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Background Perforator dissection and flap elevation are routinely performed for microsurgical reconstruction; however, there is a steep learning curve to mastering these technical skills. Though live porcine models have been utilized as microsurgical training models, significant drawbacks limit their use. We recently developed a latex-perfused, nonliving, porcine abdomen perforator dissection simulation and described its anatomic similarity to the human deep inferior epigastric artery flap. The purpose was to assess the change in resident confidence in performing key operative steps of flap elevation and perforator dissection and obtain feedback on model realism and utility. Methods Seventeen plastic and reconstructive surgery resident physicians (postgraduate years 1–6) at a single institution participated in a perforator dissection session utilizing the simulation model. Each resident completed pre- and postactivity surveys to assess interval change in confidence in operating. The postactivity survey also asked residents to answer questions regarding their perception of the model's anatomic and surgical realism and utility in microsurgical training. Results Following a practice session using the latex-perfused, nonliving porcine abdomen, resident confidence was significantly increased in performing all key operative steps and the procedure overall (p = 0.001). All residents (n = 17, 100%) believed the model would improve "trainees' ability to perform perforator dissection in the operating room." Perforator, fascial, and pedicle anatomy were reported to be "Very" similar to human anatomy, with a median Likert score (MLS) of 4. Additionally, six out of the eight surgical steps were noted to be "Very" realistic, with only "Flap Design" and "Fascial Closure" found to be "Moderately" realistic with an MLS of 3. Conclusion The latex-infused porcine abdominal model is a novel, realistic simulation for microsurgical trainee perforator dissection practice. This model offers a suitable substitute for perforator dissection practice, as its implementation within a microsurgery training course improves resident comfort and confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Perforator dissection and flap elevation are routinely performed for microsurgical reconstruction; however, there is a steep learning curve to mastering these technical skills. Though live porcine models have been utilized as a microsurgical training model, there are significant drawbacks that limit their use, including cost, limited ability for repetition, and obstacles associated with animal care. Here we describe the creation of a novel perforator dissection model using latex augmented non-living porcine abdominal walls. We provide anatomic measurements that demonstrate valuable similarities and differences to human anatomy to maximize microsurgical trainee practice. Methods Six latex-infused porcine abdomens were dissected based on the deep cranial epigastric artery (DCEA). Dissection was centered over the abdominal wall mid-segment between the second and fourth nipple line. Dissection steps included exposure of lateral and medial row perforators, incision of anterior rectus sheath with perforator dissection, and dissection of DCEA pedicle. DCEA pedicle and perforator measurements were compared with deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) data in the literature. Results An average of seven perforators were consistently identified within each flap. Assembly of the model was performed quickly and allowed for two training sessions per specimen. Porcine abdominal walls demonstrate similar DCEA pedicle (2.6 ± 0.21 mm) and perforator (1.0 ± 0.18 mm) size compared with a human's DIEA (2.7 ± 0.27 mm, 1.1 ± 0.85 mm). Conclusion The latex-infused porcine abdominal model is a novel, realistic simulation for perforator dissection practice for microsurgical trainees. Impact on resident comfort and confidence within a microsurgical training course is forthcoming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Data exists to demonstrate that migraine surgery is cost-effective for the long-term treatment of headaches, but no data exists regarding its financial viability for healthcare institutions. The goals of the current study are to demonstrate that (1) migraine surgery is financially viable for an academic institution with a net-positive profitability and (2) migraine surgery is a sought-after therapy that can draw patients into the healthcare system., Methods: A retrospective chart review of migraine and bilateral breast reduction (BBR) consults seen in clinic between 05/01/2011-05/30/2020 was conducted. Patient age, sex, payor information, and distance from the hospital was collected. Profit margin, percentage profit, collection percentage, and conversion rate to surgery from clinic was calculated., Results: 407 new migraine consults and 119 new BBR consults were included from which, 150 underwent migraine surgeries and 117 underwent BBR respectively. Migraine surgery group came from a further distance for the initial consult (P-value<0.001) and for surgery (P-value<0.001). There were also more migraine surgery patients from out-of-state (P-value=0.012). Migraine clinic patients had a larger ratio of private insurers (P-value<0.001). Migraine surgery patients had a greater total charge (P-value<0.001), estimated reimbursement (P-value=0.001), and total cost (P-value<0.001)., Conclusions: This study provides evidence that migraine surgery is financially viable for hospitals and while performing similarly to bilateral breast reduction in profit margin, it brought in more patients from outside the catchment area of our institution. These findings may encourage hospitals to recruit migraine surgeons to improve care for this underserved patient population., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: Authors do not have any conflicts of interest to disclose, (Copyright © 2024 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

Background: This study sought to examine risk factors for venous thromboembolism in transfeminine vaginoplasty. Secondarily, the authors outline reasons why patients are not adequately classified for research purposes despite using relevant queried codes., Methods: Transgender patients undergoing vaginoplasty were identified with diagnostic and procedure-specific codes using a national surgical database from 2010 through 2019., Results: There were 457 transgender vaginoplasties performed, with 24 wound dehiscences, 17 unplanned reoperations, and 12 surgical site infections. With zero cases of venous thromboembolism, risk factor analysis was deferred., Conclusions: Heterogeneity in coding practices for gender-affirming surgery led to an uncharacteristically small cohort of transfeminine vaginoplasty patients captured in the database. Current diagnostic and procedure-specific codes are nonspecific and unbundled, hindering accurate assessment of the incidence of standard surgical complications., (Copyright© Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and The Medical College of Wisconsin, Inc.)