Search

There is a lack of consensus regarding the superiority of the common free flaps for the reconstruction of circumferential pharyngeal defects.A systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies reporting the complications of circumferential pharyngeal reconstruction between 2005 and 2020. Anterolateral thigh free flaps (ALTFF), jejunal free flaps (JFF), and radial forearm free flaps (RFFF) were compared. Various complications were compared by meta-analysis. Primary endpoints were fistula and stricture rates.Forty studies were included (2230 patients). Stricture rate was similarly low with tubed ALTFF (13.3%, n = 36/270) and JFF (13.2%, n = 176/1334). Fistula rate was the lowest with JFF (9.2%, n = 58/634). ALTFF was associated with the lowest rates of partial and complete flap failure (3.8%, n = 6/157, and 2.8%, n = 5/178), infection (2.8%, n = 3/106), donor site morbidity (3.9%, n = 5/130), and mortality (0%, n = 0/101) within 30 days. A meta-analysis demonstrated that there was no statistically significant difference in stricture and fistula rates between ALTFF and JFF. Moreover, JFF was associated with a significantly lower fistula rate than that of RFFF (p 0.001). ALTFF was associated with a significantly lower infection rate than that of JFF (p = 0.013).The data suggest the use of ALTFF for circumferential pharyngeal defects. In the absence of randomized, prospective data, the authors hope the results presented can be used as an evidence-based reference.

Anatomical variations in the superficial and deep palmar arches are common, but rarely lead to digital necrosis. We report the case of necrosis of the third digit caused by a ‘watershed’ effect in the context of atherosclerotic disease and rare congenital variations of the superficial and deep palmar arches.

Summary Introduction Trapezoidal fractures account for only 0.4% of all carpal bone fractures. Owing to their rarity, there is paucity in the literature regarding the clinical findings and treatment. This paper aims to summarize the current understanding of trapezoidal fractures and present a novel classification algorithm. Methods A diagnostic classification algorithm was created based on the known blood supply and ligamentous attachment of the trapezoid. The proposed treatment algorithm was then applied to trapezoidal fractures in the literature to validate the algorithm and determine whether patients received treatment that was in accordance. Results A total of 19 articles, representing 22 trapezoidal fractures were included, with two additional cases presented by the authors. Presenting symptoms were pain (n = 21) and swelling (n = 12). Diagnosis was made on CT in a majority of the time, 79.2% (n = 18). All outcomes were favorable with symptomatic resolution and full range of motion after treatment, except in four patients that had co-existing wrist injuries. When the algorithm was applied, 89.5% (n = 17) of the patients received treatment in accordance with the proposed algorithm and demonstrated good outcomes. In the remaining patients (n = 2) whose treatment differed, one had diminished grip strength and the other was lost to follow-up. Conclusions Given a degree of clinical suspicion including a history of blunt trauma to the hand and persisting pain, trapezoidal fractures should remain on the differential when plain radiographs fail to identify any fracture. Operative treatment is suggested if there is any significant displacement, compromise of the dorsal surface, or breech of the trapezoidal ligaments causing possible dislocation. Level of Evidence IV – Diagnostic.

Background Identifying patients who may be at high risk for wound complications postsarcoma resection and reconstruction is essential for improving functional outcomes and quality of life. Currently, the effect of timing on sarcoma reconstruction has been poorly investigated. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of delayed and immediate reconstruction in the setting of sarcoma resection requiring flap reconstruction in the lower extremity. Methods A retrospective review of the senior author’s sarcoma reconstruction patients from January 2005 to July 2017 was completed. All patients undergoing flap reconstruction of the lower extremity were included. Complications in the early postoperative period were compared between delayed and immediate reconstructive procedures. Results A total of 32 patients (7 delayed, 25 immediate) were included in this study. There was a significantly increased rate of overall complications (100% vs. 28.0%, P=0.001) and rate of hematomas (28.6% vs. 0.0%, P=0.042) in the delayed reconstruction group. Other complications including dehiscence, seroma, infection, venous thrombosis, and total/partial flap loss were also increased in the delayed reconstruction group, but this was not considered to be significant. Conclusions This study suggests that delayed reconstruction following sarcoma resection of the lower extremity had a higher incidence of overall complications and hematoma formation. We emphasize the importance of early plastic and reconstructive surgeon referral and the necessity to closely monitor delayed reconstruction patients for complications.

Background Vascularized lymph node transfers (VLNT) are being used with increasing frequency for the treatment of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). However, there is a lack of consensus in the surgical field as to which recipient site should be utilized. We, therefore, aim to assess the evidence comparing the wrist and axilla as recipient sites for VLNT in BCRL. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review to compare the wrist and axilla as recipient sites for VLNT in BCRL. Demographic data, as well as circumference reduction rate (CRR), excess volume reduction (EVR), postoperative decrease in infections per year, postoperative discontinuation of compression garments, and overall pooled complication rate were extracted from included studies. These were compared through a meta-analysis. Results A total of 37 studies met the inclusion criteria for a total of 689 patients. VLNTs to the wrist and axilla resulted in a decrease in CRR of 42.1 and 51.5%, and a decrease in EVR of 35.6 and 48.8%, respectively. However, our meta-analysis showed no significant differences between CRR or EVR and between wrist and axilla as recipient sites. Similarly, we found no differences in postoperative decrease in infections per year, postoperative discontinuation of compression garments, and overall pooled complication rate. Conclusion These data suggest noninferiority between the wrist and axilla as recipient sites for VLNT in the context of BCRL. In the absence of randomized, prospective data, we hope these results can be used as an evidence-based reference and facilitate future studies.

Background Suboptimal pain management is a common, yet largely unrecognized, problem in the postsurgical patient population. Current treatment protocols heavily rely on opioid use and, though generally effective in providing pain relief, are associated with multiple side effects. The present systematic review aims to offer plastic surgeons insight into the current state of literature on prolonged local anesthetic wound infusion regimens, evaluating both their efficacy in lowering pain scores and the potential opioid-sparing effect. Methods A comprehensive literature search of the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was performed to identify relevant studies published between 1980 and December 2017 evaluating the use of prolonged local anesthetic wound infusion for postoperative pain management in plastic surgery. Results A total of 28 articles were selected, including 3904 patients. The overall infection rate in all patients treated with postsurgical local anesthetic wound infiltration was 0.28% (7/2536). There were no reported cases of systemic toxicity. An opioid-sparing effect was found in 92% (12/13) of studies when compared to an active comparator and 88% (7/8) of those comparing to placebo. Pain scores were decreased in 90% (9/10) of studies comparing wound infiltration to narcotic-based regimens and in 67% (6/9) of those comparing to placebo. Conclusions Continuous or intermittent wound infusion is safe and effective in reducing pain scores and opioid consumption in plastic surgery. Though the overall pain-lowering effect appears to be modest, ease of catheter insertion and patient satisfaction make this technique an alluring alternative to more validated approaches such as neuraxial or peripheral nerve blocks.

BACKGROUND The goal of this study was to gauge the public's general perception of breast implants, levels of concern, spontaneous word associations, and misperceptions that might need to be addressed by plastic surgeons regarding breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) and breast implant illness (BII). METHODS An anonymous survey was completed by a total of 979 female participants in the United States by means of Amazon Mechanical Turk. RESULTS Over 91 percent of participants indicated that they had never heard the term BIA-ALCL. Of the respondents who were aware of the term, 37.21 percent reported being moderately or extremely concerned about BIA-ALCL and 85.4 percent were less likely to recommend breast implants to a friend. Awareness of BII was significantly higher at 50.9 percent, whereas almost 40 percent of participants reported being either moderately or extremely concerned about BII. Over 78 percent of participants were less likely to recommend breast implants to a friend because of BII. The most common word association with BII was "pain," followed by "cancer." The terms "cancer" and "scary" were the two most common word associations with BIA-ALCL. A significant overlap in word associations was observed between BIA-ALCL and BII, potentially representing a lack of distinction between the two terms. The survey demonstrated a paucity of important knowledge within the general population; notably, 71 percent of respondents who were not aware that, to date, only textured implants/expanders were associated with BIA-ALCL. CONCLUSION These findings support the need for further targeted awareness to remedy existing misperceptions and fill the knowledge gaps relating to BII and BIA-ALCL.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text., Background: Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) awareness has increased, resulting in concerns regarding the safety of implant-based reconstruction. Breast cancer patients are first seen by surgical oncologists, who are therefore potentially the first health-care professionals to encounter concerns regarding BIA-ALCL. We therefore surveyed surgical oncologists on their understanding of BIA-ALCL to better assess potential effects on plastic surgery practice. Methods: An anonymous web-based survey consisting of 9 multiple-choice questions was sent to breast surgical oncologists that are members of the Canadian Society of Surgical Oncology (n = 135). Results: Forty-two members responded (n = 42/135, 31%) and all participants were aware of BIA-ALCL. All participants reported that BIA-ALCL has not deterred them from referring patients for implant-based reconstruction. Twenty-two respondents (52%) discuss BIA-ALCL with their patients and 21% (n = 9) believe that BIA-ALCL typically follows a metastatic course. Eight respondents (19%) reported having a poor understanding of BIA-ALCL, while 14% (n = 6) were unable to identify the link to textured implants. There were no statistical differences based on case-load volume. Conclusions: Approximately half of the respondent Canadian breast surgical oncologists discuss BIA-ALCL with their patients, yet there is a knowledge gap in terms of the epidemiology and clinical-pathological course of BIA-ALCL. It is of utmost importance to ensure that the plastic surgery community aims at including surgical oncologist colleagues in educational platforms regarding BIA-ALCL to ensure collaboration and unity in an effort to offer the most accurate information to patients, and prevent misinformation that may deter patients from seeking implant-based reconstruction.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text., Background: In light of the recent surge of media coverage and social media influence regarding breast implants, it is essential to understand patients’ concerns and misconceptions so that we can better serve them. Methods: The authors designed a survey study for assessing the awareness and perception of patients toward breast implant–associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) and breast implant illness (BII). In total, 130 patients presenting to the senior author’s breast reconstruction clinic completed the survey. The survey assessed patients’ knowledge on and their perception of BIA-ALCL and BII. Results: “News article” and “Television” were most often selected as sources of information for BIA-ALCL (21% and 20%, respectively) and BII (20% and 25%, respectively). A total of 100 patients (77%) had previous knowledge of BIA-ALCL. Forty-seven percent (n = 47/100) responded that they were unsure of the fate of a person diagnosed with BIA-ALCL, and 25% (n = 25/100) were unaware of the association between BIA-ALCL and specific implant type. Patients who were unaware of BIA-ALCL prognosis reported being less likely to receive breast implants in the future (P = 0.012, χ2 = 19.48). Eighty-nine patients (68%) had previous knowledge of BII. A total of 60 symptoms were mentioned by patients, with “Fatigue” (12%, n = 26) being cited the most often. Conclusions: The present survey highlights the importance for plastic surgeons to frequently discuss these entities with their patients. This should be done despite the obscurity of BII, in an effort to offer the best available evidence to our patients.

The specific impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical education remains elusive and evolving. Clinical teaching opportunities have become limited with the shift in focus of supervising physicians away from trainees and towards the care of the sick and vulnerable. The presence of medical students in hospitals has come to represent an added strain on vital resources, and the added risk of viral dissemination into communities has left medical students eager to help observing from only the sidelines. The present article provides a medical student's perspective on this unique, evolving situation, and identifies several learning opportunities that medical students may reflect upon and carry forth into their careers ahead. By exploring the current and future impact of this pandemic on clerkship, pre-clerkship and post-graduate medical training, specific challenges and future direction for both medical students and educators are discussed.L’impact précis de la pandémie de la COVID-19 sur la formation en médecine reste insaisissable et en constante évolution. Les opportunités d’enseignement clinique sont devenues limitées étant donné le changement de priorité demandé aux médecins enseignants, les éloignant de la supervision des étudiants pour se concentrer aux soins des malades et des personnes vulnérables. La présence d’étudiants en médecine dans les hôpitaux représente une pression accrue sur les ressources essentielles et ajoute un risque de propagation du virus dans les collectivités. Par conséquent, les étudiants en médecine qui sont prêts à apporter leur aide ne peuvent qu’observer de loin. Le présent article explique la perspective d’un étudiant en médecine sur cette situation sans précédent et toujours en évolution et identifie les plusieurs opportunités d’apprentissage auxquelles les étudiants en médecine peuvent réfléchir et retenir pour leur future carrière. Il traite également de l’impact actuel et futur de cette pandémie sur l’externat, le préexternat et la formation médicale post-doctorale, de défis particuliers et desorientations futures pour les étudiants en médecine et des éducateurs.

Background There is a paucity of data comparing the oncologic properties of breast cancer among patients previously having undergone breast augmentation in either the subglandular or subpectoral planes. The objective of the present systematic review was to evaluate whether implant location influenced the characteristics of breast tumors in previously augmented women. Methods A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant articles reporting tumor characteristics in augmented patients. The search included published articles in three electronic databases; Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed. Comparative studies (subglandular vs. subpectoral) were included. Results Analysis of data pooled from the included studies showed that subglandular implants had a higher frequency of tumors between 2 to 5 cm (26.5% vs. 9.9%, P = 0.0130). Subglandular implants also had a higher frequency of stage 2 tumors (42.9% vs. 23.7%, P = 0.0308). There was no significant difference in lymphovascular invasion between the 2 groups. These results of this systematic review suggest that the prognosis of patients undergoing augmentation is unaffected by implant location (subpectoral vs. subglandular). Conclusions With the absence of large randomized controlled trials, our study provides surgeons with an evidence-based reference to improve informed consent with regards to implant placement.

Introduction Craniosynostosis, the premature fusion of ≥1 cranial sutures, is the leading cause of pediatric skull deformities, affecting 1 of every 2000 to 2500 live births worldwide. Technologies used for the management of craniofacial conditions, specifically in craniosynostosis, have been advancing dramatically. This article highlights the most recent technological advances in craniosynostosis surgery through a systematic review of the literature. Methods A systematic electronic search was performed using the PubMed database. Search terms used were "craniosynostosis" AND "technology" OR "innovation" OR "novel.' Two independent reviewers subsequently reviewed the resultant articles based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Selected manuscripts deemed novel by the senior authors were grouped by procedure categories. Results Following review of the PubMed database, 28 of 536 articles were retained. Of the 28 articles, 20 articles consisting of 21 technologies were deemed as being novel by the senior authors. The technologies were categorized as diagnostic imaging (n = 6), surgical planning (n = 4), cranial vault evaluation (n = 4), machine learning (n = 3), ultrasound pinning (n = 3), and near-infrared spectroscopy (n = 1). Conclusion Multiple technological advances have impacted the treatment of craniosynostosis. These innovations include improvement in diagnosis and objective measurement of craniosynostosis, preoperative planning, intraoperative procedures, communication between both surgeons and patients, and surgical education.

OBJECTIVEThe purpose of this study was to compare shoulder abduction and external rotation (ER) after single-nerve repair of the upper trunk alone versus dual-nerve repair of both the upper trunk and the suprascapular nerve.METHODSA retrospective chart review of a single surgeon’s experience repairing obstetrical brachial plexus injuries between June 1995 and June 2015 was performed. Eight patients underwent repair of the upper trunk alone, and 10 patients underwent repair of the upper trunk and the suprascapular nerve. Shoulder abduction and ER ranges of motion (ROMs) (in degrees) were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively. Postoperative ROM and the difference in ROM gained after surgery were compared by independent t-test analysis.RESULTSThe mean follow-up time was 161.4 weeks (range 62–514 weeks, SD 124.0 weeks). The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 31.3 weeks (range 19.9–47.0 weeks, SD 6.9 weeks). The mean postoperative shoulder abduction ROMs were 145.0° (range 85°–180°, SD 39.4°) after single-nerve repair and 134.0° (range 90°–180°, SD 30.3°) after dual-nerve repair (p = 0.51). The mean postoperative shoulder ER ROMs were 67.5° (range 10°–95°, SD 28.8°) after single-nerve repair and 72.0° (range 10°–95°, SD 31.3°) after dual-nerve repair (p = 0.76).CONCLUSIONSThe authors found no difference in shoulder abduction and ER between patients who underwent single-nerve repair of the upper trunk alone and those who underwent dual-nerve repair of both the upper trunk and the suprascapular nerve.

Isolated avulsion fracture of the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) tendon is a rare and poorly understood injury. We present a unique case of a 45-year-old male who fell on his flexed right hand. He presented with a subtle but extremely painful mass on the dorsum of his wrist. Ultrasound (U/S) imaging of the mass revealed an avulsed bone fragment attached to the ECRL tendon, confirming the clinical suspicion of an ECRL avulsion injury. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are well-documented imaging modalities to detect tendon avulsions. As demonstrated by this case report, U/S is an excellent diagnostic tool for ECRL rupture, a cost-effective alternative that provides real-time dynamic examination of hand injuries. To our knowledge, this is the first case of ECRL avulsion diagnosed by U/S. The purpose of this case report is to educate the reader on detection and diagnosis of ECRL tendon avulsion using U/S, a time-efficient and cost-effective imaging modality that is infrequently used for this purpose.

Background The authors aim to present a comprehensive review detailing the present state of evidence with regard to complications following tissue expansion in the head and neck. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted to identify all studies reporting complications of tissue expansion in the head and neck between 2000 and 2019. Subgroup comparisons based on expander locations and planes were conducted. Results A total of 7058 patients were included. Tissue expansion was associated with an overall complication rate of 8.73% (616/7058). The most common complications were extrusion (207/7009; 3.0%) and hematoma (200/7009; 2.9%). Overall complications were highest in the scalp (65/238; 27.3%) and lowest in the mastoid (347/5688; 6.1%). Complications were more common with expansion in the non-subcutaneous plane (63/590; 10.7%). Conclusion In the absence of large clinical trials, systematic reviews such as these can help inform clinical guidelines and provide practitioners with an evidence-based reference to improve informed consent.

The mandible represents one of the most common sites of involvement for adult craniofacial trauma.1,2 Mandibular fractures most commonly occur in young adults following blunt trauma such as motor vehicle accidents, assault, and falls.3 Given that this population engages in at risk behaviors, there is an increased susceptibility to postoperative complications, making prompt diagnosis and management a necessity.4 In the majority of cases, rigid fixation is required to ensure maintenance of proper occlusion and fracture stabilization while minimizing the risk of infection.1,4 In select cases, namely nondisplaced fractures without evidence of malocclusion or fracture mobility, conservative management with a soft diet may be sufficient.1,5 Historically, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for traumatic mandibular fractures has been achieved through the use of metallic plates, namely titanium. Metallic implants carry the benefit of providing the necessary tensile strength to withstand forces of mastication while limiting fracture mobility. However, metallic plates can be palpable, which necessitates secondary surgery for removal and have been associated with interference of radiologic examinations, possible hardware migration, thermal sensitivity, osteolysis, corrosion, and peri-implant soft tissue reactions.6–10 Concerns regarding the use of metallic fixation devices led to the advent of resorbable materials, which were initially developed to avoid secondary surgery for implant removal.11 Early monomeric forms of biodegradable implants, namely poly-L-lactide, were associated with delayed degradation (>5 years), which led to reports of foreign-body reactions, local fistulas, osteolytic lesions, and peri-implant fluctuant swelling.7,12,13 However, with the development of advanced copolymers, self-reinforcing materials, and increased control over degradation rates, recent studies have shown promising results.14,15 In light of this recent evidence, and the increasing use of biodegradable implants for mandibular fracture fixation, it is of great value to shed light on overall complication rates and long-term functional outcomes. Given that the literature is devoid of any recent comprehensive reviews comparing outcomes of resorbable and metallic implants for fixation of mandibular fractures, we sought to synthesize the available data in an effort to offer an evidence-based view to guide clinical management.

Background There is currently no consensus on the utility of preoperative computed tomography (CT) in nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the evidence available on the necessity of preoperative CT for the treatment of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. Methods A comprehensive literature review of the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) database was performed. The following variables were analyzed: concordance of findings between clinical examinations and CT, incidental findings reported on imaging, and the effect of imaging on subsequent management. Concordance between clinical examination/CT and the presence of incidental findings were collected and displayed as descriptive data. The effect of imaging on subsequent diagnosis/management was analyzed by meta-analysis. Results Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria for a total of 728 patients. Overall, physical examination concordance with CT diagnosis was 97.9% (371/379). Overall, incidental findings led to additional imaging/workup in 1.79% of cases (5/278). The results of the meta-analysis revealed that, in the absence of alternative imaging modalities, CT scans significantly altered diagnosis or led to additional investigations in 12 cases (4.8%, 95% confidence interval = 3%-8%). Preoperative CT scans led to additional investigations in 5 cases and detected incomplete/wrong diagnoses in 7 cases. Conclusions The results of the present meta-analysis support the use of preoperative CT scans for nonsyndromic craniosynostosis in the absence of alternative imaging modalities. The results also suggest that in properly selected patients, alternative imaging modalities may be appropriate, potentially obviating the need for CT scans.

Currently, no reliable gold standard exists for the objective outcome measurement following liposuction. The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize reported methods of monitoring liposuction results by objectively measuring subcutaneous adipose tissue. A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant articles that described techniques for objectively quantifying adipose tissue following traditional liposuction. The search included published articles in three electronic databases—Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed. Subcutaneous adipose tissue was estimated using the following techniques: ultrasound, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and three-dimensional imaging volumetric analysis. Reported benefits of liposuction objective measurements included providing patients with a quantitative assessment of the liposuction results pre- and postoperatively, detecting significant changes in body fat deposits, and following patterns of fat redistribution. This review provides a summary of various techniques for quantification of liposuction results. More studies are needed to study the clinical relevancy and impact of the various imaging modalities reviewed as well as to develop automated volumetric measurement technology with improved accuracy, efficacy, and reproducibility.

Background: Despite the proven efficacy and advantages of absorbable implants, their use for metacarpal shaft fixation has been limited. This is likely due to the high reported complication rates in early studies with polyglycolic acid (PGA) implants, notably high rates of noninfectious inflammatory reaction (5%-25%), occurring up to 30 weeks after fixation. The objective of this study was to assess the clinical outcomes of newer absorbable plates and screws in the treatment of metacarpal shaft fractures. Methods: The authors performed a systematic search of the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases dating from 1946 to 2017. Primary outcome measures were the development of noninfectious inflammatory reaction and implant failure. Results: A total of 42 metacarpal shaft fractures in 35 patients were included. The average follow-up time was 20.4 months (n = 24; range: 3.6-61 months). Only 1 case (2.4%) of noninfectious inflammatory reaction was reported with polylactic acid (PLA) plates and PLA/PGA compounds. Noninfectious inflammatory reaction was observed in 4 out of the 9 patients (44.4%) with a trimethylene carbonate/PLA compound. Symptoms appeared after an average time of 15.8 months (range: 12-19 months) post-fixation. Painless prolonged inflammation that resolved spontaneously within 6 months was reported in 7.1% of cases (n = 3). Implant failure with loss of fracture reduction was reported in 9.5% of cases (n = 4). Conclusions: Newer absorbable materials appear to have significantly lower rates of noninfectious inflammatory reaction than previously reported. When compared with metallic fixation of the metacarpal shaft, absorbable fixation appears to have comparable complication rates and biomechanical properties.

Background:. The utility and efficacy of 3-dimensional representation have been proven in bony reconstruction; however, its role in soft-tissue reconstruction remains limited. There is currently no reliable gold standard to objectively measure flap volume. This systematic review aims to summarize the available techniques used to objectively measure flap volume in reconstructive surgery. Methods:. A systematic literature search was performed to identify all relevant articles describing objective techniques to quantify flap volume. The search included published articles in 3 electronic databases—Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed. Results:. A total of 16 studies were included. Flap volume was calculated using the following techniques: magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, 3-dimensional imaging and modeling, material templates, ultrasound, and weighing scales. Techniques and results of the included studies are summarized. Conclusions:. This systematic review provides a summary of various published techniques for objective pre- or intraoperative quantification of flap volume in reconstructive surgery. The preliminary results from this review are promising, and we believe that 3-dimensional representation and objective quantification is the future of reconstructive flap surgery. More studies are needed to study the clinical relevancy and impact of the various imaging modalities reviewed and to develop automated volumetric measurement technology with improved accuracy, efficacy, and reproducibility.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text., Background: When tissue expansion is necessary in breast reconstruction, a single-stage approach is possible using adjustable expander/implants, with or without the use of acellular dermal matrix. We aimed to present the senior author’s single-stage experience over a period of 12 years using combined expander/implants in breast reconstruction. Methods: This is a Single-institution, retrospective review of breast reconstruction with combined expander/implants from 2002 to 2014. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the impact of multiple variables on long-term outcomes. Results: A total of 162 implants in 105 patients were included in this study. Mean follow-up time was 81.7 months (SD, ± 39.2; range, 15–151). Complication rates were as follows: 0.62% extrusion, 1.2% mastectomy flap necrosis, 1.2% hematoma, 1.9% dehiscence, 2.5% seroma, 4.9% infection, and 15.4% deflation. The following associations were identified by logistic regression: adjuvant radiotherapy and capsular contracture (P = 0.034), tumor size and deflation (P = 0014), and smoking history and infection (P = 0.013). Conclusions: Overall, 81% of breasts were successfully reconstructed in a single stage. Single-stage reconstruction using all-in-one expander/implants reduces costs by eliminating the need for a second procedure under general anesthesia and can achieve results comparable with other alloplastic reconstructions reported in the literature.

The management of a mangled limb is a challenging endeavor. With the advancement in microsurgery, spare parts surgery (fillet flaps) has gained recent interest. In the context of lower extremity amputation secondary to trauma, viable spare parts can provide stump soft tissue coverage, potentially preserving critical length and obviating above-knee amputations. Commonly, spare parts surgery is performed in the acute setting but tissue preservation is sometimes necessary. The authors report their experience preserving a fillet flap of a mangled lower extremity for 48 h using the University of Wisconsin solution. A sole fillet flap and a split-thickness skin graft were harvested and preserved from the amputated lower extremity (based on the posterior tibial artery and vein). Stump coverage was achieved by anastomosing the fillet flap to the proximal posterior tibial artery and vein. This solution has not been previously described for preservation of fillet flaps.

Background:. Prompt physical and occupational therapy is crucial in managing nonsurgical candidates with obstetrical brachial plexus injuries (OBPI). The objective of our study was to identify newborns suffering from nonoperative OBPI in need of a “fast-track” evaluation by a multidisciplinary team. Methods:. This is a retrospective review of patients with OBPI from June 1995 to June 2015. All nonsurgical candidates (Narakas class 1) were included in the study. The Gilbert score and the Medical Research Council grading system were used to measure shoulder and elbow function, respectively. The relationship between shoulder and elbow functional outcomes and time delay to consultation was studied using analysis of variance and Welch’s tests. Various subgroups were studied based on OBPI risk factors: maternal diabetes, birth weight >4 kg, use of forceps, asphyxia, multiple comorbidities, and Apgar score at 1 and 5 minutes. Results:. A total of 168 patients were included in this study. Mean follow-up time was 313.8 weeks (minimum: 52; maximum: 1072; SD: 228.1). A total of 19 patients had an Apgar scores

Through a modified team-based learning (TBL) in the anatomy pre-clerkship curriculum, formative evaluations are utilized in the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine to assess and predict students' outcomes on summative examinations. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficiency of formative assessments to predict student's performance on summative examinations, during the first two semesters of medical school. Formative assessments included multiple-choice quizzes (MCQ) for each laboratory session and a practical midterm examination (MIDTERM), while the summative assessment corresponded to the final practical examination (FINAL). A moderate correlation between MCQs and FINAL (r = 0.353 and 0.301, respectively), and strong correlation between MIDTERM and FINAL assessments (r = 0.688 and 0.610, respectively) were found in the first two semesters. The MIDTERM-FINAL correlations were enhanced for students who scored under 61% in the MIDTERM (r = 0.887 and 0.717, respectively). Despite limitations, mostly related to particularities of the used tests, the analysis revealed an efficient method to identify students at risk of failing the FINAL in a TBL-based anatomy program. Future developments include the elaboration of strategies to predict and support those underperforming students.