Chang Sik Pak

Effects of Polydeoxyribonucleotide in the Treatment of Pressure Ulcers

This study aimed to examine the positive effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) on the wound-healing process in pressure ulcers. In this randomized controlled trial, the effects of PDRN were compared over time between an experimental group (n=11) and a control group (n=12). The former was administered the same dose of PDRN intramuscularly (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, for 5 days) for 2 weeks and perilesionally (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, twice a week) for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint for determining efficacy was wound healing in the pressure ulcers, which was reflected by the wound surface area determined using VISITRAK Digital (Smith & Nephew, Largo, FL). The secondary endpoint was the pressure ulcer scale for healing score, determined using pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH Tool 3.0 developed by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel). After the 4-week treatment period, PDRN therapy was found to significantly reduce the wound size and PUSH score, without adverse effect during the treatment. The findings indicate that PDRN can positively modify the wound healing process in pressure ulcers, and its use could improve the clinical outcomes of patients and lower the need for additional therapies or hospital stay. Graphical Abstract

Medial epicanthoplasty using the “inside-out” technique

Abstract The epicanthal fold, a skin remnant covering the medial canthal region, is especially common in Asians. Although numerous surgical techniques for the treatment of the epicanthal fold have been developed, the results.in terms of scars and a natural look remain controversial. In this regard, the authors have developed a new method for medial epicanthoplasty. From January 2005 to December 2011, medial epicanthoplasty was performed on 1132 patients using a technique in which the skin flap inside of the medial epicanthal fold is moved outward (the “Inside-Out” technique). Preoperative and postoperative (2 months) interepicanthal distance was measured. Satisfactory results were achieved in the majority of cases. While nine patients complained of visible scarring after the operation, the scar formation spontaneously resolved within 6 months. This new “Inside-Out” technique for the treatment of the epicanthal fold is easy, simple, and delivers good aesthetic results.

Protective effect of telomerase-based 16-mer peptide vaccine (GV1001) on inferior epigastric island skin flap survivability in ischaemia-reperfusion injury rat model

Abstract Background: Ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) results in oxidative damage and a profound inflammatory reaction, leading to cell death. GV 1001 is a telomerase-based 16-mer peptide vaccine developed against cancer. However, it has also been reported to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to determine if GV 1001 can reduce the negative effects caused by IRI in a rat skin flap model owing to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Materials and methods: In order to evaluate the effect of GV 1001, 5 × 5 cm2 inferior epigastric artery based island skin flaps were dissected in 39 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 220–270 g. The rats were divided into three groups: (I) non-ischaemic group; (II) IRI with saline; and (III) IRI with 10 mg GV 1001 treatment. Drugs were administered intra-muscularly directly before and after ischaemia. Flap survival area, neutrophil infiltration, cytokine levels (interleukin [IL]-1, IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-α), malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were measured. Flap survivability was analysed at 7 days after surgery. Results: Flap survival area was significantly larger in group III than in group II. Cytokine release level was also significantly lower in group III. Neutrophil infiltration grade, MDA level, and SOD activity slightly decreased in Group III; however, the changes were not statistically significant. Conclusion: These results imply that GV 1001 exerts a protective effect against IRI through antioxidant effects, reducing reactive oxygen species, and suppressing the inflammatory cascade.

Palmar Ulnar Artery Perforator Free Flap for Fingertip Reconstruction: Anatomical and Clinical Study

Background Fingertips are a common site for hand injuries. The ideal substitute for fingertip pulp is tissue that matches texturally with minimal donor site morbidity. We described anatomical findings from cadaveric studies and the reliability of the palmar ulnar artery perforator (PUAP) free flap techniques for the reconstruction of fingertips injuries. Methods The cadaveric study involving 8 hands was conducted to illuminate the anatomy of the hypothenar region. We investigated the emerging point of perforators, diameter of the artery at the origin, and the length of the pedicle. Forty-four patients with fingertip injuries underwent fingertip reconstruction using PUAP free flaps. Data on the baseline patient demographics, hospital courses, and flap sizes were obtained retrospectively. The 6-month postoperative sensory capacity was determined using a 2-point discrimination test. Results The cadaveric study found that the PUAP pedicles arose from the superficial palmar arch, the mean length of pedicles, and the diameter and location of perforators were also analyzed. The PUAP flap sizes varied from 2.0 × 2.3 cm to 2.5 × 3.5 cm, and the mean operative time was 124 min. In all cases, we performed neurorrhaphy for fingertip sensory restoration. All donor sites were closed primarily, and the 2-point discrimination test result was 5.7 ± 0.87 mm 6 months after surgery. Conclusions We confirmed the anatomical consistency of the PUAP. Among the numerous reconstruction options available for fingertip injuries, the PUAP free flap is a useful fingertip reconstruction option.

A Multicenter Noncomparative Clinical Study on Midface Rejuvenation Using a Nonabsorbable Polypropylene Mesh: Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety

Background Facial rejuvenation can be achieved using a variety of techniques. Since minimally invasive procedures for face lifting have become popular because of their convenience and short operating time, numerous minimally invasive surgical procedures have been developed. In this study, a nonabsorbable polypropylene mesh is introduced as a new face lifting instrument, with the nasolabial fold as the main target area. In this paper, we report the efficacy and safety of a polypropylene mesh in midface rejuvenation. Methods Thirty-three subjects with moderate-to-severe nasolabial folds were enrolled from two medical institutions for a noncomparative single-sample study. A mesh was inserted above the superficial muscular aponeurotic system layer, reaching the nasolabial folds through a temporal scalp incision. After 3 weeks, the temporal end of the mesh was pulled to provide a lifting effect. Then, the mesh was fixed to the deep temporal fascia using nonabsorbable sutures. To evaluate efficacy, we compared the scores on the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale and a visual analog scale for patient satisfaction between the baseline and 7 weeks postoperatively. In addition, we evaluated safety based on the incidence of adverse events. Results The treatment was deemed effective at improving wrinkles in 23 of 28 cases, and patient satisfaction improved significantly during the study period. There were seven cases of skin or subcutaneous tissue complications, including edema and erythema, but there were no suspected serious adverse events. Conclusions Face lifting using a nonabsorbable mesh can improve nasolabial folds without serious adverse effects. Thus, this technique is safe and effective for midface rejuvenation.