Manejo expectante de amniocele en paciente con espectro de placenta accreta: reporte de caso

Introducción: El amniocele es una hernia del saco amniótico a través de un defecto en la pared del útero, el cual puede deberse a ruptura uterina, secundario a daños preexistentes, anomalías uterinas o en un útero sin cicatrices. Caso clínico: Presentamos el caso de una paciente de 37 años, con antecedente de dos partos por cesárea, a quien en la semana 25,5 de embarazo se le diagnostica por ecografía amniocele en la pared anterior de útero contenido por la vejiga, además de signos ecográficos de acretismo placentario. La posterior realización de resonancia magnética confirma el diagnóstico. Se realiza manejo expectante con estancia continua intrahospitalaria estricta. Resolución obstétrica a las 34 semanas por cesárea, con extracción fetal por fondo uterino sin complicaciones, con posterior realización de histerectomía con placenta in situ. Conclusiones: Este reporte de caso ilustra la importancia de la identificación temprana de esta condición por ser una complicación infrecuente, pero de grave pronóstico fetomaterno en ausencia de atención inmediata.

Introduction: Amniocele is a hernia of the amniotic sac through a defect in the uterine wall, which can be caused by uterine rupture secondary to preexisting damage, uterine anomalies, or a scarless uterus. Case report: We present a case of a 37-year-old patient with a history of two previous cesarean deliveries. At 25.5 weeks of gestation, the diagnosis of amniocele in the anterior uterine wall, contained by the bladder, along with ultrasound signs of placenta accreta, was confirmed through ultrasound. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging further confirmed the diagnosis. Expectant management with strict continuous intrahospital stay was implemented. Obstetric resolution was achieved at 34 weeks through cesarean delivery, with uncomplicated fetal extraction through the uterine fundus. Subsequently, a hysterectomy was performed with the placenta left in situ. Conclusions: This case report illustrates the importance of early identification of this condition due to its infrequent but serious feto-maternal prognosis in the absence of immediate attention.

Avances en endodoncia regenerativa: reporte de caso con uso de la membrana amniótica humana / Advances in regenerative endodontics: report of a case using a human amniotic membrane

Los procedimientos endodónticos regenerativos (REPs) representan una evolución significativa en el campo de la endodoncia, buscando no sólo tratar la infección o lesión presente en el diente, sino tam-bién promover la regeneración de los tejidos denta-rios afectados. El presente caso clínico muestra un incisivo lateral superior izquierdo con apexogénesis incompleta y diagnóstico de absceso alveolar crónico reagudizado en una paciente de 22 años, en el que se aplicó un procedimiento de endodoncia regenerativa (REPs). La estrategia terapéutica elegida se basó en los principios de ingeniería tisular, incorporando la novedosa aplicación de la membrana amniótica hu-mana liofilizada esterilizada como andamio bioactivo intraconducto. Las evaluaciones clínicas, radiográ-ficas y tomográficas a corto, mediano y largo plazo revelaron el éxito de la terapia. La resolución exitosa mostró en los controles a la pieza dentaria asintomá-tica, con una notable remisión de la patología apical, aumento de la longitud radicular y disminución del calibre apical. Se ha podido destacar la eficacia de los REPs, con una exitosa aplicabilidad de la membra-na amniótica como andamio innovador (AU)

Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) represent a significant evolution in the field of endodontics, aiming not only to address the infection or injury within the tooth, but also to promote the regeneration of the affected dental tissues. In this clinical case, an upper left lateral incisor with incomplete apexogenesis and diagnosis of acute exacerbation of a chronic periapical lesion in a 22-year-old patient is presented. A regenerative endodontic procedure (REPs) was applied. The chosen therapeutic strategy was based on tissue engineering principles, incorporating the innovative use of sterilized lyophilized human amniotic membrane as an intraconduct bioactive scaffold. Clinical, radiographic, and tomographic assessments at short, medium, and long-term follow-up revealed the success of the therapy. Successful resolution demonstrated an asymptomatic tooth in the follow-up, with a notable resolution of apical pathology, increased root length, and decreased apical caliber. The effectiveness of REPs has been highlighted, demonstrating the successful applicability of amniotic membrane as an innovative scaffold (AU)

Membranas amnióticas y su aplicación en el tratamiento de quemaduras: una revisión sistemática exploratoria

Las quemaduras son un problema de interés en salud pública ya que generan un alto índice de morbimortalidad a nivel mundial, las quemaduras térmicas son las más prevalentes y pueden alterar la integridad anatómica, funcional y estética de la piel, aspectos fundamentales para la autoestima del paciente y su capacidad para reintegrarse a la sociedad. Al revisar la literatura sobre el tratamiento de estas afecciones encontramos diversos tratamientos, entre ellos el uso de membrana amniótica humana, la cual ha tenido un impacto importante en el manejo de quemaduras al funcionar como andamio biológico con cualidades regenerativas y antiinflamatorias. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo sintetizar la información actual que describe las aplicaciones de membranas amnióticas humanas en quemaduras, realizamos una revisión exploratoria sistemática de la literatura desde 2010 hasta 2021.

Burns are a problem of interest in public health since they generate a high rate of morbidity and mortality worldwide, thermal burns are the most prevalent and can alter the anatomical, functional and aesthetic integrity of the skin, fundamental aspects for the patient's self-esteem and their ability to reintegrate into society. At review literature about the treatment of these conditions, we find various treatments, including the use of human amniotic membrane, which has had a significant impact on burn management by functioning as a biological scaffold with regenerative and anti-inflammatory qualities. The present article aims to synthesize the current information that describes the applications of human amniotic membranes in burns. We carry out a systematic exploratory review of the literature from 2010 to 2021.

Utilidad del injerto de membrana amniótica en el manejo de la exposición del implante XEN® / Usefulness of the amniotic membrane graft in the management of the exposure of the XEN® implant

Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 79 años con glaucoma severo y falta de adherencia al tratamiento, que es sometida a cirugía de catarata e implante XEN® en su ojo izquierdo. Dos semanas después de la intervención se objetiva una erosión conjuntival con exposición del extremo distal del implante, por lo que se realiza una reparación quirúrgica mediante la combinación de una sutura aposicional del tubo, adaptando su trayectoria a la curvatura escleral, y el recubrimiento con injerto de membrana amniótica. Tras 6 meses de seguimiento, presenta una presión intraocular controlada, sin necesidad de tratamiento adicional, y sin mostrar progresión de su enfermedad (AU)

We report a case of a 79-year-old woman with severe glaucoma and absence of therapeutic adherence, who underwent cataract surgery and XEN® implant in her left eye. Two weeks after the intervention, conjunctival erosion was observed with exposure of the distal end of the implant, so a surgical repair was performed by combining an appositional suture of the tube, adapting its trajectory to the scleral curvature, and an amniotic membrane graft. After 6 months of follow-up, the intraocular pressure was controlled, without additional treatment needed, and no disease progression (AU)

Usefulness of the amniotic membrane graft in the management of xen® implant exposure.

We report a case of a 79-year-old woman with severe glaucoma and absence of therapeutic adherence, who undergone cataract surgery and XEN® implant in her left eye. Two weeks after the intervention, conjunctival erosion was observed with exposure of the distal end of the implant, so a surgical repair was performed by combining an appositional suture of the tube, adapting its trajectory to the scleral curvature, and an amniotic membrane graft. After 6 months of follow-up, the intraocular pressure is controlled, without additional treatment needed, and no disease progression.

Doble recubrimiento con membrana amniótica en estrabismo restrictivo / Double covering with amniotic membrane in restrictive strabismus

El manejo del estrabismo restrictivo sigue siendo un problema no resuelto hoy en día.Se presenta un caso de estrabismo restrictivo posquirúrgico severo tras una cirugía de exotropía consecutiva. Describimos a continuación el manejo exitoso mediante una técnica que consiste en envolver el músculo afectado con membrana amniótica o «wrap» en la que añadimos un segundo injerto de membrana amniótica en la reconstrucción de la superficie ocular. (AU)

The management of restrictive strabismus remains an unresolved problem today.A case of severe restrictive strabismus after a consecutive exotropia surgery is presented. We describe the exitosus managment through a technique consist of wrapping with amniotic membrane the affected muscle where we add a second amniotic membraneA graft in the reconstruction of the ocular surface. (AU)

Uso de la membrana amniótica como material de apósito en paciente con fascitis necrotizante: A propósito de un caso

Introducción: La fascitis necrotizante es una infección grave que involucra la piel, el tejido celular subcutáneo y las fascias superficiales-profundas, progresa muy rápidamente y si no se trata a tiempo puede causar la muerte. Reporte de caso: Presentamos el caso de una paciente adulta con antecedentes de anemia, a quien se le diagnosticó fascitis necrosante de origen odontogénico, por lo que fue intervenida quirúrgicamente y se realizó un drenaje intraoral y extraoral más escarectomía. Además, se le administró tratamiento farmacológico (antibióticos intravenosos) y se colocó una membrana amniótica como material de apósito para reconstruir la superficie hemorrágica dejada por la fascitis necrotizante. Conclusiones: La membrana amniótica como material de apósito presentó resultados favorables en la paciente al obtenerse una rápida regeneración de la secuela producida por la fascitis necrotizante.

Introduction: Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious infection that involves the skin, the subcutaneous tissue, and the superficial-deep fascia, it progresses very quickly and if not treated in time it can cause death. Report case: We present the case of an adult patient with a history of anemia, who was diagnosed with odontogenic necrotizing fasciitis, for which she underwent surgery and underwent intraoral and extraoral drainage plus escharectomy. In addition, pharmacological treatment (intravenous antibiotics) was administered, and an amniotic membrane was placed as a dressing material to reconstruct the hemorrhagic surface left by the necrotizing fasciitis. Conclusions: The amniotic membrane as a dressing material presented favorable results in the patient, obtaining a rapid regeneration of the sequel produced by necrotizing fasciitis.

Double covering with amniotic membrane in restrictive strabismus.

A case of severe restrictive strabismus after a consecutive exotropia surgery is presented. We describe the exitous managment through a technique consist of wrapping with amniotic membrane (AM) the affected muscle where we add a second AM graft in the reconstruction of the ocular Surface.

Uso de membrana amniótica como cobertura temporal en pacientes pediátricos con quemaduras / Use of amniotic membrane as temporary coverage in pediatric patients with burn

Introducción: Los niños con quemaduras tienen un manejo complejo por lo cual el uso de la membrana amniótica como una cobertura temporal es un método válido para su implementación. Objetivos: Demostrar el uso de la membrana amniótica como cobertura temporal en pacientes pediátricos con quemaduras de segundo grado superficiales y profundas internados en el Centro Nacional de Quemaduras y Cirugías Reconstructivas (CENQUER), en julio y diciembre del 2021. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo de tipo retrospectivo mediante la revisión de casos clínicos-quirúrgicos de los pacientes pediátricos que ingresaron por diagnóstico de quemadura de segundo grado superficial y profundo en el CENQUER, durante el período comprendido entre julio y diciembre del 2021, donde se aplicó́ membrana amniótica humana. Resultados: Población de 14 pacientes, 11 provenían del departamento central y 3 del interior del país, con un promedio de 13% (R: 3%-25,5%) de superficie corporal quemada (SCQ) todos con quemaduras en promedio 7% tipo AB y 6% tipo ABB, 7 ingresaron con una gravedad moderada, 4 graves y 3 leves; 7 del sexo masculino y 7 del femenino , con un rango de edades entre 8 meses y 11 años cuya media fue de 4 años y una mediana de 7 años, con respecto al peso un promedio de 18 kg al ingreso % (R: 9-35 kg), las causas de las lesiones fueron 12 por escaldadura por agua caliente (85 %) y 2 por escaldadura con comida; 10 pacientes presentaron internación en sala y en la Unidad de terapia intensiva Pediátrica (UTIP) 4 pacientes, el promedio de tiempo transcurrido desde la quemadura a la consulta fueron de 7 hs (R: 1-48 hs), las regiones anatómicas que se cubrieron fueron: 4 pacientes en miembros superiores y tórax anterior (28 %), 2 exclusivamente en tórax anterior (16 %), 4 solo en miembros superiores (28 %), 4 en miembros inferiores (28 %), a los que se les colocó amnios por única ocasión en 10 pacientes a las 24 hs de la internación y en 4 pacientes a las 48 hs de internación, se utilizó antobioticoterapia parenteral en 3 pacientes y 11 pacientes no necesitaron antibioticoterapia parenteral, no se presentaron complicaciones en ninguno de los pacientes y tuvieron un promedio de internación de 8 días (R: 3- 16 días). Conclusión: El uso de membrana amniótica humana en pacientes quemados son favorables para los pacientes pediátricos; como demuestra en el estudio el menor uso de antibioticoterapia parenteral por la cobertura rápida de las heridas causadas por las quemaduras y el menor número de días de internación.

Introduction: Children with burns have a complex management for which the use of the amniotic membrane as a temporary cover is a valid method for its implementation. Objectives: Demonstrate the use of the amniotic membrane as temporary coverage in pediatric patients with superficial and deep second-degree burns admitted to the National Center for Burns and Reconstructive Surgery (CENQUER), in July and December 2021. Materials and methods: Descriptive retrospective study through the review of clinical-surgical cases of pediatric patients who were admitted due to a diagnosis of superficial and deep second-degree burns in the CENQUER, during the period between July and December 2021, where human amniotic membrane was applied. Results: Population of 14 patients, 11 came from the central department and 3 from the interior of the country, with an average of 13% (R: 3%-25.5%) of burned body surface area (SCQ), all with average 7% AB type burns. and 6% type ABB, 7 admitted with moderate severity, 4 severe and 3 mild; 7 males and 7 females, with an age range between 8 months and 11 years, whose average was 4 years and a median of 7 years, with respect to weight an average of 18 kg at admission % (R: 9- 35 kg), the causes of the injuries were 12 due to scalding due to hot water (85%) and 2 due to scalding with food; 10 patients were hospitalized in the ward and in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) 4 patients, the average time elapsed from the burn to the consultation was 7 hours (R: 1-48 hours), the anatomical regions that were covered were: 4 patients in the upper limbs and anterior thorax (28%), 2 exclusively in the anterior thorax (16%), 4 only in the upper limbs (28%), 4 in the lower limbs (28%), who received amnios for a single occasion in 10 patients at 24 hours of hospitalization and in 4 patients at 48 hours of hospitalization, parenteral antibiotic therapy was used in 3 patients and 11 patients did not need parenteral antibiotic therapy, there were no complications in any of the patients and they had an average hospital stay of 8 days (R: 3-16 days). Conclusion: The use of human amniotic membrane in burn patients is favorable for pediatric patients; As shown in the study, the lower use of parenteral antibiotic therapy due to the rapid coverage of wounds caused by burns and the lower number of days of hospitalization.

Resultados de la cirugía de agujero macular grande empleando distintas técnicas de interposición macular. Serie de 9 casos / Results of large macular hole surgery using different interposition techniques. A report on 9 cases

Objetivo Describir la restauración anatómica y funcional observada a largo plazo en pacientes intervenidos por agujero macular (AM) grande empleando distintas técnicas de interposición macular. Método Análisis retrospectivo de los resultados obtenidos en una serie de 9 pacientes sometidos a cirugía de AM grande (≥450μm) realizando 4 técnicas de interposición macular distintas: flap invertido de membrana limitante interna en 4 casos, plegado de membrana limitante interna en 2, injerto de membrana amniótica en 2 e injerto autógeno de cápsula anterior en uno. El tiempo de seguimiento medio fue de 11 meses. Anatómicamente las medidas de resultados exploradas fueron la restauración de las capas externas de la retina y el patrón de cierre macular. Funcionalmente se valoró la agudeza visual final y la calidad visual. Resultados La restauración de las capas externas fue parcial en 6 casos. La tasa de cierre macular fue del 100%, apreciándose un patrón incompleto en 4 casos. La agudeza visual mejoró en 7 pacientes, manteniéndose estable en 2. Tres casos mostraron un patrón de fijación excéntrico y/o metamorfopsias. Conclusiones El desarrollo de nuevas técnicas quirúrgicas ha incrementado la tasa de cierre macular en AM grandes. Sin embargo, la restauración anatómica y funcional sigue siendo impredecible. En este trabajo se logró el cierre macular en todos los pacientes y una mayor tasa de cierre completo empleando flap invertido de membrana limitante interna. La restauración de las capas externas fue más favorable en los grupos en los que se había empleado membrana limitante interna. La recuperación funcional fue independiente de la técnica empleada (AU)

Objective To describe the long-term anatomical and functional restoration observed in patients operated on for a large macular hole (MH) using different macular interposition techniques. Method Retrospective analysis of the results obtained in a series of 9 patients undergoing large MH surgery (≥450μm) performing 4 different macular interposition techniques: inverted internal limiting membrane flap in 4 cases, autotransplantation of internal limiting membrane in 2, amniotic membrane graft in 2, and autologous anterior capsule graft in one. The mean follow-up time was 11 months. Anatomically, the outcome measures explored were the restoration of the outer layers of the retina and the pattern of MH closure. The final visual acuity and visual quality were functionally assessed. Results The restoration of the outer layers was partial in 6 cases. The macular closure rate was 100%, showing an incomplete pattern in 4 cases. Visual acuity improved in 7 patients, remaining stable in 2. Three cases showed an eccentric fixation pattern and/or metamorphopsia. Conclusion The development of new surgical techniques has increased the rate of macular closure in large MHs. However, the anatomical and functional restoration remains unpredictable. In this work, macular closure was achieved in all patients and a higher rate of complete closure using inverted internal limiting membrane flap. The restoration of the outer layers was more favorable in the groups in which internal limiting membrane had been used. Functional recovery was independent of the technique used (AU)

USE OF DECELLULARIZED HUMAN AMNIOTIC MEMBRANE IN INTESTINAL ANASTOMOSES: A STUDY IN RATS TREATED WITH 5-FLUOROURACIL / USO DE MEMBRANA AMNIÓTICA HUMANA DESCELULARIZADA EM ANASTOMOSES INTESTINAIS: ESTUDO EM RATOS TRATADOS COM 5-FLUOROURACIL

Introduction: currently, the most relevant applications of perinatal derivatives are in wound healing, for example, the use of amniotic membrane (AM) as a biomaterials source for use in different healing processes. The anastomotic healing compromised by antimetabolic drugs, such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), is a potential target of AM. Objective: To evaluate the healing effects of the AM use in rats treated with 5-FU at a dose of 20 mg/kg on the 7th postoperative day, regarding the parameters percentage of type I collagen (mature), cell viability, microvascular density and granulation tissue formation. Method: Thirty-two Wistar rats were submitted to colotomy and colorraphy, separated in 4 groups with 8t rats each and received, by 7 days, different treatments intraperitoneally, once daily from the operation day until sacrifice: 1- saline solution (C), 2- 20 mg/kg 5-FU, 3- 20 mg/kg 5-FU and 4- MA, and MA. Results: Tthe treatment with 5-FU (20 mg/kg ­ 7 days) induced adverse effects in the anastomotic healing process evidenced by the decrease of type I collagen (mature), cell viability, percentage microvascular density, granulation tissue formation (leukocyte-fibrin crust and angio-fibroblastic proliferation). The use of AM, under these conditions, induced an improvement in type I collagen (mature) percentage. Conclusion: The treatment with 5-FU induced adverse effects on the healing anastomotic process, and the use of AM, under these conditions, induced improvement in type I (mature) collagen percentage.

Introdução: Atualmente emerge em nosso meio aplicações mais relevantes dos derivados perinatais, por exemplo, a membrana amniótica (MA), como fonte de biomateriais para emprego em diferentes processos cicatriciais. O comprometimento anastomótico por drogas antimetabólicas como o 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) é um potencial alvo da MA. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos cicatriciais do uso da MA em ratos tratados com 5-FU na dose de 20 mg/kg ao 7º. dia de evolução pós-operatória quanto aos parâmetros porcentagem de colágeno tipo I (maduro), viabilidade celular, densidade microvascular e formação do tecido de granulação. Método: Utilizaram-se 32 ratos da linhagem Wistar submetidos à colotomia e colorrafia separados em 4 grupos com 8 e receberam diferentes tratamentos diariamente por via intraperitoneal até o dia do sacrifício: Solução fisiológica (C), 20  mg/kg 5-FU, 20 mg/kg 5-FU e MA, MA. Resultados: O tratamento com 20 mg/kg de 5-FU, ao 7º. dia pós-operatório induziu efeitos adversos no processo cicatricial anastomótico evidenciados pela diminuição da porcentagem de colágeno tipo I (maduro), da viabilidade celular, da densidade microvascular, da formação de crosta fibrinoleucocitária e da proliferação angiofibroblástica; o uso da MA nestas condições induziu melhora da porcentagem de colágeno tipo I (maduro). Conclusão: O tratamento com 20 mg/kg de 5-FU, ao 7º. dia pós-operatório induziu efeitos adversos no processo cicatricial anastomótico e o uso da MA nestas condições induziu melhora da porcentagem de colágeno tipo I (maduro).

Uso de membrana amniótica en el tratamiento de la necrólisis epidérmica tóxica. Caso clínico / Use of amniotic membrane in the treatment of toxic epidermal necrolysis. Case report

La necrólisis epidérmica tóxica (NET) es una enfermedad caracterizada por una reacción de hipersensibilidad mediada por inmunocomplejos que genera la separación y/o desprendimiento de la unión dermoepidérmica mucocutánea, con compromiso de más del 30% de la superficie corporal. Es considerada multifactorial, y se desencadena principalmente por medicamentos. Su mortalidad alcanza el 30%. En la actualidad no hay un estándar para su manejo, y por su complejidad, se recomienda el tratamiento en unidad de quemados. En aras de resaltar una de las posibles formas de tratamiento, presentamos el caso de un paciente con NET tratado con membrana amniótica, con una rápida reepitelización y buen resultado. (AU)

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a disease charac- terized by a hypersensitivity reaction mediated by immunocomplexes that generates the separation and / or detachment of the dermoepidermal junction with a commitment of more than 30% of the body surface. It is considered multifactorial, being triggered in a greater proportion by drugs, and presents a mortality of up to 30. Currently, there is no standard management, and due to its complexity, treatment in a burn unit is recommended. To highlight one posible way of treatment, we present the case of a patient with TEN treated with an amniotic membrane with rapid reepithelialization and a good result. (AU)

Results of large macular hole surgery using different interposition techniques. A report on 9 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the long-term anatomical and functional restoration observed in patients operated on for a large macular hole (MH) using different macular interposition techniques. METHOD: Retrospective analysis of the results obtained in a series of 9 patients undergoing large MH surgery (≥450µm) performing 4 different macular interposition techniques: inverted internal limiting membrane flap in 4 cases, autotransplantation of internal limiting membrane in 2, amniotic membrane graft in 2, and autologous anterior capsule graft in one. The mean follow-up time was 11 months. Anatomically, the outcome measures explored were the restoration of the outer layers of the retina and the pattern of MH closure. The final visual acuity and visual quality were functionally assessed. RESULTS: The restoration of the outer layers was partial in 6 cases. The macular closure rate was 100%, showing an incomplete pattern in 4 cases. Visual acuity improved in 7 patients, remaining stable in 2. Three cases showed an eccentric fixation pattern and/or metamorphopsia. CONCLUSIONS: The development of new surgical techniques has increased the rate of macular closure in large MHs. However, the anatomical and functional restoration remains unpredictable. In this work, macular closure was achieved in all patients and a higher rate of complete closure using inverted internal limiting membrane flap. The restoration of the outer layers was more favorable in the groups in which internal limiting membrane had been used. Functional recovery was independent of the technique used.

Uso de membrana amniótica e injerto meek en un niño con quemaduras severas / Use of amniotic membrane and meek graft in a child with severe burns

El desbridamiento temprano seguido de cobertura con piel autóloga ha demostrado reducir la mortalidad en los pacientes quemados. En pacientes con quemaduras extensas, la carencia de zonas de piel donante es un factor limitante a la hora del tratamiento. El hecho de que no se pueda lograr un desbridamiento y cobertura completos en un primer tiempo favorece la infección de la quemadura y la septicemia, pudiendo tener consecuencias nefastas. Por tanto, es necesario disponer de otras opciones distintas a los injertos mallados de piel parcial, el tratamiento estándar hoy día. Presentamos el caso clínico de un niño con quemaduras severas y describimos los resultados obtenidos con el uso de la membrana amniótica como cobertura temporal y al injerto mallado tipo MEEK.

Early debridement followed by coverage with autologous skin has been shown to reduce mortality in burn patients. In patients with extensive burns, the lack of areas of donor skin is a limiting factor at the time of treatment. The fact that a complete debridement and coverage cannot be achieved in the first stage favors the infection of the burn and septicemia, which can have dire consequences. Therefore, it is necessary to have other options than partial skin mesh grafts, the standard treatment today. We present the clinical case of a child with severe burns and describe the results obtained with the use of the amniotic membrane as temporary covering and the MEEK-type mesh graft.

Utilidad de la membrana amniótica en el proceso de cicatrización / Usefulness of the amniotic membrane in the scaring process

Se describen los casos clínicos de dos pacientes ingresados en el Hospital Provincial Docente Clinicoquirúrgico Saturnino Lora de Santiago de Cuba: un anciano que recibió una revascularización coronaria en el Servicio de Cirugía Cardiovascular y presentó infección del sitio quirúrgico, así como rechazo al material de sutura; y una adulta joven asistida en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos por una endocarditis bacteriana, a la que, después de dos meses de estadía hospitalaria, se le desarrolló una úlcera por presión de grado III en la región sacra, con 8 cm de diámetro y exposición ósea. En estos pacientes se habían aplicado todos los protocolos terapéuticos establecidos según el tipo de afección, pero al no sanar las lesiones, se decidió aplicar apósitos de membrana amniótica, con lo cual la evolución fue favorable y se logró la cicatrización de las heridas.

The case reports of two patients admitted to Saturnino Lora Teaching Clinical Surgical Provincial Hospital in Santiago de Cuba are described: an old man that received a coronary revascularization in the Cardiovascular Surgery Service and presented infection of the surgical site, as well as suture material rejection; and a young adult woman assisted in the Intensive Cares Unit due to a bacterial endocarditis, who after two months of hospitalization developed a grade III pressure ulcer in the sacral region, with a diameter of 8 cm and bony exposure. In these patients all the established therapeutic protocols had been implemented according to the type of disorder, but if there is no healing of the lesions, it was decided to apply amniotic membrane dressings, with which there was a favorable clinical course and the scaring of the wounds was achieved.

Comparação dos meios de preparação e preservação de membrana amniótica humana para uso no tratamento de doenças da superfície ocular / Comparison of the preparation and preservation techniques of amniotic membrane used in the treatment of ocular surface diseases

Resumo Atualmente a membra amniótica (MA) tem obtido importância devido à comprovada capacidade de reduzir inflamação, auxiliar a cicatrização e epitelização, possuindo propriedades antimicrobianas e antivirais, além de baixa imunogenicidade. As indicações de seu uso na oftalmologia têm aumentado muito nas duas últimas décadas. Objetivo: Descrever a estrutura básica e as propriedades biológicas da MA em relação aos componentes da sua matriz extracelular e fatores de crescimento, as consequências de diferentes técnicas empregadas na sua preservação e esterilização, métodos para remoção do epitélio e a comparação dos custos dos diferentes meios de conservação atualmente empregados. Métodos: Pesquisa nas bases de dados do Portal da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), Pubmed, Cochrane, Scielo e Lilacs com as palavras-chave: membrana amniótica, transplante, reconstrução da córnea, doenças da conjuntiva. Resultados: A literatura é vasta na descrição dos efeitos de diversos agentes e técnicas na preparação da MA, dentre elas sua preservação, esterilização e desepitelização. A membrana desnuda tem sido a escolha para a reconstrução da superfície ocular, pois facilita a cicatrização. Em relação aos agentes conservantes, o glicerol é o meio mais utilizado mundialmente pelo baixo custo e facilidade de manuseio. Conclusão: A comparação das diversas técnicas nos guia na elaboração de protocolos de preparo da MA para uso oftalmológico. A membrana desnuda facilita a cicatrização em relação a com células epiteliais. O glicerol é o meio de conservação mais utilizado pelo baixo custo e facilidade de manuseio.

Abstract Currently, the amniotic membrane (AM) has obtained importance due to its ability to reduce inflammation, helping in the healing and epithelialization processes, having antimicrobial and antiviral properties and low immunogenicity. Its indications in ophthalmology have increased considerably in the past two decades. Objective: To describe the basic structure and biological properties of the AM, the components of the extracellular matrix and growth factors, the consequences of different techniques used in its preservation, and sterilization methods for the epithelium removal. To compare the costs of the different preservation solutions currently employed. Study design: literature review. Methods: Research in BVS databases, PubMed, Cochrane, Scielo and Lilacs with keywords: amniotic membrane transplantation, corneal reconstruction, conjunctival diseases. Results: The literature is vast in describing the effects of different agents and techniques used in the preparation of MA, including its preservation, sterilization and desepithelization. The naked membrane is the choice to reconstruct the ocular surface, as it facilitates the healing course. Regarding the preservatives, glycerol is the most used worldwide due its low cost and easy handling. Conclusion: Comparing different techniques guides us in developing a MA preparation protocol for ophthalmic use. The naked membrane facilitates the healing process compared with the presence of epithelial cells. The glycerol is the most used preservation method because of its low cost and easy handling.

Amniotic membrane, clinical applications and tissue engineering. Review of its ophthalmic use. / Membrana amniótica, aplicaciones clínicas e ingeniería tisular. Revisión de su uso oftalmológico.

The use of amniotic membrane in ophthalmology has been increasing in recent years due to its multiple biological and tectonic properties, improvement in the process of obtaining, ease of use, and advancement in tissue engineering. The amniotic membrane has become one of the main adjuvant treatments, in ophthalmic surgery as well as in other medical-surgical specialties. The development of tissue engineering has allowed it to be used, not only in its classic form, but also by the use of drops and other presentations. The different steps prior to its use (preparation and conservation), the different surgical techniques, and their main clinical applications are described throughout the article.

Amniotic membrane in the surgical treatment of post-blepharoplasty diplopia. / Membrana amniótica en el tratamiento quirúrgico de diplopía posblefaroplastia.

Two consecutive cases are presented of vertical diplopia after blepharoplasty. They concern two women aged 41 and 63 years with vertical binocular diplopia after bilateral lower blepharoplasty using a trans-conjunctival approach. The diplopia was presented in both cases in the immediate postoperative period, being stable in one of the cases and progressive in the other. With the suspicion of restrictive strabismus, it was decided to explore the affected extra-ocular muscles, eliminate adhesions and coat the muscular bellies with amniotic membrane. Post-blepharoplasty diplopia is an uncommon, but very serious complication, given the expectations of these patients. The current literature reports unsatisfactory results in its management. In this study, it is considered that the muscular covering with amniotic membrane can provide better results in the surgical management of these patients, due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-adherence effect.

Amniotic membrane as a biological scaffold for dental pulp stem cell transplantation in ocular surface reconstruction / Membrana amniótica como substrato biológico para o transplante de células-tronco da polpa do dente de leite na reconstrução da superfície ocular

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the ability of human immature dental pulp stem cells, which are mesenchymal stem cells of neural crest origin, to differentiate into the corneal epithelium for purposes of corneal transplantation and tissue engineering when cultured on de-epithelized amniotic membranes. Methods: We compared the immunophenotypes (ABCG2, K3/12, and vimentin) of cells grown on amniotic membranes or plastic surfaces under serum-free conditions or in culture media containing serum or serum replacement components. Results: Immature dental pulp stem cells grown on amniotic membranes under basal conditions are able to maintain their undifferentiated state. Our data also suggest that the culture medium used in the present work can modulate the expression of immature dental pulp stem cell markers, thus inducing epithelial differentiation of these cells in vitro. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the amniotic membrane is a good choice for the growth and transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells, particularly immature dental pulp stem cells, in clinical ocular surface reconstruction.

RESUMO Objetivos: Avaliar a capacidade das células-tronco imaturas da polpa do dente de leite que são células-tronco mesenquimais de origem da crista neural, de se diferenciarem no epitélio corneano para fins de transplante de córnea e engenharia de tecidos quando cultivadas em membrana amnióticas desepitelizadas. Métodos: Foram comparamos so imunofenótipo (ABCG2, CK3/12 e vimentina) de células cultivadas em membranas amnióticas ou em superfícies plásticas sob condições livres de soro ou em meios de cultura contendo soro ou componentes de substituição de soro. Resultados: Células-tronco imaturas da polpa do dente de leite cultivadas sobre membrana amniótica em condições basais são capazes de manter seu estado indiferenciado. Nossos dados também sugerem que o meio de cultura utilizado no presente trabalho pode modular a expressão de marcadores de células-tronco imaturas da polpa do dente de leite, induzindo a diferenciação epitelial destas células in vitro. Conclusão: Nossos resultados sugerem que a membrana amniótica é uma boa escolha para o crescimento e transplante de células-tronco mesenquimais, particularmente as células-tronco imaturas da polpa do dente de leite, na reconstrução da superfície ocular.

Implante de membrana amniótica en la corrección de úlceras corneales profundas de caninos y felinos / Amniotic membrane implant in the correction of deep corneal ulcers in canines and felines / Implante de membrana amniótica na correção de úlceras corneais profundas de caninos e felinos

Resumen Antecedentes: gran parte de los defectos del epitelio corneal, como las queratitis ulcerativas, no responden al tratamiento convencional y progresan a ulceración estromal y perforación inminente. En busca de nuevas opciones terapéuticas para corregir dichos defectos corneales, se encuentran el uso de membrana amniótica y las plastias corneales, ambos tratamientos quirúrgicos buscan una reepitelización corneal y un adecuado proceso de cicatrización cuando el tratamiento médico no ha tenido éxito. Objetivos: por medio de este trabajo se busca analizar los estudios actualizados referentes a los implantes de membrana amniótica para la resolución de úlceras corneales profundas en caninos y felinos, para poder definir los principios terapéuticos de la membrana amniótica en patologías oculares, determinar un protocolo de preparación de injertos de membrana amniótica y servir de base para estudios prácticos acerca de implantes corneales en caninos y felinos en Colombia. Conclusiones: con base en los resultados obtenidos en el proceso de revisión documental y en la experiencia quirúrgica de los autores, puede concluirse que el uso de la membrana amniótica apoya el crecimiento del epitelio de la superficie ocular y facilita la migración de las células epiteliales, proporciona una barrera a la infección, promueve la revitalización y mejora el dolor. Gracias a sus características únicas ofrece una opción importante en el tratamiento de úlceras corneales. En los últimos años su eficacia ha sido demostrada en el tratamiento de las enfermedades de la superficie ocular, y es ampliamente utilizada en este tipo de patologías.

Abstract Introduction: Most defects of the corneal epithelium, such as ulcerative keratitis, do not respond to conventional treatment and they progress to stromal ulceration and imminent perforation. Among new therapeutic options to correct these corneal defects, there is the use of amniotic membrane and corneal plasties; both surgical treatments seek a corneal reepithelialization and an adequate healing process when medical treatment has not been successful. Objectives: This work seeks to analyze updated studies concerning amniotic membrane implants for the solution of deep corneal ulcers in canines and felines, in order to define the therapeutic principles of amniotic membrane in ocular pathologies, determine a protocol for the preparation of amniotic membrane grafts, and serve as a basis for practical studies about corneal implants in canines and felines in Colombia. Conclusions: Based on the results obtained during the document review process and the surgical experience of the authors, it can be concluded that the use of amniotic membrane supports the growth of the ocular surface epithelium and facilitates the migration of epithelial cells, provides a barrier to infection, promotes revitalization, and ameliorates pain. Thanks to its unique characteristics, it is an excellent option in the treatment of corneal ulcers. In recent years, its effectiveness has been demonstrated in the treatment of ocular surface diseases, and is widely used in this type of pathologies.

Resumo Antecedentes: grande parte dos defeitos do epitélio corneano, como as queratites ulcerativas, não respondem ao tratamento convencional e progridem a ulceração estroma e perfuração iminente. Na busca de novas opções terapêuticas para corrigir estes defeitos corneais, encontram-se o uso de membrana amniótica e as reparações corneais, ambos tratamentos cirúrgicos buscam uma reepitelização da córnea e um adequado processo de cicatrização quando o tratamento médico não foi bem sucedido. Objetivos: por meio deste trabalho se busca analisar os estudos atualizados referentes aos implantes de membrana amniótica para a resolução de úlceras corneais profundas em caninos e felinos, para poder definir os princípios terapêuticos da membrana amniótica em patologias oculares, determinar um protocolo de preparação de enxertos de membrana amniótica e servir de base para estudos práticos sobre os implantes corneais em caninos e felinos na Colômbia. Conclusões: com base nos resultados obtidos no processo de revisão documental e na experiência cirúrgica dos autores, pode concluir-se que o uso da membrana amniótica apoia o crescimento do epitélio da superfície ocular e facilita a migração das células epiteliais, proporciona uma barreira à infecção, promove a revitalização e melhora a dor. Graças a suas características únicas oferece uma opção importante no tratamento de úlceras corneais. Nos últimos anos a sua eficácia tem sido demonstrada no tratamento das doenças da superfície ocular, e é amplamente utilizada neste tipo de patologias.