Andrew P. Trussler

Repair of large nasal septal perforations using facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) flap.

Background:Nasal septum perforations from surgical submucous resection, septoplasty, blunt trauma, and substance abuse may cause epistaxis, nasal obstruction, discharge, crusting, dryness, pain, and whistling. While small symptomatic perforations are closed with local mucosal flaps, options for closure of large symptomatic perforations are limited. A local pedicled flap, the facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) flap was studied in patients with large symptomatic nasal septal defects. Methods:Patients included in the study had (1) a nasal septal defect measuring at least 20 mm in greatest dimension; and (2) related symptoms of nasal crusting, discharge, dryness, obstruction, epistaxis, pain, or whistling. Six patients (3 males; 3 females) met these criteria and received FAMM flap repair. Outcomes were assessed based on comparison of preoperative versus last follow-up (range, 10–30 months; mean 17 months) assessment of perforation size and symptomatology. Overall discomfort was rated at each time point on a 1–10 scale. Results:Age at time of operation ranged from 21 to 44 years, with a mean of 34 years of age. Causes of septal perforation included blunt trauma (50%), cocaine abuse (33%), and submucous resection (17%). Preoperatively, maximal recorded dimensions of septal perforations ranged from 3.1 to 4.0 cm with a mean of 3.5 ± 0.4 cm. Symptoms included pain (83%), dryness (67%), crusting (50%), discharge (33%), epistaxis (33%), and obstruction (33%). Three or more symptoms were experienced by 5 patients (83%). Overall discomfort ranged from 6–10, with a mean of 8.4. Postoperatively at last follow-up, all 6 patients (100%) achieved closure of their septal defect (P < 0.001). Overall discomfort score was zero for all 6 patients (100%) (P < 0.0001). Complete symptomatic resolution was also noted among all 6 patients (100%) (P < 0.01). Conclusions:In summary, the advantages of the FAMM flap closure technique were (1) no visible external scar, with minimal donor site morbidity; (2) successful closure of large septal defects (>2 cm) with vascularized tissue in a single stage; and (3) resolution of patient symptomatology.

The single dominant medial row perforator DIEP flap in breast reconstruction: three-dimensional perforasome and clinical results.

Background: Successful outcomes with the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap are heavily dependent on identifying the largest perforators. The purpose of this study was to describe the vascular anatomy (location, size, zones of perfusion, and variations) of the single most dominant deep inferior epigastric artery perforator and to report a clinical series based on this flap. Methods: Eleven abdominal flaps were harvested from fresh adult cadavers, and measurements were combined with clinical measurements from 16 patients. Details such as perforator size, location, type, and zones of perfusion were documented for all flaps and clinical outcomes for all patients. Results: A total of 36 flaps were dissected with an average perforator location within a 3-cm radius of the umbilicus and an average perforator size greater than 1.8 mm. Computed tomographic scans of the cadaver abdominal flaps demonstrated consistent perfusion in zones I and II and half of zones III and IV. Clinical results showed partial flap necrosis in one patient and fat necrosis of less than 5 percent in three patients, all of which occurred in the distal portion of zone III. The deep inferior epigastric artery medial row perforators near the umbilicus were found to be the largest perforators in the entire deep inferior epigastric artery system and abdomen. Conclusions: The single dominant medial row perforator has a maximal vascularity in zones I and II, and less in zones III an IV. The authors recommend that half of zone III and all of zone IV be discarded to avoid the risks of partial flap loss and fat necrosis.

Lower lateral crural turnover flap in open rhinoplasty.

Background: Lower lateral crural deformities are common problems in rhinoplasty. The shape and position of the lower lateral crura directly influence the alar contour and external valve function. This study reviews an extensive experience with the lower lateral crural turnover flap, which represents a versatile and reproducible technique for correction of lower lateral crural deformities and improvement of external valve function. Methods: A retrospective review of our experience with the lateral crural turnover flap in consecutive primary (n = 21), secondary (n = 2), and tertiary (n = 1) open rhinoplasties was conducted to evaluate the indications, contraindications, and long-term outcomes of this technique. Patient case examples are used to illustrate this technique and its results. Results: The lower lateral crural turnover flap is beneficial for deformities, weakness, and collapse of the lower lateral crura. It can also be used to improve lower lateral crural strength during tip reshaping. It is contraindicated when there is insufficient width of the lower lateral crura. A lower lateral crural turnover flap can complement other external valve and alar arch supporting techniques, such as placement of alar contour grafts and/or alar batten grafts. The shape and position of the lower lateral crural turnover flaps have had long-lasting results (>1 year) after open rhinoplasty. Conclusions: The lower lateral crural turnover flap is a useful and reproducible technique in rhinoplasty with enduring results. The use of adjacent cartilage provides a local source of viable tissue to correct and support the lower lateral crura in both primary and revision rhinoplasty.

Modifications to extend the transverse upper gracilis flap in breast reconstruction: Clinical series and results

Background: The transverse myocutaneous gracilis flap has traditionally been used to reconstruct smaller breasts. The authors have been performing autologous breast reconstruction utilizing the flap with two types of modifications to increase flap volume: an extended and a vertical extended flap. In this article, they discuss the different operative techniques and present a clinical series of both flap types. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients undergoing either flap modification under the senior author (M.S.-C.) was performed. Data collated included pedicle artery and vein diameters, flap weight, and patient complications. Results: Twenty-four transverse myocutaneous gracilis flaps were performed: 12 extended (seven patients) and 12 vertical flaps (six patients). The vertical group trended to have greater flap weights than the extended group. Mean flap weight was 385.75 g (range, 181 to 750 g) for the extended group and 469.75 g (range, 380 to 605 g) for the vertical group (p = 0.06). Mean arterial diameter of the medial circumflex artery was 1.9 mm (range, 1.5 to 2.0 mm), mean venous diameter was 2.4 mm (range, 2.0 to 3.5 mm), and mean pedicle length was 6.8 cm (range, 6.0 to 7.0 cm). All donor sites were closed primarily. Complications included seroma (n = 1), wound dehiscence (n = 2), and partial flap loss (n = 2). Conclusions: Modifications of the transverse myocutaneous gracilis flap increase flap volume and can be useful in patients who do not wish to have abdomen, buttock, or back scars. Donor-site scars can be concealed, and patients have the added benefit of a thigh lift. Complications are comparable to those found with other reconstructive options. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, III.

Difficulties with subpectoral augmentation mammaplasty and its correction: the role of subglandular site change in revision aesthetic breast surgery.

Background: Difficulties that arise with subpectoral breast implant placement include the following: malpositioning of the implant; improper superior contouring; and unnatural movement with chest muscle contraction. Correction of these deformities is easily achieved by removal of the subpectoral implant, resuspension of the pectoralis major muscle to the chest wall, and reaugmentation with a new implant in the subglandular plane. This study defines a correction modality for the adverse results of subpectoral implant placement in augmentation mammaplasty. Methods: Pectoralis major resuspension was performed in 36 patients undergoing revision aesthetic breast surgery from 1995 to 2006. All patients had previously placed subpectoral breast implants performed elsewhere with unwanted movement, malposition, and/or capsular contracture. All patients underwent explantation of the breast implant, modified capsulectomy, pectoralis major resuspension, and reaugmentation of the breast in the subglandular position. In cases of symmastia, medial capsulodesis and sternal bolster sutures were used. Patients were evaluated for resolution of symptoms, satisfaction, and complications. Results: Malposition (62 percent), capsular contracture (53 percent), and symmastia (10 percent) were the most common indications for revision, but 100 percent of patients were dissatisfied with abnormal breast movement. The average follow-up time was 20 months. The silicone implants were commonly used, with an average volume change decrease of 27 cc. Unwanted implant movement was eliminated completely (100 percent), symmastia was corrected (100 percent), and capsular contraction was significantly decreased in each respective group. Patient satisfaction with this procedure was high, with a low complication rate. Conclusions: Pectoralis major resuspension can be performed successfully in aesthetic breast surgery. It can be applied safely to correct problems of unwanted implant movement, symmastia implant malposition, and capsular contraction. The use of silicone gel implants in a novel tissue plane may be beneficial in this diverse, reoperative patient population.

Refinements in abdominoplasty: a critical outcomes analysis over a 20-year period.

Background: The use of liposuction combined with abdominoplasty has been controversial. The combination of techniques has been associated with an increased rate of venous thromboembolism and wound-healing complications. Through improvements in venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, refinements in liposuction techniques, and an understanding of anatomy, this cumulative risk has decreased, although the negative stigmata persist. This study describes the evolution of abdominal body contouring through a critical review of a single surgeons 20-year experience with abdominoplasty. This clinical outcome analysis will highlight the significant contributions that have led to the improvement in the safety and efficacy of this technique. Methods: A retrospective review of patients undergoing abdominoplasty procedures was performed. Patient demographics and procedural information, including postoperative course and complications, were recorded. Preoperative and postoperative photographs were scored by blinded evaluators for aesthetic result and scar quality. Results: Two hundred fifty patients undergoing abdominoplasty from 1987 to 2007 were included in the study. The use of a “superwet” liposuction technique in combination with abdominoplasty significantly decreased intraoperative blood loss (p < 0.04) and length of hospital stay (p < 0.05). Liposuction volume and region had no significant effect on abdominoplasty outcome, although refinements in operative technique, including abdominal and flank ultrasound-assisted liposuction, high superior tension, and limited abdominal undermining, did improve the postoperative aesthetic score. Venous thromboembolic events significantly decreased with aggressive venous thromboembolism prophylaxis (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The technical evolution of a single surgeons 20-year experience demonstrates that liposuction can be safely and effectively combined with abdominoplasty. Preoperative trunk analysis, intraoperative surgical refinements including superwet technique and ultrasound-assisted liposuction, and perioperative venous thromboembolism prophylaxis significantly improve the outcome of abdominoplasty.

Combination Jessner’s Solution and Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Peel: Technique and Outcomes

Background: Trichloroacetic acid is a commonly utilized agent for chemical resurfacing of the face. Jessner’s solution in combination with trichloroacetic acid has been previously described for the treatment of facial rhytids in the dermatology literature. The purpose of this study was to describe the application technique and examine the clinical results of Jessner’s solution in combination with trichloroacetic acid in a diverse plastic surgery patient population. Method: A retrospective chart evaluation of 105 patients undergoing combination Jessner’s and 35% trichloroacetic acid facial peel procedures by the senior author was performed. Patient demographics, anatomic location of peel, concomitant surgical procedures, and postoperative complications were noted. Technique and endpoints are described. Results: Between January of 2000 and April of 2007, 115 chemical peels were performed by the senior author. All patients were female, ranging in age from 32 to 83 years (mean, 54 years). Of the 115 chemical peels performed, 104 were done with concomitant procedures. Eleven peels were performed alone. The most significant complications related to the combination peel were fungal infections (7.8 percent overall rate). In addition, the senior author performed 27 face/neck lifts with superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS)-ectomy or SMAS plication along with full face combination peel, with minimal postoperative complications and no evidence of hypertrophic scarring. Conclusions: The combination of Jessner’s solution and 35% trichloroacetic acid is an effective, safe resurfacing tool that can treat superficial to moderate rhytids. Despite the apparent simplicity of the procedure, there is a significant learning curve to understand the intricacies of chemical penetration in the skin. Consistency in results is achieved with experience and proper preoperative patient evaluation and selection.

Discussion: Changes in quality of life and functional status following abdominal contouring in the massive weight loss population.

O research evaluates specific variables that contribute to an evidence-based validation of therapy, medical or surgical. Quality-of-life issues can be challenging metrics to validate, as they are subject to both patient and physician bias. Functional status can be a tangible, numeric variable to define outcomes, although when combined with quality-of-life metrics, with unvalidated surveys and scattered variables, the power of the study is lost and the contribution of the intervention to improving outcome is underwhelming.1 Coriddi et al. have presented a well-written study on the changes in quality of life and functional status following abdominal contouring in a massive weight loss population. This study does contribute to an expanding field of plastic surgery in the weight loss population and may have some beneficial contribution to validating that body contouring has a beneficial functional indication for insurance carriers to approve these as medically necessary procedures. The patients included in the study were defined as patients who had lost over 50 lb in the institution’s weight loss program, either by diet or by bariatric surgery. They were studied in a prospective fashion with a phone survey before and after body contouring surgery. The survey evaluated 24 functional outcomes ranging from back pain to difficulties in playing with children. These outcome measurements were correlated with body mass index and change in body mass index, both before weight loss and before and after body contouring. The body contouring procedure evaluated was that of abdominal and trunk contouring, including panniculectomy, abdominoplasty, and body lift. The difference between an abdominoplasty and panniculectomy was the ability of the insurance company to pay for the procedure, rather than the procedure itself. The authors found a significant improvement in the functional outcomes after abdominal contouring in this group. Massive weight loss patients constitute an increasing segment of the plastic surgery patient population. Massive weight loss does have immediate connotations of post–bariatric surgery state, although in this study it was defined as weight loss of greater than 50 lb, by either diet or surgery. These two patient populations are significantly different in their physiology and response to body contouring surgery. Patients who lose weight through lifestyle changes with diet and exercise changes can be optimal body contouring candidates, as their nutritional physiology is not permanently disrupted and their response to body contouring surgery may be superior. Patients who have had either restrictive or absorptive alterations in their gastrointestinal tract have permanent conditions that affect their response to body contouring surgery, making the risk higher and the postoperative period more difficult.2–4 Typically, the higher the body mass index, the more likely bariatric surgery is applied after lifestyle changes secondary to the inability to be compliant with specialized diets and exercise programs. Despite the higher risk in this patient population, if weight loss is successful, body contouring should greatly improve their quality of life. This differentiation is not addressed in this study, as both populations were included as a cohort defined as “massive weight loss.” A panniculectomy is defined as the segmental removal of lower abdominal skin with the medical indication of hanging lower abdominal skin below the pubis, combined with a period of weight loss, a history of refractory intertriginous rashes, and chronic inflammation within the skin.5 Even with these factors present, it is still difficult to justify this as medically necessary for the majority of insur-