The TopClosure® 3S System, for skin stretching and a secure wound closure

Mechanically skin-like and water-resistant self-healing bioelastomer for high-tension wound healing

The biomedical application of self-healing materials in wet or (under)water environments is quite challenging because the insulation and dissociation effects of water molecules significantly reduce the reconstruction of material-interface interactions. Rapid closure with uniform tension of high-tension wounds is often difficult, leading to further deterioration and scarring. Herein, a new type of thermosetting water-resistant self-healing bioelastomer (WRSHE) was designed by synergistically incorporating a stable polyglycerol sebacate (PGS) covalent crosslinking network and triple hybrid dynamic networks consisting of reversible disulfide metathesis (SS), and dimethylglyoxime urethane (Dou) and hydrogen bonds. And a resveratrol-loaded WRSHE (Res@WRSHE) was developed by a swelling, absorption, and crosslinked network locking strategy. WRSHEs exhibited skin-like mechanical properties in terms of nonlinear modulus behavior, biomimetic softness, high stretchability, and good elasticity, and they also achieved ultrafast and highly efficient self-healing in various liquid environments. For wound-healing applications of high-tension full-thickness skin defects, the convenient surface assembly by self-healing of WRSHEs provides uniform contraction stress to facilitate tight closure. Moreover, Res@WRSHEs gradually release resveratrol, which helps inflammatory response reduction, promotes blood vessel regeneration, and accelerates wound repair.

A novel tension relief technique to aid the primary closure of traumatic equine wounds under excessive tension

BACKGROUND

To achieve an excellent functional and cosmetic result, primary closure is preferred over leaving wounds to heal by secondary intention. However, traumatic wounds are often under excessive tension during wound closure and incorrect suture technique can compromise microcirculation, leading to skin necrosis and impaired wound healing.

OBJECTIVE

To describe an inexpensive and effective tension relief technique that helps the successful primary closure of a variety of equine wounds at high risk of dehiscence.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

All wounds that were managed with the Tension Tile System (TTS) at four Equine Hospitals between March 2017 and May 2021 were evaluated. The wounds were classified according to various criteria including anatomical location, time elapsed prior to surgery, depth of wound and post-surgical use of immobilisation. Outcome criteria were based on the success of primary intention healing. The duration of convalescence (weeks) after surgery was also recorded.

RESULTS

During the study period, the TTS was used in 191/860 (22%) wounds repaired under general anaesthesia or standing sedation. Overall, primary intention healing (Group A) was achieved in 132 of 191 cases (69%, CI 62%-75%), with partial dehiscence (Group B) in a further 30/191 cases (16%, CI 11%-22%). Severe dehiscence (Group C) was recorded in 29/191 cases (15%, CI 11%-21%). The median convalescence time was 4 weeks (Range 3-15, interquartile range 4-6) in Group A.

MAIN LIMITATIONS

Retrospective nature of the study and subjective outcome assessment. The technique was applied to wounds under significant tension; however, this was based on a subjective assessment by the surgeons involved.

CONCLUSIONS

The Tension Tile System is an economical and effective technique for challenging equine wounds under tension, in a variety of anatomical locations.

What are optimum cycles for immediate primary closure of large cutaneous defects?

BACKGROUND

In the reconstruction of large complex cutaneous wounds, a myriad of mechanical devices has been designed to facilitate primary wound closure. However, there is a dearth of studies elucidating how best to achieve optimum use and efficiency of skin stretching (SS) when using the device for immediate primary closure of defects.

METHODS

Skin defect wounds (7 × 7 cm) were prepared on the back of three Bama miniature pigs. A total of 15 cycles of SS (cycle loading) were subsequently performed on the skin edges of the wound by EASApprox® SS system. Then, the changes in equidistant points were recorded after each cycle. After the SS test, all wounds were sutured under low tension.

RESULTS

Skin elongation was observed at all equidistant points on the back wounds of three Bama miniature pigs. Up to an additional 1.10 to 3.75 cm of tissue was garnered. The maximum skin elongation was typically achieved within eight cycles of stretching and relaxation. Beyond this range, additional stretching cycles did not result in further skin extension.

CONCLUSION

There may be a close link between mobilization range and the times of acute cyclic stretching (cycle loading) during the process of primary wound closure. However, larger studies are required to further evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness.

Cable Ties: Poor Man's Top Closure System

Scalp electrical burns unsuitable for primary closure after debridement have traditionally been treated by modalities that cause significant morbidity and are aesthetically inferior to tension-free primary wound closure. Due to advances in research on the biomechanical properties of skin, various devices for skin stretching and safe wound closure have been reported in the literature that are expensive and inaccessible to poor people in the developing countries. We present our experience using cable ties as an effective, easy to use, readily available, and inexpensive top closure system.

Is "Initial Size of the Graft the Real Culprit behind Primary Contraction of Full-Thickness Skin Graft"? - A Cross-Sectional Study

Background  Primary contraction of full-thickness graft has been traditionally quoted to be 40%. There are lacunae in literature to elaborate on the factors influencing it ever since. Methods  About 75 subjects who underwent full-thickness grafting procedures to resurface small defects were included in the study. The initial and final graft dimensions after primary contraction were traced on X-ray templates and the percentage of contraction was evaluated using the graphical method. This was further correlated with age, collagen, elastic matrix metalloproteinases-1 (MMP-1) and -2 content along with dermal thickness of the skin specimen sent from the graft. Results  The primary contraction of the graft had a very significant correlation only with the initial size of graft harvested with a linear regression of 33.3% and a Spearman's correlation of 0.587 significant at a p -value of 0.001. Conclusion  This study though preliminary tries to highlight an important factor that primary contraction of grafts is a physical phenomenon independent of its contents like collagen, elastin, or MMP-1 and -2 or age and dependent on its initial size of harvest instead.

Regional Antibiotic Delivery for Implanted Cardiovascular Electronic Device Infections

BACKGROUND

Present guidelines endorse complete removal of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (pacemakers/defibrillators), including extraction of all intracardiac electrodes, not only for systemic infections, but also for localized pocket infections.

OBJECTIVES

The authors evaluated the efficacy of delivering continuous, in situ-targeted, ultrahigh concentration of antibiotics (CITA) into the infected subcutaneous device pocket, obviating the need for device/lead extraction.

METHODS

The CITA group consisted of 80 patients with pocket infection who were treated with CITA during 2007-2021. Of them, 9 patients declined lead extraction because of prohibitive operative risk, and 6 patients had questionable indications for extraction. The remaining 65 patients with pocket infection, who were eligible for extraction, but opted for CITA treatment, were compared with 81 patients with pocket infection and similar characteristics who underwent device/lead extraction as primary therapy.

RESULTS

A total of 80 patients with pocket infection were treated with CITA during 2007-2021. CITA was curative in 85% (n = 68 of 80) of patients, who remained free of infection (median follow-up 3 years [IQR: 1.0-6.8 years]). In the case-control study of CITA vs device/lead extraction, cure rates were higher after device/lead extraction than after CITA (96.2% [n = 78 of 81] vs 84.6% [n = 55 of 65]; P = 0.027). However, rates of serious complications were also higher after extraction (n = 12 [14.8%] vs n = 1 [1.5%]; P = 0.005). All-cause 1-month and 1-year mortality were similar for CITA and device/lead extraction (0.0% vs 3.7%; P = 0.25 and 12.3% vs 13.6%; P = 1.00, respectively). Extraction was avoided in 90.8% (n = 59 of 65) of extraction-eligible patients treated with CITA.

CONCLUSIONS

CITA is a safe and effective alternative for patients with pocket infection who are unsuitable or unwilling to undergo extraction. (Salvage of Infected Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices [CIED] by Localized High-Dose Antibiotics; NCT01770067).

TopClosure® tension‑relief system improves clinical outcomes of patients with breast cancer undergoing mastectomy

The present randomized controlled study aimed to investigate the effects of TopClosure^® tension-relief system (TRS) on patients with breast cancer undergoing mastectomy. A total of 402 female patients with breast cancer who came to the Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University between March 2014 and June 2018 were involved in the present study. All patients receiving mastectomy were randomly divided into the TRS group (n=201) and the control group (n=201). Serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, TNF-α, IL-6 and procalcitonin were measured using ELISA. Vancouver Scar Scale was recorded at 2 weeks and 1-3 and 6 months following the operation. The 36-Item Health Survey Scales were performed for all patients at 1 month after surgery. The TRS reduced the incidence of flap necrosis, infection and the duration of hospital stay. In addition, the TRS was found to attenuate inflammation and improve scar outcomes as well as the quality of life. It was concluded that the TRS could significantly improve the clinical outcomes.

Noninvasive Soft Tissue Expansion Strips and Wound Complications After Total Ankle Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Total ankle arthroplasty through the anterior approach (TAR-AA) is an increasingly popular treatment for ankle arthritis, but it carries a known risk for wound complications. Several products have been investigated to mitigate this risk; however, most are either costly or invasive. Noninvasive skin expansion strips (NSESs) were designed to transfer tension away from the incision and induce new skin growth at the edges of the strips. We hypothesize that postoperative application of NSESs will decrease unplanned clinic visits and wound complications after TAR-AA.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study of 41 patients at a single institution (3 surgeons) treated with NSESs after undergoing TAR-AA. An additional 41 consecutive historical patients treated without NSESs were retrospectively included as a control group. Patients received application of NSESs in the operating room after routine wound closure and again 2 weeks postoperatively. No other changes were made to the surgeons' wound closure technique, immobilization, follow-up timing, or rehabilitation protocols. Primary outcomes included (1) additional clinic visit required for wound assessment or suture removal, (2) superficial wound complication, and (3) deep infection.

RESULTS

Baseline demographics did not differ significantly from our 41 consecutively treated historical controls. Additional clinic visits for suture removal or wound evaluation were significantly lower for patients treated with NSESs (15%, 6 of 41) compared to the control group (49%, 20 of 41) (P = .001). There was also a significant difference in the superficial wound complication rate in the treatment group vs control group, 2% and 12%, respectively (P = .04). There were no deep infections in either group.

CONCLUSION

Noninvasive skin expansion strips placed after TAR-AA with an anterior approach have the potential to decrease wound complications and unplanned clinic visits. Further high-volume or randomized studies are needed to clarify their cost effectiveness and effect on long-term outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective cohort study.

Role of Preoperative Skin Stretching in Single-Stage Wound Closure

Background  Mechanical skin stretching (SS) is now becoming one of the commonly sought after procedures for wound healing. This study was aimed to assess the efficacy of preoperative SS for the closure of large wounds and to evaluate various postoperative outcome parameters. Methodology  An observational study was conducted from December 2017 to May 2019 where a sample size of 30 patients was included with inclusion criteria being wounds of ≥5 cm width that require surgical management, presence of sufficient healthy skin edge of the wound/scar (at least one) for the stretching procedure, and age between 18 and 70 years. SS devices used were the top closure tension relief system. Postoperatively, various parameters were recorded to evaluate outcomes and complications. Results  Majority of wounds that is 16 (53.3%) were <50 cm ² , 9 (30%) were between 50 and 75 cm ² , and 5 (16.7%) were >75 cm ² . The mean duration of stretch was 2.3 ± 0.82 weeks. For 30 wounds treated with staged cycles of wound closure, there was a significant difference between every two visit points, i.e., 10%. The mean patient-reported patient and observer scar assessment scale score was 3.5 ± 0.93. Twenty-five cases (83.3%) had uneventful postoperative recovery. Twenty-seven patients (90%) reported an improved aesthetic outcome. Fourteen patients (46.7%) reported some improvement in function. Conclusion  The study concluded that the SS devices are the simple and effective method for the primary closure of large and challenging wounds and skin defects.

Tension-reduced closure of large abdominal wall defect caused by shotgun wound: A case report

BACKGROUND

Large abdominal wall defect (LAWD) caused by shotgun wound is rarely reported.

CASE SUMMARY

Herein, we describe a case of LAWD caused by a gunshot wound in which the abdominal wall was reconstructed in stages, including debridement, tension-reduced closure (TRC), and reconstruction with mesh and a free musculocutaneous flap. During a 3-year follow-up, the patient recovered well without hernia or other problems.

CONCLUSION

TRC is a practical approach for the temporary closure of LAWD, particularly in cases when one-stage abdominal wall restoration is unfeasible due to significant comorbidities.

[Effectiveness analysis of disposable skin stretch closure in treatment of difficult to close skin and soft tissue defects]

Objective

To observe the effectiveness of disposable skin stretch closure in the treatment of wounds with skin and soft tissue defects that were difficult to close.

Methods

The clinical data of 13 patients with skin and soft tissue defects that were difficult to close treated with disposable skin stretch closure and met the selection criteria between July 2021 and February 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. There were 9 males and 4 females, the age ranged from 15 to 71 years with a mean of 39.8 years. The causes of injury included falling injury in 5 patients, traffic accident injury in 5 patients, and falling from height injury in 3 patients. The causes of skin soft tissue defects included open fractures in 4 patients, wound infection in 4 patients, osteomyelitis in 3 patients, degloving injury in 1 patient, and necrosis of skin graft in 1 patient. The injury was located at calf in 8 patients, calcaneus in 3 patients, pelvis in 1 patient, and plantar in 1 patient. The skin and soft tissue defects ranged from 5.0 cm×2.0 cm to 10.5 cm×6.5 cm. Wound conditions (wound closure and wound healing) and the presence or absence of complications were recorded.

Results

All 13 patients were followed up 32-225 days with a median of 164 days. The wound closure time ranged from 5 to 14 days, with a mean of 8.8 days. The wound closure speed ranged from 0.7 to 13.7 cm 2/day, with a mean of 3.6 cm 2/day. All wounds healed at grade A, and no complication such as skin edge injury, wound necrosis, infection, dehiscence, and edema occurred. No patient complained of pain or discomfort, and no obvious scarring was found during follow-up. The wound healing time ranged from 17 to 28 days, with a mean of 21.7 days. One of them was transferred to other department due to lung cancer condition changes after using disposable skin stretch closure, and the wound had directly healed without suturing at 17 days after operation.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of disposable skin stretch closure in the treatment of wounds with skin and soft tissue defects that were difficult to close was exact, with short wound closure time, few complications, and easy operation.

The History of Plastic Surgery in Israel

Today, plastic surgery is a well-known profession with highly respected surgeons from institutions all over the world. Over the last several decades numerous clinical and technological advances have been made, thanks to the dedication and hard work of these outstanding professionals; however, things were not always this way. At the turn of the 20th century, Israel had yet to be introduced to the field of plastic surgery. However, this all changed with the War of Independence. Humanitarian aid by the prominent South African surgeon, Jack Penn, laid the foundation for the founding fathers of plastic surgery in Israel to establish a strong legacy of producing world-renowned surgeons and innovators. Through this paper, we hope to provide a brief overview of the history of plastic surgery in Israel and what transpired to give us the state of surgical practice we have today.

Israeli Innovations in the Field of Plastic Surgery

Numerous innovations within the field of plastic surgery have been developed in Israel over the last few decades. Many of these therapeutic devices and techniques have been established globally with demonstrable efficacy and respectable safety profiles. This article offers an overview of recent Israeli cutting-edge medical therapeutic solutions contributing to the global practice of plastic surgery.

Pediatric Wound Closure by a Tension-Relief System

Surgical reconstruction in pediatric patients can often be complex. Primary wound closure is almost always the preferred technique in the reconstructive ladder; however, it is not always possible in pediatric patients. We report the pediatric use of the TopClosure Tension-Relief System, an innovative skin-stretching technique for secure primary wound closure of large defects. We modified the technique by fixating it to a protective dressing instead of the patient's skin, thus avoiding both staple scars and pain. A retrospective review of 112 patients aged 7 days to 18 years who underwent Tension-Relief System-assisted surgery at a tertiary medical center from 2010 to 2020 was conducted. Cases included congenital deformities, traumatic wounds, burn scars, and complicated-wounds, with or without hardware or deep tissue exposure. The use of the system avoided the need for multiple surgical sessions and for local or regional flaps. The technique was simple to use, with few complications, and led to satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes. The findings support using the technique in children and adolescents with challenging tension wounds. Herein, we report on our experience with the Tension-Relief System and detail four cases in which early or immediate closure was successfully achieved.

Complicated Wound Closure Following Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction incidence increased, including preventive surgery. In this context, providing women best surgical care and results is crucial, with minimum complications, such as wound dehiscence and skin flap necrosis. Tension-free closure of skin flaps is mandatory for successful healing. However, since this is not always possible, various techniques have been developed to reduce tension from wound-margins, facilitate primary wound-closure, and minimize and improve scarring. These techniques have not been investigated in breast surgeries. The aim of this study was to describe our experience with the Tension-Relief System in mastectomy and breast reconstructive patients, and the advantages of using this technique. The retrospective cohort consisted of 13 breasts of 11 women aged 29-74 years who underwent surgery with primary wound-closure using the System, in 2019-2020 in our department. It was applied averagely 19.7 days, demonstrated effectiveness in preventing complications and as secondary treatment following complications. This enabled avoiding further and more extensive surgeries, including donor-site morbidity when needed. In mastectomy and breast-reconstruction, the System minimizes complications and yields satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes, with minimal inconvenience to the patient, and good pain-control. The technique is low-cost, simple to use, and does not require special settings, surgical equipment, or particular skills.

Efficacy and safety of external tissue expansion technique in the treatment of soft tissue defects: a systematic review and meta-analysis of outcomes and complication rates

Background

Currently, various external tissue expansion devices are becoming widely used. Considering the scarcity of relevant application standards, this systematic review was performed to explore the effectiveness and safety of external tissue expansion techniques for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects.

Method

A systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of external tissue expansion technique was conducted. A comprehensive search was performed in the following electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library (Wiley Online Library), and Web of Science. Studies reporting patients with soft tissue defects under the treatment of external tissue expansion technique were included.

Results

A total of 66 studies with 22 different types of external tissue expansion devices met the inclusion criteria. We performed a descriptive analysis of different kinds of devices. A single-arm meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the external tissue expansion technique for different aetiologies. The pooled mean wound healing time among patients with defects after fasciotomy was 10.548 days [95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.796–15.299]. The pooled median wound healing times of patients with defects after excisional surgery, trauma, chronic ulcers and abdominal defects were 11.218 days (95% CI = 6.183-16.253), 11.561 days (95% CI = 7.062-16.060), 15.956 days (95% CI = 11.916-19.996) and 12.853 days (95% CI=9.444-16.227), respectively. The pooled wound healing rates of patients with defects after fasciotomy, excisional surgery, trauma, chronic ulcers and abdominal defects were 93.8% (95% CI=87.1-98.2%), 97.2% (95%CI=92.2-99.7%), 97.0% (95%CI=91.2-99.8%), 99.5% (95%CI=97.6-100%), and 96.8% (95%CI=79.2-100%), respectively. We performed a subgroup analysis in patients with diabetic ulcers and open abdominal wounds. The pooled median wound healing time of patients with diabetic ulcers was 11.730 days (95% CI = 10.334-13.125). The pooled median wound healing time of patients with open abdomen defects was 48.810 days (95% CI = 35.557–62.063) and the pooled successful healing rate was 68.8% (95% CI = 45.9-88.1%). A total of 1686 patients were included, 265 (15.7%) of whom experienced complications. The most common complication was dehiscence (n = 53, 3.14%).

Conclusions

Our systematic review is the first to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of external tissue expansion in the management of soft tissue defects. However, we must interpret the meta-analysis results with caution considering the limitations of this review. Large-scale randomized controlled trials and long-term follow-up studies are still needed to confirm the effectiveness and evaluate the quality of healing.

Using Modified Skin-Stretching Technique as an Alternative Solution for the Closure of Moderate and Extensive Skin Defects

External skin-stretching devices have been developed and used for wound closure since 1970s. Devices such as Miami STAR^®, SureClosure^®, TopClosure^®, and WiseBand^® have their own advantages and disadvantages. The modified external skin-stretching technique of this case series study has the advantage to improve tension distribution and simplified the application. Between January 2014 and June 2017, 20 patients were treated with the modified external skin-stretching device for the closure of the skin defects of the trunk (n = 6) and extremities (n = 14). Skin defects ranged from 8 × 5 to 19 × 16 cm achieved primary closure with the utilization of the modified skin-stretching device without major complications. Subsequent minor revisions were performed under local anesthesia between 6 and 12 months postoperatively. The modified skin-stretching device utilized biomechanical properties and mechanical creep of skin tissue to achieve a reliable and effective primary closure for moderate to extensive skin defects. Therefore, this modified external skin-stretching technique provided, in the appropriate setting, an effective alternative to skin grafts or free flaps.

Skin anisotropy: Finding the optimal incision line for volar forearm in males and females

PURPOSE

Proper understanding of skin biomechanics, viscoelasticity and investigation of skin tension vectors is necessary to find optimal incision lines. Great tension across a healing wound after any surgical procedure might lead to forming hypertrophic scars. The aim of the study was to investigate tension lines in volar forearm skin in young males and females, in order to ensure best incision line.

METHODS

Five biomechanical and viscoelastic parameters were measured using a hand-held myotonometer: Oscillation Frequency [Hz], Dynamic Stiffness [N/m], Logarithmic Decrement of tissue's natural oscillation, Mechanical Stress Relaxation Time [ms], and Creep. Measurements were taken in four different directions; Along Forearm, Across Forearm, Along Langer's Line and Across Langer's Line.

RESULTS

Significant main effects for direction were found for Oscillation Frequency (p < 0.001, η² = 0.371) [Hz], Dynamic Stiffness (p < 0.001, η² = 0.522) [N/m], Logarithmic Decrement (p < 0.001, η² = 0.083), Mechanical Stress Relaxation Time (p < 0.001, η² = 0.494) [ms] and Creep (p < 0.001, η² = 0.480). For each parameter except for logarithmic decrement results obtained Along Langers Line and Across Forearm were significantly different to Across Langers Line and Along Forearm (p < 0.001, d = -2.76 - 2.66). Significant main effects for sex were found for logarithmic decrement Along Forearm (p < 0.001, d = 1.698) and Across Langer's Line (p = 0.021, d = 1.697).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested that optimal incision line for this age group in males and females could potentially be performed diagonally i.e. Across Langer's Line or parallel i.e. Along Forearm to forearm axis. These directions would provide the lowest tension across a healing wound and possibly minimalize the risk of hypertrophic scarring post incision.

First known case of successful pressure ulcer treatment in a lung transplant patient with post-COVID-19 pneumonia

Given the current COVID-19 crisis, multiple clinical manifestations and related complications of COVID-19 disease, especially in lung transplant patients following post-COVID-19 pneumonia, are a major challenge. Herein, we report the therapeutic course of the first reported case of sacrococcyx pressure ulcers (PU) in a 65-year-old male COVID-19 patient who underwent lung transplantation and developed a PU following surgery. We used a combination of regulated negative pressure-assisted wound therapy system (RNPT, six treatment courses, five days per treatment course), a skin tension-relief system (an intraoperative aid in minimising wounds caused by sacrococcygeal PUs) and a gluteus maximus myocutaneous flap to repair sacrococcygeal wounds. This successfully treated case provides a reference point for the treatment of similar cases.

Closure of Complex Wounds by a Simple Skin Stretching System Associated With Vacuum Sealing Drainage-Clinical Outcome of 34 Patients

Management of complex wounds with large skin defects presents a real challenge for orthopedic or reconstructive surgeons. We developed a simple skin stretching system associated with vacuum sealing drainage to examine the efficiency and complication. A total of 34 patients with different types of complex wounds were retrospectively included from January 2015 to March 2021. All patients in the study were underwent the treatment by 2 stages. The method was used to the wounds from 4.71 to 169.65 cm² with a median defect size of 25.13 cm². The median time for wound closure was 11.5 days (range: 5-32 days), although the median absolute reduction was 2.08 cm²/day (range: 0.15-25.66 cm²/day). Depending on the site of the wounds, the cause of the wound, and the rate of max-width/max-length (W/L), these complex wounds could be separately divided into several groups. There were statistically significant differences in the median value of the above variables (P < .05 Kruskal-Wallis test). The results showed that different anatomical sites had different viscoelastic properties, the complex wounds caused by trauma were easier to close than caused by diabetic foot and the complex wounds in group A (W/L ＞ 0.5) were more difficult to close than in group B (W/L ≤ 0.5). No major complications were encountered in this study. In summary, the results of our study showed that the simple skin stretching system associated with vacuum sealing drainage was a safe approach for closure of complex wounds. Nevertheless, more attention should be paid to the viscoelasticity of the wounds to ensure closure and avoid undue complications when applying the method.

Case Report: Delayed Primary Wound Closure After Extensive Abdominal Wall Resection for Infection and Malignancy Using TopClosure®

The closure of a massive abdominal wall defect is illustrated using a novel dynamic closure technique - the TopClosure® tension relief system. This system attaches to the abdominal wall immediately after laparotomy and allows for early approximation of the skin, avoiding an open abdomen and the complications associated with this. The technique in this case was employed after extensive resection of the abdominal wall for infected skin metastases of colonic adenocarcinoma and circumvented post-operative ventilation and open abdomen. Early recovery after such extensive surgery is important in terms of patient morbidity and mortality. In this case, primary surgery may not have been an acceptable risk to undertake without the option of Top Closure of the abdomen. We illustrate the technique of abdominal wall closure through a series of images of the procedure.

Application of a simple skin stretching system and negative pressure wound therapy in repair of complex diabetic foot wounds

The management of complex diabetic foot wounds with large skin defects poses a challenge for surgeons. We presented a simple skin stretching system and negative pressure wound therapy for the repair of complex diabetic foot wounds to examine the effectiveness and safety.

A total of 16 patients with diabetic foot ulcers were retrospectively reviewed between January 2015 and October 2020. All patients underwent the treatment by 3 stages. In stage 2, these difficult-to-close wounds of diabetes foot were residual. This method was applied to the wounds with a median defect size of 20.42 cm² (range, 4.71–66.76 cm²).

The median time for closure of complex diabetic foot wounds was 14 days ranging from 8 to 19 days. With respect to the absolute rates of reduction, it was observed with a median of 1.86 cm²/day, ranging from 0.29 cm²/day to 8.35 cm²/day. In accordance with the localization of the defect, the patients were divided into 3 groups: side of the foot (37.5%), dorsum of the foot (50.0%), and others (12.5%). There was no statistical difference between side of the foot and dorsum of the foot in terms of the median defect size with P = 0.069 (Kruskal–Wallis test). Otherwise, there were statistically significant differences regarding the median time and the median absolute rates (P < 0.05; Kruskal–Wallis test). No severe complications were encountered in this study.

In summary, our results show that application of the simple skin stretching system and NPWT is an effective and safe approach to complex diabetic foot wounds. Nevertheless, more attention should be paid to the appropriate patient selection and intraoperative judgment to ensure wound closure and avoid undue complications.

Closure of Challenging Pediatric Scalp Wounds by a Tension-Relief System

ABSTRACT

Pediatric scalp defects may be challenging, due to their variant tension level and specific etiologies. Tissue characteristics and pre- and post-management considerations may pose difficulties to reconstruction in the pediatric patient. Primary closure is the preferred surgical technique but is not always possible. Various techniques have been described for facilitating primary wound closure, by reducing tension from the skin wound margins. The authors use a tension-relief system in some challenging scalp wounds when simple primary closure cannot be achieved. This enables primary closure without tension on the surgical margins, and may thus preclude the need for other closure techniques such as tissue-expanders, grafts, and flaps. The authors describe our use of a tension-relief system in 21 pediatric patients treated during 2017-2020, for congenital deformities, vascular malformations and other skin lesions, traumatic wounds, burn scars, and complicated surgical wounds with and without hardware exposure. A tension-relief system is a prompt, simple-to-use, safe, and low-cost surgical solution that offers several advantages over other techniques when tension-free primary intention closure is not possible. These benefits include less extensive surgery, fewer surgeries and associated anesthesia, shorter treatment period and hospitalization, better scarring, lower distress and burden to patients and their families, better pain-control, the absence of donor-site with its comorbidities, and less bleeding and risk of damaging adjacent structures. Based on our experience and the system characteristics detailed, the authors recommend using the described technique, which is convenient, accessible, and reliable, to close challenging scalp wounds in pediatric patients.

The Combined Use of a Non-Invasive Skin-Stretching Device and the Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy Technique in the Treatment of Postoperative Diabetic Foot

OBJECTIVE

The present study explored the effectiveness of using a non-invasive skin-stretching device (NSSD) combined with negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for the postoperative wound repair of diabetic foot (DF) gangrene.

METHODS

The treatment group in this study involved 42 patients with Wagner grade 3-4 DF and undergone concomitant toe amputation or debridement, who were given NPWT combined with the use of a NSSD. The control group comprised 42 patients with similar trauma areas (±20%) that were matched at a ratio of 1:1. Following surgery, these patients received NPWT combined with the use of conventional dressings. A comparison was made of the postoperative wound healing rates and wound healing times of the two groups, with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis being used to compare the healing rate over time.

RESULTS

The three-month wound healing rate was higher in the treatment group than in the control group (38 of 42 [90.5%] vs 25 of 42 [59.5%], p = 0.002), and the wound healing time was shorter in the treatment group (44 days [95% CI 40.0-48.0]) than that in the control group (76 days [95% CI 63.0-89.0], p = 0.000). Taking the end of the final NPWT as the starting point, the comparison of wound healing time revealed that this period was shorter in the treatment group than that in the control group and the difference was statistically significant (11 days [95% CI 9.0-13.0] vs 42 days [95% CI 23.0-ND], p = 0.000).

CONCLUSION

The use of the NPWT technique combined with a NSSD can shorten the wound healing time and improve the wound healing rate of DF gangrene patients during the postoperative wound repair period.

Innovative approach to open abdomen: converting an enteroatmospheric fistula into an easily manageable stoma

A 52-year-old super morbidly obese patient underwent elective laparoscopic conversion of a failed silastic ring vertical gastroplasty to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Following surgery, she developed an anastomotic leak which required emergent laparotomy. The patient then suffered from a complex postoperative course during which she developed an intestinal fistula which freely drained into the wound and gradually led to its complete dehiscence. Her course was further complicated by the surfacing of an enteroatmospheric fistula. This devastating complication was managed by employing the TopClosure Tension Relief system. Using the inverse maturation technique, further described in this report, we were able to progressively approximate and invert the edges of the skin around the enteroatmospheric fistula, thereby facilitating its conversion to an easily manageable stoma. Using this technique, we were able to achieve delayed primary wound closure of a grade 4 open abdomen complicated by an enteroatmospheric fistula in just under 5 weeks' time.

Simplified management of a giant forehead congenital nevus allows for early reconstruction

We report simplified surgical management of giant congenital forehead nevus that customarily requires the use of tissue expander for complete excision. Commencing treatment at the age of 3 months, the TopClosure tension relief system (TRS) was applied as an external tissue expander allowing preoperative skin stretching by mechanical creep. This was followed by partial excision of the nevus. Intraoperative stress-relaxation allowed further expansion of the skin. Postoperative wound closure was secured with the aid of the TRS. Repeated, six simple staged excisions of the forehead lesion and a minor skin graft to the eyelid part, allowed for delayed primary closure of the entire lesion by the age of 2. This simple alternative approach, which allows the early start and early conclusion of the reconstructive process, should be considered as the primary option in the treatment of these patients.

Therapeutic advances in wound healing

Wound healing is a complex physiological process that occurs in the human body involving the sequential activation of multiple cell types and signaling pathways in a coordinated manner. Chronic wounds and burns clearly decrease quality of life of the patients since they are associated with an increase in physical pain and socio-economical complications. Furthermore, incidence and prevalence of chronic wounds (unlike burns) have been increasing mainly due to population aging resulting in increased costs for national health systems. Thus, the development of new and more cost-effective technologies/therapies is not only of huge interest but also necessary to improve the long-term sustainability of national health systems. This review covers the current knowledge on recent technologies/therapies for skin regeneration, such as: wound dressings; skin substitutes; exogenous growth factor based therapy and systemic therapy; external tissue expanders; negative pressure; oxygen; shock wave, and photobiomodulation wound therapies. Associated benefits and risks as well as the clinical use and availability are all addressed for each therapy. Moreover, future trends in wound care including novel formulations using metallic nanoparticles and topical insulin are herein presented. These novel formulations have shown to be promising therapeutic options in the near future that may change the wound care paradigm.

Primary Closure of Wide Fasciotomy and Surgical Wounds Using Rubber Band-Assisted External Tissue Expansion: A Simple, Safe, and Cost-effective Technique

BACKGROUND

Although decompressive fasciotomy is a limb-saving procedure in the setting of acute compartment syndrome, it leaves a large wound defect with tissue edema and skin retraction that can preclude primary closure. Numerous techniques have been described to address the challenge of closing fasciotomy wounds. This study reports our experience with fasciotomy closure using rubber bands (RBs) for external tissue expansion.

METHODS

Patients were informed about RB closure and split-thickness skin graft options. Only patients who opted for RB closure and had wounds that could not be approximated using the pinch test underwent the procedure. Starting from the apex and progressively advancing, the RBs were applied to the skin edges at 3 to 4 mm intervals using staples. The RBs were advanced by twisting back-and-forth to create a criss-cross pattern. One week after application, fasciotomy wounds were closed primarily or underwent further RB application, based on clinical assessment of adequacy of skin advancement, compartment tension, and perfusion. Review of a prospectively maintained database was performed, including demographics, comorbidities, etiology, wound and operative details, hospital stay, and complications.

RESULTS

Seventeen consecutive patients with 25 wounds (22 fasciotomy and 3 other surgical wounds) were treated using the RB technique. Average wound length and width measured 15.7 cm (range, 5-32 cm) and 5.2 cm (range, 1-12 cm), respectively. Locations of wounds included forearm (n = 12, 48.0%), leg (n = 7, 28.0%), hand (n = 4, 16.0%), elbow (n = 1, 4.0%), and hip (n = 1, 4.0%). Eighteen of 25 wounds (72.0%) were closed primarily after 1 RB application. Additional RB application was required for 5 wounds to achieve primary closure. Between stages, patients were discharged home if they did not have other conditions requiring in-hospital stay. No complications were observed, and no revision surgeries were required. Patient satisfaction was 100%, and all indicated that they would choose the RB technique over skin grafting.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified RB technique is a simple, safe, and cost-effective alternative for treating fasciotomy and other surgical defects resulting in high patient satisfaction and good cosmetic outcome, without the need for split-thickness skin graft or flap coverage.

Relaxation systems of the skin for the closure of large mammary defects

In mammary tumors that are large relative to breast-size, complex reconstructive methods are required. We describe an alternative system of closure. In circumstances such as this, primary closure of this skin defect may be enabled by stress relaxation of the skin and the use of a tension-relief system. Tension-relief systems secures immediate primary closure of large skin defects in patients with large for breast-size tumors by placing the tension away from the skin edges. This enables early skin closure and rapid mobilization with good functionality. Optimal healing facilitates postoperative radiotherapy on time without reconstruction failure.

Skin-stretching device promotes the treatment effect of vacuum sealing drainage technique on phases III and IV stress-induced injuries in aged patients with chronic critical illness: A retrospective study of 70 patients

Stress-induced injury is a common complication associated with patients with chronic critical illness (CCI). Skin-stretching device (SSD) and vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) technique are 2 approaches that can facilitate wound healing.In the present study, the effect of the concatenated application of the 2 techniques on the phases III and IV stress-induced injuries in aged patients with CCI was assessed. About 70 patients with CCI with stress-induced injuries were selected from February 2015 to October 2017. The treatment outcomes of the combined method and VSD method were assessed by comparing their clinicopathologic parameters.The results showed that the combined treatment shortened the average healing duration of wounds. Moreover, the total area of pressure sores, incidence of bleeding, bacteria amount, 28-day cure rate, peripheral C-reactive protein (CRP) level, and the hospitalization duration were all significantly improved in patients treated with SSD and VSD. The overall effective rate (97.14%) of patients treated with VSD and SSD was significantly higher than that (77.14%) in patients treated with VSD.The present study showed that the combined application of VSD and SSD improved the treatment outcomes of phases III and IV stress-induced injuries in aged patients with CCI.

In vivo stress relaxation of human scalp

OBJECTIVE

Conduct a first in vivo study on the large deformation stress relaxation behavior of the human scalp.

METHODS

This study was conducted during Mohs micrographic surgery of the scalp of 14 patients aged 59-90 with wounds initially ranging from 9 to 41 mm wide. The initial wound diameter was measured under zero applied force. Then, the force required to close each wound using a single size 1 nylon suture and a SUTUREGARD suture retention device was measured, after which the suture was then locked in the retention device at fixed displacement. At time points of 300 s, 600 s, and 1800 s, the suture retention device was released, and the wound opening was again recorded at zero force, and the force required to close the wound was recorded.

RESULTS

The average wound closure force relaxed by 44% and 65% after 300 s and 1800 s, respectively. Average wound width decreased 30% and 42%, after 300 s and 1800 s, respectively, due to creep deformation. Furthermore, all wounds relaxed to be below 15 N of closure force after 600 s, which is considered the maximum clinically acceptable force. A relaxation time of ∼270 s and a threshold force for creep of ∼5 N was found.

SIGNIFICANCE

Results of this study provide the first quantitative clinical guidance for efficient scalp closure of large wounds by creep deformation and stress relaxation. Furthermore, the methodology developed here can be used as a basis for future in vivo studies of the stress relaxation and creep deformation of human scalp, which in turn can provide data for the development and validation of constitutive models for scalp deformation.

Closure of a full-thickness scalp burn that occurred during hair coloring using a simple skin-stretching method: A case report and review of the literature

Full-thickness scalp burns secondary to hair coloring are rare; however, such defects can be large and complex reconstruction of hair-bearing tissue may be necessary. Many skin-stretching devices that use gradual traction have been applied to take advantage of the viscoelastic properties of the skin. A 21-year-old female patient was seen with a burn defect on her occipital scalp leading to exposed subcutaneous tissue after chemical application of hair coloring in a salon. The dimensions of the wound were 10 cm×5 cm, and a skin graft or flap would have been necessary to close the defect. Two long transfixing K-wires (1.4 mm) and paired 3-wire threads (23 gauge), which are readily available in most hospitals, were applied over a period of 12 days for trichophytic closure of the defect. The remaining scalp scars after primary trichophytic closure with this skin-stretching method were refined with hair follicle transplantation. This skin-stretching method is simple to apply and valuable for helping to close problematic areas of skin shortage that would otherwise require more complicated procedures. This case shows a relatively unknown complication of hair coloring and its treatment.

Delayed Primary Closure of Traumatic Tension Wounds Using Plastic Straps and Kirschner Wires

Tension of the wound edges should be overcome with precise surgical planning, which is recognized as one of the major contributors to local complications by compromising circulation of the wound edges. In this article, it was aimed to present the clinical results of a surgical technique, in which the plastic straps and Kirschner wires are used for delayed primary closure of traumatic tension wounds. Depending on the assessment of the wound localization, wound dimension, and mobility of adjacent soft tissue, the technique was performed in 9 patients with a male to female ratio of 8:1. Gunshot injury was the leading cause (n = 5), and in most cases, the wounds were located at the lower extremities (n = 6). The mean time between performing the technique and closing the wound primarily and the mean hospitalization time were 4.8 ± 1.1 and 13.5 ± 3.9 days, respectively. In each case, wound closure and healing were achieved successfully without any serious complications. The presented technique provides advantages of using a low cost as well as a very simple equipment, improved and reliable stability during tightening process due to self-locking feature of the plastic straps, no donor site morbidity, short operating time with low rate of post-operative complications, and short hospitalization time. We recommend using this invaluable technique reliably for the treatment of traumatic tension wounds. However, further studies are needed for better evaluation of cosmetic and functional outcomes of the presented technique.

Combined treatment with vacuum sealing drainage, TopClosure device, and Ilizarov technique for traumatic hemipelvectomy: A rare case report of successful repairing of large-size soft tissue defects

RATIONALE

Traumatic hemipelvectomy is a rare but lethal catastrophic injury.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A case of a very young child with open fracture of left sacroiliac joint dislocation and pubic symphysis diastasis, suffered from a severe large-size soft tissue defects.

DIAGNOSIS

Traumatic hemipelvectomy.

INTERVENTIONS

Complete amputation was performed and three kinds of surgical techniques including regulated negative pressure-assisted wound therapy (RNPT), TopClosure device, and Ilizarov technique were jointly utilized to secure closure in the further revisions of the soft tissue injury and reconstruct reconstructive surgery.

OUTCOMES

Six months after hospital discharge, the patient was able to ambulate with a single limb and a prosthesis and she is independent in many activities of daily living currently.

LESSONS

We report this case to share experience with other clinicians in the management of this deadly extensive defects after traumatic hemipelvectomy in patients.

[Discussion on dealing skills of complex soft tissue problems in osteomyelitis treated by Ilizarov technique]

Objective

To discuss skills for the treatment of complex soft tissue problems in osteomyelitis using Ilizarov techniques.

Methods

The clinical data of 31 patients with complex soft tissue problems during the treatment of osteomyelitis with Ilizarov technique between January 2015 and June 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 23 males and 8 females, with an age of 14-67 years (mean, 37.8 years). All the patients were post-traumatic chronic osteomyelitis, the disease duration was 12 days to 16 months (mean, 6.3 months). They went through 2-8 times surgeries (mean, 3.8 times). There were 29 cases of soft tissue insertion after bone grafting; 1 case of strephopodia and calcaneal osteomyelitis with plantar skin infection defect; 1 case of the open tibial fracture postoperative infection, the skin defect of infection was more than that of bone defect. The soft tissue defect area was 4.5 cm×4.0 cm to 16.5 cm×8.5 cm. Soft tissue depression and insertion was corrected by subcutaneous insertion of Kirschner wire after slow elastic retraction. Soft tissue defects were gradually resolved through slow traction.

Results

All patients were followed up 6-24 months (mean, 11.5 months). All wounds healed by first intention, and skin graft and flap repair were not performed in the two stage. One case of strephopodia and calcaneal osteomyelitis with plantar skin infection defect was treated with slow skin traction, no secondary suture was performed; no skin ulceration was found after walking for 3 months, and the feeling was slightly lower than normal. One case of soft tissue transverse traction wound completely covered, with no bone exposure and no obvious pigmentation of local soft tissue, the feeling was slightly lower than normal, the skin elasticity was worse than normal, and the color, temperature had no obvious abnormalities. There was no severe needle eye reactions in 29 patients with skin depressions corrected by Kirschner wire. Six cases of Kirschner wire showed elastic retraction and lacerate skin; 1 case of plantar skin traction had 2 times of exudation of the needle eye and local skin reddish phenomenon; the symptoms relieved when the traction needle was changed once, the traction was stopped for 1 week, the dressing was changed and antibiotics were used once. One patient with transverse traction had 3 times of pin-eye infection, and the treatment was completed after adjusting the traction device and symptomatic treatment.

Conclusion

For most of the complex soft tissue problems in osteomyelitis, early and effective intervention with Ilizarov technique can be easily, economically, and effectively solved, which provides a new way for clinical treatment.

Management of Postfasciotomy Wounds and Skin Defects Following Complex Vascular Trauma to the Extremities Using the External Tissue Extender System

Management of large postfasciotomy wounds and/or skin and soft tissue defects after major vascular trauma to the extremities can be challenging. The External Tissue Extender (Blomqvist; ETE), a skin-stretching device, which consists of silicone tapes and plastic stoppers, approximates wound margins and facilitates delayed primary closure. We describe our experience with the use of ETE in 5 patients (4 males) with a total of 8 wounds (7 postfasciotomy, 1 soft tissue defect) over the past 12 years. The mean patient age was 32 (range 17-61) years. The wounds involved the lower limb in 3 patients and the upper limb in 2, whereas the injured arteries were the popliteal in 3, the axillary in 1, and the brachial in 1. The mean wound length was 24 cm (range 9-37 cm), and the mean number of ETE silicone tapes used per wound was 13 (range 5-19). The median duration of ETE therapy was 7 days (range 4-7). ETE therapy resulted in sufficient wound approximation to allow complete closure with conventional suturing in 7 out of the 8 wounds. Of these, one developed infection that required drainage, debridement, and resuturing. All wounds achieved satisfactory healing status and all limbs had been salvaged. In conclusion, the ETE is a useful, easy-to-use, and simple adjunct that may facilitate delayed primary closure of large postfasciotomy wounds or extensive skin and soft tissue defects following complex vascular trauma to the extremities.

Tissue expanders with a focus on extremity reconstruction

INTRODUCTION

Acute traumatic or surgical wounds that cannot be primarily closed often cause substantial morbidity and mortality. This often leads to increased costs from higher material expenses, more involved nursing care, and longer hospital stays. Advancements in soft tissue expansion has made it a popular alternative to facilitate early closure without the need for more complicated plastic surgical procedures.

AREAS COVERED

In this review, we briefly elaborate on the history and biomechanics of tissue expansion and provide comprehensive descriptions of traditional internal tissue expanders and a variety of contemporary external tissue expanders. We describe their uses, advantages, disadvantages, and clinical outcomes. The majority of articles reviewed include case series with level IV evidence. Outcome data was collected for studies after 1990 using PubMed database.

EXPERT COMMENTARY

An overall reduction in cost, time-to-wound closure, hospital length-of-stay, and infection rate may be expected with most tissue expanders. However, further studies comparing outcomes and cost-effectiveness of various expanders may be beneficial. Surgeons should be aware of the wide array of tissue expanders that are commercially available to individualize treatment based on thorough understanding of their advantages and disadvantages to optimize outcomes. We predict the use of external expanders to increase in the future and the need for more invasive procedures such as flaps to decrease.

EASApprox® skin-stretching system: A secure and effective method to achieve wound closure

Large skin defects are commonly observed in the clinic and have attracted much attention recently. Therefore, finding an effective solution for large skin defects is a global problem. The objective of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of the EASApprox^® skin-stretching system for closing large skin defects. Skin defects (5×5 cm) were created on the forearms of 9 Bama miniature pigs, which were randomly divided into the following three groups: Direct suture, the new EASApprox^® skin-stretching device and Kirschner wires. Microcirculation was assessed before surgery and after wound closure. Following the different treatments, the defects were sutured, and wound healing was assessed based on a clinical score. Furthermore, microscopic and ultramicroscopic structures were evaluated, including collagen, elastic fibers and the microvessel density. Significant differences in the clinical score and microvessel density were observed among the groups. Additionally, the mean length obtained for elastic fibers was larger than that obtained for the other two groups. Finally, the new EASApprox^® skin-stretching device resulted in successful wound management and with only minor side effects on skin histology and microcirculation. Therefore, this method has the potential to be used for healing large skin defects.

Evaluation of a new tension relief system for securing wound closure: A single-centre, Chinese cohort study

BACKGROUND

Wounds that have been closed under excessive tension, and skin defects that cannot be closed primarily, pose a daily challenge for the reconstructive surgeon.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a new tension relief system (TRS) device for skin stretching and secure wound closure.

METHODS

From September 2013 to March 2014, a consecutive series of 41 Chinese patients with 43 wounds were enrolled for application of 50 cycles of TRS therapy. TRS was used for two main clinical applications: closure of a variety of surgical/traumatic wounds; and securing wound closure after high-tension suture closure. Basic information and details regarding this therapy and its complications were recorded. Follow-up visits were conducted three to six months after wound closure.

RESULTS

Mean residual wound width decreased approximately 20% every two days during cycles of TRS therapy. Infection was the most common complication (five cases). Other complications included dehiscence (two cases) and pressure ulcer (one case). At the six-month follow-up visit, (21 wounds in 20 patients), both the extent of healing and the scar were acceptable.

DISCUSSION

There are no absolute contraindications to TRS therapy. The authors have formulated instructions for the prevention and treatment of the most common complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrate that TRS therapy is a simple, effective method for primary closure of difficult wounds, and large skin and soft-tissue defects. Larger randomized studies are required to further evaluate of the effectiveness, indications, complications and cost effectiveness of this innovative TRS therapy.

Evaluation of a new tension relief system for securing wound closure: a single-centre, Chinese cohort study

Background

Wounds that have been closed under excessive tension, and skin defects that cannot be closed primarily, pose a daily challenge for the reconstructive surgeon.

Objective

To evaluate a new tension relief system (TRS) device for skin stretching and secure wound closure.

Methods

From September 2013 to March 2014, a consecutive series of 41 Chinese patients with 43 wounds were enrolled for application of 50 cycles of TRS therapy. TRS was used for two main clinical applications: closure of a variety of surgical/traumatic wounds; and securing wound closure after high-tension suture closure. Basic information and details regarding this therapy and its complications were recorded. Follow-up visits were conducted three to six months after wound closure.

Results

Mean residual wound width decreased approximately 20% every two days during cycles of TRS therapy. Infection was the most common complication (five cases). Other complications included dehiscence (two cases) and pressure ulcer (one case). At the six-month follow-up visit, (21 wounds in 20 patients), both the extent of healing and the scar were acceptable.

Discussion

There are no absolute contraindications to TRS therapy. The authors have formulated instructions for the prevention and treatment of the most common complications.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that TRS therapy is a simple, effective method for primary closure of difficult wounds, and large skin and soft-tissue defects. Larger randomized studies are required to further evaluate of the effectiveness, indications, complications and cost effectiveness of this innovative TRS therapy.

A simple external tissue expansion technique based on viscoelastic properties of skin to attain direct closure of a large scalp defect: A case report

Background:

Direct closure of large scalp defects is not an easy task. Complicated flap designs or staged surgeries over a period of 6 months are often required. A case of a large scalp defect that was closed directly in 3 months by applying a simple external tissue expansion technique is presented in this report.

Patient Profile:

A 28-year-old male patient presented with a painful swelling of about 13 cm × 14 cm, on frontoparietal scalp. A biopsy done elsewhere reported it to be a neurofibroma. He sought tumour excision and scalp defect coverage by hair-bearing scalp in a period of less than 5 months.

Materials and Methods:

The tumour was excised and the adjacent scalp was gradually expanded with the help of an external fixator. The patient had immediate pain relief after excision. The goal of repairing scalp defect and replacing it with hairy scalp was achieved in 3 months.

Conclusion:

The mechanical device required for this technique is relatively easily accessible. It is not difficult to achieve desirable outcomes, and the same can be applied to large wounds on other areas.