The Utility of Immunohistochemistry in Mycobacterial Infection: A Proposal for Multimodality Testing.

Mycobacterium species are slow growing bacteria that cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Because of the relative rarity of mycobacterial infections, potential for detection of nonpathogenic environmental contaminants, and substantial costs associated with molecular diagnostics, effective screening methods are needed to identify samples most suitable for molecular testing. While anatomic pathology specimens can be utilized to identify characteristic histologic inflammatory patterns and to directly visualize mycobacteria through histochemical (acid fast bacilli [AFB]) stains, the utility of immunohistochemistry (IHC) in this setting is unknown. A cohort of 121 cases previously referred for mycobacterial sequencing, including 12 Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), 42 nontuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM), and 67 cases negative for mycobacteria by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), were stained with an antimycobacteria antibody, and the results were compared with histology, AFB stains, PCR, and cultures. IHC was positive in 50% MTB, 81% NTM, and 49% of cases negative for mycobacteria by sequencing, with excellent (>90%) concordance with AFB stains. Organisms were identifiable by IHC using a 10x objective in the majority of cases. Negative PCR with positive IHC was attributed to paucity of organisms in 30/33 cases, and positive PCR with negative IHC was most often associated with MTB. IHC is highly sensitive for NTM but has a lower sensitivity for MTB, suggesting that cases with a high clinical and histologic suspicion for MTB should be sent for PCR even when AFB and IHC are negative. Incorporation of IHC into a screening algorithm for molecular testing has the potential for significant savings of cost and time. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Genomic Analysis of Pigmented Epithelioid Melanocytomas Reveals Recurrent Alterations in PRKAR1A, and PRKCA Genes.

Pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma (PEM) is a rare cutaneous melanocytic tumor first described as epithelioid blue nevus in patients with the Carney Complex (CC). PEM was among the first established examples of an intermediate class of melanocytic tumors, including atypical Spitz tumors, with frequent metastasis to lymph nodes but only rare extranodal spread. Sporadic and CC-associated PEM are essentially histologically indistinguishable. A subset of PEM shows loss of cytoplasmic expression of the protein kinase A regulatory subunit alpha (PRKAR1A), a tumor suppressor gene mutated in 70% of families with CC. However, molecular studies of such tumors have been limited. Therefore, we used next-generation sequencing to assess 480 cancer-related genes and performed PrkaR1[alpha] immunohistochemistry on 13 cases morphologically consistent with PEM. Six cases demonstrated loss of PrkaR1[alpha] expression by immunohistochemistry. Three cases were "combined" PEM arising in association with a common nevus. These lesions harbored PRKAR1A genetic alterations in addition to BRAF mutations. Three "pure" PEM, not associated with a common nevus, showed no evidence of PRKAR1A genetic alterations despite loss of PrkaR1[alpha] expression. Two of these PEM demonstrated MAP2K1 in frame deletions. PrkaR1[alpha] protein expression was preserved in 7 cases. Two of these lesions revealed fusions of the gene encoding the protein kinase C alpha isoform (PRKCA) to 2 distinct partners (ATP2B4-PRKCA and RNF13-PRKCA). Two lesions may represent misdiagnosed "blue nevus with epithelioid features" as they demonstrated GNAQ hotspot mutations. A conceivable explanation, but one we do not favor is that rare PEM are caused by GNAQ mutations. No genetic aberrations were detected in 3 lesions. None of our 13 cases demonstrated TERT alterations or significant chromosomal copy number changes. These results further validate the concept of PEM as a distinctive intermediate/borderline melanocytic tumor, and also illustrate its molecular heterogeneity. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Paraduodenal Pancreatitis: Imaging and Pathologic Correlation of 47 Cases Elucidates Distinct Subtypes and the Factors Involved in its Etiopathogenesis.

Clinicopathologic characteristics of paraduodenal (groove) pancreatitis (PDP) remain to be fully unraveled. In this study, 47 PDPs with preoperative enhanced images available were subjected to detailed comparative analysis in conjunction with pathologic findings. PDP were predominantly in males (3:1) with a mean age of 50 years, and 60% had a preoperative diagnosis of cancer. Mean lesional size was 3.1 cm. Three distinct subtypes were identified by imaging. Solid-tumoral (type-1) with groove-predominant (type-1A, 36%) forming a distinct solid band between the duodenum and pancreas often with histologic microabscesses (69% vs. 33% in others), and pancreas-involving (type-1B, 19%) forming a pseudotumoral mass spanning into the head-groove area, always diagnosed preoperatively as "cancer," but often lacked parenchymal atrophy of the body (44% vs. 92%). Cyst-forming (type-2) had groove-predominant (type-2A, 15%), often accompanied by Brunner gland hyperplasia, and pancreas-predominant (type-2B, 15%) were in younger (mean: 44 y) females (57% vs. 18%) and had less alcohol/tobacco abuse (50/33% vs. 81/69%). Ill-defined (type-3; 15%) often had main pancreatic duct dilatation (mean: 5.6 vs. 2.8 mm). The capricious presentations of PDP could be attributed to variable effects of different mechanistic and precipitative etiopathogenetic factors such as disturbed accessory duct outflow (dilated Santorini duct, 87%), aggravated by alcohol (77%) with superimposed stasis in the main ampulla (previous cholecystectomy, 47%; choledocholithiasis, 9%), strictured Wirsung duct (68%), and some likely exacerbated by ischemia (hypertension [59%], tobacco abuse [64%], arteriosclerosis in the tissue [23%]). In conclusion, our study identified 3 distinct types of PDP and each may reflect different pathogenetic contributing factors. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Sacral nerve stimulation for constipation and fecal incontinence in children: Long-term outcomes, patient benefit, and parent satisfaction

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the long-term efficacy of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in children with constipation and describe patient benefit and parent satisfaction.

Methods

Using a prospective patient registry, we identified patients <21 years old with constipation treated with SNS for >2 years. We compared symptoms, medical treatment, PedsQL Gastrointestinal Symptom Scale (GSS), Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale (FIQL), and Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) before SNS and at follow-up. We contacted parents to administer the Glasgow Children's Benefit Inventory (GCBI) and a parent satisfaction questionnaire.

Key Results

We included 25 children (52% male, median age 10 years): 16 had functional constipation, six anorectal malformation, two tethered spinal cord, and one Hirschsprung's disease. Defecation frequency did not change after SNS but patients reporting fecal incontinence decreased from 72% to 20% (P<.01) and urinary incontinence decreased from 56% to 28% (P=.04). Patients using laxatives decreased from 64% to 44% (ns) and patients using antegrade enemas decreased from 48% to 20% (P=.03). GSS, most FIQL domains, and FISI were improved at follow-up. Six (24%) patients had complications requiring further surgery. Of the 16 parents contacted, 15 (94%) parents indicated positive health-related benefit and all would recommend SNS to other families.

Conclusions & Inferences

Sacral nerve stimulation is a promising and durable treatment for children with refractory constipation, and appears particularly effective in decreasing fecal incontinence. Although a quarter of patients experienced complications requiring additional surgery, nearly all parents reported health-related benefit. Future studies to identify predictors of treatment response and complications are needed.

Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) can be effective for children with refractory constipation and fecal incontinence, but long-term outcomes are not well-understood. In this study of 25 children with refractory constipation treated with SNS, SNS led to continued improvement in symptoms and quality of life at 2 years after initiation. Although a quarter of patients required additional surgery, nearly all parents reported health-related benefit and all parents would recommend SNS treatment.

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Soft-diet feeding impairs neural transmission between mitral cells and interneurons in the mouse olfactory bulb

Publication date: November 2017
Source:Archives of Oral Biology, Volume 83
Author(s): Tomohiro Noguchi, Chizuru Utsugi, Makoto Kashiwayanagi
(Objective) The subventricular zone in mice generates a lot of neuroblasts even during adulthood. These neuroblasts migrate to the olfactory bulb and differentiate into inhibitory interneurons such as granule cells and periglomerular cells. Olfactory sensory neurons receive information from various odorants and transmit it to the olfactory bulb. Our previous study showed that soft-diet feeding impairs neurogenesis in the subventricular zone, in turn leading to the reduction of odor-induced behaviors and Fos-immunoreactivities, the latter of which are markers of neural activity, at the olfactory bulb after exposure to odors. Release of GABA from inhibitory interneurons at the olfactory bulb induces inhibitory currents at the mitral cells, which are output neurons from the olfactory bulb. (Design) In the present study, we measured spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) at the mitral cells of mice fed a soft diet in order to explore the effects of changes in texture of diets on neural function at the olfactory bulb. (Results) The soft-diet feeding extended the intervals between sIPSCs and reduced their peak amplitudes. (Conclusions) The present results suggest that soft-diet feeding in mice attenuates the neural functions of inhibitory interneurons at the olfactory bulb.

Graphical abstract

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Functional Outcomes in Individuals Undergoing Very Early (< 5 h) and Early (5–24 h) Surgical Decompression in Traumatic Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: Analysis of Neurological Improvement from the Austrian Spinal Cord Injury Study

Journal of Neurotrauma , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Effect of Cerebrospinal Fluid Drainage on Brain Tissue Oxygenation in Traumatic Brain Injury

Journal of Neurotrauma , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Cerebral Vasoactivity and Oxygenation with Oxygen Carrier M101 in Rats

Journal of Neurotrauma , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Gastric cardia lesion with abnormal volumetric laser endomicroscopy imaging

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Novel 1L polyethylene glycol-based bowel preparation NER1006 for overall and right-sided colon cleansing: a randomized controlled phase 3 trial versus trisulfate

NER1006 is the first 32 fluid ounce (1L) polyethylene glycol-based bowel preparation. This randomized, multicenter, colonoscopist/central reader-blinded Phase 3 non-inferiority trial assessed the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of NER1006 versus trisulfate for bowel cleansing.

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Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia Presents as a Polypoid Mass in a patient with cirrhosis

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Anticancer efficacy of the hypoxia-activated prodrug evofosfamide is enhanced in combination with proapoptotic receptor agonists against osteosarcoma

Abstract

Tumor hypoxia is a major cause of treatment failure for a variety of malignancies. However, hypoxia also leads to treatment opportunities as demonstrated by the development of compounds that target regions of hypoxia within tumors. Evofosfamide is a hypoxia-activated prodrug that is created by linking the hypoxia-seeking 2-nitroimidazole moiety to the cytotoxic bromo-isophosphoramide mustard (Br-IPM). When evofosfamide is delivered to hypoxic regions of tumors, the DNA cross-linking toxin, Br-IPM, is released leading to cell death. This study assessed the anticancer efficacy of evofosfamide in combination with the Proapoptotic Receptor Agonists (PARAs) dulanermin and drozitumab against human osteosarcoma in vitro and in an intratibial murine model of osteosarcoma. Under hypoxic conditions in vitro, evofosfamide cooperated with dulanermin and drozitumab, resulting in the potentiation of cytotoxicity to osteosarcoma cells. In contrast, under the same conditions, primary human osteoblasts were resistant to treatment. Animals transplanted with osteosarcoma cells directly into their tibiae developed mixed osteosclerotic/osteolytic bone lesions and consequently developed lung metastases 3 weeks post cancer cell transplantation. Tumor burden in the bone was reduced by evofosfamide treatment alone and in combination with drozitumab and prevented osteosarcoma-induced bone destruction while also reducing the growth of pulmonary metastases. These results suggest that evofosfamide may be an attractive therapeutic agent, with strong anticancer activity alone or in combination with either drozitumab or dulanermin against osteosarcoma.

In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic activity of the hypoxia-activated prodrug evofosfamide against human osteosarcoma cells in vitro as a single agent and in combination with proapoptotic receptor agonist's dulanermin and drozitumab. We then assessed the anticancer activity of evofosfamide alone and in combination with drozitumab using a clinically relevant orthotopic mouse model of osteosarcoma and on subsequent pulmonary metastases. Evofosfamide as a single agent reduced tumor burden in bone and cooperated with drozitumab to protect bone from osteosarcoma-induced bone destruction while also reducing the incidence of pulmonary metastases and importantly, evofosfamide alone and in combination with drozitumab was not toxic to normal bone metabolism in vivo.

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The Multiple Faces of Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 2

Abstract

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2) is among the most common forms of autosomal dominant ataxias, accounting for 15% of the total families. Occurrence is higher in specific populations such as the Cuban and Southern Italian. The disease is caused by a CAG expansion in ATXN2 gene, leading to abnormal accumulation of the mutant protein, ataxin-2, in intracellular inclusions. The clinical picture is mainly dominated by cerebellar ataxia, although a number of other neurological signs have been described, ranging from parkinsonism to motor neuron involvement, making the diagnosis frequently challenging for neurologists, particularly when information about the family history is not available. Although the functions of ataxin-2 have not been completely elucidated, the protein is involved in mRNA processing and control of translation. Recently, it has also been shown that the size of the CAG repeat in normal alleles represents a risk factor for ALS, suggesting that ataxin-2 plays a fundamental role in maintenance of neuronal homeostasis.

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Functional Outcomes in Individuals Undergoing Very Early (< 5 h) and Early (5–24 h) Surgical Decompression in Traumatic Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: Analysis of Neurological Improvement from the Austrian Spinal Cord Injury Study

Journal of Neurotrauma , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Cerebral Vasoactivity and Oxygenation with Oxygen Carrier M101 in Rats

Journal of Neurotrauma , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Inaccuracy of patient-reported descriptions of and satisfaction with bowel actions in irritable bowel syndrome

Abstract

Background

Perception of diarrhea and constipation differs greatly. This study aimed to correlate subjective and objective assessment of fecal characteristics in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients.

Methods

Data from two interventional dietary trials with varying FODMAP (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides And Polyols) or gluten content were interrogated. Subjects rated their dissatisfaction with stool consistency daily using a visual analog scale during the interventions. Subjects collected stools at the end of each intervention. Each stool was scored according to the King's Stool Chart (KSC). Fecal water content (FWC) was measured on pooled feces by freeze drying, with diarrhea defined as ≥78%.

Key Results

Seventy IBS (Rome III) and eight healthy subjects were studied. Each subject's self-rating of stool consistency during the most symptomatic diet was approximately double that of their least. Degree of dissatisfaction with stool consistency correlated poorly with changes in FWC and KSC. IBS subtype related poorly to objective measures of stool consistency. Sixty percent of IBS-D subjects had diarrhea on objective measures. Eighty-five percent with IBS-C had hard and formed stools but three patients met the criteria for diarrhea. One healthy subject had diarrhea on FWC and KSC, and six had hard, formed stools. No differences in FWC was observed when subjects consumed differing amounts of FODMAPs or gluten (all P > .200).

Conclusions and Inferences

There are major disparities between patients' stool descriptions and objective features of constipation and diarrhea. Patient-reported bowel habits require more interrogation for accurate IBS subtyping. Varying FODMAP or gluten content of the diet is not associated with consistent change in FWC.

Perceptions of diarrhea and constipation differ greatly among patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Data show that there are major disparities between patients' stool descriptions and objective features of constipation and diarrhea.

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Synergy between 5-HT4 receptor stimulation and phosphodiesterase 4 inhibition in facilitating acetylcholine release in human large intestinal circular muscle

Abstract

Background

Gastroprokinetic properties of 5-HT₄ receptor agonists, such as prucalopride, are attributed to activation of 5-HT₄ receptors on cholinergic nerves innervating smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal smooth muscle layer, increasing acetylcholine release and muscle contraction. In porcine stomach and colon, phosphodiesterase (PDE) 4 has been shown to control the signaling pathway of these 5-HT₄ receptors. The aim of this study was to investigate the PDE-mediated control of these 5-HT₄ receptors in human large intestine.

Methods

Circular smooth muscle strips were prepared from human large intestine; after incubation with [³H]-choline, electrically induced tritium outflow was determined as a measure for acetylcholine release. The influence of PDE inhibition on the facilitating effect of prucalopride on electrically induced acetylcholine release was studied.

Key Results

The non-selective PDE inhibitor IBMX enhanced the facilitating effect of prucalopride on electrically induced acetylcholine release. The selective inhibitors vinpocetine (PDE1), EHNA (PDE2) and cilostamide (PDE3) did not influence, while rolipram and roflumilast (PDE4) enhanced the prucalopride-induced facilitation to the same extent as IBMX.

Conclusions & Inferences

In human large intestinal circular muscle, the intracellular pathway of 5-HT₄ receptors facilitating cholinergic neurotransmission to large intestinal circular smooth muscle is controlled by PDE4. If the synergy between 5-HT₄ receptor agonism and PDE4 inhibition is confirmed in a functional assay with electrically induced cholinergic contractions of human large intestinal circular smooth muscle strips, combination of a selective 5-HT₄ receptor agonist with a selective PDE4 inhibitor might enhance the in vivo prokinetic effect of the 5-HT₄ receptor agonist in the large intestine.

In human large intestinal circular smooth muscle strips, the facilitating effect of the 5-HT₄ receptor agonist prucalopride on electrically induced acetylcholine release was enhanced by non-selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibition with IBMX. The selective PDE4 inhibitors rolipram and roflumilast mimicked the effect of IBMX, while inhibitors of PDE1 (vinpocetine), PDE2 (EHNA) and PDE3 (cilostamide) did not.

The signaling pathway of 5-HT₄ receptors facilitating cholinergic neurotransmission towards human large intestinal circular smooth muscle is thus controlled by PDE₄. If the synergy between 5-HT₄ receptor agonism and PDE4 inhibition is confirmed in a functional assay with electrically induced cholinergic contractions, combination of a 5-HT₄ receptor agonist with a selective PDE4 inhibitor might also in vivo enhance the prokinetic effect of the 5-HT₄ receptor agonist.

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Treatment of Patients With Hepatitis C Virus infection (Genotype 4) With Ledipasvir-Sofosbuvir in the Liver Transplant Setting.

Background: Hepatitis C virus infection is a major cause of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma and the leading indication for liver transplantation. In the Middle East, genotype 4 HCV infection is the most common genotype. However, limited data exists on the treatment of genotype-4 in the liver transplant setting. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of ledipasvir-sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) in treating HCV genotype-4 infected patients with cirrhosis or postliver transplantation. Methods: This prospective, single-arm, observational study includes cohort of patients with cirrhosis before liver transplantation (Cohort A) and a cohort of postliver transplantation patients (Cohort B). Patients received LDV/SOF (90 mg-400 mg) once daily for 12-24 weeks with or without ribavirin (RBV). Patients with creatinine clearance below 30 were excluded. Results: A total of 111 patients (61 cirrhotic; 50 postliver transplants) with HCV genotype 4 were treated in KFSH&RC; 55% cohort A and 44% cohort B received ribavirin. Sustained virological response SVR12 was 91.8% and 86% of cohorts A and B, respectively. There were no treatment-related mortality or serious adverse effects. RBV dose reduction occurred in 25% without any treatment discontinuation. SVR12 rates in cohort A were significantly higher in patients with a viral load below 800 000 (100% vs 83.9%, p value=0.022). Viral load did not impact SVR rates in cohort B. The use of RBV did not increase SVR12 and was associated with anemia. Conclusions: Ledipasvir-sofosbuvir without ribavirin is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with HCV genotype 4 infection in pre and postliver transplant setting. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Ocular surface lubricants.

Purpose of review: The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the ocular lubricants currently available, consider the components of the various formulations and highlight the status of preservative use in the treatment of anterior ocular surface diseases. Recent findings: The primary components of ocular surface lubrication have been, in the past, based on various cellulose formulations that increase hydration. Advances in lubrication have come from areas of the human body requiring lubrication such as the skeletal joints as well as examining the use of natural components of the tear fluid. These have resulted in novel modifications of existing tear components, for example, thiolated carboxymethyl hyaluronic acid which creates crosslinking to mechanically increase retention time for ocular surface hydration. Other proteoglycans such as lubricin, having one of the lowest coefficients of friction in nature, to a lipopolysaccharide derivative of tamarind seed, may provide a unique delivery system for lubricants and medications. Summary: The present state of ocular surface lubrication is slowly advancing from the routine use of cellulose-based solutions and gels to more advanced replacement with natural tear components. The advances that are occurring on other lubricating surfaces of the musculoskeletal system are also providing some insights into potential use on the ocular surface. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Hymenoptera-induced anaphylaxis: is it a mast cell driven hematological disorder?.

Purpose of review: Hymenoptera-induced allergy (HVA) is a common cause of anaphylaxis and may be fatal. It is associated with systemic mastocytosis in about 7% of adult patients. Systemic mastocytosis is a proliferative disorder of hematopoietic mast cell progenitors. There is recent data on the association between systemic mastocytosis and HVA. Recent findings: Hymenoptera venoms are the most common immunoglobulin E-mediated elicitors of anaphylaxis in patients with mastocytosis. Some patients with systemic mastocytosis do not have cutaneous involvement and have only been identified because of HVA. These patients do have distinct demographic, clinical, and laboratory features as compared with patients with mastocytosis with skin lesions. They show a male predominance, more severe (cardiovascular) as compared to skin symptoms, lower baseline serum tryptase, less bone marrow mast cell aggregates, and KIT mutations restricted to mast cell lineage. Summary: Although hymenoptera-induced anaphylaxis is not primarily a mast cell-driven hematological disorder, the latter is present in a significant proportion of patients and has to be excluded by basal serum tryptase determination, skin inspection as well as exclusion of systemic mastocytosis by D816V mutation analysis in peripheral blood and/or bone marrow examination in selected patients. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Climate changes and Hymenoptera venom allergy: are there some connections?.

Purpose of review: This review aims to update the world status of the main allergenic stinging Hymenoptera. Recent findings: In this review, we consider the problems that social Hymenoptera (bees, wasps and ants) could represent in the nearest future for human health in different parts of the world. Summary: Distribution and consistency of allergenic species including venomous insects are interested by accelerated dynamics caused by climate changes and globalization. Owing to the expansion of ranges of native species and colonization of invasive ones, even in the uncertainty of present available models, new challenges presented by stinging Hymenoptera should be expected in the future. Copyright (C) 2017 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Acrylic stent to aid placement of footplate of palatal distractor during surgically-assisted rapid palatal expansion

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2017
Source:British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): K.F.B. Payne, L. Dewhurst, G. Robinson, B. Edwards, K. McVeigh




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Simple method of covering maxillectomy defects with lyophilised amniotic membrane

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2017
Source:British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): K. Hazarika, A.K. Adhyapok, S.C. Debnath, K. Malik




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Should patients take vitamin D before mandibular operations?

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2017
Source:British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Author(s): N. Syed, G.A. Chiu, P. Korczak
Vitamin D deficiency is endemic in the United Kingdom (UK), particularly in high-risk groups. We report the outcomes of patients with low concentrations of the vitamin who had complications after reduction of mandibular fractures or osteotomy, and those who were screened preoperatively. A deficiency can be diagnosed with a simple and inexpensive blood test, and in the UK the cost of a vitamin D tablet is about £0.04/tablet/day. Patients at risk of a deficiency should be screened before mandibular operations, and those listed for orthognathic surgery or replacement of the temporomandibular joint should be asked to take a supplement before operation.



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Photographie 3D en chirurgie de la face : principes, intérêts et perspectives

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2017
Source:Annales de Chirurgie Plastique Esthétique
Author(s): N. Sigaux, L. Ganry, A. Mojallal, P. Breton, P. Bouletreau
L'analyse clinique de la face manque d'un outil objectif, fiable et sans contre-indication. La photographie 3D est une technique disponible pour un usage clinique depuis plus de 15 ans mais sa diffusion est pour l'instant limitée par un prix encore élevé. Nous proposons, à travers cette mise au point, de définir les principes de la photographie 3D, de décrire ses champs d'application en chirurgie de la face et enfin, les perspectives qu'offrira bientôt l'accès élargi à cette technique.The clinical examination of the face needs a reliable, objective and innocuous tool. Stereophotogrammetry for a medical use has been available for more than fifteen years but its popularity is still limited by a high cost. We hereby define the principles of stereophotogrammetry, its fields of application in facial surgery and the prospects, which might soon be offered by a wider access to this technique.



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Reconstruction mammaire autologue par lambeau perforant lombaire

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2017
Source:Annales de Chirurgie Plastique Esthétique
Author(s): J.-F. Honart, N. Leymarie, B. Sarfati, H. Alknashnam, K. Rem, F. Rimareix, F. Kolb
À l'instar des classiques lambeaux de grand dorsal et lambeaux abdominaux (DIEP, SIEA) utilisés en reconstruction mammaire autologue, de nombreuses alternatives ont été décrites. L'objectif est de pouvoir choisir le site donneur le plus adapté au prélèvement du lambeau, selon la morphologie de la patiente, et d'en limiter les séquelles esthétiques et fonctionnelles. Le lambeau perforant lombaire (LAP) est une possibilité, mais reste encore peu répandu. Les auteurs présentent ici leur début d'expérience d'utilisation du lambeau LAP en reconstruction mammaire. Une analyse rétrospective des patientes ayant bénéficié d'une telle reconstruction a été réalisée. Trois patientes ont été opérées d'une reconstruction mammaire immédiate ou différée par LAP. Aucun pontage vasculaire n'a été nécessaire pour allonger la longueur du pédicule. Aucune nécrose partielle ou totale n'a été observée et aucune complication postopératoire répertoriée au niveau mammaire comme au niveau du site donneur. La durée opératoire moyenne était de 7heures. Le lambeau LAP peut donc être considéré comme un outil intéressant dans le champ de la reconstruction mammaire autologue, en particulier en cas d'impossibilité d'utiliser le lambeau de DIEP, classiquement utilisé.Even though DIEP–SIEA flaps or latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap are the most frequently used, a wide variety of flaps have been described for autologous breast reconstruction. Concerning the choice of donor-site, the aim is to prevent and to limit the morbidity. That is why the donor-site should be carefully chosen, according to the morphology of the patient. Lumbar artery perforator flap (LAP) is an option for breast reconstruction, but it is not well known and its use is limited. This study summarizes the authors' early experience with free LAP flap for breast reconstruction. Three patients underwent immediate or delayed autologous breast reconstruction using a LAP flap. No vascular by pass was required to lengthen the pedicle. No partial or complete flap necrosis has been reported. There was no surgical donor-site complication. Mean operative time was 7hours. LAP flap can be considered as a good option for autologous breast reconstruction, especially in patients with unfavorable abdominal donor-site, and impossibility to use a DIEP flap.



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Diffusion Tensor Tractography for Decompressive Operation Decisions in Patients With Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

No abstract available

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Mastectomy Flap Thickness and Complications in Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy: Objective Evaluation using Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Background: Ischemic complications after nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) have been associated with numerous variables. However, the impact of NSM flap thickness has been incompletely evaluated. Methods: NSM flap thickness was determined for all NSMs from 2006 to 2016 with available pre- or postoperative breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs). Demographics and outcomes were stratified by those with and without ischemic complications. Results: Of 1,037 NSM reconstructions, 420 NSMs had MRI data available, which included 379 preoperative MRIs and 60 postoperative MRIs. Average total preoperative skin/subcutaneous tissue NSM flap thickness was 11.4 mm. Average total postoperative NSM flap thickness was 8.7 mm. NSMs with ischemic complications were found to have significantly thinner overall postoperative NSM flap thickness compared with those without ischemic complications (P = 0.0280). Average overall postoperative NSM flap thickness less than 8.0 mm was found to be an independent predictor of ischemic complications (odds ratio, 6.5263; P = 0.026). In NSMs with both pre- and postoperative MRIs, the overall average postoperative NSM flap thickness was 68.2% of preoperative measurements. Average overall postoperative NSM flap thickness was significantly less than average overall preoperative NSM flap thickness (P

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Long-term epilepsy-associated tumor in the amygdala of a 16-year-old boy: report of a rare case having intranuclear filaments

Abstract

The term "long-term epilepsy-associated tumor (LEAT)" encompasses brain lesions associated with drug-resistant epilepsy over a long duration (≥2 years). Notably, some LEATs do not fit into any of the classifications of the World Health Organization (WHO). Herein, we report a LEAT that occurred in the left amygdala of a 16-year-old patient with intractable epilepsy. Histological examination of the resected amygdala revealed diffusely infiltrating tumor cells in the cortex. Perineuronal satellitosis and perivascular aggregation of tumor cells were apparent, along with mild nuclear enlargement and cytologic atypia. Tumor cells were positive for oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2 and neuronal markers including NeuN, neurofilaments, and synaptophysin, but were negative for CD34 and nestin. The most intriguing finding was intranuclear filaments, which appeared as rod- or needle-like shapes under high-power view. Ancillary ultrastructural analysis revealed thin filamentous intranuclear structures in tumor cells. Based on the glioneuronal nature of these cells as well as the infiltrative growth pattern, a diagnosis of LEAT was rendered that was deemed WHO grade I to II; however, the clinicopathological implications of the intranuclear inclusions remain unknown. The patient is currently alive and well without seizures.

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Pulmonary function in patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2017
Source:Auris Nasus Larynx
Author(s): Kensuke Uraguchi, Shin Kariya, Seiichiro Makihara, Mitsuhiro Okano, Takenori Haruna, Aiko Oka, Rumi Fujiwara, Yohei Noda, Kazunori Nishizaki
ObjectiveThere is a close relationship between upper and lower respiratory tract diseases. Chronic rhinosinusitis patients frequently have lung diseases including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis is considered a refractory and intractable subtype of chronic rhinosinusitis. However, there has been no report on pulmonary function in patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis. The purpose of this study is to examine the pulmonary function in eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis patients and non-eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis patients, and evaluate clinical factors associated with the pulmonary function of these patients.MethodsPulmonary function was measured in 53 patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with asthma, 58 patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis without asthma, and 30 patients with non-eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis. The diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis was based on the definition in the European Position Paper on Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyps (EPOS) 2012. Eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis was diagnosed based on the Japanese Epidemiological Survey of Refractory Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis (JESREC) scoring system. The relationship between pulmonary function and clinical parameters was assessed. These parameters included radiographic severity of chronic rhinosinusitis, peripheral blood eosinophil percentage, serum total immunoglobulin E level, and eosinophilic infiltration in nasal polyps.ResultsThe pulmonary function of the patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis was significantly affected. The eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis patients had more peripheral airway obstruction as compared to the patients with non-eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis.ConclusionOur findings indicated latent obstructive lung function changes in the eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis patients. The patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis should be carefully monitored in order to detect lung diseases.



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Variations in the labyrinthine segment of facial nerve canal revealed by high-resolution computed tomography

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2017
Source:Auris Nasus Larynx
Author(s): Aiyan Jin, Peng Xu, Fengqin Qu
ObjectiveTo study variations in the labyrinthine segment of fallopian canal and the associated middle and inner ear malformations.MethodThe high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images of the temporal bone in 24 patients with congenital variations in the labyrinthine segment of fallopian canal were analyzed retrospectively. The length of labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve and angle of the first genu of 10 normal subjects were also measured. Based on the original axial images, multi-planar reformation (MPR) and curved-planar reformation (CPR) images of bilateral ossicular chains, inner ear structure and fallopian canal were reconstructed. HRCT features of congenital variations in the labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve were analyzed, including its beginning site, dehiscence, length, angle of the first genu and the associated middle and inner ear malformations.ResultsAmong the normal subjects, the length of labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve was 3.56±0.41mm, and angle of the first genu was 71.87±8.09°. Five types of variations in the labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve were found in 45 ears of 24 cases, including dehiscence in geniculate fossa in 25 ears, anteromedial displacement at the beginning site in 27 ears (widening of Bill's bar in 7 cases), enlargement of the angle of the first genu in 30 ears with an average value of 107.2° (96.0–126.0°), increase of length in 30 ears with an average length of 6.8mm (5.2–8.3mm) and bifurcation in one ear. Associated middle ear malformation in 6 ears and inner ear malformation in 36 ears were also found.ConclusionA variety of congenital variations may occur in the labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve and they are often associated with middle or inner ear malformations, which can be clearly displayed by HRCT with MPR or CPR images.



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Modified hybrid fixation using absorbable plate and screw for mandibular advancement surgery

The purpose of this study was to examine the skeletal stability of mandibular advancement after sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) with modified hybrid fixation using absorbable plates and screws.

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Can electromagnetic-navigated maxillary positioning replace occlusional splints in orthognathic surgery? A clinical pilot study

Because of the inaccuracy of intermaxillary splints in orthognathic surgery, intraoperative guidance via a real time navigation system might represent a suitable method for enhancing the precision of maxillary positioning. Therefore, in this clinical trial, maxillary repositioning after Le Fort I osteotomy was guided splintless by an electromagnetic navigation system.

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Radiotherapy and Smoking History Are Significant Independent Predictors for Osteosynthesis-Associated Late Complications in Vascular Free Fibula Reconstruction of Mandible.

Background: The vascular fibula flap is an ideal choice for function and appearance reconstruction of mandible. Despite the high success rate, "late complications" such as Ti plate exposure and local infection related to osteosynthesis are not uncommon. Patients and Method: A retrospective cohort of patients who received vascular fibula reconstruction for mandible from January 2011 to December 2013 from the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Oncology in a tertiary hospital were charted: clinical, pathological, and therapeutic factors were analyzed for late complications in univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: One hundred forty-two patients were finally analyzed with median follow-up time of 47 months; 19 of them had "late complications," which occurred at a median of 8 months. Preoperative or postoperative radiotherapy (P = 0.02), type of Ti plate (P = 0.019), and the disease characteristics (P = 0.02) were significant factors on univariate. Cox regression suggested postoperative radiation (P = 0.009) and smoking history (P = 0.037) were independent significant factors for late complications. Secondary reconstruction (P = 0.069) and preoperative radiotherapy (P = 0.086) were borderline significant. Conclusion: Postoperative radiation and smoking history are associated with late complications. Mini Ti plate should be less used. Patients with risk factors need to be observed for at least 6 to 16 months before further management. (C) 2017 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Use of the Ipsilateral Anteromedial Thigh Flap for Immediate Rescue of Nonviable Anterolateral Thigh Flaps in Head and Neck Cancer Reconstruction.

Background: It is not always possible to use the anatomically variable free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap for reconstructive surgery. An anteromedial thigh (AMT) flap serves as a good alternative, and shares the same vascular pedicle as the ALT flap. Methods: Of 698 reconstructions performed in 2006 to 2013 following head and neck tumor ablation surgery, ALT flaps were used in 653 patients. Eighteen free AMT flaps were harvested to replace variant nonviable ALT flaps. Results: The lack of a sizable perforator in the ALT flap territory was the main reason for changing the reconstruction plan. Anteromedial thigh flap size ranged from 10 x 4 to 30 x 8 cm. The flap survival rate was 100%. The follow-up period ranged from 3 to 56 months. Conclusion: During head and neck reconstruction, when no sizable perforator is available during harvest of the ALT flap, successful reconstruction can be achieved using the ipsilateral AMT flap without additional donor-site morbidity. (C) 2017 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Invited Commentary on: Role of Notch Signaling in the Physiological Patterning of Posterofrontal and Sagittal Cranial Sutures.

No abstract available

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Does Idiopathic Bone Cavity Involving Mandibular Condyle Need Surgical Intervention of Bone Cavity Filling?.

Idiopathic bone cavity (IBC) is a rare, asymptomatic, unilateral, oval-shaped radiolucent defect in the mandible. It is extremely rare that IBC occurs in the mandibular branch and condylar process. This article presents a 16-year-old male with IBC occuring in the mandibular branch. (C) 2017 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Seizure After Cranioplasty: Incidence and Risk Factors.

Background: To investigate clinical characteristics of postcranioplasty seizures (PCS) first observed after cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy (DC) to treat traumatic brain injury and to define factors that increase PCS risk. Methods: This retrospective study, covering the period between January 2008 and July 2015, compared PCS in postcranioplasty patients. Postcranioplasty seizures risk factors included diabetes mellitus, hypertension, time between DC and cranioplasty, duraplasty material, cranioplasty contusion location, electrocautery method, PCS type, and infection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed and confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated (95% CI). Results: Of 270 patients, 32 exhibited initial PCS onset postcranioplasty with 11.9% incidence (32/270). Patients fell into immediate (within 24 hours), early (from 1 to 7 days), and late (after 7 days) PCS groups with frequencies of 12, 5, and 15 patients, respectively. Generalized, partial, and mixed seizure types were observed in 13, 13, and 6 patients, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed increased risk with increasing age (>50 years). Cranioplasty contusion location, precranioplasty deficits, duraplasty material, and monopolar electrocautery were predictive of PCS onset (P

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Overexpression of Glypican 3 Promotes Proliferation, Regulates Cell Cycle Progression, and Inhibits Apoptosis of Human Fetal Osteoblastic Cell Line 1.19

Craniosynostosis is a complex disease condition, which involves premature fusion of cranial vault sutures and lacks desirable treatment. Previous studies have demonstrated decreased proliferation rate of osteoblasts and downregulated expression of glypican 3 (GPC3) in syndromic craniosynostosis patients. In this study, quantitative and qualitative analysis were utilized to assess the effect of GPC3 in human fetal osteoblastic cell line, hFOB 1.19. Lentiviral transfection efficiency with green fluorescent protein images was obtained after 72 hours. Western Blot and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis results indicated that GPC3 was overexpressed in hFOB 1.19 cells transfected with recombinant lentivirus LV-GPC3-GFP. Cell proliferation was assessed by CCK-8 assay and cell cycle progression and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometric assay. Results revealed that GPC3 promoted cell viability, induced cell cycle entry into S phase, and inhibited cell apoptosis. These findings provide novel ideas in understanding the pathogenesis of craniosynostosis. It also provides novel insights in the treatment of craniosynostosis by targeting GPC3. (C) 2017 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Surgical Treatment of Hemifacial Spasm Caused by the Compression of Internal Auditory Canal of Facial Nerve.

Objective: To make out the way to distinguish the offending vessels compressed the internal auditory canal part of the facial nerve. Methods: The hemifacial spasm patients were treated of microvascular decompression surgery with neurophysiologic monitoring. The patients were found that the internal auditory canal of the facial nerves was fully compressed, and the records of surgery monitoring were analyzed. Results: All the patients were recorded the delay incubation period in electromyography monitoring, and all patients were hemifacial spasm free finally. Conclusion: Some hemifacial spasms were caused by internal auditory canal compression, so during the operation, the authors should explore the whole course of the facial nerve and compress the internal auditory canal part with the aid of neurophysiologic monitoring. (C) 2017 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Research and Clinical Application of Three-Dimensional Location of Amygdaloid Body.

Accurately representing the spatial location of the amygdaloid body can lay an anatomical basis for the neurosurgery operation for amputation of the amygdaloid body through lateral fissure approach. As we know, there are a number of nerve nucleuses and essential structures locating around amygdaloid body in our brain, especially optic tract. However, only few research had been done to protect these tissues or nerve nucleuses. Thus, we reconstructed the three-dimensional images of the amygdaloid body of the human brain and established a coordinate system. The morphological parameters of the amygdaloid body and the three-dimensional coordinate data were measured. The spherical coordinates (R, [theta], [script phi]) were constructed by calculating the azimuth angle, elevation angle, and the distance from the coordinates origin to each amygdaloid body centroid. Sixty people brain MRI images without any visible organic disease were used in our research to investigate the average level of related parameters. The authors selected a proper coordinate origin and measured the value of anteroposterior diameter, right-and-left diameter, vertical diameter of the amygdaloid body, and the distance from the optic tract to amygdaloid body. The authors also measured the three-dimensional coordinate data of each centroid of the amygdaloid body in order to provide anatomical suggestion for surgery. The authors confirmed the nearest point from the foremost edge of the brain ventricle temporal horn to the lateral fissure, then viewed it as the coordinate origin. By means of coordinate translation, the authors got various morphological parameters and the coordinate values of each centroid of the amygdaloid body. Spherical coordinates were calculated from the three-dimensional coordinate values. The distances between the different layers of the amygdaloid body and the optic tract were also measured. The reconstruction of the three-dimensional coordinates of amygdaloid body is part of the digital engineering of the human body. The measurement of the parameters provides an important theoretical basis for the clinical amygdaloid body destruction surgery. Finally, the authors get conclusions as follows. There are no significant differences in the measured values of r1, r2, and r3 between the upper and lower diameters, the left and right diameters, the anteroposterior diameter of the amygdaloid body. The measured values of men and women are not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Spherical coordinates (R, [theta], [script phi]) calculated from the three-dimensional coordinate values and values from different sexes of the amygdaloid body are not statistically significant, either (P > 0.05). The distance between the different levels of the amygdaloid body and the optic tract (h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6, and h7) are not statistically significant (P > 0.05). (C) 2017 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Resurfacing of the Mid and Lower Faces by Preexpanded Supraclavicular Flap.

Extensive scarring and giant nevi on the mid and lower faces places further demands on scar resurfacing in terms of match, size, and thickness. The area of supraclavicular cervical flap is rather limited, but the expansion could expand its utility in facial resurfacing. Rectangular expanders were inserted via the incisions at the upper fringes of clavicles, and implanted under supraclavicular flap areas. After full expansion, the flap based on supraclavicular artery was elevated to cover the defects left by surgical removal of scar or tumor. Pedicle division was performed on the 10 to 14 days postoperatively. A total of 17 patients were treated with the described technique between 2005 and 2015. The dimensions of the flap ranged from 17 cm x 8.5 cm to 22 cm x 12 cm. The average size was 197 cm2. Twenty-one flaps (with 4 patients in bilateral fashion) survived completely. Epidermolysis occurred to 2 flaps, which healed by conservative management. These flaps matched well with the face in terms of the color, thickness, and texture. No obvious flap shrinkage occurred in the follow-up. The donor sites were closed primarily without loss of function or breast deformity. It is an efficient and safe method to obtain preexpanded supraclavicular flap, applying to patients with extensive scarring on mid and lower faces, especially female ones. Excellent aesthetics can be achieved without compromising function and aesthetics of donor sites. (C) 2017 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Surgery Navigation in Treating Congenital Midfacial Dysplasia of Patients With Facial Cleft.

Aim: To explore a new accurate way for the treatment of congenital midfacial dysplasia in facial cleft patients. Materials and Methods: Between November 2015 and November 2016, 8 patients with nasal deformity and midfacial dysplasia (Tessier Nos. 3-11 cleft) were collected (median age, years; range = 15-20 years). Expanded frontal flap for nasal reconstruction and image-guided navigation-assisted surgery for modified nasal-maxillary-hard palatine osteotomy to advance the peri-pyriform bone structure were performed in all the patients. After 6 to 12 months of follow-up, the authors analyzed the differences between preoperative planning and postoperative results through computed tomography data. Results: Patients were satisfied with surgery, and computed tomography data showed that there was little difference between preoperative planning and postoperative results with the navigation-assisted surgery. Conclusion: Using expanded frontal flap with navigation-assisted surgery for peri-pyriform advancement, the authors could treat congenital nasal deformity and midfacial dysplasia effectively, accurately, and safely in craniofacial cleft patients. (C) 2017 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.

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Review of "Assessing the Magnitude of a Surgical Career Through His Trainees: The John L. Cameron Legacy Factor" by Cerullo M, Lipsett PA in Ann Surg 265:866-868, 2017.

No abstract available

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Review of "Negative and Positive Online Patient Reviews of Physicians-1 vs. 5 Stars" by Shemirani NL and Castrillon J in JAMA Facial Plast Surg [published online ahead of print January 26, 2017] doi: 10.1001/jamafacial.2016.2039

No abstract available

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Review of "Trauma Recidivism Predicts Long-term Mortality" by Strong BL, Greene CR, Smith GS in Ann Surg 265: 847-853, 2017.

No abstract available

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Comparative Study of Prepectoral and Subpectoral Expander-Based Breast Reconstruction and Clavien IIIb Score Outcomes

Background: Prepectoral breast reconstruction is increasingly popular. This study compares complications between 2 subpectoral and 1 prepectoral breast reconstruction technique. Methods: Between 2008 and 2015, 294 two-staged expander breast reconstructions in 213 patients were performed with 1 of 3 surgical techniques: (1) Prepectoral, (2) subpectoral with acellular dermal matrix (ADM) sling ("Classic"), or (3) subpectoral/subserratus expander placement without ADM ("No ADM"). Demographics, comorbidities, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy were assessed for correlation with Clavien IIIb score outcomes. Follow-up was a minimum of 6 months. Results: Surgical cohorts (n = 165 Prepectoral; n = 77 Classic; n = 52 No ADM) had comparable demographics except Classic had more cardiac disease (P = 0.03), No ADM had higher body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.01), and the Prepectoral group had more nipple-sparing mastectomies (P 40, stage 4 cancer, and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy were associated with adverse expander outcomes and a prior history of radiation therapy adversely impacted implant outcomes. Ninety-day follow-up for expander and implant complications may be a better National Surgical Quality Improvement Program measure.

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Reelevating the Mastectomy Flap: A Safe Technique for Improving Nipple-Areolar Complex Malposition after Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy

Summary: Nipple-areolar complex (NAC) malposition is one of the most common complications following nipple-sparing mastectomy with implant-based reconstruction. To maximize perfusion to the NAC, traditional methods of correcting NAC malposition limit undermining below the NAC. We demonstrate a series of cases in which improvement of NAC malposition was safely performed by reelevating the NAC and mastectomy flap to allow redraping of the soft tissue envelope over the implant and the overlying capsule. Thirty-four patients were identified in a span over 4 years where 44 NACs were repositioned using this method. There was zero incidence of postoperative ischemia or necrosis of the NAC or mastectomy flaps. There was noticeable improvement in the NAC position on the breast mound. Reelevation of the mastectomy skin flap to correct malposition of the NAC after nipple-sparing mastectomy is a safe and effective option, avoids additional scars, and can be performed more than once to further improve positioning of the NAC.

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Rare Diseases on the Plastic Surgery In-Service Training Examination

No abstract available

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Book Review: Deep Sternal Wound Infections

No abstract available

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Platelet-Rich Fibrin Accelerates Skin Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice

Abstract: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are associated with an increased risk of secondary infection and amputation. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), a platelet and leukocyte concentrate containing several cytokines and growth factors, is known to promote wound healing. However, the effect of PRF on diabetic wound healing has not been adequately investigated. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of PRF on skin wound healing in a diabetic mouse model. Platelet-rich fibrin was prepared from whole blood of 8 healthy volunteers. Two symmetrical skin wounds per mouse were created on the back of 16 diabetic nude mice. One of the 2 wounds in each mouse was treated with routine dressings (control), whereas the other wound was treated with PRF in addition to routine dressings (test), each for a period of 14 days. Skin wound healing rate was calculated. Use of PRF was associated with significantly improved skin wound healing in diabetic mice. On hematoxylin and eosin and CD31 staining, a significant increase in the number of capillaries and CD31-positive cells was observed, suggesting that PRF may have promoted blood vessel formation in the skin wound. In this study, PRF seemed to accelerate skin wound healing in diabetic mouse models, probably via increased blood vessel formation.

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The Impact of Physician Assistants on a Breast Reconstruction Practice: Outcomes and Cost Analysis

Background: Physician assistants (PAs) are commonly employed in plastic surgery. However, limited data exist on their impact, which may guide decisions regarding how best to integrate them into practice. Methods: A review of the practices of 2 breast reconstructive surgeons was performed. A comparison was made between a 1-year period before to a 1-year period after the addition of a PA into practice. The practice model was a one-to-one pairing of a plastic surgeon and a PA. Results: A total of 4141 clinic encounters and 1356 surgical cases were reviewed. After the addition of PAs, there was a significant increase in relative value units (1057 vs 1323 per month per surgeon, P

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Shared Medical Appointments for Adolescent Breast Reduction

Abstract: Adolescents with macromastia face serious physical, emotional, and social burdens because of their large breast size. Studies have shown that reduction mammoplasty results in improvement in physical symptoms and quality of life for these patients. Shared medical appointments (SMAs), defined as individual patient-physician encounters that occur in a group setting, have been successfully applied to clinics for adult patients seeking breast reduction for this condition. We decided to apply the SMA model to our clinic for preoperative evaluation of adolescent patients with macromastia. The purpose of this article is to describe how our clinic implemented SMAs, evaluate changes in clinic efficiency, measure patient quality of life before surgery, and assess patient and provider satisfaction with the SMA model. From February to June 2016, our department instituted SMAs for preoperative evaluation of female adolescent patients with macromastia. We measured days from referral to appointment for 25 patients who attended SMAs and compared this with a retrospective cohort of 21 patients who attended traditional visits from 2013 to 2015. Clinic efficiency was measured in new patients per hour. During SMAs, we also administered the BREAST-Q, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, and patient and provider satisfaction surveys. Mean days between referral and office visit was reduced from 75.3 with traditional visits to 40.3 with shared appointments, although this finding was not statistically significant (P = 0.69). New patients per hour increased from 1.33 with traditional visits to 3 with SMAs, without reducing time spent on education or with the surgeon. The mean preoperative BREAST-Q scores were less than 40 for the 4 tested domains, and the mean (SD) total Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory score was 56.7 (14.8). Patients and the provider reported high satisfaction with SMAs, and the provider wishes to continue using SMAs in the clinic. In conclusion, SMAs resulted in high patient and provider satisfaction and increased clinic efficiency, without sacrificing time spent on education or with the surgeon. Low quality-of-life scores demonstrate a need for these patients to be evaluated and treated for their condition. Measuring patient-reported outcomes with validated surveys and improving clinic efficiency without sacrificing patient care have the potential to increase value at our institution.

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The “Sandwich Therapy”: A Microsurgical Integrated Approach for Presternal Keloid Treatment

Background: Keloid therapy remains a great challenge for plastic surgeons, especially when the defect cannot be closed primarily, necessitating tissue transplantation. Here, we introduce a new treatment modality, called the sandwich therapy, for presternal keloids; the sandwich therapy incorporates preradiotherapy, superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap transplantation, and postradiotherapy. Methods: From December 2012 to October 2013, 12 patients received the "sandwich therapy." For the protocol, all patients went through 5 days of specific events: the precut procedure, preradiotherapy, resection and SCIP flap transplantation, donor site radiotherapy, and final presternal radiotherapy. Results: All the flaps survived completely. No complication was observed during the perioperative period. With a mean follow-up of 12 months, only 1 case was reported with an incisional hypertrophic scar. In all patients, the main discomfort complaints were resolved postoperatively. Conclusions: A low-tension or without-tension closure could be achieved with SCIP flap transplantation. The perioperative radiotherapy could further lower the risk of keloid recurrence. The sandwich therapy provides a new surgical approach to presternal keloid treatment.

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Female-to-Male Chest Reconstruction: A Review of Technique and Outcomes

Purpose: Female-to-male transgender individuals frequently seek out chest wall masculinization as part of their gender transition and to aid with treating gender dysphoria. Critical evaluation of techniques, complications, and outcomes is important particularly as the surgery becomes more commonly performed. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of all patients undergoing female-to-male chest wall reconstruction by the senior author from 2008 to 2015. Charts were reviewed to evaluate patient demographics, intraoperative details, and postoperative outcomes. Complications were stratified into major and minor complications based on the need to return to the operating room. Inframammary fold techniques and periareolar techniques cohorts were compared for major complications, minor complications, and need for revision surgeries. Results: Over 8 years, 130 patients were identified. One hundred ten patients underwent inframammary fold techniques, and 20 patients underwent periareolar incisions. Early postoperative complications occurred in 25% of patients. Hematoma was the most common complications, occurring in 14% of patients. Major complications occurred in 8% of patients. Minor complications occurred in 16% of patients, with respiratory problems found to be a significant risk factor. On long-term follow up, 9% of patients had a revision procedure performed. Patients with prior breast surgery were more likely to require revisions (P = 0.009). Of patients requiring revision, 38% had a periareolar incision, compared with only 13% of patients who did not (P = 0.03). For unplanned revisions, there was no difference in periareolar and inframammary techniques. Conclusions: Our patient cohort demonstrates that female-to-male patients who undergo chest wall contouring through a transverse inframammary fold incision with either composite or standard free nipple grafting have decreased rates of revision surgery and trend toward having lower complication rates as compared with periareolar and limited scar techniques. To best manage expectations, patients undergoing a periareolar or other limited incision technique are counseled regarding an increased risk of hematoma and an increased likelihood of revisions.

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Complications After Body Contouring Surgery in Postbariatric Patients

Introduction: Over recent years, body contouring procedures in postbariatric patients have been in exponentially growing demand resulting in high complication rates rendering a variety of ciphers in the literature. Objective: The purpose of this study is to determine the complication rate in patients who have undergone body contouring surgery after bariatric surgery between June 2012 and March 2015 at Hospital de San José. Methods: A cohort study including 153 individuals who underwent a total of 198 body contouring procedures after massive weight loss following bariatric surgery was conducted. Data on variables, such as complication rate according to the type of body contouring surgery, major and minor complications, weight of resected tissue, or intraoperation time, among other variables, were analyzed. Results: A total of 198 procedures were performed in 153 patients. The mean (SD) age of the patients was 43.93 years (9.4 years). Of 198 procedures, 110 (55.5%) had complications. The rate for major complications was 13%, and for minor complications, 87%. Complication rates according to the type of operation were as follows: circumferential abdominal lipectomy, 55.7%; extended abdominal lipectomy, 53.7%; cruroplasty, 69%; breast surgery, 57%; and brachioplasty, 40%. Patients who presented with bleeding enough to require transfusion (P = 0.000) and with weight of the resected tissue greater than 2700 g in abdominoplasty (odds ratio, 3.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.48–7.1) had a higher complication rate. There were no thromboembolic events among this population. Conclusions: The overall complication rate was 55.5%. The great majority were minor complications. The thromboprophylaxis regimen used was 100% effective.

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Electrophoto-Biomodulation in Aesthetic Treatment of Postburn Hypopigmentation: Clinical Response in Relation to Histopathological Changes

Background: Hypopigmentation is a troublesome often-permanent sequelae after burn injury, particularly in dark races. A number of methods have been described to treat this phenomenon. In this work, we are going to study the effect of E light (intensive pulsed light+radiofrequency+cooling) in repigmentation of partial thickness and full thickness burn wounds in adult patients and light microscopic changes of biopsy material at various stages of repigmentation. Patients and Methods: In this study, 24 patients with postburn hypopigmentation were selected and E light was used, using different filters, according to the skin color. The intensive pulsed light fluence varied between 38 and 42 J. Radiofrequency fluencies varied between 6 and 10 J, and the spot diameter was 8 × 32 mm. Pulse durations of 2 to 7 milliseconds and pulse delays of 15 to 30 milliseconds were used on all patients. The patients were evaluated by comparing pretreatment and posttreatment photos. Skin biopsies were taken from depigmented area before and after interventions. Melanocytes were immunostained using Hwenty-four homatropine methylbromide 45 and were counted in ×200 magnification fields. Melanin can be demonstrated after staining with hematoxylin and eosin. Results: Seventeen cases were evaluated as excellent, 4 cases were evaluated as good, and 3 cases were evaluated as fair, but all patients stressed that their wounds have been improved. Light microscopy at 6 weeks posttreatment also confirmed the increased melanocyte number per field in all cases. Conclusions: E light induced significant overall clinical improvement in postburn hypopigmentation, particularly when E light was applied early after burn.

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The Versatile Hook Plate in Avulsion Fractures of the Hand

Avulsion fractures can pose technical difficulties for surgical fixation. The fragments are often small and around finger joints with access being difficult due to attachment of ligaments or tendons. Traditionally, these have been treated using K wires, lag screws, or pullout sutures. Hook plates were originally described for operative management of mallet fractures. We have been using hook plates in our unit for over 10 years. However, over the years, we have extended their use to other avulsion fractures in the hand such as proximal interphalangeal joint fracture dislocations, central slip avulsions, flexor digitorum profundus avulsions and collateral ligament avulsions. The aim of this article is to describe the technique of fabricating a hook plate and using it for avulsion fractures in the hand. A few illustrative cases are discussed along with a review of the current literature. Methods: In a retrospective review of our use of hook plates in hand fractures from 2008 to 2014, a total of 63 cases were identified from the hospital data base. There were 35 cases of Mallet fractures, 16 cases of proximal interphalangeal joint fracture dislocations, 5 cases of flexor digitorum profundus avulsion fractures, 5 cases of Central slip avulsions, and 2 collateral ligament avulsions. Results: All fractures healed well with this technique with no biomechanical failures and good functional outcome. Plates needed removal in a total of 25 cases, of which 14 were in mallet fractures. Thirteen (21%) cases suffered complications, of which the majority were again related to mallet fractures. Conclusions: The hook plate is a simple device that can be created quite easily with readily available materials. We have extended the use of these plates to avulsion fracture fixation in the hand and found this to be a versatile technique. The risk of fragmenting the small fracture fragment is reduced because the hooks secure it and the plate is fixed in the bone. If done meticulously, joint congruence can be achieved. It has a biomechanical advantage over current methods of fracture fixation of small but important bone fragments in the hand.

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Should patients take vitamin D before mandibular operations?

Vitamin D deficiency is endemic in the United Kingdom (UK), particularly in high-risk groups. We report the outcomes of patients with low concentrations of the vitamin who had complications after reduction of mandibular fractures or osteotomy, and those who were screened preoperatively. A deficiency can be diagnosed with a simple and inexpensive blood test, and in the UK the cost of a vitamin D tablet is about £0.04/tablet/day. Patients at risk of a deficiency should be screened before mandibular operations, and those listed for orthognathic surgery or replacement of the temporomandibular joint should be asked to take a supplement before operation.

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Acrylic stent to aid placement of footplate of palatal distractor during surgically-assisted rapid palatal expansion

We describe a modification that ensures the correct placement of the footplate of a palatal distractor during surgically-assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE). The Synthes™ transpalatal distractor (DePuy Synthes, Oberdorf, Switzerland) is a modular system consisting of a central barrel and two footplates that are screwed into bone to produce a "bone-borne" distraction force.1 An advantage of the system is the ability to change the size of the central barrel (small: 16–24mm; medium: 20–36mm; large: 24–48mm) mid-way through treatment to increase the distance of distraction.

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Simple method of covering maxillectomy defects with lyophilised amniotic membrane

Prosthetic rehabilitation and flap reconstruction are the main methods used to obliterate maxillectomy defects. Although cost-effective, prosthetic rehabilitation has limitations such as discomfort from the foreign body, poor retention in large defects, and the need for frequent readjustment. Flap reconstruction costs more, and surgeons need to be highly skilled with a well trained operating team. We describe a simple method to apply lyophilised amniotic membrane in subtotal maxillectomy defects, which helps to epithelialise the entire defect within a short space of time.

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Single-dose botulinum toxin type a compared with repeated-dose for treatment of trigeminal neuralgia: a pilot study

Several RCT studies including ours, seem to prove the role of Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia (TN), but no standardized dosing regimen has been established. In our study...

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Cone beam computed tomography-based cephalometric norms for Brazilian adults

This study established cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)-based cephalometric norms for Brazilian adults, including the assessment of sexual dimorphism. An observer performed McNamara's cephalometric analysis twice on 60 CBCT datasets acquired from patients with a normal dental occlusion, divided equally into two groups by sex. Welch's t-test was applied to assess differences between the sexes in hard tissue cephalometric measurements, and Dahlberg's formula was used to calculate measurement error introduced by the observer.

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An aggressive and fatal craniofacial group A Streptococcus infection resulting from a minimally displaced orbital floor fracture

While sharp, penetrating trauma is often associated with group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections and subsequent necrotizing fasciitis (NF) and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), there are scant reports in the oral and maxillofacial surgery literature regarding blunt, non-penetrating trauma in association with these conditions. With a clinical course that initially appears relatively benign following blunt trauma, NF can progress swiftly through the fascial planes and may quickly become life-threatening if the oral and maxillofacial surgeon fails to recognize some of the critical pathognomonic signs.

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Vertical platysma myocutaneous flap reconstruction for oral defects using three different incision designs: experience with 68 cases

This study evaluated the effects of three different incision designs for the vertical platysma myocutaneous flap (VPMF): apron, MacFee, and T-shaped. This flap was used for the reconstruction of intraoral defects following cancer ablation in selected patients. Sixty-eight cases of VPMF reconstruction were assessed: the apron incision was used in 28, MacFee incision in 22, and T-shaped incision in 18. With regard to postoperative outcomes, there were 26 cases of flap survival and two of partial necrosis with the apron incision; 20 of survival and two of partial necrosis with the MacFee incision; 15 of survival and three of partial necrosis with the T-shaped incision.

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Previously successful dental implants can fail when patients commence anti-resorptive therapy—a case series

This article reports a type of localized osteonecrosis that can occur in patients who have had successful osseointegrated implants for many years and then commence anti-resorptive therapy. Eleven female patients were identified who had successful implant insertion, but who were placed on anti-resorptive therapy (bisphosphonates or denosumab) several years later and developed osteonecrosis around the implants. In each case, the osteonecrosis occurred only around the implants and not around the patient's remaining teeth.

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Two-stage reconstruction of the severely deficient alveolar ridge: bone graft followed by alveolar distraction osteogenesis

Distraction osteogenesis for the augmentation of severe alveolar bone deficiency has gained popularity during the past two decades. In cases where the vertical bone height is not sufficient to create a stable transport segment, performing alveolar distraction osteogenesis (ADO) is not possible. In these severe cases, a two-stage treatment protocol is suggested: onlay bone grafting followed by ADO. An iliac crest onlay bone graft followed by ADO was performed in 13 patients: seven in the mandible and six in the maxilla.

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Antibody Affinity Against 2009 A/H1N1 Influenza and Pandemrix Vaccine Nucleoproteins Differs Between Childhood Narcolepsy Patients and Controls

Viral Immunology , Vol. 0, No. 0.


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Editorial: The Complex and Instructive Relationship between OSA and Nocturnal Cardiovascular Death

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most commonly encountered form of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) with clearly established cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality.(1) The prevalence of this condition is estimated to be as high as 25% (one in five) in North America with similar rates in Asia and Europe, when defined as ≥5 apnea-hypopnea events (AHI) per hour on polysomnography (1-3). The prevalence of OSA is increasing worldwide, more so in developed nations and parallel to burgeoning obesity epidemics.

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Measurement is always better than self-report - is it that easy?

In their recent editorial "Please stop querying self-reported sleep duration", Bianchi et al. recommended that self-reported sleep duration should be avoided in epidemiologic studies [1].

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The missing falx: a potential surgical pitfall during interhemispheric transcallosal approach

Abstract

One of the standard surgical approaches to lateral ventricular tumors involves interhemispheric dissection along the falx cerebri. The falx cerebri thus provides an important landmark in guiding the surgeon to the midline. Unrecognized absence of falx may lead to surgical complications. A child with tuberous sclerosis presented with refractory epilepsy and a lateral ventricular tumor. The tumor was excised by an interhemispheric trans-callosal approach. The midline falx cerebri was absent anteriorly, rendering the identification of midline difficult. The embryology of a deficient falx and its surgical implications are discussed in this short report.

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Incidence, Demographics, and Outcome of Traumatic Brain Injury in The Middle East: A Systematic Review

Publication date: November 2017
Source:World Neurosurgery, Volume 107
Author(s): Ayman El-Menyar, Ahammed Mekkodathil, Hassan Al-Thani, Rafael Consunji, Rifat Latifi
BackgroundTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious global public health challenge. We aimed to assess the pattern of TBI in the Middle East, as reported in the last decade.MethodsLiterature searches were conducted on PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google scholar electronic databases. The search terms used in different combinations were epidemiology, incidence, case fatality, mortality, intracranial injury, brain injury, head injury, and the country names. Additional searches were conducted using reference lists of studies and review articles for selection of relevant articles. The search yielded 1082 articles; of which 701 duplicates and 346 articles were excluded. Thirty-five original studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted using standardized Excel form and pilot tested. Median with interquartile range (IQR) was used to estimate the incidence rate and mortality of TBI.ResultsIn the Middle East region, the median TBI incidence rate per capita was 45 (IQR, 38.5–367) per 100,000. The overall median emergency department–based TBI mortality, which included all age groups and all injury severities, was 10% (IQR, 7.75–15.75). We estimated the overall median mortality for head trauma studies based on emergency department admissions as 6% (IQR, 3–18) among all age groups and all injury severities. The overall TBI-related median mortality in the intensive care unit–based studies was 25% (IQR, 15.5–47).ConclusionsThe epidemiology of TBI in the Middle East remains understudied. The use of a globally recognized definition of TBI will contribute greatly to improve its reporting, analysis, and interpretation and to establish appropriate injury prevention programs.



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Pulmonary function in patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis

There is a close relationship between upper and lower respiratory tract diseases. Chronic rhinosinusitis patients frequently have lung diseases including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis is considered a refractory and intractable subtype of chronic rhinosinusitis. However, there has been no report on pulmonary function in patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis. The purpose of this study is to examine the pulmonary function in eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis patients and non-eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis patients, and evaluate clinical factors associated with the pulmonary function of these patients.

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The First Reported Case of Primary Intestinal-type Adenocarcinoma of the Middle Ear and Review of the Literature.

Objective: Adenocarcinoma of the middle ear is a rare entity that must be distinguished from other adenomatous tumors of the temporal bone. We present the first patient of an intestinal-type adenocarcinoma originating from the middle ear. Patients: A 58-year-old woman presented with an 8-year history of left otorrhea. Her middle ear effusions were quite thick and gummy. She underwent eight sets of pressure-equalization tubes within 3 years. In 2011, her physical examination identified a middle ear mass, and she underwent mastoidectomy. A middle ear adenoma was resected. She underwent an additional three mastoidectomies for recurrence, with pathology from the 4th mastoidectomy revealing a diagnosis of adenocarcinoma. Imaging, at that time, showed an extensive temporal bone and Eustachian tube tumor. Interventions: She underwent a left subtotal temporal bone resection, parotidectomy, infratemporal fossa resection, dural resection, and microvascular free flap reconstruction followed by postoperative proton beam radiotherapy. Main Outcome Measures: The final pathology report revealed intestinal-type adenocarcinoma. Results: Treatment was successful and the patient remains disease free 4 years later. Conclusion: This is the first report of an intestinal-type adenocarcinoma of the middle ear and temporal bone. This patient also illustrates the difficulty of accurate histologic diagnosis of adenomatous tumors of the middle ear. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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A New Slim Modiolar Electrode Array for Cochlear Implantation: A Radiological and Histological Study.

Hypothesis: To explore the results of a new slim modiolar electrode array (SMA) with respect to intracochlear placement and trauma evaluated by detailed radiologic imaging and histology. Background: Hearing and structure preservation is the goal of cochlear implantation for advanced hearing outcomes. Currently, this is most consistently achieved with thin lateral wall electrodes. Modiolar electrodes are located nearer the modiolus and may provide some electrophysiological advantages, but have a greater tendency for causing insertion trauma. Methods: The SMA was implanted in 20 fresh-frozen human temporal bones (TB). All TBs were scanned pre- and postoperatively with cone beam computed tomography. For atraumatic insertion, the round window approach was preferred. Scalar localization and trauma were analyzed by three-dimensional image fusion reconstructions of the pre- and postimplant scans. The TBs underwent histologic examination to validate the radiologic findings. Results: Insertion through the round window was performed in 19 TBs and through a cochleostomy in one TB. In one TB trauma in the form of scala translocation was identified radiologically and histologically. In the remaining TBs there was no insertion trauma. Adequate modiolar localization of the SMA was found in 19 of 20 TBs. The mean angular insertion depth was 400 degrees without correlation to cochlea size. There was no significant statistical difference between the radiological and histological measurements of electrode localization. Conclusion: The SMA showed consistent and atraumatic insertion results in TBs. Pre- and postimplant cone beam computed tomography with image fusion was shown to be very accurate for the assessment of electrode position and insertion trauma. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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Surgery With or Without Postoperative Radiation Therapy for Early-stage External Auditory Canal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Meta-analysis.

Objective: External auditory canal squamous cell carcinoma (EACSCC) is a rare disease with no standard treatment supported by high-level evidence. The aim of this study was to investigate EACSCC prognoses according to treatment modality and thus determine the optimal intervention for early-stage disease. Data Sources: PubMed, Scopus, and Ichushi-Web searches of the English and Japanese-language literature published between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2016 were performed using the key words "external auditory canal cancer" and "temporal bone cancer." Study Selection: Articles related to EACSCC that include the 5-year overall survival rate or individual patient data for histological types, follow-up periods, and final outcomes were enrolled. Data Extraction: Sex, age, Moody's modified Pittsburgh stage, type of treatment modality, type of operation, follow-up period, and 5-year survival rates were extracted. Data Synthesis: Twenty articles were used for the aggregate meta-analysis using a random-effects model, and 18 articles that reported 99 patients with early-stage EACSCC were used for the individual patient data meta-analysis. Conclusion: The 5-year overall survival rate of early-stage EACSCC was 77%. Postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) was performed in 45% of stage I patients and 68% of stage II patients. Survival analysis of all patients showed no differences between the surgery-only and PORT groups; however, PORT exhibited a better prognosis than surgery alone among patients with stage I disease (p = 0.003, log-rank test). This result indicated that PORT can be the standard therapy for stages I and II EACSCC. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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Audiometric Outcomes Following Endoscopic Ossicular Chain Reconstruction.

Objective: To evaluate the audiometric outcomes following endoscopic ossicular chain reconstruction (OCR). Study Design: Retrospective case series. Setting: Two tertiary referral centers. Patients: Sixty two ears with ossicular discontinuity. Intervention(s): Endoscopic and microscopic OCR in patients with ossicular discontinuity. Main Outcome Measures: Bone and air pure-tone averages (PTA), air-bone gap (ABG), and word recognition scores (WRS). Results: Sixty two ears were included for analysis. Patients that underwent ossiculoplasty were subdivided based on prosthesis type (total ossicular replacement prosthesis [TORP] and partial ossicular replacement prosthesis [PORP], primary and staged ossiculoplasties, and surgical approach [microscopic and total endoscopic]). Forty two ears required PORP reconstructions, while 20 ears required TORP reconstructions. The microscope was used to reconstruct the ossicular chain in 31 cases, while an exclusive endoscopic approach was used in the remaining 31 patients. Controlling for the prosthesis, there were no significant postoperative differences in bone PTA, air PTA, and ABG between primary and staged ossiculoplasties, or surgical approach. Conclusions: Controlling for the type of prosthesis, there were no significant differences in hearing outcomes with respect to staged ossicular chain reconstruction or whether the endoscope or microscope was used for visualization. Thus, in this series, endoscopic OCR yields similar audiometric outcomes when compared with microscopic OCR. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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Sensitivity and Specificity of Clinical and Laboratory Otolith Function Tests.

Objective: To evaluate clinic based and laboratory tests of otolith function for their sensitivity and specificity in demarcating unilateral compensated complete vestibular deficit from normal. Study Design: Prospective cross-sectional study. Setting: Tertiary care hospital vestibular physiology laboratory. Subjects: Control group-30 healthy adults, 20-45 years age; Case group-15 subjects post vestibular shwannoma excision or post-labyrinthectomy with compensated unilateral complete audio-vestibular loss. Intervention: Otolith function evaluation by precise clinical testing (head tilt test-HTT; subjective visual vertical-SVV) and laboratory testing (headroll-eye counterroll-HR-ECR; vesibular evoked myogenic potentials-cVEMP). Main Outcome Measure: Sensitivity and specificity of clinical and laboratory tests in differentiating case and control subjects. Results: Measurable test results were universally obtained with clinical otolith tests (SVV; HTT) but not with laboratory tests. The HR-ECR test did not indicate any definitive wave forms in 10% controls and 26% cases. cVEMP responses were absent in 10% controls. HTT test with normative cutoff at 2 degrees deviations from vertical noted as 93.33% sensitive and 100% specific. SVV test with normative cutoff at 1.3 degrees noted as 100% sensitive and 100% specific. Laboratory tests demonstrated poorer specificities owing primarily to significant unresponsiveness in normal controls. Conclusions: Clinical otolith function tests, if conducted with precision, demonstrate greater ability than laboratory testing in discriminating normal controls from cases with unilateral complete compensated vestibular dysfunction. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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Hearing Preservation During Cochlear Implantation and Electroacoustic Stimulation in Patients With SLC26A4 Mutations.

Background and Objectives: Patients with SCL26A4 mutations presenting with Mondini deformity and enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) tend to have comparable residual hearing. Although cochlear implantation (CI) produces good results in this group, deterioration of residual hearing can be an adverse event after surgery due to accompanying cochlear malformation and perilymph leakage during cochleostomy. The purpose of this study was to investigate if CI in patients with SCL26A4 mutations via the round window (RW) approach could achieve preservation of residual hearing, and to evaluate their speech reception with electroacoustic stimulation (EAS). Subjects and Methods: This is a retrospective chart review of eight patients with bilateral EVA, who were bi-allelic patients with SCL26A4 mutations. CI was performed in all patients by a single surgeon using the RW approach. Audiological results were compared before and after implantation. Results: Additional hearing loss after CI was less than 10 dBHL in five out of eight patients. Average hearing deterioration after CI was 8.75 dB (range, 0-26). Six out of eight patients used EAS mode after CI. The acoustic stimulation frequency ranged from 271 to 438 Hz. Patients showed better speech recognition in quiet and in noise using EAS mode compared with electrical stimulation alone. Conclusions: Preservation of residual hearing could be achieved after CI in patients with the SLC26A4 mutation via the RW approach. For successful preservation of residual hearing, application of newly-developed soft electrode and meticulous surgical is necessary. Our study showed that patients with the SLC26A4 mutation can be good candidates for EAS surgery. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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The Effect of Citalopram Versus a Placebo on Central Auditory Processing in the Elderly.

Objective: Evaluate the effects of therapy with citalopram on the central auditory processing in the elderly measured by central auditory tests. Study Design: Prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Setting: Tertiary referral center. Patients: Thirty-nine patients older than 60 years with normal hearing thresholds or symmetrical sensorineural hearing loss up to 70 dBHL, word-recognition score equal to or better than 70%, and diagnosed with central auditory processing disorders completed the study. They underwent the mini-mental state examination, as a way to screen those with the possibility of dementia; they also underwent the Beck depression inventory, for screening individuals with depression. Intervention: Citalopram 20 mg/d or placebo for 6 months. Main Outcome Measure: The central auditory tests were applied to the selection of individuals with auditory processing disorders and repeated after 6 months' treatment. The tests were sound localization, speech in noise, dichotic digits test, pitch pattern sequence, duration pattern test, and gaps-in-noise. Results: Comparisons of central auditory tests pre- and posttreatment in groups showed: sound localization (p = 0.022), pitch pattern sequence humming (p = 0.110), pitch pattern sequence nomination (p = 0.355), duration pattern test humming (p = 0.801), duration pattern test nomination (p = 0.614), and gaps-in-noise (p = 0.230). Dichotic tests in right and left ears respectively: speech in noise (p = 0.949; p = 0.722), dichotic digits test (p = 0.943; p = 0.513). Conclusion: There was no clinical effect with the use of citalopram in central auditory processing tests of the subjects. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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Anatomical Relationship of the Middle Cranial Fossa Dura to Surface Landmarks of the Temporal Bone.

Hypothesis: The suprameatal crest and temporal line provides a reliable landmark to the middle fossa dura. Background: Surface anatomy of the temporal bone is used to guide mastoid surgery, but studies investigating these landmarks are limited. The aim of this study was to examine the anatomical relationship of the middle fossa dura to the temporal line. Methods: Thirty-two fresh hemicephalic temporal bones were prepared by drawing four lines along the mastoid including the suprameatal crest and temporal line (line 2), one line 5 mm superior to line 2 (line 1), and one 5 mm inferior to line 2 (line 3), and at Reid's base line (line 4). Four points were marked along these lines anterior to posterior 3 mm apart. A 1 mm bur was used to drill perpendicular to these points to examine the relationship to the middle fossa dura. Results: The dura was found inferior to line 2 in 6.3% at point 1, 6.3% at point 2, 9.4% at point 3, and 18.8% at point 4. The dura in line 1 was found inferior to point 1 in 52.1%, point 2 in 46.9%, point 3 in 56.3%, and point 4 in 62.5%. Only one specimen (3.1%) had dura lying inferior to line 3. No specimens were inferior line 4 at any point. Conclusion: The dura of the middle fossa lies superior the temporal line in >80% of specimens and at least 5 mm superior in nearly half. This indicates the temporal line or a line slightly inferior to this is reliably inferior the middle fossa dura. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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Jacobson's Nerve Schwannoma Presenting as a Middle Ear Mass Causing Pulsatile Tinnitus: A Case Report.

No abstract available

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Comparing Outcomes Following Salvage Microsurgery in Vestibular Schwannoma Patients Failing Gamma-knife Radiosurgery or Microsurgery.

Objective: The increasing use of primary gamma-knife radiosurgery (GKS) for the treatment of vestibular schwannoma (VS) has led to a concomitant increase in the number of patients requiring salvage surgery for GKS failure. When patients underwent GKS as the primary treatment, it is known that dissecting tumor from adjacent nerves during salvage surgery is more difficult. In this report, we share our clinical experience with such patients and analyze the clinical findings of patients with tumor regrowth/recurrence. Study Design: Retrospective chart review. Setting: Tertiary center. Patients: Nine patients who underwent salvage surgery for VS regrowth/recurrence after GKS or microsurgery were enrolled. Main Outcome Measures: Symptom progression, radiological changes, intraoperative findings, and surgical outcomes were evaluated and compared. Results: Six patients with previous GKS and three with previous microsurgery underwent salvage microsurgery. The most obvious symptom of tumor regrowth was aggravation of hearing loss. Salvage surgery in all patients was limited to subtotal or near-total resection via a translabyrinthine/transotic approach. Severe adhesion, thickening, and fibrosis were more prominent findings in the GKS than in the previous microsurgery group. Dissection of the tumor from the facial nerve was more difficult in the GKS than in the microsurgery patients. Despite anatomical preservation of the facial nerve in all the six patients, three in the GKS group, but none in the revision microsurgery group, had worsening of facial nerve function. Conclusion: Salvage microsurgery of VS after failed GKS is more difficult than revision microsurgery, and the facial nerve outcomes are relatively poor. Therefore, the primary method of VS treatment should be carefully chosen. Additional imaging studies are recommended in patients with a sudden change in hearing loss who underwent GKS. Copyright (C) 2017 by Otology & Neurotology, Inc. Image copyright (C) 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health/Anatomical Chart Company

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