Minimal-incision in Situ Ulnar Nerve Decompression at the Elbow

With initiatives to decrease operative morbidity, complications, and associated costs, minimalincision techniques have found an expanding role within multiple specialties. Minimal-incision in situ open techniques for ulnar nerve release at the elbow provide adequate exposure and reproducible, satisfactory outcomes. Furthermore, there is no need for endoscopic equipment and the resultant dependence on staff adequately trained to operate and troubleshoot equipment. More robust research with a focus on complications and standard outcome measures will be required to further define the role of minimal-incision techniques. This technical modification, however, augments the increasing armamentarium of the hand surgeon

Impact of Automobile Restraint Device Utilization on Facial Fractures and Fiscal Implications for Plastic Surgeons.

In 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration projected that 33,963 people would die and millions would be injured in motor vehicle collisions (MVC). Multiple studies have evaluated the impact of restraint devices in MVCs. This study examines longitudinal changes in facial fractures after MVC as result of utilization of restraint devices. The Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation-Pennsylvania Trauma Outcomes Study database was queried for MVCs from 1989 to 2009. Restraint device use was noted, and facial fractures were identified by International Classification of Diseases-ninth revision codes. Surgeon cost data were extrapolated. More than 15,000 patients sustained ≥1 facial fracture. Only orbital blowout fractures increased over 20 years. Patients were 2.1% less likely every year to have ≥1 facial fracture, which translated into decreased estimated surgeon charges. Increased use of protective devices by patients involved in MVCs resulted in a change in incidence of different facial fractures with reduced need for reconstructive surgery

Neurectomy for Breast Reconstruction-Related Spasms of the Pectoralis Major Muscle

Tissue expander-based breast reconstruction is the most commonly utilized technique in the U.S. This modality, however, may be associated with significant pain related to pectoralis myospasms. Spasms of the pectoralis major likely result from trauma to the pectoral nerves during muscle elevation. In a subset of patients, Botox(®) therapy may be inadequate for long-term relief. We describe a patient with intractable pectoralis myospasms after breast reconstruction. Upon failing Botox(®) therapy, medial and lateral pectoral neurectomies were performed. Nine months after the procedure, the patient noted dramatic improvement in both symptoms and cosmesis with no musculoskeletal sequelae. We recommend medial and lateral pectoral neurectomy as an alternative in patients with intractable pectoral myospasms after tissue expander reconstruction