RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT AFTER INJECTION OF TISSUE PLASMINOGEN ACTIVATOR AND GAS FOR SUBMACULAR HEMORRHAGE SECONDARY TO AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to describe the rate, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) after injection of tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) and gas for submacular hemorrhage displacement.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of consecutive cases developing RRD after TPA injection and gas for submacular hemorrhage displacement. The rate of RRD was calculated, and a description of RRD clinical characteristics was performed. Anatomic and visual outcomes after RRD repair were analyzed.

RESULTS

Ninety eyes of 90 patients were analyzed. Tissue plasminogen activator was given intravitreally in 53 eyes (59%) and subretinally in 37 eyes (41%). RRD occurred in 6 of 90 eyes (7%). Of these, one had intravitreal TPA and five had vitrectomy with subretinal TPA ( P = 0.04). The mean age was 75 (64-93) years. The median time of RRD occurrence was 42 (1-134) days. All cases had macular involvement. Two cases had PVR at presentation. Vitrectomy was performed in all cases and silicone oil used in five, all of which resulted in permanent silicone oil retention. One case (17%) achieved primary single surgery success. The median final visual acuity was 1.8 logMAR (20/1,260 Snellen).

CONCLUSION

The RRD rate after submacular hemorrhage displacement was 7% in our case series. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment occurred more commonly after vitrectomy with subretinal TPA injection. The visual and anatomic outcomes were poor, with a high rate of retained silicone oil and recurrent RRD.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Antartica, Cladosporium austrolitorale from coastal sea sand. Australia, Austroboletus yourkae on soil, Crepidotus innuopurpureus on dead wood, Curvularia stenotaphri from roots and leaves of Stenotaphrum secundatum and Thecaphora stajsicii from capsules of Oxalis radicosa. Belgium, Paraxerochrysium coryli (incl. Paraxerochrysium gen. nov.) from Corylus avellana. Brazil, Calvatia nordestina on soil, Didymella tabebuiicola from leaf spots on Tabebuia aurea, Fusarium subflagellisporum from hypertrophied floral and vegetative branches of Mangifera indica and Microdochium maculosum from living leaves of Digitaria insularis. Canada, Cuphophyllus bondii from a grassland. Croatia, Mollisia inferiseptata from a rotten Laurus nobilis trunk. Cyprus, Amanita exilis on calcareous soil. Czech Republic, Cytospora hippophaicola from wood of symptomatic Vaccinium corymbosum. Denmark, Lasiosphaeria deviata on pieces of wood and herbaceous debris. Dominican Republic, Calocybella goethei among grass on a lawn. France (Corsica), Inocybe corsica on wet ground. France (French Guiana), Trechispora patawaensis on decayed branch of unknown angiosperm tree and Trechispora subregularis on decayed log of unknown angiosperm tree. Germany, Paramicrothecium sambuci (incl. Paramicrothecium gen. nov.) on dead stems of Sambucus nigra. India, Aureobasidium microtermitis from the gut of a Microtermes sp. termite, Laccaria diospyricola on soil and Phylloporia tamilnadensis on branches of Catunaregam spinosa. Iran, Pythium serotinoosporum from soil under Prunus dulcis. Italy, Pluteus brunneovenosus on twigs of broadleaved trees on the ground. Japan, Heterophoma rehmanniae on leaves of Rehmannia glutinosa f. hueichingensis. Kazakhstan, Murispora kazachstanica from healthy roots of Triticum aestivum. Namibia, Caespitomonium euphorbiae (incl. Caespitomonium gen. nov.) from stems of an Euphorbia sp. Netherlands, Alfaria junci, Myrmecridium junci, Myrmecridium juncicola, Myrmecridium juncigenum, Ophioceras junci, Paradinemasporium junci (incl. Paradinemasporium gen. nov.), Phialoseptomonium junci, Sporidesmiella juncicola, Xenopyricularia junci and Zaanenomyces quadripartis (incl. Zaanenomyces gen. nov.), from dead culms of Juncus effusus, Cylindromonium everniae and Rhodoveronaea everniae from Evernia prunastri, Cyphellophora sambuci and Myrmecridium sambuci from Sambucus nigra, Kiflimonium junci, Sarocladium junci, Zaanenomyces moderatricis-academiae and Zaanenomyces versatilis from dead culms of Juncus inflexus, Microcera physciae from Physcia tenella, Myrmecridium dactylidis from dead culms of Dactylis glomerata, Neochalara spiraeae and Sporidesmium spiraeae from leaves of Spiraea japonica, Neofabraea salicina from Salix sp., Paradissoconium narthecii (incl. Paradissoconium gen. nov.) from dead leaves of Narthecium ossifragum, Polyscytalum vaccinii from Vaccinium myrtillus, Pseudosoloacrosporiella cryptomeriae (incl. Pseudosoloacrosporiella gen. nov.) from leaves of Cryptomeria japonica, Ramularia pararhabdospora from Plantago lanceolata, Sporidesmiella pini from needles of Pinus sylvestris and Xenoacrodontium juglandis (incl. Xenoacrodontium gen. nov. and Xenoacrodontiaceae fam. nov.) from Juglans regia. New Zealand, Cryptometrion metrosideri from twigs of Metrosideros sp., Coccomyces pycnophyllocladi from dead leaves of Phyllocladus alpinus, Hypoderma aliforme from fallen leaves Fuscopora solandri and Hypoderma subiculatum from dead leaves Phormium tenax. Norway, Neodevriesia kalakoutskii from permafrost and Variabilispora viridis from driftwood of Picea abies. Portugal, Entomortierella hereditatis from a biofilm covering a deteriorated limestone wall. Russia, Colpoma junipericola from needles of Juniperus sabina, Entoloma cinnamomeum on soil in grasslands, Entoloma verae on soil in grasslands, Hyphodermella pallidostraminea on a dry dead branch of Actinidia sp., Lepiota sayanensis on litter in a mixed forest, Papiliotrema horticola from Malus communis, Paramacroventuria ribis (incl. Paramacroventuria gen. nov.) from leaves of Ribes aureum and Paramyrothecium lathyri from leaves of Lathyrus tuberosus. South Africa, Harzia combreti from leaf litter of Combretum collinum ssp. sulvense, Penicillium xyleborini from Xyleborinus saxesenii, Phaeoisaria dalbergiae from bark of Dalbergia armata, Protocreopsis euphorbiae from leaf litter of Euphorbia ingens and Roigiella syzygii from twigs of Syzygium chordatum. Spain, Genea zamorana on sandy soil, Gymnopus nigrescens on Scleropodium touretii, Hesperomyces parexochomi on Parexochomus quadriplagiatus, Paraphoma variabilis from dung, Phaeococcomyces kinklidomatophilus from a blackened metal railing of an industrial warehouse and Tuber suaveolens in soil under Quercus faginea. Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Inocybe nivea associated with Salix polaris. Thailand, Biscogniauxia whalleyi on corticated wood. UK, Parasitella quercicola from Quercus robur. USA, Aspergillus arizonicus from indoor air in a hospital, Caeliomyces tampanus (incl. Caeliomyces gen. nov.) from office dust, Cippumomyces mortalis (incl. Cippumomyces gen. nov.) from a tombstone, Cylindrium desperesense from air in a store, Tetracoccosporium pseudoaerium from air sample in house, Toxicocladosporium glendoranum from air in a brick room, Toxicocladosporium losalamitosense from air in a classroom, Valsonectria portsmouthensis from air in men's locker room and Varicosporellopsis americana from sludge in a water reservoir. Vietnam, Entoloma kovalenkoi on rotten wood, Fusarium chuoi inside seed of Musa itinerans, Micropsalliota albofelina on soil in tropical evergreen mixed forests and Phytophthora docyniae from soil and roots of Docynia indica. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Osieck ER, Jurjević Ž, et al. 2021. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382. Persoonia 47: 178-374. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2021.47.06.

Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382

Novel species of fungi described in this study include those from various countries as follows: Antartica, Cladosporium austrolitorale from coastal sea sand. Australia, Austroboletus yourkae on soil, Crepidotus innuopurpureus on dead wood, Curvularia stenotaphri from roots and leaves of Stenotaphrum secundatum and Thecaphora stajsicii from capsules of Oxalis radicosa. Belgium, Paraxerochrysium coryli (incl. Paraxerochrysium gen. nov.) from Corylus avellana. Brazil, Calvatia nordestina on soil, Didymella tabebuiicola from leaf spots on Tabebuia aurea, Fusarium subflagellisporum from hypertrophied floral and vegetative branches of Mangifera indica and Microdochium maculosum from living leaves of Digitaria insularis. Canada, Cuphophyllus bondii from a grassland. Croatia, Mollisia inferiseptata from a rotten Laurus nobilis trunk. Cyprus, Amanita exilis on calcareous soil. Czech Republic, Cytospora hippophaicola from wood of symptomatic Vaccinium corymbosum. Denmark, Lasiosphaeria deviata on pieces of wood and herbaceous debris. Dominican Republic, Calocybella goethei among grass on a lawn. France (Corsica), Inocybe corsica on wet ground. France (French Guiana), Trechispora patawaensis on decayed branch of unknown angiosperm tree and Trechispora subregularis on decayed log of unknown angiosperm tree. Germany, Paramicrothecium sambuci (incl. Paramicrothecium gen. nov.) on dead stems of Sambucus nigra. India, Aureobasidium microtermitis from the gut of a Microtermes sp. termite, Laccaria diospyricola on soil and Phylloporia tamilnadensis on branches of Catunaregam spinosa. Iran, Pythium serotinoosporum from soil under Prunus dulcis. Italy, Pluteus brunneovenosus on twigs of broadleaved trees on the ground. Japan, Heterophoma rehmanniae on leaves of Rehmannia glutinosa f. hueichingensis. Kazakhstan, Murispora kazachstanica from healthy roots of Triticum aestivum. Namibia, Caespitomonium euphorbiae (incl. Caespitomonium gen. nov.) from stems of an Euphorbia sp. Netherlands, Alfaria junci, Myrmecridium junci, Myrmecridium juncicola, Myrmecridium juncigenum, Ophioceras junci, Paradinemasporium junci (incl. Paradinemasporium gen. nov.), Phialoseptomonium junci, Sporidesmiella juncicola, Xenopyricularia junci and Zaanenomyces quadripartis (incl. Zaanenomyces gen. nov.), from dead culms of Juncus effusus, Cylindromonium everniae and Rhodoveronaea everniae from Evernia prunastri, Cyphellophora sambuci and Myrmecridium sambuci from Sambucus nigra, Kiflimonium junci, Sarocladium junci, Zaanenomyces moderatricis-academiae and Zaanenomyces versatilis from dead culms of Juncus inflexus, Microcera physciae from Physcia tenella, Myrmecridium dactylidis from dead culms of Dactylis glomerata, Neochalara spiraeae and Sporidesmium spiraeae from leaves of Spiraea japonica, Neofabraea salicina from Salix sp., Paradissoconium narthecii (incl. Paradissoconium gen. nov.) from dead leaves of Narthecium ossifragum, Polyscytalum vaccinii from Vaccinium myrtillus, Pseudosoloacrosporiella cryptomeriae (incl. Pseudosoloacrosporiella gen. nov.) from leaves of Cryptomeria japonica, Ramularia pararhabdospora from Plantago lanceolata, Sporidesmiella pini from needles of Pinus sylvestris and Xenoacrodontium juglandis (incl. Xenoacrodontium gen. nov. and Xenoacrodontiaceae fam. nov.) from Juglans regia. New Zealand, Cryptometrion metrosideri from twigs of Metrosideros sp., Coccomyces pycnophyllocladi from dead leaves of Phyllocladus alpinus, Hypoderma aliforme from fallen leaves Fuscopora solandri and Hypoderma subiculatum from dead leaves Phormium tenax. Norway, Neodevriesia kalakoutskii from permafrost and Variabilispora viridis from driftwood of Picea abies. Portugal, Entomortierella hereditatis from a biofilm covering a deteriorated limestone wall. Russia, Colpoma junipericola from needles of Juniperus sabina, Entoloma cinnamomeum on soil in grasslands, Entoloma verae on soil in grasslands, Hyphodermella pallidostraminea on a dry dead branch of Actinidia sp., Lepiota sayanensis on litter in a mixed forest, Papiliotrema horticola from Malus communis, Paramacroventuria ribis (incl. Paramacroventuria gen. nov.) from leaves of Ribes aureum and Paramyrothecium lathyri from leaves of Lathyrus tuberosus. South Africa, Harzia combreti from leaf litter of Combretum collinum ssp. sulvense, Penicillium xyleborini from Xyleborinus saxesenii, Phaeoisaria dalbergiae from bark of Dalbergia armata, Protocreopsis euphorbiae from leaf litter of Euphorbia ingens and Roigiella syzygii from twigs of Syzygium chordatum. Spain, Genea zamorana on sandy soil, Gymnopus nigrescens on Scleropodium touretii, Hesperomyces parexochomi on Parexochomus quadriplagiatus, Paraphoma variabilis from dung, Phaeococcomyces kinklidomatophilus from a blackened metal railing of an industrial warehouse and Tuber suaveolens in soil under Quercus faginea. Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Inocybe nivea associated with Salix polaris. Thailand, Biscogniauxia whalleyi on corticated wood. UK, Parasitella quercicola from Quercus robur. USA, Aspergillus arizonicus from indoor air in a hospital, Caeliomyces tampanus (incl. Caeliomyces gen. nov.) from office dust, Cippumomyces mortalis (incl. Cippumomyces gen. nov.) from a tombstone, Cylindrium desperesense from air in a store, Tetracoccosporium pseudoaerium from air sample in house, Toxicocladosporium glendoranum from air in a brick room, Toxicocladosporium losalamitosense from air in a classroom, Valsonectria portsmouthensis from air in men's locker room and Varicosporellopsis americana from sludge in a water reservoir. Vietnam, Entoloma kovalenkoi on rotten wood, Fusarium chuoi inside seed of Musa itinerans, Micropsalliota albofelina on soil in tropical evergreen mixed forests and Phytophthora docyniae from soil and roots of Docynia indica. Morphological and culture characteristics are supported by DNA barcodes. Citation: Crous PW, Osieck ER, Jurjević Ž, et al. 2021. Fungal Planet description sheets: 1284-1382. Persoonia 47: 178-374. https://doi.org/10.3767/persoonia.2021.47.06.

Surgical Management of Intraocular Silicone Oil Microdroplet

PURPOSE

Intraocular silicone oil microdroplets have been described after intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF agents packaged at a compound pharmacy. We present a case with the presence of an intraocular silicone oil microdroplet after a vitreoretinal operation using disposable instruments, and the surgical technique for its removal.

METHODS

A 59-year-old patient who had been operated on for vitreous opacities using a disposable 27-g vitrectomy kit complained of a small round structure floating in the eye. It appeared a few days after surgery. The bubble was not present at all times and it disappeared for days on end. Clinical examination of the vitreous and retina during these uneventful periods was normal. The bubble reappeared intermittently without a link to any specific movement for some time but was again absent once the patient was examined. The physical properties of the mobile round lesion could be identified as lighter than aqueous humor, as it was described as being in the center of the visual field if the head was tilted forward.

RESULTS

As the patient was very bothered by this bubble, a 23-g vitrectomy was performed. During deep indentation of the pars plana over 360 degrees, a tiny bubble of silicone oil could be found buried in the peripheral vitreous base, and controlled aspiration under deep indentation was performed. The patient has been without symptoms since the removal of the droplet and made an uneventful clinical recovery.

CONCLUSION

Microdroplets of silicone oil may be present in disposable vitreoretinal instruments and stay in the eye after surgery, causing a visual disturbance. The origin of these droplets may be linked to the plastic tubing of the instruments.

Treatment of extra-articular and simple articular distal radial fractures with intramedullary nail versus volar locking plate

The purpose of this prospective, randomized and blinded study was to compare the clinical outcomes of distal radial fractures treated with either an intramedullary nail or a volar locking plate. Sixty two patients were enrolled in the study and randomized to treatment with a MICRONAILTM (Group 1, 31 patients) or an adaptive plate (Group 2, 31 patients). Fracture types included were unstable extra-articular metaphyseal distal radial fractures and simple or multifragmentary sagittal articular distal radial fractures (AO classification types A2, A3, B1.1 and B1.2). All patients were evaluated at 6 weeks, 3 months and 12 months after surgery. Outcome measures included standard radiographic parameters, active wrist range of motion, the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) and Mayo wrist scores. We concluded that treatment of this subset of distal radius fractures with minimally invasive intramedullary nailing gives better clinical outcomes at 6 weeks after surgery than treatment with a volar locking plate. By 3 and 12 months following surgery, there are no significant differences in outcome between the two treatment methods. Disadvantages of the MICRONAIL™ fixation system include risk of injury to the superficial branch of the radial nerve and a narrower spectrum of indications than volar locking plates.

[Computer-assisted kinematic 2D and 3D navigation in medial opening-wedge high-tibial valgus osteotomy]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The aim of the study was to assess the accuracy of axis deformity correction achieved by high-tibial valgus osteotomy either without or with a computer-assisted kinematic navigation system, on the basis of comparing the planned and the achieved frontal axis of the leg. Comparisons of mechanical axis deviation were made using both pre- and post-operative measurements with the planning software and intra-operative measurements with the navigation system before and after osteotomy. In addition, the aim was to test the hypothesis that the use of 3D navigation, as compared with 2D navigation, would help reduce changes in the tibial plateau slope

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the period 2008-2011, high-tibial osteotomy was performed in 68 patients. Twenty-one patients (group 1) underwent osteotomy without the use of navigation and 47 patients (group 2) had osteotomy with a computer-assisted navigation system (32 with 2D navigation and 15 with 3D navigation). Using the planning software, the mechanical leg axis before and after surgery and the anatomical dorsal proximal tibial angle in the sagittal plane were assessed. Medial openingwedge high-tibial valgus osteotomy was carried out in all patients. When using 2D navigation, the mechanical leg axis was measured intra-operatively before osteotomy and then after osteosynthesis which included a simulated axial load of the heel. When using 3D navigation, the procedure was identical and furthermore involved a measurement of the tibial plateau slope obtained with an additional probe in the proximal fragment. The results were characterised using descriptive statistics and their significance was evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon's test, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

In group 1, osteotomy resulted in good correction of the mechanical axis in nine patients (43%), inadequate correction in nine (43%) and overcorrection and three (14%) patients. In group 2 with the use of navigation, accurate correction of the mechanical leg axis was achieved in 24 patients (51%), undercorrection was recorded in 21 (45%) and overcorrection in two (4%) patients. The difference in outcomes between the two groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.73). The average correction of the mechanical axis based on comparing measurements on pre- and post-operative radiographs was 9.1 degrees (range, 5-27 degrees); the average correction of the axis visualised intra-operatively was 8.7 degrees (range, 4-27 degrees). The difference was not significant (p = 0.1615) and confirmed our hypothesis that the accuracy of measuring the mechanical axis was not influenced by the method used. The average change in the dorsal slope of the tibial plateau following osteotomy without navigation was 0.9 degrees (range, -8.9 to 9.0 degrees) and that after osteotomy with intra-operative visualisation of the proximal tibial slope was 0.3 degrees (range, -4 to 4 degrees). This difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.813).

DISCUSSION

A good clinical outcome of high-tibial valgus osteotomy depends on achieving accurate correction of the mechanical leg axis with partial load transfer to the lateral compartment of the knee.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the number of cases with good correction was slightly higher in the patients undergoing osteotomy with navigation, the difference was not significant. Intra-operative visualisation of the mechanical axis proved sufficiently accurate on comparison with the pre-operative planning based on weight-bearing radiography of the leg. A simulated axial load of the heel included in the kinematic navigation system does not sufficiently correspond to normal weight-bearing and therefore an undercorrection of the deformity might occur. Using 3D navigation had no marked effect on a change in the slope of the tibial plateau.

Does the posterolateral bundle influence rotational movement more than the anteromedial bundle in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?

The biomechanical function of the anteromedial (AM) and posterolateral (PL) bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) remains controversial. Some studies report that the AM bundle stabilises the knee joint in anteroposterior (AP) translation and rotational movement (both internal and external) to the same extent as the PL bundle. Others conclude that the PL bundle is more important than the AM in controlling rotational movement.

The objective of this randomised cohort study involving 60 patients (39 men and 21 women) with a mean age of 32.9 years (18 to 53) was to evaluate the function of the AM and the PL bundles of the ACL in both AP and rotational movements of the knee joint after single-bundle and double-bundle ACL reconstruction using a computer navigation system. In the double-bundle group the patients were also randomised to have the AM or the PL bundle tensioned first, with knee laxity measured after each stage of reconstruction. All patients had isolated complete ACL tears, and the presence of a meniscal injury was the only supplementary pathology permitted for inclusion in the trial. The KT-1000 arthrometer was used to apply a constant load to evaluate the AP translation and the rolimeter was used to apply a constant rotational force. For the single-bundle group deviation was measured before and after ACL reconstruction. In the double-bundle group deviation was measured for the ACL-deficient, AM- or PL-reconstructed first conditions and for the total reconstruction.

We found that the AM bundle in the double-bundle group controlled rotation as much as the single-bundle technique, and to a greater extent than the PL bundle in the double-bundle technique. The double-bundle technique increases AP translation and rotational stability in internal rotation more than the single-bundle technique.

[Hamstring versus quadriceps tendon graft in double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate functional outcomes and knee joint stability after double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using three-tunnel quadriceps tendon-bone graft and four-tunnel hamstring graft (semi-tendinosus and gracilis muscles).

MATERIAL

Group 1 included 20 patients undergoing reconstruction with quadriceps tendon- bone graft group; 2 comprised of 20 patients treated by hamstring graft. There were 26 men and 14 women, with an average age of 27 (range, 16 to 44) years. The minimum follow-up period was one year.

METHODS

In group 1 patients, semi-anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction was performed by a three-tunnel technique (two tunnels in the femur and one in the tibia) using quadriceps femoris muscle graft. Group 2 patients were treated by anatomic four-tunnel reconstruction (two tunnels in the femur and two in the tibia) with the use of hamstring graft. Functional outcomes were evaluated on the basis of Lysholm and IKDC scores. Antero-posterior stability was measured with aKT-1000 arthrometer and rotational stability was assessed by the pivot-shift test. For statistical evaluation, the level of significance (p) was set at < 0.05.

RESULTS

The final evaluation showed an average Lysholm score of 88.9 ± 12 (76-100) points for group 1, and 87.9 ± 11 (62-100) points for group 2; there was no statistically significant difference. The rounded average result of the functional IKDC score after surgery was the same in the two groups (80 ± 10). The joints treated by the three-tunnel technique had on average better antero-posterior stability, but this was not statistically significant. The pivot-shift phenomenon was not seen in either of the groups. Operative times in both groups were comparable. An intra-operative fracture of the patella occurred in two patients of group 1.

DISCUSSION

No similar prospective study comparing the outcomes of the methods reported here has been found in the internatio- nal literature. The studies so far published have not included any such comparison or they compared other techniques, such as single- versus double-bundle reconstructions.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on Lysholm and IKDC score evaluation and antero-posterior and rotational stability assessment, it can be concluded that both the three- and the four-tunnel technique of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction gave similar results, with no significant differences, at one-year follow-up. However, these are only short-term results and only a long-term follow-up can prove or disprove the validity of this conclusion.

Epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica (Hallopeau-Siemens) an der Hand - Operative Strategie und Ergebnisse

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa is an inherited, blister-forming skin disease. The Hallopeau-Siemens syndrome type is one of the most severe forms. Even minimal trauma to the skin leads to excessive blister formation that always heals with scars because the defect is located in the dermis at the dermoepidermal junction. A genetic defect of collagen VII leads to insufficient or missing anchoring fibrils. The patients suffer from protein loss, anaemia, secondary infections, oesophageal strictures, malignant transformation and hand deformities. These present as pseudosyndactyly, flexion contractures and, in advanced stages, as a mitten-like deformity. This results in the complete loss of function of the hands and consequently to severe psychosocial problems for the young patients. There is no cure for this disease at present, so surgical treatment of the hand deformities is the only option. From 1998 to 2002 seven hands in four patients were operated on in our clinic. Operations included pseudosyndactyly separation, arthrolysis with Kirschner-wire fixation of finger joints, as well as "metacarpolysis" of the thumb. Redressing splints/dressings were applied. Spontaneous epithelialisation was awaited and was complete within four weeks without problems. Afterwards customised silicon splints and cotton gloves are complimented by intensive physiotherapy. There were no serious complications. Recurrence is unavoidable, but we could restore basic hand functions for at least 2.5 years. Postoperative care is important to postpone reoperations. We prefer the most simple operative procedure as described without skin grafts, flaps or keratinocyte transplants, because a comparable outcome is achieved with less trauma and stress for the patients.

Remote hot spots mediate protein substrate recognition for the Cdc25 phosphatase

Cdc25B is a phosphatase that catalyzes the dephosphorylation and activation of the cyclin-dependent kinases, thus driving cell cycle progression. We have identified two residues, R488 and Y497, located >20 A from the active site, that mediate protein substrate recognition without affecting activity toward small-molecule substrates. Injection of Cdc25B wild-type but not the R488L or Y497A variants induces germinal vesicle breakdown and cyclin-dependent kinase activation in Xenopus oocytes. The conditional knockout of the cdc25 homolog (mih1) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae can be complemented by the wild type but not by the hot spot variants, indicating that protein substrate recognition by the Cdc25 phosphatases is an essential and evolutionarily conserved feature.

Frozen Section in Laparoscopic Management of Macroscopically Suspicious Ovarian Masses

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To study the usefulness of and applications for frozen section in the laparoscopic management of adnexal masses.

DESIGN

Historical prospective study (Canadian Task Force classification II-3).

SETTING

Large tertiary care hospital with university affiliation.

PATIENTS

One hundred forty-one women undergoing laparoscopy for a suspicious adnexal mass.

INTERVENTION

Adnexal masses suspicious on ultrasound were managed by laparoscopy. After laparoscopic diagnosis, frozen sections were used to confirm a diagnosis of malignancy. Treatment was performed by laparoscopy whenever feasible.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The results of frozen section were compared with the results of permanent sections, and the consequences of the intraoperative diagnosis on the surgical management were evaluated. The frozen section diagnosis was correct in 125 of the 141 patients (88.7%). In one patient, the result was false negative. Specifically, frozen section diagnosis was correct in 96.8% of cases when a cyst or biopsy was sent for pathologic examination and in 86.4% when the whole adnexa was sent. It was correct in 93% of the cases involving tumors smaller than 100 mm and in 74% of larger tumors. It was correct in 92.3% of the women younger than 50 years and in 81.6% of women older than age 50. Intraoperative pathologic diagnosis was correct in 95.5% of benign tumors, 77.8% of low-malignancy tumors, and 75% of cancer cases.

CONCLUSION

Frozen section is a useful examination for surgical management decision making; however, the limitations and the difficulties should be taken into account.

[Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa: surgical treatment of advanced hand deformities]

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (Hallopeau-Siemens, recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa) is a rare inherited disorder of the skin and mucosa, characterized by blistering in response to the slightest mechanical trauma. Healing is associated with scarring and the formation of contractures and milia. Following repetitive trauma (friction), this process leads to severe hand deformities with digits contracted in flexion, the thumb contracted in adduction and pseudo-syndactyly. In advanced cases (as described here), the hands show a mitten-like deformity and digits are encased in an epidermal "cocoon". This results in complete loss of function with major consequences for both the patient's (children's) daily life and their psychosocial development. We demonstrate the advantages of the (simplified) surgical procedure including "de-cocooning"/degloving, syndactyly-release, release of the thumb and the digital joint contractures and Kirschner-wire stabilization. Spontaneous epithelialisation of skin defects proved to be unproblematic and advantageous compared to skin transplantations, flaps, keratinocyte transplantations and other more ambitious procedures. Reviewing the published long-term results of other methods, we favour the procedure described because it simplifies and accelerates the overall treatment. From 1998 to 2001, we treated three children with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and five hands were operated. A total number of 23 interventions was necessary (21 x using face masks, 2 x oral intubation). Pseudo-syndactyly (digits II - V, partially or totally) occurred in four hands after six to ten months. Flexion contractures of the digits occurred in two hands after eight to ten months. Limitating adduction contracture of the thumb occurred in two hands after eight to twelve months. Digital function (pinch and grasp) was actually preserved in two hands for 15 to 30 months. An active surgical approach is justified by the gain in functional improvement of the hand - even if only temporary - and, consecutively, by the positive effect on the child's development.

Laparoscopic management of adnexal masses: a gold standard?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review recent literature on the laparoscopic management of adnexal masses, when this approach may be considered as a gold standard.

RECENT FINDINGS

Cyst rupture was recently demonstrated to be a significant prognostic factor in stage I invasive epithelial carcinoma, and it was recommended to restrict the laparoscopic approach to patients with preoperative evidence that the cyst was benign. The laparoscopic approach is still highly controversial in masses suspicious at ultrasound. The limits of the laparoscopic approach are discussed reviewing recent literature and our experience. The laparoscopic management of adnexal masses appears to be safe in most hospitals even in developing countries. This approach is being used with increasing frequency in unusual indications such as newborns, children, adolescents and pregnant women. The learning curve for endoscopic surgery appears to be longer than expected. Many patients with benign adnexal masses, such as ovarian endometrioma, are still treated by laparotomy or with an inadequate endoscopic technique. Several studies have suggested that the stripping technique is a tissue-sparing procedure.

SUMMARY

The laparoscopic puncture of malignant ovarian tumours confined to the ovaries is uncommon, and should be avoided whenever possible. The teaching of endoscopy is essential to promote adequate procedures performed according to the principles of microsurgery and to preserve postoperative ovarian physiology.

Vasoseal after intra-aortic balloon pump removal: a pilot study

Vascular complications after removal of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) have been reported to occur in up to 15% of patients. Vasoseal, a vascular hemostasis device (VHD), has been shown to be safe and effective in rapidly achieving hemostasis after a cardiac catheterization or percutaneous coronary intervention. We propose that similar results can be obtained with the VHD when removing an IABP. However, it is necessary to first gain first the experience of deploying the VHD without insertion of a guidewire. We studied 10 patients in whom Vasoseal was utilized after an IABP was removed. The primary endpoint was a composite of major or minor bleeding, infection, and any vascular complication at 7 days. The time to achieve hemostasis was also assessed. There was not a single episode of bleeding, infection, or vascular injury at 7 days. The time to hemostasis ranged between 8 and 17 min (mean, 12.9 min). This VHD can be utilized safely and efficaciously when removing an IABP.

An unusual case of bilateral coronary artery fistulas--a case report

The authors report an unusual case with bilateral coronary artery fistulas at the origin of the coronary cusps. The diagnostic technique and management are discussed.

Rescue PTCA complicated by pulmonary artery rupture after tPA and abciximab

Since the introduction of pulmonary artery catheterization for hemodynamic monitoring, several complications associated with its use have been described. Pulmonary artery rupture is an infrequent complication of flow-directed pulmonary artery catheters. We report a case of pulmonary artery rupture complicating rescue PTCA in the presence of systemic platelet inhibition with abciximab (Reopro), anticoagulation, and thrombolytic therapy. With the increasing use of these medications in patients undergoing acute coronary interventions, particularly those patients requiring hemodynamic monitoring, this uncommon but potentially fatal complication may be seen more frequently.

Autoantibodies in pernicious anemia type I patients recognize sequence 251-256 in human intrinsic factor

Pernicious anemia is an organ-specific autoimmune disease characterized by cobalamin deficiency, megaloblastic anemia, neuropathy, and autoimmune gastritis with anti-intrinsic factor autoantibodies. Type 1 anti-intrinsic factor autoantibodies block the cobalamin binding site of the intrinsic factor, a gastric protein required for the assimilation of cobalamin. The aim of our study was to identify the epitope domain of type 1 antibodies. Different series of peptides derived from the intrinsic factor sequence were synthesized and tested for antibody binding in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, radioisotope assay, gel filtration, and SDS-PAGE autoradiography. One of these peptides, named IF-R7 (the intrinsic factor aminoacid sequence 251-265), showed a type 1 antibody binding activity and inhibited, in vitro, their blocking activity with Ki at 2.3 microM. The cross-linking of IF-R7 to beta-lactoglobulin produced type 1 anti-intrinsic factor antibodies in immunized sheep. In vivo Schilling tests performed on guinea pigs also revealed IF-R7 peptide inhibition of type 1 antibody blocking activity. 256Ser, 258Lys, 262Tyr and 265Val of the IF-R7 were essential for the epitope recognition. Reactivity with type 1 antibodies was found in IF-R7 homologous peptides from herpesvirus Saimiri and from pathogenic Escherichia coli. In conclusion, the epitope of type 1 anti-intrinsic factor autoantibodies is located in the 251-265 amino acid sequence of the protein. The identification of this epitope will enable the definition of an experimental animal model of anti-IF autoimmunity in order to study the pathogenesis of pernicious anemia.

[Possibilities and limits of intramedullary Kirschner wire osteosynthesis in treatment of metacarpal fractures]

An alternative method for treating metacarpal fractures using intramedullary Kirschner-wire pinning is presented. This procedure does not immobilize the metacarpophalangeal joint, thus allowing early motion exercises of the affected hand which is of particular advantage in fractures of the metacarpal neck. Since May 1993, we have treated 33 patients with 37 fractures; the fifth metacarpal was involved in each case. An awl is used to prepare an opening in the cortex for insertion of two or three pre-bent K-wires which are then advanced distally from the base of the metacarpal bone. The hand is immobilized on a plaster splint for one week. Work load is increased after three weeks. With the exception of three cases, our patients achieved free movement of the fingers with anatomical alignment of the fracture site at the time of wire removal. Three cases were re-operated upon due to K-wire migration or fracture displacement. Ideal indications for this procedure are distal transverse and short oblique fractures.

[Pseudarthrosis of the capitate bone. Report of 2 cases]

Well protected by its central position and richly vascularized, the capitate bone is rarely involved in posttraumatic pseudarthrosis. Drawing on two cases, the present study will describe anatomy, aetiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of pseudarthroses of the capitate. Restoration of the physiological capitate height was achieved in both cases with a corticocancellous bone graft from the iliac crest which led on to bony union within three months.

Purification by cobalamin-Sepharose affinity chromatography and intrinsic factor-binding activity of an extramembrane proteolytic product from pig ileal mucosa

We have purified a cobalamin-binding protein obtained by papain digestion of pig intestine by cobalamin-AH-Sepharose affinity chromatography, with a purification factor of 17,300, a yield of 63% and a cobalamin-binding activity of 11,260 pmol/mg of protein. The protein contained 3.8% carbohydrate and was O- and N-glycosylated. Its molecular mass was 69 kDa on SDS/PAGE and its isoelectric point was 5.1. It had a binding activity for both [57Co]cobalamin and [57Co]cobalamin-intrinsic factor in native PAGE autoradiography and it inhibited the binding of intrinsic factor to the intact intestinal receptor with an IC50 of 49.31 nmol/l in a radioisotope assay. In conclusion, the purified protein shared a binding activity for both cobalamin and intrinsic factor-cobalamin complexes and could correspond to the extracellular domain of the ileal intrinsic factor receptor.

Decreased activity of intestinal and urinary intrinsic factor receptor in Gräsbeck-Imerslund disease [corrected]

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The pathogenesis of inherited intestinal cobalamin malabsorption (Gräsbeck-Imerslund disease) remains unknown. The authors studied whether the disease corresponds to a defective expression and/or function of the intrinsic factor-cobalamin receptor in the ileum.

METHODS

Intrinsic factor-cobalamin receptor activity was measured using radioisotope assay and gel-filtration exclusion chromatography in ileal biopsy specimens and urine concentrates from 4 patients with Gräsbeck-Imerslund disease and 5 controls.

RESULTS

Receptor activity was 164 +/- 13 fmol/mg of protein in control biopsy specimens and < 2.6 fmol/mg protein in specimens from patients. The association constant was estimated to be 3.8 +/- 0.4 (nmol/L)-1 in controls. A dramatic decrease in receptor activity was also observed in urine concentrate from patients with an association constant of 1.9 and 3.3 (nmol/L)-1. Isoelectrofocusing of the cross-linked intrinsic factor-cobalamin receptor complex showed an isoelectric point at 4.8 in a patient as well as in control samples.

CONCLUSIONS

It is concluded that Gräsbeck-Imerslund disease is related to decreased intrinsic factor-receptor activity in intestinal mucosa; the receptor assay in urine can be helpful for diagnosis.

Intrinsic factor covalently bound to Sepharose as affinity medium for the purification of a soluble intrinsic factor receptor from human urine

We have identified a soluble receptor for intrinsic factor (IF) in human urine. The purification of this protein by affinity chromatography required a preliminary purification of IF from hog pyloric mucosal extract. This was achieved by thermolabile cobalamin-ethanol-aminohexane Sepharose affinity chromatography with a 133-fold purification, a yield of 45% and a specific binding activity of 15720 pmol/mg protein. The purified Cbl-IF complex was coupled to epoxy-Sepharose with a yield of 23.8% and a specific activity of 1.2 nmol per mol of gel. The soluble IF receptor was purified form 200 ml of urine concentrate of pregnant women. Desorption was performed at pH 5.0 and in the presence of 5 mM EDTA. The soluble IF receptor was purified 17,200-fold with a yield of 52% and a IF binding capacity of 3260 pmol per mg of protein. A single protein with a Mr of 70,000 was found in silver-stained SDS-PAGE.

Presence of elevated levels of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in lung adenocarcinoma pleural effusions

Significant tumor stroma development is a specific feature of adenocarcinoma of the lung in comparison to small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). The fibrotic component of tumor stroma is thought to result from the migration and local replication of mesenchymal cells in response to the presence of cytokines. One of them, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), is a chemotactic and growth factor for mesenchymal cells. Since several lung adenocarcinoma cell lines, but not SCLC cell lines, have been shown in vitro to express PDGF genes, we evaluated pleural effusions for the presence of PDGF in patients with adenocarcinoma of the lung, SCLC, or nonmalignant pleural effusions. In adenocarcinoma of the lung, PDGF levels in pleural effusions were higher than in SCLC and in nonmalignant pleural effusions and were associated with the presence of a growth-promoting activity for fibroblasts due, in part, to the presence of PDGF. This observation suggests the role of PDGF in tumor stroma formation in adenocarcinoma of the lung.

[Contralateral finger transplantation for reconstruction of thumb function]

Finger transplantation from the contralateral hand for the purpose of thumb reconstruction is rarely performed, more widespread use of this procedure being prevented by the psychological problems for the patients. Two cases are described, in which a previously damaged index finger of the contralateral hand was transplanted. The metacarpophalangeal joint of the index finger replaced that of the thumb in both cases. A strong pinch grip with sensibility was achieved. The aesthetic result was substantially improved, both on the donor and the recipient hand.