William P. Coleman

Surgical notes : dermabrasion and hypertrophic scars

With the increase in reliable methods for controlling severe acne, including isotretinoin, one might predict a decline in the need for dermabrasion for acne scars. The development of zyderm collagen and fibrel for soft tissue augmentation and correction of acne scars has provided an alternative to facial dermabrasion. Dermabrasion is as popular as it was before these developments. A recent survey of several of the dermatologists performihg dermabrasion was conducted. Each was asked whether or not he was performing fewer dermabrasions than 10 years ago and if so, why? All except one reported they were doing the same number of dermabrasions as a decade before. All felt that there was increased public awareness of and interest in dermabrasion. All except one of the dermatologists felt that zyderm collagen and fibrel had increased interest in dermabrasion and allowed them to obtain better dermabrasion results by using filler substances to refine the contours postoperatively. Dermabrasion is being used for other purposes including ameliorating acne scars, treating actinic damage, and refining post-traumatic and surgical scars.

The Nail in Health and Disease

ABSTRACT This is an even more complete and satisfying text than the excellent first edition. Dr Zaias has devoted much of his dermatologic career to understanding the anatomy and physiology of the nail. His familiarity with all aspects of nail disease resounds throughout.This text is particularly strong in the basic science of the nail as well as the multiple disorders. But it is primarily a medical dermatology textbook. Only 13 pages (5%) of the book are devoted to surgical procedures. Although most commonly used nail procedures are covered, there is a lack of detail that will disappoint dermatologic surgeons. You will have to look elsewhere for a more thorough treatise of nail surgery.The chapters on anatomy and physiology are excellent and well referenced. The embryology presented is well done but lacking in references. There are excellent chapters on nail regeneration and kinetics.Those who like syndromes need not look