Lipoma removal with mini incision

Do the Clinical Characteristics of Lipomas Influence the Incision Length During Minimal Incision Extraction?

BACKGROUND

Minimal incision extraction technique is widely accepted for the surgical removal of lipomas, but no consensus for the incision length has been made yet.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical characteristics of lipomas which affect the minimal incision length during the minimal incision extraction.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 50 patients who underwent minimal incision extraction for 55 medium-sized (3-5 cm) or large lipomas (> 5 cm) between March 2020 and May 2022. If the mass is not fully dissected, or adequate visual field for hemostasis was not provided through the initial one-third incision, the incision was extended to the minimal extent.

RESULTS

There were 33 males and 17 females with a mean age of 53.5 ± 12.7 years. There was no statistical difference in the minimal % incision length, defined as [(incision length) / (tumor diameter)] x 100, between the medium-sized (n = 31) and large lipomas (n = 24). Lipomas of the long incision group (minimal % incision length ≥66.7%, n = 21) had a higher frequency of head and neck location than lipomas of the short incision group (minimal % incision length <66.7%, n = 34) (odds ratio = 14.5, P < .05). However, no association was found between the tumor diameter or depth and the minimal % incision length. The occurrence of postoperative complications was not associated also (P = .296).

CONCLUSION

The minimal % incision length for lipoma removal does not show statistical difference between medium-sized and large lipomas, and is affected by its anatomical location, but not by tumor diameter or depth.

A review and critical appraisal of central axis flaps in axillary and elbow contractures

Contractures of the axilla and elbow can produce a significant impact on quality of life by reducing the ability to perform activities of daily living. Varieties of techniques are available for resurfacing defects following contracture release but graft or flap loss, donor-site morbidity, esthetics, and recurrences are still challenges for reconstructive surgeons. Central axis "propeller" flaps based on a random, subcutaneous pedicle were first described for axillary and elbow contractures to deploy the unburnt skin of axillary dome in type I and II contractures (Kurtzman and Stern) by moving them 90° to straddle the contracting bands. This strategy provided better esthetics and avoided prolonged splinting. Over more than two decades, there have been several design modifications of these flaps with extended applications to cubital fossa. A comprehensive review of published literature on the topic is presented to discuss classifications, design modifications, and applications of such flaps in managing axillary and elbow contractures.

Minimal-Scar Segmental Extraction of Lipomas: Study of 122 Consecutive Procedures

BACKGROUND

Surgical extirpation of lipomas that occur in cosmetically conspicuous areas of the body leaves a visible scar that is usually disfiguring. Minimal-scar segmental extraction (MSE) employs a much smaller incision and extraction and is particularly useful in exposed parts of the body. It can be easily performed in an office setting.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the merits of MSE in clinical practice. Unlike other reports in the literature that describe, anecdotally, minimally invasive methods of lipoma removal, our study examined a new method by carefully measuring the results in a larger group of consecutive patients treated using this technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study was performed using data from 91 consecutive patients with a total of 122 lipomas that were treated using MSE. MSE of lipomas consists of a small stab incision and blind dissection of the tumor followed by its extraction in a segmental fashion. This procedure involves small instrumentation, minimal dissection with preservation of contour, and complete removal of the lipoma, including substantial portions of the capsule. Clinical data, including complications, outcomes, and recurrence rates, were recorded.

RESULTS

The procedure was well tolerated by patients, who were pleased with the results, particularly the small scar. The incidence of complications was 1.6% (n = 2) and consisted of hematoma (n = 1) and seroma (n = 1). The recurrence rate was 0.8% (n = 1). No long-term morbidity was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

The technical ease with which the MSE can be performed, coupled with a low recurrence rate, makes it a very cost-effective operation. The smaller postoperative scars, rapid healing, and low morbidity allow for better patient acceptance. We recognize the advantages and limitations of this procedure and encourage its use in selected patients.