole originating at the previous headless screw insertion site in three young male patients with healed scaphoid nonunions. Each fracture was remarkably similar in shape and size, comprised the volar proximal pole, and was contiguous with the screw entry point. Treatment was challenging but successful in all cases. Literature Review Previous reports have posited that stress-raisers secondary to screw orientation may be implicated in subsequent peri-implant fracture of the femoral neck. Repeat scaphoid fracture after screw fixation has also been reported. However, the shape and locality of secondary fracture have not been described, nor has the potential role of screw fixation in the production of distinct fracture patterns. Clinical Relevance Hand surgeons must be aware of this difficult complication that may follow antegrade headless screw fixation of scaphoid fracture nonunion, and of available treatment strategies.

Preventing Elevated Radix Deformity in Asian Rhinoplasty with a Chimeric Dorsal-Glabellar Construct.

BACKGROUND: Asian facial aesthetic surgery should enhance, but not change, natural features. Augmentation rhinoplasty is a hallmark of Asian cosmetic surgery. In the authors' experience, I-shaped implants can elevate and efface the radix, leading to an unnatural appearance (elevated radix deformity). OBJECTIVES: The Chimeric technique was developed to control final radix position and preserve the nasal profile. We aim to demonstrate that the Chimeric technique promotes forward projection, not elevation, of the radix. METHODS: Between 2013 and 2015, 49 patients underwent rhinoplasty with I-shaped implants. Nineteen patients had Chimeric dorsal-glabellar implants, 30 did not. Standardized photographs were obtained at every visit. Novel and established photogrammetric parameters were used to describe radix position and position change. A retrospective chart review provided additional procedural details and outcomes data. RESULTS: Patients were followed for 10.8 months (range, 2-36 months). Nasal height increase (113% vs 107%) and bridge length increase (118% vs 105%) were significantly greater when the Chimeric technique was not performed (P < .0001). The nasofrontal angle increased 6° in both groups; there was no difference between groups. The vector of radix position change was 26.1° in the Chimeric group and 63.4° in the traditional group (P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: The Chimeric technique preserves the nasal profile with a favorable (horizontal) radix transposition vector. There was not a significant difference in final radix position when Chimeric rhinoplasty was performed because that is controlled by implant thickness and position. The technique did not blunt the radix significantly. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4: Therapeutic.

The Folded Ulnar Forearm Flap for Nasal Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Many strategies exist to reconstruct composite nasal defects, but free flaps are necessary for extensive defects. The workhorse radial forearm flap is hair-bearing and donor-site cosmesis is unfavorable. The ulnar forearm flap is overlooked despite important aesthetic benefits. The authors describe their experience with the ulnar forearm flap, with a novel folding technique in staged nasal reconstruction. METHODS: Between December of 2010 and April of 2015, 10 nasal reconstructions in five men and five women were performed. Average patient age was 47.6 years (range, 31 to 76 years). The ulnar forearm flap was designed as a narrow contiguous flap along the ulnar vascular axis. Inset began with the nasal floor; the flap was then tubularized twice to create nasal passages before it was folded on itself for coverage. Caudal edges were sewn together to create alae and a columella. Follow-up time, complications, number of operations, and reconstructive duration were documented. RESULTS: Average follow-up was 25.2 months (range, 18 to 44 months). Patients had satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes after 6.4 operations (range, five to eight) over 11.1 months (range, 8 to 18 months). Partial necrosis of the alar lining in one case was salvaged with the covering flap. Two cases of chondritis were managed with conservative débridement and antibiotics. One case of severe chondritis necessitated removal and de novo reconstruction. CONCLUSIONS: The ulnar forearm flap is safe and reliable in nasal reconstruction, with superior donor-site cosmesis. The tubular folding method creates a vascular envelope amenable to same-stage framework construction. With thoughtful planning and sufficient refinement, excellent aesthetic and functional results are achievable. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, V.

First-Person Long-term Follow-up Using Autologous Mosaicplasty for Osteochondral Lesion Accompanying Femoral Head Fracture.

UNLABELLED: I present my perspective as a patient and surgeon on complete functional recovery after a devastating hip injury. This report represents the longest follow-up in the literature for autologous osteochondral mosaicplasty to treat an osteochondral defect associated with a femoral head fracture. I was 21 years old when I fractured my hip in a skiing accident. Days after immediate reduction, arthroscopy was attempted but converted to open reduction internal fixation with osteochondral autograft for a type II Pipkin fracture and associated osteochondral injury. Joint preservation was intended to delay hip replacement that was forecasted within a decade given the extent of disease. Thirteen years later, I remain pain-free with a Harris hip score of 100. I perform surgery daily and enjoy long-distance running despite radiographic follow-up at 8 years that demonstrated evolving degenerative change. Because of the incongruity of pain, function, and radiologic findings, I hesitate to obtain additional imaging. I prefer to remain ignorant of the radiologic status of my hip joint, relying instead on prospective pain and impairment. My experience illustrates that full recovery and return-to-sport can be achieved and persist for years. The relevance of imaging after joint preservation surgery is questionable in the absence of symptoms. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Algorithmic approach to lower abdominal, perineal, and groin reconstruction using anterolateral thigh flaps.

Lower abdominal, perineal, and groin (LAPG) reconstruction may be performed in a single stage. Anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps are preferred here and taken as fasciocutaneous (ALT-FC), myocutaneous (ALT-MC), or vastus lateralis myocutaneous (VL-MC) flaps. We aim to present the results of reconstruction from a series of patients and guide flap selection with an algorithmic approach to LAPG reconstruction that optimizes outcomes and minimizes morbidity. Lower abdomen, groin, perineum, vulva, vagina, scrotum, and bladder wounds reconstructed in 22 patients using ALT flaps between 2000 and 2013 were retrospectively studied. Five ALT-FC, eight ALT-MC, and nine VL-MC flaps were performed. All flaps survived. Venous congestion occurred in three VL-MC flaps from mechanical cause. Wound infection occurred in six cases. Urinary leak occurred in three cases of bladder reconstruction. One patient died from congestive heart failure. The ALT flap is time tested and dependably addresses most LAPG defects; flap variations are suited for niche defects. We propose a novel algorithm to guide reconstructive decision-making.

An Algorithm for Forefoot Reconstruction With the Innervated Free Medial Plantar Flap.

BACKGROUND: Because of shearing forces, the forefoot is more prone to trophic ulcers than the heel. Reconstruction of trophic ulcers and other forefoot defects is a vexing challenge. We favor the innervated free medial plantar flap to replace like-with-like and confer protective sensation. We investigate the feasibility of this flap with the largest series to date and the first to describe ipsilateral flap transfer. METHODS: Between 2009 and 2013, 7 patients with forefoot defects were treated with innervated free medial plantar flaps. The average age of 4 men and 3 women was 35.1 years (range, 8-50 years). Indications were secondary reconstruction after trauma and coverage of oncologic defects. The mean defect was 5 × 7 cm (range, 4-6 cm × 6-10 cm). Four patients were treated with contralateral flaps and 3 with ipsilateral flaps using interposition vein graft. RESULTS: The mean flap size was 8.1 ± 1.6 cm × 5.9 ± 1.2 cm. There was no perioperative complication, venous congestion, or arterial insufficiency. Patients were followed clinically for 38.5 months (range, 6 months to 10 years). One patient died from complications of metastatic disease 7 months after plantar flap reconstruction. Two patients underwent sensory testing and gait analysis. The appearance was satisfactory, ambulation returned to normal, and there was protective sensation in every case. In 2 cases, hyperkeratotic tissue was excised in revision procedures. CONCLUSIONS: The innervated free medial plantar flap is an attractive and feasible option for coverage of medium-to-large defects of the plantar forefoot in the hands of a skilled microsurgeon. It has a place in our algorithmic approach to forefoot reconstruction.

Current Trends and Emerging Future of Indocyanine Green Usage in Surgery and Oncology: An Update.

BACKGROUND: Indocyanine green (ICG) is a widely available dye of clinical importance that has been used for more than 50 years. Near-infrared (NIR) ICG fluorescence imaging has found a niche in cancer care since 2005, and was reviewed in 2011. There is a need for a comprehensive update and we aim to provide this through a review of the most recent literature. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature using PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE databases of articles published from 2000 to June 2015 evaluated topics pertinent to NIR fluorescence imaging with ICG in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of cancer. Articles previously referenced in a 2011 review and a 2015 meta-analysis were excluded, while articles that referenced future directions and economics were included in this current review. RESULTS: Since 2011, the literature has grown exponentially, with significant advances at the molecular level. Significant findings from 89 select articles and 10 reviews, most of which were published between 2011 and 2015, are summarized. Preclinical studies are currently underway investigating tumor-specific fluorescence and targeted therapeutic delivery. The potential for ICG exists at every level of cancer care, from diagnosis to surveillance. CONCLUSION: The indications, applications, and potential for ICG have grown exponentially in the past decade; an updated review of the literature is overdue and we present the most comprehensive review to date.

The combined ALT-groin flap for the mutilated and degloved hand.

BACKGROUND: Degloving and mutilation of the hand is a rare but formidable challenge. When replantation is not possible, we rely on distant pedicled flaps. We present a technique using pedicled anterolateral thigh (ALT) and groin flaps to sandwich and resurface the degloved hand. The purpose of this study is to describe the rationale, indications, methods and outcomes of combined pedicled ALT and groin flap reconstruction of the degloved hand. METHODS: Five injuries were treated at this center between 2011 and 2014. Charts were retrospectively reviewed and outcomes evaluated. Four ALT-groin flaps were performed in a single stage for degloving, crush and combined injuries. In one case, partial necrosis of a tight groin flap necessitated secondary ALT coverage at a second stage. RESULTS: Flaps survived after division at 4 weeks, and venous congestion was not observed at any point. Debulking, syndactyly release and toe transfer followed reconstruction to enhance outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The combined ALT-groin flap is safe and feasible for the reconstruction of the degloved or mutilated hand when replantation is not an option. It is attractive for familiar donor anatomy, donor-site morbidity and the quantity and composition of the tissue it provides.

Two versus 3 lag screws for fixation of long oblique proximal phalanx fractures of the fingers: a cadaver study.

PURPOSE: To compare 2- versus 3-screw fixation for oblique fractures of the proximal phalanx in a cadaver model that simulates active finger motion. METHODS: We experimentally cut the proximal phalanges of the index, middle, and ring fingers of 9 cadaveric hands. Five fingers were assigned to a control group with no fixation, and 22 were fixed with either 2 or 3 lag screws. One digit was excluded because of iatrogenic fracture during preparation. The fingers were fitted with a differential variable reluctance transducer that measured maximum interfragment displacement while the fingers were subjected to 2,000 full flexion and extension cycles to simulate a 6-week active motion protocol. RESULTS: Analysis of variance revealed a significant difference between the control group and both the 2- and the 3-screw group. The 2- and 3-screw group average displacements were not significantly different. Both of these groups were equivalent with a power of 90%. CONCLUSIONS: Biomechanical stability during simulated active motion protocol did not differ in simulated proximal phalanx fractures treated with 2 lag screws or 3. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Fracture fixation using 2 screws may be more cost and time effective and, therefore, more attractive to the surgeon, even when 3 screws can be placed. Furthermore, surgeons may consider using 2 screws rather than resorting to plate fixation when 3-screw fixation is not possible for these types of fractures.

Utility of indocyanine green fluorescence lymphography in identifying the source of persistent groin lymphorrhea.

SUMMARY: Surgical manipulation of the groin can result in lymphatic injury in a significant number of patients leading to poor wound healing or infectious complications. Surgical repair of lymphatic injury is greatly aided by the precise and prompt intraoperative localization of the injured lymphatic vessels. We assessed and identified lymphatic leaks in 2 cases of surgical wound lymphorrhea occurring after instrumentation of the groin using laser-assisted indocyanine green lymphography paired with isosulfan blue injection. Both cases healed without complication, and no lymphatic leak recurrence was observed during postoperative follow-up. Laser-assisted indocyanine green lymphography is a useful adjunct in the management of lymphatic leaks after surgery of the groin and may have potential for prophylactic evaluation of high-risk groin wounds.

Surgical excision of multiple penile syringomas with scrotal flap reconstruction.

OBJECTIVE: Penile syringomas are rare lesions usually occurring in isolation. We report the excision and reconstruction of multiple synchronous penile shaft syringomas with local scrotal flaps. METHODS: We report a rare case of excision of multiple penile syringomas and reconstruction with scrotal flaps in a 29-year-old man. RESULTS: Penile syringomas were excised and reconstructed with scrotal flaps in a single-stage procedure. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to providing wound coverage, this reconstructive option allowed for excellent functional results with regard to shaft alignment and erectile function, and it should be considered in the reconstructive armamentarium for penile shaft lesions.

Defining predictable patterns of craniomaxillofacial injury in the elderly: analysis of 1,047 patients.

PURPOSE: Currently, nearly 1 in 5 Americans is at least 60 years of age. Bone atrophy, decreased capacity for tissue repair, and chronic disease are known to influence fracture patterns and operative algorithms in this age group. This study presents craniofacial trauma injury patterns and treatment in an elderly population at a major urban trauma center. METHODS: Patient records were retrospectively reviewed from February 1998 through December 2010. Patients at least 60 years of age who met the inclusion criteria for craniofacial fractures identified by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code review and confirmed by author review of available computed tomograms were studied. Demographic information, fracture type, concomitant injuries, and management were recorded. RESULTS: Of 11,084 patients presenting with facial fracture, 1,047 were older than 60 years. The most common mechanism of injury was falls (50%), and most patients were men (59%). Commonly fractured areas included the nose (n = 452, 43%), maxilla (316, 30%), zygoma (312, 30%), orbital floor (280, 27%), and mandible (186, 18%), with 51 patients (5%) having a concomitant basilar skull fracture. Inpatient mortality and length of stay were significantly increased compared with the nongeriatric population (P < .01), although only 5% of all fractures were treated operatively. CONCLUSIONS: Fractures in the elderly tend to be minimally displaced midfacial fractures that do not warrant surgical intervention. Despite conservative management, the elderly are hospitalized longer than their younger counterparts, have increased critical care needs, and have higher mortality. These data support national medical preparedness in anticipating the craniofacial trauma needs of the aging US population and can be used to update treatment algorithms for these patients.