Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma on Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in a Skin Flap Mouse Model

Background: Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a leading cause of surgical skin flap compromise and organ dysfunction. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an abundant reserve of various growth factors. Activated platelets play a role in endothelial damage during I/R injury; however, exogenous PRP could inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of PRP on I/R injury. Methods: Four groups (n=30) of C57BL/6N mice with lateral thoracic artery island flaps were used. Group A, the control group, received flap elevation and repositioning. Group B received PRP and repositioning. Group C had 4 hours of ischemia and then were reperfused. Group D received PRP, had 4 hours of ischemia, and then were reperfused. The survival area of flap tissue and blood perfusion were assessed. Histological evaluation included neutrophil counts. Reactive oxygen species and proinflammatory cytokines were measured to evaluate I/R injury. Protein expression of phosphorylated apoptosis signaling regulating kinase-1 (pASK-1), p38MAPK, and pNF-κB was measured by western blot. Results: PRP treatment enhanced the survival area and perfusion of the flap, reduced neutrophil accumulation in mice subjected to I/R injury. PRP treatment also showed a protective effect, with decreases in nitric oxide, myeloperoxidase, malondialdehyde concentrations. Additionally, PRP suppresses monocyte chemotactic protein-1, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Finally, PRP decreased ASK-1 and NF-κB expression in tissues with I/R injury. Conclusion: PRP acts as a protective factor during flap I/R injury by reducing reactive oxygen species level and proinflammatory cytokines via decreased expression of pASK-1 and pNF-κB.ope

Outcome analysis of cranial molding therapy in nonsynostotic plagiocephaly

BACKGROUND: It is known that nonsynostotic plagiocephaly does not spontaneously improve, and the craniofacial deformities that result from it. This study was conducted to analyze the effectiveness of helmet therapy for the nonsynostotic plagiocephaly patient, and to suggest a new treatment strategy based on this analysis. METHODS: A total of 108 pediatric patients who had undergone helmet therapy after being diagnosed with nonsynostotic plagiocephaly were included in this study. The patients were classified according to the initiation age of the helmet therapy, severity, and helmet wearing time. The treatment effect was compared using cranial vault asymmetry (CVA) and the cranial vault asymmetry index (CVAI), which were obtained from diagonal measurements before and after therapy. RESULTS: The discrepancy of CVA and CVAI of all the patients significantly decreased after helmet therapy. According to the initiation time of helmet therapy, the treatment effect was best at 5 months old or less. The helmet wearing time per day was proportional to the treatment effect up to 20 hours. In addition, the rate of the successful treatment (final CVA ≤5 mm) significantly decreased when the initiation age was 9.1 months or older and the treatment period was less than 7.83 months. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed the effectiveness of the helmet therapy for nonsynostotic plagiocephaly patients. Based on analysis of this study, helmet therapy should be started at the age of 9 months or younger for 7.83 months or more, and the helmet wearing time should be more than 20 hours a day.ope

Anterior cranial base reconstruction with a reverse temporalis muscle flap and calvarial bone graft

BACKGROUND: Cranial base defects are challenging to reconstruct without serious complications. Although free tissue transfer has been used widely and efficiently, it still has the limitation of requiring a long operation time along with the burden of microanastomosis and donor site morbidity. We propose using a reverse temporalis muscle flap and calvarial bone graft as an alternative option to a free flap for anterior cranial base reconstruction. METHODS: Between April 2009 and February 2012, cranial base reconstructions using an autologous calvarial split bone graft combined with a reverse temporalis muscle flap were performed in five patients. Medical records were retrospectively analyzed and postoperative computed tomography scans, magnetic resonance imaging, and angiography findings were examined to evaluate graft survival and flap viability. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 11.8 months and the mean operation time for reconstruction was 8.4±3.36 hours. The defects involved the anterior cranial base, including the orbital roof and the frontal and ethmoidal sinus. All reconstructions were successful. Viable flap vascularity and bone survival were observed. There were no serious complications except for acceptable donor site depressions, which were easily corrected with minor procedures. CONCLUSIONS: The reverse temporalis muscle flap could provide sufficient bulkiness to fill dead space and sufficient vascularity to endure infection. The calvarial bone graft provides a rigid framework, which is critical for maintaining the cranial base structure. Combined anterior cranial base reconstruction with a reverse temporalis muscle flap and calvarial bone graft could be a viable alternative to free tissue transfer.ope

Effects of preoperative biopsies on recurrence in head and neck skin cancer

BACKGROUND: Skin cancer is the most common malignant tumor in humans. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the two most common types of skin cancers. When skin cancer is clinically suspected, preoperative biopsies are recommended for a definite diagnosis. However, despite a concern over potential increased risk of metastasis associated with mechanical manipulation, there have been few investigations into whether a preoperative biopsy affected the recurrence of BCC and SCC. METHODS: Primary BCC or SCC patients who underwent standard surgical excision from 1991 to 2010 were reviewed and a retrospective analysis was performed. Ultimately, 45 BCC patients and 54 SCC patients, who did not meet the exclusion criteria, were analyzed. To identify whether a preoperative biopsy affected the recurrence of BCC and SCC, the recurrence rates of each with and without biopsy were compared. RESULTS: Preoperative biopsy had no statistically significant effect on recurrence (BCC, P=0.8680; SCC, P=0.7520). Also, there was no statistical significance between the interval from initial biopsy to first operation and recurrence (BCC, P=0.2329; SCC, P=0.7140). Even though there was no statistical significance, the mean interval from the biopsy to the operation among the BCC patients who underwent preoperative biopsy was 9.2 months in those who had recurrence and 2.0 months in those who had no recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: There was no statistically significant relationship between preoperative biopsy and recurrence of BCC and SCC. However, there was a tendency toward recurrence in patients with a longer interval between the biopsy and the corrective operation in BCCope

A Case report of Isolated Inguinal Tuberculous Lymphadenitis

PURPOSE: Tuberculous lymphadenitis constitutes about 30% of all types of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Cervical lymphadenitis is the commonest form (70%), followed by axillary and inguinal. But inguinal tuberculous lymphadenitis is rare form. Especially isolated inguinal tuberculous lymphadenitis was seldom reported. In Korea, that case was not reported. This case emphasizes the need for awareness of tuberculosis as a possible cause of isolated inguinal adenitis. METHODS: We experienced one case of isolated inguinal tuberculous lymphadenitis. We analyzed clinical features, preoperative assessments and method of treatments. RESULTS: A 37-year-old female patient presented with a painless swelling in the left inguinal region of 12 month's duration. There was no history of urethral discharge, dysuria, genital sores, unprotected sexual contacts or trauma. Examination revealed enlarged left inguinal lymph nodes, 2 x 1 cm, non-tender and firm mass. The external iliac, popliteal, right inguinal and other groups of lymph nodes were normal. Serologic tests, urinary tests and chest radiologic test were normal. The excision of mass was performed under the general anesthesia. A excisional biopsy showed chronic granulomatous inflammation with caseous necrosis, consistent with tuberculosis. After excision, the primary repair was done and completely healed on postoperative 25 days. CONCLUSION: The isolated inguinal tuberculous lymphadenitis was rare form of inguinal suppurative mass. Although medical management is the principal mode of therapy of tuberculous adenitis and surgery is rarely necessary, we didn't consider the possibility of tuberculous lymphadenitis in our case. A high index of suspicion is essential for a diagnosis of isolated inguinal tuberculous lymphadenitis. Our case emphasizes this importance and illustrates the need for awareness of tuberculosis as a possible cause of isolated inguinal adope

Reconstruction of a total soft palatal defect using a folded radial forearm free flap and palmaris longus tendon sling

BACKGROUND: The soft palate functions as a valve and helps generate the oral pressure required for normal speech resonance. Speech problems and nasal regurgitation can result from a soft palatal defect. Reduction of the size of the velopharyngeal orifice is required to compensate for the lack of mobility in a reconstructed soft palate. We suggest a large volume folded free flap for reduction of the caliber and a palmaris longus tendon sling for suspension of the reconstructed palate. METHODS: Six patients had total soft palate resection for tonsillar cancer and reconstruction with a large volume folded radial forearm free flap combined with a palmaris longus sling. A single surgeon and speech therapist examined the patients with three standardized speech assessment tools: nasometer test, consonant articulation test, and speech acuity test performed for speech evaluation. RESULTS: Mean nasalance score was 76.20% for sentences with nasal sounds and 43.60% for sentences with oral sounds. Hypernasality was seen for oral sound sentences. The mean score of the picture consonant articulation test was 84% (range, 63% to 100%). The mean score of the speech acuity test was 5.84 (range, 5 to 6). These mean ratings represent a satisfactory level of speech function. CONCLUSIONS: The large volume folded free flap with a palmaris longus tendon sling for total soft palate reconstruction resulted in satisfactory prognosis for speech despite moderate hypernasality. KEYWORDS: Free tissue flaps, Palate, soft, Speechope

Reconstruction of pretibial defect using pedicled perforator flaps

BACKGROUND: Coverage of defects of the pretibial area remains a challenge for surgeons. The difficulty comes from the limited mobility and availability of the overlying skin and soft tissue. We applied variable pedicled perforator flaps to overcome the disadvantages of local flaps and free flaps on the pretibial area. METHODS: Eight patients who had the defects in the anterior tibial area were enrolled. Retrospective data were obtained on patient demographics, cause, defect location, defect size, flap dimension, originating artery, pedicle length, pedicle rotation, complication, and postoperative result. The raw surface created following the flap elevation was covered with a split thickness skin graft. RESULTS: Posterior tibial artery-based perforator flaps were used in five cases and peroneal artery-based perforator flaps in three cases. The mean age was 54.3 and the mean period of follow-up was 6 months. The average size of the flaps was 63.8 cm(2), with a range of 18 to 135 cm(2). There were no major complications. No patients had any newly developed functional deficit of the lower leg. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that pedicled perforator flaps can be an alternative treatment modality for covering pretibial defects as a simple, safe and versatile procedure. KEYWORDS: Leg, Pedicled flap, Reconstructive surgical proceduresope

Treatment of Aplasia Cutis Congenita on Scalp using Hyalomatix(R): A Case Report.

PURPOSE: Aplasia Cutis Congenita(ACC) is a rare disease characterized by the focal defect of the skin at birth, frequently involving scalp, but it may affect any region of the body. There are no etiology known but some conditions such as intrauterine vascular ischemia, amniotic adherences and viral infections are associated. The ideal treatment for the ACC is not known. Superficial and relatively small sized defects(<3x5cm) may heal spontaneously and large defects related with risks of infection and bleeding may require aggressive surgical treatment. Hyalomatrix(R) is a bilayer of an esterified hyaluronan scaffold beneath a silicone membrane. It has been used as a temporary dermal substitute to cover deep thickness skin defect and has physiological functions derive from the structural role in extracellular matrix and interaction with cell surface receptor. This material has been used for the wound bed pre-treatment for skin graft to follow and especially in uncooperative patient, like a newborn, this could be a efficient and aseptic way of promoting granulation without daily irritative wound care. For this reason, using Hyalomatrix(R) for the treatment of ACC was preferred in this paper. METHODS: We report a case of a newborn with ACC of the vertex scalp and non-ossified partial skull defect. The large sized skin and skull defect(6x6cm) was found with intact dura mater. No other complications such as bleeding or abnormal neurologic sign were accompanied. Escharectomy was performed and Hyalomatrix(R) was applied for the protection and the induction of acute wound healing for 3 months before the split-thickness skin graft. During the 3 months period, the dressing was renewed in aseptic technique for every 3 weeks. The skin graft was achieved on the healthy granulation bed. RESULTS: The operative procedure was uneventful without necessity of blood transfusion. Postoperative physical examination revealed no additional abnormalities. Regular wound management was performed in out-patient clinic and the grafted skin was taken completely. No other problems developed during follow-up. CONCLUSION: Hyalomatrix(R) provides protective and favorable environment for wound healing. The combination of the use of Hyalomatrix(R) and the skin graft will be a good alternative for the ACC patients with relatively large defect on vertexope

Comparison of Normal and Replantation Digital Blood Flow Using Photo Plethys mography

The degree of circulatory insufficiency in Raynaud's phenomenon, Buerger's disease or digital replantation has been evaluated only by clinical symptoms and signs or angiograms. Objective evaluation methods of the disability of digits are crucial for proper management of patients with circulatory insufficiency of digits. Angiogram, Doppler, electromagnetic flowmeter, laser blood flowmetry, mechanical blood flowmetry has been used for the evaluation of the circulatory insufficiency, however, the data was affected by time, place, room temperature and patient's emotional state. In fact, many methods are unreliable, expensive and difficult to perform. Photo plethysmography can measure the absorption amount of light at different wavelength. Summation of the absorbed and emitted amount of light evenly match the input amount. Photo plethysmography evaluates qualitative blood flow differences by comparing normal fingers and replanted fingers. So we designed the two channel photo plethysmography to compare digital blood flow between dominant hand to non dominant hand and replanted fingers to opposite normal fingers in 202 pairs of fingers in 44 patients. The average digital blood flow in both hands showed no difference but replanted digits showed 53% compare to opposite normal digits. In each patient, the blood flow of each digit showed significant difference. In conclusion, photo phlethysmography is a sensitive, reliable, and useful tool for evaluating blood flow for circulatory insufficiency of tissues such as fingers and toes.ope

Gene therapy using hepatocyte growth factor expressing adenovirus improves skin flap survival in a rat model

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a potent angiogenic factor that can stimulate the production of blood vessels in ischemic tissue. We investigated whether gene therapy using HGF-expressing adenovirus could enhance skin flap survival. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups. Rats were subdermally injected with HGF-expressing adenovirus (HGF virus group), recombinant HGF (rhHGF group), or phosphate buffered saline (PBS group) 2 days before and immediately after 3 × 9 cm caudal flap elevation. The survival area of the skin flap, the ratio of blood flow, CD31-positive vessels and, VEGF expression were examined. Skin flap viability was significantly increased in the HGF virus group compared to the rhHGF and PBS groups (71.4% ± 5.9%, 63.8%± 6.4%, and 39.2% ± 13.0%, respectively) (P = 0.025). Furthermore, the blood flow ratio was significantly increased in the HGF virus group. In the HGF virus group, the number of CD31-positive vessels and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression were significantly increased. Gene therapy using HGF-expressing adenovirus increase VEGF expression, the number of viable capillaries, and blood flow to the flap, thereby improving skin flap survival.ope