Outcomes and technical modifications of vascularized lymph node transplantation from the lateral thoracic region for treatment of lymphedema.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study evaluates clinical outcomes of vascularized lymph node transplantation (VLNT) from the lateral thoracic region and technical modifications. METHODS: Consecutive patients that underwent lateral thoracic VLNT to treat extremity lymphedema were included. Demographic and treatment data were recorded, and outcomes data including limb volume, LDex score, and Lymphedema Life Impact Scale (LLIS), QuickDASH, and LEFS questionnaires, were collected prospectively. Consecutive patients that underwent single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT/CT) lymphoscintigraphy axillary reverse lymphatic mapping (RLM) were analyzed to characterize the physiological drainage of the normal upper extremity. RESULTS: A consecutive series of 32 flaps were included. At 24 months postoperatively mean reduction in limb volume excess was 47.2% (±11.6; p = 0.0085), LDex score was 63.1% (±8.5; p < 0.001), and LLIS score was 65.1% (±7.4; p < 0.001). Preoperatively 14/31 patients (45.2%) reported cellulitis, and postoperatively there were no episodes at up to 24 months (p < 0.001). No patient developed donor extremity lymphedema at mean 18.6 (±8.3) months follow-up. SPECT/CT-RLM of 182 normal axillae demonstrated that the sentinel lymph node(s) of the upper extremity was consistently anatomically located in the upper outer quadrant of the axilla (97%). CONCLUSIONS: VLNT from the lateral thoracic region is effective and versatile for the treatment of lymphedema with a low donor site complication rate.

Supraclavicular Artery Island Flap: Critical Appraisal and Comparison to Alternate Reconstruction.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: The supraclavicular artery island (SAI) flap may be a good option for selected head and neck reconstruction due to its reliability, ease of harvest, and favorable color match. The objective of this study was to examine the rates of complications for the SAI flap in head and neck oncologic reconstruction, with examination of risk factors and comparisons to alternative flaps often considered the gold-standard soft-tissue flaps for head and neck reconstruction: the pectoralis myocutaneous (PMC), radial forearm free flap (RFFF), and anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. METHODS: Consecutive SAI flaps were compared to PMC, RFFF, and ALT flaps (non-SAI flap group), all performed by the senior author from 2010 to 2018. The non-SAI flaps were included if an SAI flap could have been performed as an alternate flap. The groups were compared based on demographics, flap dimensions, site of reconstruction, operating time, total hospital stay, total hospital costs, and complications. RESULTS: One hundred seven SAI flaps and 194 non-SAI flaps were identified. SAI flaps were used less commonly than non-SAI flaps for mucosal defects (P < .001). The SAI flap dimensions were narrower but longer than non-SAI flaps (P < .001). SAI flaps had higher rates of total complications, partial flap necrosis, flap dehiscence at the recipient site, fistula, donor site dehiscence, and minor complications compared to non-SAI flaps (all P < .05). SAI flaps had higher rates of total complications, recipient site dehiscence, fistula, and minor complications in both the oral cavity and all mucosal sites compared to non-SAI flaps (all P < .05). SAI flaps for mucosal reconstruction were associated with higher rates of total complications (54% vs. 34%, P = .04), flap dehiscence at the recipient site (32% vs. 14%, P = .03), and major complications (21% vs. 5%, P = .02), compared to cutaneous reconstruction. Complications were equivalent between SAI flaps and non-SAI flaps for cutaneous reconstruction (all P > .05). Multivariate analysis showed that SAI flaps were associated with any postoperative complication (odds ratio [OR]: 3.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.85-6.54), partial flap necrosis (OR: 5.69, 95% CI: 1.83-17.7), flap dehiscence (OR: 5.36, 95% CI: 2.29-12.5), donor site complications (OR: 11.6, 95% CI: 3.27-41.0), and minor complications (OR: 5.17, 95% CI: 2.42-11.0). Within the SAI flap group, SAI flap length >24 cm was associated with postoperative complications on multivariate analysis (OR: 5.09, 95% CI: 1.02-25.5, P = .048). CONCLUSIONS: The SAI flap is best suited for cutaneous reconstruction of the face, neck, and parotid/temporal bone regions due to the favorable color match; the thin, pliable nature of the skin; ease of harvest; and equivalent complication rates compared to alternate soft-tissue flaps. However, the SAI flap is associated with more complications for oral cavity and mucosal site reconstruction when compared to RFFF and ALT flaps and should be used in selected cases that do not require complex folding. For all sites, flaps longer than 24 cm should be used with caution. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3 Laryngoscope, 132:S1-S14, 2022.

Utilização de plasma rico em plaquetas para estimulação da angiogênese em flape de padrão axial toracodorsal em coelhos (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / Use of platelet rich plasma to stimulate angiogenesis in the thoracodorsal axial pattern flap in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Feridas de grandes extensões, com perda da viabilidade tecidual e retardo na cicatrização por segunda intenção são casos que se faz necessário o emprego de técnicas cirúrgicas reconstrutivas. O plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) é um produto com maior concentração plaquetária, adjuvante no processo cicatricial de cirurgias reconstrutivas, auxiliando nos processos de hemostasia e estimulação da angiogênese. Dessa forma, delineou-se um estudo a fim de avaliar a eficácia do uso do gel produzido a partir do plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) em flapes de avanço de padrão axial toracodorsal em coelhos, para avaliar a possibilidade de favorecer a integração do retalho no leito receptor. Utilizaram-se 30 coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia branco, separados em dois grupos de 15 animais, compreendendo os grupos plasma rico em plaquetas (GPRP), na qual empregou-se o gel antes da síntese da ferida cirúrgica, e controle (GC), na qual utilizou-se apenas solução fisiológica. Para obtenção do PRP, coletou-se sangue dos animais, e determinou-se a contagem plaquetária antes da preparação do gel. No início e término do experimento os animais foram pesados para posterior análise de ganho peso médio. Após o procedimento cirúrgico iniciou-se as avaliações macroscópicas no 3º, 7º e 14º dia, e avaliou-se presença ou ausência de exsudato, integridade da pele, edema, rubor e necrose. Após esta etapa, coletou-se o material da ferida cirúrgica para confecção das lâminas histológicas e posterior avaliação microscópica. Avaliou-se a proliferação vascular, presença de células mononucleares e polimorfonucleares, proliferação fibroblástica, colagenização, reepitelização e hemorragia. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise estatística (Teste t Student, t emparalhado, e Kruskall Walis, sendo p<0,05)[...]

Wounds of large tracts with loss of tissue viability and delayed healing by secondary intention are cases where it is necessary the use of reconstructive surgical techniques. The platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a product with a higher platelet concentration, adjuvant in the healing process of reconstructive surgeries, assisting in the processes of hemostasis and stimulation of angiogenesis. Thus, a study was devised to assess the efficacy of the gel produced from the platelet rich plasma (PRP) in the forward axial flaps thoracodorsal pattern in rabbits to evaluate the ability to promote the integration of the flap the recipient bed. We used 30 white rabbits New Zealand, separated into two groups of 15 animals, comprising the platelet rich plasma groups (GPRP), in which we used the gel before the synthesis of the surgical wound , and control (CG), in which only saline was used. To obtain the PRP, the blood was collected from the animals, was determined and the platelet count before preparation of the gel. At the beginning and end of the experiment the animals were weighed for analysis of average weight gain. After surgery began macroscopic in the 3rd, 7th and 14th day reviews, and we assessed the presence or absence of exudate, skin integrity, edema, redness and necrosis. After this step, yielded the material for the manufacture of surgical wound, followed by microscopic histological slides. We evaluated vascular proliferation, presence of polymorphonuclear and mononuclear cells, fibroblast proliferation, collagen deposition, reepithelialization and hemorrhage. The data were subjected to statistical analysis (Student t test, t paired, and Kruskal Wallis test, and p<0.05)[...]

[Lengthened pedicle of rectus abdominis flap to repair defect on neck and chest].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the feasibility to repair defect on the neck and chest with the rectus abdominis flap which pedicle is lengthened by measuring the width, thickness, and the intercostal space of the inferior costicartilage using CT angiography (CTA). METHODS: Thirty cases receiving CTA and three-dimensional reconstruction between July and December 2013 were included in the study. Of 30 cases, 17 were male and 13 were female, aged 44-70 years (mean, 56 years). The width and thickness of the 3rd to 7th costicartilages and the distance of the 3rd to 6th intercostal spaces were measured, and the lengthened pedicle was calculated after the 4th to 7th costicartilage was cut off. Between July 2012 and November 2013, the lengthened pedicle of the rectus abdominis flap was clinically used to repair the defect on the neck and chest in 4 cases. RESULTS: The pedicle of the rectus abdominis flap was about 6 cm in length. When the left 7th, 6th, 5th, and 4th costicartilages were cut off, the average pedicle was lengthened by 4.07, 7.99, 12.50, and 17.48 cm respectively; when the right 7th, 6th, 5th, and 4th costicartilages were cut off, the average pedicle was lengthened by 4.63, 10.82, 16.64, and 22.05 cm respectively. In 4 flaps which were clinically used to repair defects, 3 flap completely survived, 1 flap had partial necrosis. Three patients were followed up 6 months, and the appearance and texture of the flap were satisfactory; 1 patient failed to be followed up. CONCLUSION: Resecting the inferior costicartilage can prolong the pedicle of the rectus abdominis flap, therefore it can be used to repair defect on the upper chest and the neck.

Application of lateral thoracic flap in maxillofacial defect reconstruction: experience with 28 cases.

Lateral thoracic (LT) flaps are primarily used as pedicle flaps for reconstructing limb and chest wall defects and have rarely been applied for head and neck reconstruction. We aimed to present our surgical techniques and experience using free LT cutaneous, myocutaneous and conjoint flaps for oral and maxillofacial reconstruction. From 2006 to 2010, we reconstructed 28 cases of oral and maxillofacial soft tissue defects using LT flaps. Controls were 54 cases reconstructed with anterior forearm flaps during same period. Flap size and pedicle length were recorded intraoperatively. Patients were monitored for flap survival in hospital until discharge and then followed regularly for 3-38 months, assessing for tumor recurrence, flap appearance, donor site function and cosmesis. All patients had free flaps except for one LT pedicle flap. LT flap patients were significantly younger than controls (45.5 vs. 54.8 years, p=0.004) and had greater flap size than controls (55.2 cm2 vs. 40.3 cm2, p=0.001). Of 28 LT flaps transferred, 26 survived completely; 1 failed (total necrosis due to venous insufficiency), and 1 suffered tip necrosis. No significant differences were observed in flap survival between groups. Follow-up was shorter in LT flap patients than in controls (20.3 months vs. 26.9 months, p=0.02). Application of the LT flap is a reliable technique for reconstruction of maxillofacial defects with minimal donor site morbidity and favorable aesthetic outcomes.

The lateral somitic frontier: dorso-ventral aspects of anterio-posterior regionalization in avian embryos.

Patterning events along the anterior-posterior (AP) axis of vertebrate embryos result in the distribution of muscle and bone forming a highly effective functional system. A key aspect of regionalized AP patterning results from variation in the migratory pattern of somite cells along the dorsal-ventral (DV) axis of the body. This occurs as somite cell populations expand around the axis or migrate away from the dorsal midline and cross into the lateral plate. The fate of somitic cells has been intensely studied and many details have been reported about inductive signaling from other tissues that influence somite cell fate and behavior. We are interested in understanding the specific differences between somites in particular AP regions and how these differences contribute to the global pattern of the organism. Using orthotopic transplants of segmental plate between quail and chick embryos, we have mapped the interface of the somitic and lateral plate mesoderm during the formation of the body wall in cervical and thoracic regions. This interface does not change dramatically in the mid-cervical region, but undergoes extensive changes in the thoracic region. Based on this regional mapping and consistent with the extensive literature, we suggest a revised method of classifying regions of the body wall that relies on embryonic cell lineages rather than adult functional criteria.

Posttransplant diabetes mellitus in pediatric thoracic organ recipients receiving tacrolimus-based immunosuppression.

BACKGROUND: Posttransplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a well-known complication of tacrolimus-based immunosuppression in both adult and pediatric solid organ recipients. The "natural history" of diabetes in the pediatric thoracic transplant population has not yet been described. METHODS: We identified all pediatric thoracic transplant patients receiving tacrolimus-based immunosuppression who developed PTDM. Medical records were reviewed, with a particular focus on the clinical course of PTDM and its relationship to drug weaning. RESULTS: Diabetes developed in 24 of 143 (17%) 30-day survivors of heart (12/96, 13%) and heart-lung/lung (12/ 47, 26%) transplantation. In 17 (71%) patients, the immunosuppressive regimen at the onset of PTDM also included maintenance corticosteroids. Seventeen patients demonstrated glucose intolerance before the onset of diabetes. Nine patients (38%) developed diabetes during pulsed corticosteroid therapy. Median time of onset after transplantation was 9.0 months. All patients required s.c. insulin for glucose control. The median follow-up from transplant was 49.9 months. There was a significant decrease in mean tacrolimus dosage (P<0.01), tacrolimus level (P<0.04), and steroid dosage (P<0.02) from onset of PTDM to most recent follow-up. Despite this significant reduction in immunosuppression, only 3/24 (13%) patients were successfully weaned off insulin. CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes mellitus is a common complication in pediatric thoracic transplant patients receiving tacrolimus-based immunosuppression. Insulin dependence in our population rarely resolved, even after lowering tacrolimus and steroid doses. Discontinuation of steroids did not guarantee resolution of diabetes.

[The technique and location of secondary donor sites of vascularized bone grafts in the therapeutic arsenal of the plastic surgeon]. / Technique et place des sites donneurs d'os vascularisés de deuxième intention dans l'arsenal thérapeutique du chirurgien plasticien.

Most of the donor sites for conventional bone grafts can also provide vascularised bone grafts. Increased progress in vascular research has enabled the harvesting of grafts that are increasingly reliable and versatile. This work does not give emphasis to classic vascularised bone transfers like the iliac crest, the fibula or the lateral border of the scapula but highlights 'secondary' sites which are often underutilized. Several donor areas are studied; the upper limb including the clavicle, the lower limb, the thorax and the cranium. The hands and toes, which constitute a specific entity, are excluded. In each chapter the authors have emphasised the fundamental points relating to the anatomy, the technique of harvesting and the indications.

Obtençäo de retalho de epiplon por via laparoscopica para reconstrucao de defeito da parede toracica / Reconstruction of thoracic wall defect by flap of omentum obteined by laparoscopy surgery

A reconstruçäo de defeitos complexos da parede toracica após esternotomia infectada representa um grande desafio. Varias opcoes foram descritas para essas reconstrucoes, utilizando-se de retalhos musculares e de epiplon, promovendo o preenchimento do espaço morto e a cobertura do defeito. Apresentamos um caso de reconstrucao de um extenso defeito da parede torácica e abdominal em um paciente de 62 anos, que após uma cirurgia de revascularizaçäo do miocardio evoluiu com mediastinite, osteomielite e necrose do esterno. O musculo peitoral maior foi utilizado na reconstruçäo, evoluindo com perda total do retalho. Após o debridamento foi utilizado um retalho de epiplon baseado na arteria gastroepiploica esquerda, obtido por via laparoscopica...

Localization of thoracic imaginal-disc precursor cells in the early embryo of Drosophila melanogaster.

Our previous cell lineage analysis of the thoracic disc primordia of Drosophila showed that at the blastoderm and early gastrula stage, cells are not yet committed to form either larval or imaginal tissue (Meise and Janning, 1993). We have now refined our studies on the cell lineage and have mapped the imaginal primordia in the thoracic region. Homotopic transplantations of single cells within the thoracic region of blastoderm and early gastrula stages show that the precursor cells of thoracic imaginal discs are locally restricted to a small lateral area of the thoracic region. Clones labelling leg discs frequently included the Keilin's organs. Heterotopic transplantations along the dorsoventral axis indicate that cells within the thoracic region are not yet committed with respect to larval or imaginal tissue, their fate being dependent on the position where the transplanted cell had been deposited. On the other hand, cells taken from the abdominal anlagen and transplanted into the region of thoracic disc primordia could not participate in the formation of imaginal discs. This shows that, in contrast to the dorsoventral axis, determinative events had separated primordia along the anterior-posterior axis.

A comparison of the survival of H-Y incompatible ear, tail, and body skin grafts.

In the H-Y incompatible C57BL/6 male to female system, both tail and ear skin grafts were found to persist longer than body (thorax) skin grafts of the same size and shape. Ear skin grafts of long standing did not affect the survival of subsequent body skin grafts but, in one case, a long-term tail skin graft prolonged the survival of a subsequent body skin gratf, both transplants persisting throughout the life of the host. Whereas ear skin grafts from which cartilage was removed were invariably rejected, several ear skin grafts with cartilage intact survived permanently.