An analysis into the trends of reconstructive surgery in Gudiyatham Taluk, a leprosy control area

The trends in Reconstructive Surgery in Gudiyatham Taluk, an area where an effective Leprosy Control Programme has been in progress since 1963, were analysed. Over the years 1962-79, it is shown that there is a decline in the number of Reconstructive surgical operations in Karigiri, on patients from the Control area, even though the new case detection rate and the total number of operations from both control and non-control areas remained high. The decline in the number of Reconstructive Surgery on patients from a Control area, provides a reliable index to judge the efficacy of a Leprosy Control Programme.

Breast reconstruction for premalignant and malignant disease--an update

New concepts in the control of breast cancer and improvements in plastic surgery techniques have facilitated subsequent breast reconstruction. In a six-year period 72 breast reconstructions were carried out in 57 women after surgical treatment for premalignant or malignant breast disease and, in some cases, radiation therapy. The average age of the patients was 48 years and the average interval between the primary cancer operation and breast reconstruction was 42 months. Our experience in these cases has been free of serious complications.

[Results of the converse otoplasty (author's transl)]

154 patients out of 317, who had undergone the Converse type of otoplasty in the ENT Department at Göttingen University, were assessed. Both subjective results and objective findings showed a successful operative outcome. Retractions of the concha were seldom seen and revision surgery was only necessary in 2 patients.

Plastic surgical education for the otolaryngologist

Otolaryngology shares responsibility for provision of plastic surgical services involving facial and cervical structures, but many training programs have been weak in this part of the specialty. Some still are. Beginning in 1963 when a national organization was formed, leading facial plastic surgeons and the senior author analyzed the weaknesses and embarked on a program to correct these educational deficits. There was widespread lack of surgical background, woefully inadequate knowledge of soft tissue techniques, and poor understanding of dynamics involved in cosmetic procedures. Annual meetings, international symposia, numerous courses, and extensive videotape and microfiche production, as well as political and academic recognition, have all helped plastic surgical teaching endeavors at both residency and postgraduate levels. However, much remains to be done. Program directors are the "key" people here. Suggestions for future action are presented.

Introductory remarks regarding facial plastic and reconstructive surgery

Some of the components of the author's training program at UCLA and in his actual practice in San Diego are compared, the type of surgical cases completed in training and in practice are examined, and the community acceptance of the author's definition of an otolaryngologist is commented on. Some of the conclusions regarding residency programs may be different from those of other specialists. The author's perspective is as a clinical assistant professor one year out of residency with an acute interest in the preparation for actual practice.