The use of superficial circumflex iliac perforator (SCIP) pedicle vein for lymphovenous anastomosis to treat inguinal lymphatic fistula: A case report

The management of lymphatic fistulas following surgical procedures, in particular after inguinal lymphadenectomy, represents a significant clinical challenge. The current case report shows the novel use of the superficial circumflex iliac perforator (SCIP) pedicle vein for lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) to treat a chronic inguinal lymphatic fistula in a 58-year-old male patient. This patient had developed a persistent lymphorrhea and wound dehiscence after a right inguinal lymph node biopsy performed for oncological reasons 1.5 months before. Pre-operative assessment with indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography confirmed a substantial lymphatic contribution to the wound discharge, thus guiding the surgical strategy. During the procedure, a pedicled tissue segment containing the SCIV was dissected and utilized to fill the wound's dead space and facilitate LVA with the leaking lymphatic vessel. Notably, a coupler device was employed for the anastomosis due to the large caliber of the lymphatic vessel involved, a technique not commonly reported in lymphatic surgeries. The result of the procedure was successful, with intra-operative ICG imaging confirming the patency of the anastomosis. After surgery the wound healed without complications. This case illustrates the potential of SCIV employment in lymphatic fistula repair in the inguinal region. While further research is needed to validate these findings, this report provides an unconventional approach to a relatively common problem in clinical practice.

Head and neck reconstruction with the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) free flap: Lessons learned after 73 cases

BACKGROUND

Head and neck tissue defects after ablative surgery often require complex and composite reconstructions. The superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap is an extremely versatile perforator-based flap with minimal donor site morbidity, which may represent the optimal procedure in this setting. Over the last 5 years, we collected a large base of experience, including both simple and chimeric SCIP-based reconstruction, making this flap our first choice for head and neck reconstructions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Seventy-three patients undergoing ablative head and neck surgery for oncologic pathologies were treated by means of a SCIP flap reconstruction. Patients' mean age was 67 years old (range 37-89), 51 were males and 22 were females. Fifty-eight flaps were simple and 15 were chimeric reconstruction patterns. Indocyanine green perfusion imaging was performed in all cases.

RESULTS

All the patients were successfully treated with no flap losses were encountered. Twelve patients encountered postoperative complications: in four cases revision surgery was required for venous congestion, while the remaining cases were managed conservatively (four wound dehiscence and three infections). No patients showed donor site complications. The mean follow-up period was 11 months (range 3-24).

CONCLUSIONS

Our case series demonstrates the reliability and versatility of the SCIP flap for different kinds of head and neck reconstructions. The chimeric options combined with bone, double skin paddle, and muscle offer a broad variety of functional reconstructive solutions for complex head and neck surgeries. Intraoperative indocyanine green perfusion examination provides a valuable tool to assess and ascertain proper vascularization and post-anastomosis vessel patency in complex microvascular flap-based reconstructions.

Revisiting the pedicled circumflex scapular artery (pCSA) perforator flap: From simple to complex locoregional reconstructions

BACKGROUND

Soft tissue defects involving the axilla and the upper back region are often complex to treat. The complexity of these defects may be extremely different, ranging from superficial skin damage to large loss of substance with lymphatic drainage impairment. The pedicled circumflex scapular artery (pCSA) perforator flap represents a valid procedure in this setting. It can be tailored according to the patient's needs, and its intraseptal pedicle allows a quick dissection with a wide range of motion.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-four consecutive patients treated by means of pCSA perforator flap were included. All the flaps were pedicled and were used for locoregional reconstructions. The etiology of the defects was an oncologic resection in 15 cases, acne/hidradenitis suppurativa resection in 6 cases, lymphatic complication in 2 cases, and burn in 1 case. Patients' mean age was 61 years old; seventeen were males and seven were females.

RESULTS

All the patients were successfully treated with good aesthetic and functional results. One patient presented with a wound dehiscence, which required secondary surgical treatment. No partial or complete flap losses were encountered. Primary closure of the donor site was achieved in all cases. The mean follow-up period was 10.5 months (range 6-12).

CONCLUSIONS

This case series shows the reliability and versatility of the pCSA perforator flap for locoregional reconstructions. Because of its rich vascularisation, extensive or unconventionally-shaped flaps are possible. Moreover, its lymphatic rich tissues make it suitable for the treatment of complications related to axillary lymphadenectomy.

The use of double free flaps with intra-flap anastomosis for complex defects reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Over the years, the improvements in microsurgical field allowed the reconstruction of increasingly larger and more complex defects. In this context, we conceived linking more flaps with a single vascular supply. The double free flaps with intra-flap anastomosis offer a better match with recipient site requirements, still having a minimal donor and recipient site morbidity. In the present paper, we describe our experience with this procedure, focusing on its features and providing a collection of cases in different areas and clinical settings.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Consecutive single-center case series with 16 patients who received defect reconstruction using double free flaps with intra-flap anastomosis between February 2019 and August 2021. The median age was 58 years old (range 39-77). Nine patients were men and seven were women. The defects were located throughout the body, including breast, head and neck, lower and upper limbs. In 12 cases, the cause of the defect was surgical removal of a tumor, while in four cases the cause was trauma. The main indication for this procedure was related to the need of covering a large defect, either in terms of volume or surface, resorting to only one vascular axis.

RESULTS

A total of 32 flaps were harvested, including 10 different techniques. The flaps size ranged from 6 × 3 cm to 24 × 8 cm. Eleven patients completely healed without any complications. No flaps were lost. Three patients developed a minor wound dehiscence and one a wound infection treated conservatively with antibiotic therapy. One patient experienced both of these complications. The median follow up was 12 months and ranged between 6 and 24 months. At the final clinical evaluation, the reconstructive result was stable in all cases and all the patients had a complete resumption of their daily activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Double free flaps reconstruction with intra-flap anastomosis represents a valid and reliable option for the coverage of complex defects in case of depleted recipient sites. This procedure allows us to transfer high amounts of tissue resorting to a single vascular axis. However, it represents a technical challenge and a highly experienced microsurgical team is required.

Pedicled double-paddle conjoined medial sural artery perforator flap for popliteal defect coverage after skin tumor excision: A case report

Defect coverage in the popliteal region represents a challenging task because of its peculiar features. The tissue here has to be thin and pliable, to enable proper function, but also resistant to the high stress forces typical of this region. In addition, the adjacent skin is limited in availability and mobility. Therefore, complex reconstruction procedures are usually required to cover defects in the popliteal region. The medial sural artery perforator (MSAP) flap is a thin and pliable flap, with a long arc of rotation provided by its pedicle length, which makes it a suitable procedure for local and regional defects reconstruction. In the present work, we report the use of a pedicled double-paddle conjoined MSAP flap to reconstruct a 7 cm × 7 cm soft tissue defect after resection of a basal cell carcinoma in the popliteal fossa. The MSAP flap was based on two perforators of the medial sural artery. Therefore, the cutaneous island could be split into two islands, which were rearranged to cover the defect side by side in a so-called "kissing flap" technique. The further postoperative course was uneventful. Despite the complex perforator dissection, which can be challenging because of its intramuscular dissection, we believe that the MSAP flap represents a valid solution for local defect coverage in the popliteal region, providing a sufficient amount of tissue and meeting the "like-with-like" criteria.

Pedicled circumflex scapular artery perforator flap with intra-axillary tunneling for axillary defect coverage after surgical excision of hidradenitis suppurativa: A case report and literature review

Axillary defects represent a rather common issue in plastic surgery practice. Surgical resections related to skin disease are frequent in this region and their extension often requires soft tissue transfer for coverage. In this setting, locoregional pedicled flaps are usually preferred. The nearby tissues offer pliable but still resistant skin, which satisfy the "like-with-like" reconstructive principle. Over the years different procedures have been described for this purpose. Among them, a valuable and often underestimated technique is the circumflex scapular artery perforator flap (CSAP). This technique might be particularly suitable for thin but relatively large defects. Its main advantages are a low donor site morbidity, a very reliable anatomy, and a perforator pedicle able supply a large skin paddle. In the present work, we report the use of a pedicled vertical CSAP flap passed through the axillary canal in order to cover a 9 cm × 7 cm axillary defect after surgical excision of hidradenitis suppurativa resistant to conservative treatment. The perforator-based pedicled presented two branches, which allowed us to harvest safely a large skin paddle, which limited its range of motion. For this reason, we opted for a passage through the axillary canal for the flap inset. The postoperative course was uneventful and full shoulder range of motion was obtained at 3 months follow-up. Despite most of the descriptions of this flap available so far showed its employment for limb's reconstructions, we believe that it is a very useful tool also for locoregional coverage. Moreover, the unconventional passage below the axillary muscles allowed reaching the recipient site even with a shorter pedicle, such as the one encountered in this case.

Combined perforator flaps and lymphatic procedures in reconstructions after sarcoma resection

BACKGROUND

Soft tissue sarcomas are a subtle category of tumors that often require an extensive surgical resection for definitive treatment. This kind of intervention inevitably leads to large tissue damage and, when regions with rich lymphatic network are involved, postoperative complications such as lymphocele or lymphedema are quite common. In this report we present our experience with the combination of lymphatic procedures with perforator flaps for defects reconstruction and lymphatic complications preventions after sarcoma resection throughout the body.

METHODS

Between 2019 and 2021, 15 patients underwent a surgical resection of soft tissue sarcoma, also including bone tissue in 2 cases, requiring soft tissue reconstruction. A perforator flap reconstruction surgery was performed in all cases. The median age was 59.8 years old (ranging 23-84), 8 patients were females and 7 were males. The lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) surgery concept was applied to all cases, while other additional lymphatic procedures were chosen individually for every patient.

RESULTS

All patients were successfully treated without any perioperative complications. In 3 cases infected seroma was encountered in the acceptor site and then successfully treated by means of debridement and vacuum assisted closure (VAC) therapy. 2 patients experienced postoperative lymphedema in the acceptor site which was managed by secondary procedures. Good functional and aesthetic outcomes were achieved in all cases. The mean follow-up was 19.6 months (range 10-33 months).

CONCLUSIONS

Different combinations of modern lymphatic procedures can be created to find the best solution and tailor the treatment to the patient's needs. Preventative measures regarding lymphatic complications can be highly effective and should be taken into consideration in every reconstructive approach following large soft tissue defects with impairment of the lymphatic network.

Combined use of lower medial thigh perforator (LMTP) flap and pedicled medial sural artery perforator flap (MSAP) for lateral knee defects coverage after sarcoma resection: A case report and literature review of soft tissue defect around knee reconstruction

Reconstruction of knee defects still represents a challenge for reconstructive surgeons. After an extensive resection, the primary aim is to reach a stable result, while maintaining a good range of motion and aesthetic unity. The use of pedicled perforator-based flaps makes it possible to achieve these goals. Many are the flaps that can be used in this region, and the pedicle medial sural artery perforator (mSAP) flap is considered among one of the first-choice techniques. The purpose of this case report is to describe for the first time the use of pedicled mSAP flap to cover a lateral knee defect. A 79-year-old patient underwent extensive excision of sarcoma on the lateral side of the left knee, with removal of distal portion of the vastus lateralis muscle and portion of the biceps femoris tendon. The resulting defect from the excision measured 10 cm × 10 cm. To cover the postero-inferior part of the defect we decided to use a mSAP flap, with a skin paddle 10 cm × 5 cm, which was tunneled posteriorly to the popliteal artery and vein in order to reach the affected site. We then used a lower medial thigh perforator (pLMT) flap with a 15 cm × 5 cm skin paddle, rotated by 90° in a propeller fashion to cover the antero-superior portion of the defect. The decision to use two flaps was justified by the fact we wanted to close the donor areas with direct suturing for a better aesthetic result. The post-operative course was regular with only a small wound dehiscence that had healed by secondary intention. At 6 months postoperatively, the patient showed a complete active range of motion of the knee joint and absolute aesthetic satisfaction with flaps donor site and knee shape. A review of literature is also provided, with a specific focus on the different procedures for soft tissue defects reconstruction around the knee. According to our experience, the pedicle of the MSAP flap may be safely used as an additional reconstructive option for lateral knee defects.

Salivary proteomic profile of young healthy subjects

Background: The incidence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) has been rapidly ramped up worldwide. Hence, there is an urgent need to non-invasively detect NCDs possibly by exploiting saliva as a 'liquid biopsy' to identify biomarkers of the health status. Since, the absence of standardized procedures of collection/analysis and the lack of normal ranges makes the use of saliva still tricky, our purpose was to outline a salivary proteomic profile which features healthy individuals. Methods: We collected saliva samples from 19 young blood donors as reference population and the proteomic profile was investigated through mass-spectrometry. Results: We identified 1,004 proteins of whose 243 proteins were shared by all subjects. By applying a data clustering approach, we found a set of six most representative proteins across all subjects including Coronin-1A, F-actin-capping protein subunit alpha, Immunoglobulin J chain, Prosaposin, 78 kDa glucose-regulated protein and Heat shock 70 kDa protein 1A and 1B. Conclusion: All of these proteins are involved in immune system activation, cellular stress responses, proliferation, and invasion thus suggesting their use as biomarkers in patients with NCDs.

Combination of four pedicled flaps for multilayer reconstruction of massive pelvic defect: A case report

Tumors affecting the perineal region are a subtle and difficult to diagnose type of malignancy. In particular, soft tissue sarcomas (STS) may be already very large at time of diagnosis, thus impairing a normal life. In such severe cases, debulking surgery is the only possibility to offer the patient an acceptable quality of life again. These procedures inevitably result in massive defects. Depending on the affected area, there are different reconstructive options available so far, and sometimes a combination of multiple flaps is required. With the present report, we would like to share our experience with a complex genital and perineal defect. A 75-year-old patient presenting a massive epithelioid sarcoma in the ischio-rectal and anal fossae underwent a surgical excision with safe margins, which included the resection of the external genitalia, the pubis, and the rectum. The end result of this procedure was a massive defect measuring 31 cm (length) × 8 cm (width) × 6 cm (depth). To accomplish the requirements of this particular case we planned to utilize mostly the nearby tissues. The reconstruction was performed layer by layer. We resorted to a pedicled chimeric anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap measuring 8 cm × 6 cm, with a large amount of the vastus lateralis (20 cm × 8 cm) to fill the deeper defect, and a duplicated fascia lata (20 cm × 6 cm) to restore the abdominal support of the pubis. Then the external coverage was completed combining a pedicled superficial circumflex (SCIP) flap measuring 9 cm × 8 cm, a pedicled gracilis flap measuring 27 cm × 4 cm and a pedicled posteromedial thigh (PMT) flap measuring 22 cm × 8 cm harvested in vertical fashion. The postoperative course was uneventful, and at 6 months follow up the reconstructive result was successful with a stable soft tissue coverage and no complaints from the patient. With the present case report, we would like to show the importance of mastering different reconstructive procedures, whose combination might be the only solution to cover very large and complex defects.

What is the use of nutraceuticals in dentistry? A scoping review

OBJECTIVE

Recently, nutraceuticals have been widely explored in many medical fields and their use is also increasing in oral and dental problems. Since the nutraceutical evidence landscape in the literature has not been fully elucidated yet, this review aims to examine the effects of commercially available nutraceuticals and their potential evidence and applications in dentistry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A scoping review was conducted following the "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR)" checklist. The electronic search was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science on March 2022. The inclusion criteria include humans, clinical trials, randomized controlled trials (RCT), reviews, and systematic reviews published over the last ten years.

RESULTS

18 studies met the eligibility criteria. There were 2 RCTs, 11 systematic reviews, and four narrative reviews. In most studies, the clinical indications were oral leucoplakia, periodontitis, osseointegration of implants, oral mucositis, oral clefts, and oral health. Probiotics, prebiotics, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and vitamins A, B, C, D, and E were the most common nutraceuticals used in dentistry.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutraceuticals are foods that, according to the literature, may be useful for preventing and treating dental diseases.

The use of the chimeric conjoint flap technique for complex defects reconstruction throughout the body: Clinical experience with 28 cases

BACKGROUND

Large soft tissue defects reconstruction represents a frequent and complex challenge in plastic surgery. A critical point regards the equilibrium between the need of large amount of tissue, while minimizing donor site morbidity. This is a common issue that plastic surgeons face in their clinical practice. In this context, the chimeric conjoint flap technique can be a valuable option, allowing to better exploit many well-known procedures. The purpose of the present work is to show the reconstructive efficacy and reliability of this technique resorting to many different well-known flaps. No such a comprehensive collection of cases is available so far dealing with this procedure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-eight patients presenting large defects throughout the body were treated by means of different flaps, designed according to the chimeric conjoint flap concept. Patients' mean age was 61.9 years old (range 18-82 years), 20 were males and 8 females. The size of the defects ranged from 7 cm × 6 cm to 25 cm × 18 and presented shapes or localizations that were complex to be covered with a regular flap. The defects were located in 11 cases in the lower limbs, in 9 cases in the head and neck region, in 5 cases in the groin, and in 2 cases in the thorax. Cause of the defect was tumor resection in 20 cases, trauma-induced necrosis in 5 cases, Fournier's gangrene in 2 cases, and a chronic ulcer in 1 case. Fourteen flaps were free flaps while 14 were pedicled flaps. The chimeric conjoint flap technique consists in splitting the skin paddle a flap into two smaller island that can be rearranged in order to match the particular requirements of the recipient site. Different flaps were employed: the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap was used in 19 cases, latissimus dorsi (LD) musculocutaneous flap in 4 cases, deep inferior epigastric (DIEP) in 3 cases, medial sural artery perforator (MSAP) in 1 case, free radial forearm flap (RFFF) in 1 case.

RESULTS

All the 28 patients were successfully treated. In 6 cases minor complications were encountered, 5 at recipient site and 1 at donor site, who were all managed conservatively. No second procedures were required. The mean follow-up period was 8.4 months (range 3-12 months). At the last follow-up evaluation all the patients reached an acceptable cosmetic result and, when limbs were affected, complete range of motion restoration.

CONCLUSIONS

The present case series provide promising evidence regarding the reliability and versatility of the chimeric conjoint flap technique for large and delicate defect reconstructions throughout the body.

Pedicled superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap combined with lymphovenous anastomosis between the recipient site lymphatic vessels and flap superficial veins for reconstruction of groin/thigh tissue defect and creation of lymph flow-through to reduce lymphatic complications: A report of preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Large locoregional defects affecting lymphatic-rich regions may be subject to serious lymphatic complications, such as lymphedema and recurrent lymphocele. In the last few years, a demeaning volume reconstruction combined with lymph flow restoration showed to effectively reduce their incidences. The purpose of this report is to present the preliminary results of the use of pedicled SCIP flap with LVA between the recipient site lymphatic vessels and flap superficial vein for reconstruction of soft tissue defect and creation of lymph flow-through to reduce lymphatic complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2018 and 2020, 4 patients (2 males and 2 females), with a mean age of 56.5 years (ranging 42-76 years), presented a soft tissue defect with lymphatic drainage damage which was reconstructed by resorting to pedicled SCIP flap. Causes of the defect were tumoral surgical excision in 3 cases and severe trauma in 1 case. The defects were located in the medial thigh in 2 cases and groin area in 2 cases, with sizes ranging from 5 × 19 cm to 8 × 22 cm. The SCIP flap was raised by paying attention to preserve some suitable veins at the distal edge of the skin paddle. The flap was then turned 180 degrees and inset in order to match the direction of the recipient's lymphatic vessels. One or more LVAs were performed between the recipient site damaged lymphatics and a superficial flap's vein.

RESULTS

The sizes of flaps ranged from 5 × 19 cm to 8 × 22 cm. The mean number of LVAs was 2.2 (ranging from 1 to 3). A minor post-operative complication was encountered (small infected seroma) in 1 case, which was conservatively managed. No secondary procedures were required. In all cases complete range of motion (ROM) of the hip joint and wound coverage at both donor and recipient site were achieved. The mean follow-up was 8 months (ranging 7-10 months). No signs of lymphedema and lymphocele were reported over this time.

CONCLUSIONS

The pedicled SCIP flap with LVA between the recipient site lymphatic vessels and flap superficial vein may provide a solution for inguinal and upper thigh defects reconstructions that requires a lymphatic drainage restoration. Its superficial veins may be exploited to perform LVAs at recipient site, thus reducing the lymphatic complications in these delicate regions.

Stacked profunda artery perforator flaps with intra-flap anastomosis for moderate to large breast autologous reconstruction

BACKGROUND

The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap is a reliable alternative for autologous breast reconstruction; however, the amount of tissue provided is quite limited. For medium to large sized breast reconstruction two PAP flaps can be harvested and inset in "stacked" fashion. This procedure consists in placing the two flaps side by side, normally supplied by antegrade and retrograde anastomoses performed with the mammary vessels. In the present article, we report the employment of stacked PAP flaps with intra-flap anastomosis in breast reconstruction setting.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From April 2018 to December 2021, seven patients received unilateral breast reconstruction with stacked PAP flaps. Patients' average age was 47.5 (range 39-58 years old). Mean body mass index was 19.4 kg/m² (range 18.5-20.1 kg/m² ). The two flaps were linked by means of intra-flap anastomosis resorting to side branches of one of the two pedicles. In all cases the internal mammary vessels were dissected sparing the ribs and used as recipient vessels for antegrade end-to-end anastomosis.

RESULTS

The flaps size ranged from 15 cm × 6 cm to 20 cm × 7 cm with an average weight of 250 g (range 190-290 g). The mean pedicle length was 11.1 cm (range 10-12.5 cm) on the left side and 7.9 cm (range 7-9 cm) on the right side. All flaps survived completely after surgery. The donor sites were all primarily closed with no morbidities. The mean follow-up was 8 months (range 6-12 months). All patients were satisfied with the result.

CONCLUSIONS

Stacked PAP flaps performed with intra-flap anastomosis may represent a valid alternative solution for the reconstruction of moderate to large breast in case of unavailable abdominal tissue.

The use of vertical postero-medial thigh flap as lymphatic flow-through flap for upper thigh defect reconstruction and lymphatic sequelae prevention in sarcoma surgery: A case report

Among the various histologic subpopulations of soft tissue sarcomas, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) is one of the most common subtypes in the adult population. Radical surgery remains the primary treatment for UPS, associated with postsurgical radiotherapy or chemotherapy. We herein report the case of a 65-year-old man presenting a recurrent UPS in his right upper thigh region. The patient received radical resection of the tumor and the remaining defect measured ~22 cm × 18 cm. A soft tissue functional reconstruction with lymphatic-flow-through pedicled postero-medial thigh flap (PMT) was planned. A 24 cm × 16 cm flap was harvested in vertical fashion (vPMT), carefully preserving a superficial vein for the following lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) at recipient site. The flap was then rotated and transferred to the defect area through a tunnel under the adductor longus muscle, and LVA was then performed between flap's additional venous pedicle and a nearby leaking lymphatic vessel. The postoperative course was uneventful and at 12 months follow-up no complications were encountered. No signs of lymphedema were reported. When dealing with the groin and upper thigh area, which is notably rich in lymphatic tissue, the possibility of prophylactically re-route lymphatic fluid into the venous system by means of microsurgical anastomosis, lays in the thrilling possibility to prevent secondary lymphedema, instead of curing it. With the described technique, we achieved optimal functional and esthetic outcomes setting at zero both donor and recipient sites morbidity.

Pedicled double-paddle vertical posteromedial thigh flap for double-layer closure and reconstruction of upper thigh defect after sarcoma resection: A case report

Large soft tissue defects in the anterior upper thigh region represent a challenging problem in reconstructive surgery. Sarcomas are rather commonly localized in this area and they may reach extensive dimensions before surgery. The debulking procedures must be radical, which often leads to a displacement of major neurovascular structures. In the present work, we report the use of a pedicled double-paddle vertical posteromedial thigh (vPMT) flap to reconstruct a 16 cm × 8 cm soft tissue defect with exposure of the superficial and deep femoral vessels after resection of a myxoid liposarcoma. The vPMT flap was based on two perforators of the profunda femoris artery. Therefore, the cutaneous island could be split into two islands measuring 12 cm × 6 cm and 9 cm × 6 cm, which were exploited to fill the dead space below and over the vessels, reaching a satisfactory volume restoration and tension-free skin closure. The further post-operative course was uneventful. The perforator dissection might be complex and requires a good experience, however, we believe that in similar cases the pedicled double-paddle vPMT flap can be a valid solution when other options are not feasible. Moreover, this allows avoiding a free microsurgical transfer and fulfills the dictum of replacing "like-with-like tissue". No characterizations of the employment of a pedicled chimeric vPMT flap for locoregional multilayer reconstruction are available so far.

Pedicled superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap for male genital reconstruction: A case series

BACKGROUND

Different issues may cause defects in the genital region, including urological, infective, oncological and genetic problems which often lead to significant defects. This is a very delicate region and a successful coverage requires a thin, pliable and reliable solution. In this setting the SCIP flap might be an outstanding procedure. Despite being a well-known solution in the groin region, its employment for genital reconstructions is still poorly described. For this reason, we gather our experience with this procedure showing the efficacy of the SCIP flap in this specific region.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In the present case series we included 6 male patients who received a soft tissue defect reconstruction by means of pedicled SCIP flap over the last year. The average age was 53.6 years old (range 34-79 years). Among them, 5 patients received a surgical excision because of severe acne (2 cases), Fournier's gangrene (2 cases), or scrotal squamous cell carcinoma (1 case). In 1 case the cause of the missing volume was testicle agenesis and the reconstruction was performed for cosmetic purposes. Size of the defects ranged from 7 cm × 4 cm to 20 cm × 6 cm. Elliptical shaped flaps were designed either mono- or bilaterally according to the need. All the flaps were supplied by the superficial branch of the SCIA. The range of rotation varied between 150° and 180° in order to reach the affected area.

RESULTS

The flaps' dimension ranged from 8 cm × 4 cm to 20 cm × 6 cm. All the patients were successfully treated. In 1 case we encountered a small wound dehiscence, which was managed conservatively. The mean follow-up was 9.5 months (range 6-12 months). Good cosmetic result was achieved in all cases and no urinary or sexual dysfunctions were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The pedicle SCIP flap represents a reliable solution for genital and inguinal defects reconstructions. Its versatility can be exploited throughout the region providing very good quality tissues that can be used for the most disparate situations.

Versatility of perforator flaps for lower extremity defect coverage: Technical highlights and single center experience with 87 consecutive cases

BACKGROUND

Lower extremity defects have been and remain one of the greatest challenges in reconstructive surgery. Perforator flaps have been accepted as a valid procedure to cover such a defect. Different techniques have been described and nowadays many options are available. However, there were not studies that comprehensively review the most modern techniques and clinical application of the use of perforator flaps in the lower extremity reconstruction. In the present report, we gathered most of them, presenting an updated and large case series where different pedicled and free perforators flaps were employed in simple and complex scenarios in a large series of cases.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eighty-seven patients presenting soft tissue defects of the lower extremities were treated by means of different perforator-based flaps, in either free or pedicled fashion. The flaps were based on different perforator vessels, namely deep lateral circumflex femoral artery, profunda femoris artery, superficial femoral artery, medial sural artery, peroneal artery, posterior tibial artery, anterior tibial artery, and medial plantar artery. Patients' mean age was 61.9 years old (range 21-87 years old), 58 were males and 29 females. The 12 patients received sequential flaps and 9 received double free flaps, for a total sum of 106 flaps. The causes of the defects were trauma in 41 patients and tumors in 46 patients, located throughout the lower limbs. Size of the defect ranged from 3 cm × 4 cm to 25 cm × 9 cm.

RESULTS

The dimensions of the flap skin paddles ranged from 3 cm × 4 cm to 16 cm × 5 cm for the pedicled flaps (42 cases) and from 6 cm × 4 cm to 25 cm × 8 cm for the free ones (45 cases). Mean flap's size was 48 cm² (range 12-80 cm² ) for the pedicle flaps and 104 cm² (range 24-200 cm² ) for free flaps. In two pedicled cases, a distal congestion was encountered, requiring a second surgery. Debulking procedures were performed in 2 patients. All the patients were successfully treated and no flaps were lost. Mean follow-up period was 8.4 months (range 3-12 months). No range of motion impairment was encountered after surgery and all the patients were able to return to habitual life.

CONCLUSIONS

The present case series highlights the reliability and versatility of perforator flaps for lower extremity defect coverage. Following careful consideration of the etiology, dimensions, location, patient comorbidities, and presence of adequate perforators, a pedicled or free perforator flap can be potentially successful in the most disparate circumstances.

Soft Tissue Defect Reconstruction and Lymphatic Complications Prevention: The Lymphatic Flow-Through (LyFT) Concept

Background and Objectives: When a lymphatic-rich area is severely damaged, either after trauma or a surgical procedure, both soft tissue defect reconstruction and lymphatic drainage restoration are necessary. In this setting, we aim to show the potential of the lymphatic flow-through flap (LyFT) concept, which might be an attractive new solution to reduce postoperative lymphatic complications. Materials and Methods: Between 2018 and 2021, 12 patients presenting a soft tissue defect involving damage to the lymphatic drainage pathway received a lymphatic flow-through flap for volume and lymphatic drainage restoration. Different flaps were employed: 3 pedicled superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flaps, 2 free SCIP flaps, 3 pedicled deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps, 2 pedicled vertical posteromedial thigh (vPMT) flaps, and 2 pedicled anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps. A range of 1 to 3 lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) with flap’s veins was performed (mean 1.9). For a better dead space obliteration, an additional vastus lateralis muscle flap was performed in one case. Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography was used in all cases to identify the lymphatic pathway, make the preoperative markings, and check the patency of the anastomoses. Results: In all cases, the reconstructive results were satisfactory from both the functional and aesthetic points of view. No secondary surgeries were required, and only one minor complication was encountered: an infected seroma that was managed conservatively. The mean follow-up was 9.9 months (range 6–14 months). Conclusions: Lymphatic flow-through flaps seem to effectively reduce the risk of lymphatic complications after the reconstruction of soft tissue defects with a compromised lymph pathway. This is a versatile solution that might be used in different body regions resorting to different flap types.

Innovative and conventional "conservative" technologies for the treatment of uterine fibroids in Italy: a multidimensional assessment

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the potential benefits of the Magnetic Resonance-guided high intensity Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) introduction in the clinical practice, for the treatment of uterine fibroids, in comparison with the standard "conservative" procedures, devoted to women who wish to preserve their uterus or enhance fertility: myomectomy and uterine artery embolization (UAE).

METHODS

A Health Technology Assessment was conducted, assuming the payer's perspective (Italian National Healthcare Service). The nine EUnetHTA Core Model dimensions were deeply investigated, by means of i) a literature review; ii) the implementation of health economics tools (useful for uterine fibroids patients' clinical pathway economic evaluation, and budget impact analysis), to define MRgFUS economic and organizational sustainability, and iii) administration of specific questionnaires filled by uterine fibroids' experts, to gather their perceptions on the three possible conservative approaches (MRgFUS, UAE and myomectomy).

RESULTS

Literature revealed that MRgFUS would generate several benefits, from a safety and an efficacy profile, with significant improvement in symptoms relief. Advantages emerged concerning the patients' perspective, thus leading to a decrease both in the length of hospital stay (p-value< 0.001), and in patients' productivity loss (p-value = 0.024). From an economic point of view, the Italian NHS would present an economic saving of - 6.42%. A positive organizational and equity impact emerged regarding the capability to treat a larger number of women, thus performing, on average, 131.852 additional DRGs.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that MRgFUS could be considered an advantageous technological alternative to adopt within the target population affected by uterine fibroids, demonstrating its economic and organisational feasibility and sustainability, with consequent social benefits.

Lymphatic Complications Prevention and Soft Tissue Reconstruction after Soft Tissue Sarcoma Resection in the Limbs

Background and Objectives: The definitive treatment of soft tissue sarcomas (STS) requires a radical surgical removal of the tumor, which often leads to large soft tissue defects. When they are located in the limbs, significant damage to the lymphatic pathways is not uncommon. In the present article, we present different techniques aimed at both reconstructing the defect and restoring sufficient lymph drainage, thus preventing short- and long-term lymphatic complications. Materials and Methods: Between 2018 and 2020, 10 patients presenting a soft tissue defect with lymphatic impairment received a locoregional reconstruction by means of either pedicled or free SCIP flap. Seven patients required a second flap to reach a good dead space obliteration. In six cases, we performed an interpositional flap, namely a soft tissue transfer with lymphatic tissue preservation, and in four cases a lymphatic flow-through flap. In all cases, the cause of the defect was STS surgical excision. The average age was 60.5 years old (ranging 39-84), seven patients were females and six were males. Results: All the patients were successfully treated. In two cases, minor post-operative complications were encountered (infected seroma), which were conservatively managed. No secondary procedures were required. The average follow-up was 8.9 months (ranging 7-12 months). No signs of lymphedema were reported during this time. In all cases, complete range of motion (ROM) and a good cosmetic result were achieved. Conclusions: A reconstructive procedure that aims not only to restore the missing volume, but also the lymphatic drainage might successfully reduce the rate of postoperative complications. Both lymphatic interpositional flaps and lymphatic flow-through flaps could be effective, and the right choice must be done according to each patient's needs.

Dorsally and volarly angulated extra-articular malunions of the distal radius treated with volar corrective osteotomy and volar locking plate fixation. A case series of 19 patients with a long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND AND AIM

To date, different technique of corrective osteotomy for the treatment of distal radius extra-articular malunions are described. With this study, we present a case series of corrective osteotomy using volar plate fixation to treat volar and dorsal extra-articular malunions aiming to evaluate the effectiveness of corrective osteotomies through volar plate stabilization in these two types of extra-articular malunions.

METHODS

Between August 2008 and May 2017 all patients diagnosed with extra-articular malunion were included in the study. An extended volar Orbay approach and two types of dedicated volar locking plate (Medartis AG, Switzerland and Acumed, Hillsboro,OR) were used. Clinical and radiological parameters were evaluated. The DASH and PRWE scores and the VAS scale questionnaires were administered. The results were analyzed through statistical evaluations.

RESULTS

A retrospective analysis of 19 patients diagnosed with extra-articular malunion was carried out. Nine had a volar type deformity (group A), while the other 10 had a dorsal type deformity (group B). The active range of motion (aROM), radiographic parameters, grip strength and pinches in both groups were statistically improved, except for radial deviation in both groups, ulnar deviation in group A, and radial inclination in group B.  The grip strength and pinches values were slightly better in group A. DASH, PRWE scores and VAS scale showed a significant improvement.

CONCLUSION

Corrective osteotomy through volar fixation is an effective technique to treat both extra-articular dorsally and volarly angulated malunions. Statistically significant benefits are present in both types of deformities, with better outcomes in the group of volar deformities.

The use of pedicled chimeric superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap as lymphatic interpositional flap for deep thigh defect reconstruction: A case report

The tumors affecting the thigh region are complex to manage, requiring a patient-tailored and multidisciplinary approach. Because of their aggressiveness, soft tissue sarcomas (STS) often grow very quickly and they must be removed before they might cause major impairments. A safe margin excision may lead to large defects that require a surgical reconstruction with either free or pedicled flaps. Another relevant aspect, which is gaining more and more attention in the last few years, regards the lymphatic complications that commonly occur after these procedures. The thigh region anatomically accommodates the major lymphatics responsible for the whole leg drainage, and these vessels are often inevitably compromised during the tumor removal. For this reason, plastic surgeons should take into account not only to the aesthetic and functional result, but they should also try to prevent lymphatic sequelae such as lymphocele and lymphedema. The purpose of this report is to describe the potential of a pedicled SCIP flap, used as a lymphatic interpositional flap, in order to restore the lymphatic drainage of the thigh after a major impairment. A 57-year-old patient presenting a thigh sarcoma received a surgical excision leaving a 35 cm × 25 cm defect affecting the anterior compartment. To fulfill all these concerns, a lymphatic interpositional SCIP flap was performed, in pedicled and chimeric fashion. It allowed to completely bury a large (35 cm × 16 cm) soft tissue island, preserving a smaller (5 cm × 4 cm) skin paddle to monitor the whole flap survival. Moreover, the lymphatic issue was faced by preserving the lymphatic vessels running into the flap and moving them into the affected area in order to enhance the lymphatic neo-angiogenesis and offering an additional pattern for lymph drainage. Post-operative course was uneventful and at 9 months follow up the reconstructive result was successful with no signs of lymphatic sequelae. Therefore, we believe that the SCIP flap might be a promising solution for small-to-moderate size thigh defect reconstructions since it is able to satisfy all the typical requirements of this delicate region.

Free double-paddle posterior tibial artery perforator flap for hypopharynx reconstruction: A case report and literature review

Microsurgical free tissue transfer is nowadays considered to be one of the main options for head and neck reconstruction. The free posterior tibial artery perforator (PTAP) flap is a well-known reconstructive technique for local defect coverage in the distal leg, and only recently has been employed for head and neck reconstructions. Being a very thin and pliable flap, with low donor site morbidity and constant anatomy, the PTA perforator-based flap could be a great alternative to the more commonly-employed radial forearm free flap (RFFF). The present case report shows a complex head and neck defect coverage by means of a free double-paddle PTA flap, with a concise literature review of previous PTA flap descriptions in this setting. A 59-year-old male patient presented with a hypopharynx leakage after radiotherapy due to hypopharynx carcinoma. Since the patient had an occluded ulnar artery on the left side and an arterial line in the radial artery on the right side, both a RFFF and an ulnar artery perforator (UAP) flap were contraindicated. Moreover, two different cutaneous flaps were needed to reconstruct a 6 × 8 cm² defect, one for the reconstruction of the hypopharynx and one for the resurfacing of the neck, since previous surgeries and radiotherapy led to severe fibrosis of the neck. The patient had a BMI of 25.4 kg/m^2, which led us to exclude the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap because of its thickness. For the forementioned reasons, an unconventional double-paddle PTAP flap based on two perforator vessels was chosen. Based on two perforators, two skin islands were harvested, building a double-paddle PTA perforator-based flap. The proximal skin island was 6 × 7 cm² and the distal one was 6 × 4 cm² . The larger skin flap was set at the leakage of the hypopharynx. The smaller skin island was used to monitor the survival of the whole flap and for resurfacing the outer side of the neck. The postoperative course was uneventful and at 3 months follow up the reconstructive result was good with no functional drawback. In view of the obtained result, we can consider that the PTA flap might be a reliable alternative to the much widely used RFFF, with a minor donor site morbidity, for delicate head and neck reconstructions.

Combined double superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap with lymphatic tissue preservation and lymphovenous anastomosis for lymphatic sequelae prevention in thigh defect reconstruction: A case report

The thigh region is often site of soft tissue tumors development. Leiomyosarcoma, in particular, is a malignant tumor that, if not promptly treated, presents a growth rate that often results in large masses. The safest treatment in these cases is margin-free extensive surgical resection. This leads to rather large defects that in a delicate region, such as the medial thigh, implies a series of possible complications from the lymphatic point of view. In this region run major lymphatic vessels, appointed to drain the whole leg. Now that one is aware of this issue, the best solution is trying to obtain an efficient reconstruction and preventing the development of postoperative lymphedema and lymphocele. Here, we present a case of great saphenous vein leiomyosarcoma resection in the right medial thigh reconstructed by means of two superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flaps with lymphatic tissue preservation, combined with preventive lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA). A 67-years-old woman presented a 22 × 16 cm soft tissue defect after the surgical excision. To fill the defect, we resorted to a larger SCIP flap island, supplied by both the superficial and deep branches of the superficial circumflex iliac artery anastomosed in perforator-to-perforator fashion, and to a smaller SCIP flap island supplied only by the superficial branch. Before surgery, the lymphatic vessels running in the flaps area were identified with indocyanine green lymphography and were carefully preserved during the harvest procedure. They were then transferred with the surrounding tissue and orientated in order to match the lymphatic flow direction, providing further fluid drainage. To boost the lymphatic drainage, an LVA was also performed at the superior-edge-of-the-knee incision point joining a functioning lymphatic vessel to a nearby reflux-free vein. The postoperative course was uneventful and at 7 months follow-up, the patient showed good cosmetic and functional outcomes with no swelling and no signs of tumor relapse. This report provides a series of technical insights and adds further evidence to support the efficacy of this procedure for management of soft tissue defects in the medial thigh region.

Application of the "Open-Y" technique in recipient perforator vessels: A comparison study between "Open-Y" and conventional end-to-end anastomosis in terms of postoperative complications

BACKGROUND

Over the last few years, the increasing employment of perforators as both donor and recipient vessels for free flap tissue transfer lead the surgeons to perform increasingly smaller anastomosis. Size discrepancy is a common problem that might affect the patency rate. This has many implications in the outcome of the procedure and the "Open-Y" technique might be useful to perform an easier anastomosis by using a bifurcation area.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between April 2018 and April 2020 a total of 98 patients who received a free tissue transfer reconstruction throughout the body were retrospectively recruited. The "Open-Y" technique of anastomosis was used in the recipient artery of 40 perforator-based flaps, while in 58 cases a conventional anastomosis with nonperforator vessel was performed. The size discrepancy rate and the arterial anastomotic site-related complications were evaluated and compared.

RESULTS

The flap success rate was 100% (40/40) in the "Open-Y" group, slightly better than the conventional group (96.5%; 56/58) despite a higher size discrepancy rate in the "Open-Y" group (27.5%; 11/40) compared to the conventional one (12%; 7/58) (p value, .053). The rate of complications was different, too. Better results were obtained in the "Open-Y" group with 4/40 (10%) complications compared to the 18/58 (31%) of the conventional group (p value, .013).

CONCLUSIONS

The "Open-Y" technique is a simple and interesting procedure to increase the vessels' diameter thus reducing size discrepancy and increasing the reliability of the anastomosis. This is extremely valuable in the perforator-to-perforator free tissue transfer setting where surgeons are often forced to work in a supermicrosurgical field. Every time a suitable bifurcation is encountered this might be a useful procedure to increase the end-surface available for the anastomosis or to reduce vessels size discrepancy.

Total groin defect reconstruction by lymphatic flow-through (LyFT) pedicled deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap resorting to its superficial veins for lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA): A case report

Extensive surgical removal is often required to treat soft tissue sarcomas. When they are localized in the groin-upper medial thigh region, the excision is particularly demanding because of the rich lymphatic network and lymph nodes present in that area. The lymphatic vessels with respective lymph nodes draining the whole leg are most of the time inevitably damaged, causing a series of debilitating sequelae such as lymphocele and lymphedema. To prevent these issues, together with the defect coverage, additional lymphovenous anastomoses (LVA) showed encouraging results. Here we present a case of resected groin sarcoma reconstructed by means of pedicled lower deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap combined with multiple LVAs. In particular, the superficial veins of the DIEP flap have been employed as the donor veins for LVAs. A 76-year-old patient presented a leiomyosarcoma in the right trigonum femorale which was surgically excised leaving a defect of about 12 cm × 7 cm with exposed femoral vessels and nerves. The remaining defect was then filled with a pedicled DIEP flap, and three leaking lymphatic vessels in the thigh were anastomosed with three branches of a superficial vein originating from the DIEP flap. The postoperative course was uneventful and at 12 months follow-up no signs of either seroma or lymphocele. This result suggests that the concept of lymphatic flow-through (LyFT) DIEP flap might be a modern and particularly useful solution for those cases that require both dead space obliteration and lymphatic drainage restoration.

Combining superficial and deep lymphovenous anastomosis for lymphedema treatment: Preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Superficial lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) is a widely accepted procedure for treatment of mild-to-moderate lymphedema throughout the body. Anyway, not always are the superficial lymphatic vessels suitable for the anastomosis nor do they provide a sufficient drainage to significantly improve the condition. The continuous progress of supermicrosurgical technique over the last few years and the recent anatomical researches about the deep lymphatic network opened new perspectives for those lymphedema cases refractory to conventional procedures. Resorting to deep lymphatic vessels offer an additional opportunity to further improve the result obtained by means of superficial LVA. The aim of this report is to describe our experience treating lymphedema with superficial and deep lymphatic vessels LVA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eight female patients presenting secondary (seven cases) and primary (one case) lymphedema, previously treated by means of multiple superficial LVAs, were considered eligible for deep lymphatics surgery to further improve their results. The affected area was the upper limb in one case and the lower limbs in seven cases. All the patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively resorting to Campisi criteria. Four cases were initially classified as stage III, two stage IV, and two stage II. Five patients received deep LVA in the groin, two patients in the ankle along the posterior tibial artery and one in the wrist along the radial artery.

RESULTS

In all eight patients both subjective and objective improvements of the condition were reported with decrease of swelling and relief from heaviness sensation. The postoperative course was always uneventful and at the 9 months follow up none of the patients presented recurrence of the disease, even with the complete removal of compressive therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Deep lymphatic vessels LVA might represent a valid alternative to the superficial ones to treat lymphedema when previous results are not satisfactory nor when no superficial lymphatic vessels are available for anastomosis.

Free tissue transfer with supermicrosurgical perforator-to-perforator (P-to-P) technique for tissue defect reconstruction around the body: Technical pearls and clinical experience

BACKGROUND

Resorting to perforators as recipient vessels is a valid alternative that might offer a series of advantages in many situations. They allow the use of a shorter pedicle, reduce the time of dissection, and are a good solution when deep vessels are difficult to reach. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of P-to-P tissue transfer for reconstructing defects in different areas of the body.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between April 2018 and February 2020, 40 patients presenting soft tissue defects were reconstructed by using P-to-P-anastomosed free flap transfer. The cause of the defect was trauma in 16 cases and surgically excised tumor in 24. Five defects were located in the upper extremities, 1 in the neck, 1 in the thorax, and 21 in the lower limb, and 13 cases were breast reconstructions, 2 of which bilateral (43 total flaps).

RESULTS

Of all 43 flaps, 22 were abdominal flaps, 17 flaps were harvested from the upper thigh, and 4 were harvested from the lower leg. At the 9 month follow-up, 42 flaps were successfully healed, 36 without complications, 3 after wound dehiscence, and 3 after wound infection, and only 1 flap was lost requiring further surgery. Flap failure rate was 2.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

Free flaps anastomosed in perforator-to-perforator fashion can be safely used in different settings throughout the body. Even if they are technically more demanding, they may allow a quicker operation time and lower morbidity. With the developments in microsurgical instruments, we believe that this technique may become the gold standard for tissue-defect reconstruction.

Internal mammary artery perforators as recipient vessels for free tissue transfer in head and neck reconstruction: A case report and literature review

Head and neck defect reconstruction is a common challenge for plastic surgeons. Microsurgical free tissue transfer is a frequently used solution but its success strictly depends on the quality of recipient vessels. A particularly demanding situation occurs when there are no nearby available vessels because of previous extensive neck dissection and radiotherapy. In similar cases, it is necessary to resort to other and farther vessels. Common alternatives might be the thoraco-acromial vessels, the transverse cervical vessels, and the internal mammary vessel. Recently, the perforator vessels of the internal mammary artery and vein were shown to be safe alternatives as recipient vessels for autologous breast reconstruction, causing less morbidity and allowing adequate perfusion of rather large flaps. Here we present a floor of the mouth reconstruction after cancer relapse resection. In this case, we employed a chimeric anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap anastomosed to the internal mammary perforator vessels in end-to-end fashion. A 46-years-old male patient presented a defect in the floor of the mouth and base of the tongue after cancer removal. No nearby vessels were available because of extensive fibrosis and damages due to previous surgeries and radiotherapy. Therefore, on the basis of our experience in autologous breast reconstruction, we chose the internal mammary perforator vessels in the recipient side and we harvested a chimeric ALT-based skin island then split into two parts for mouth reconstruction and monitoring. We performed the anastomosis resorting to internal mammary perforator vessels and we obtained a satisfactory result from both the functional and aesthetic point of view. Postoperative course was uneventful and at 6 months follow up the reconstructive result was good with no functional issue. We believe that this might be a valid and modern evolution of the use of internal mammary vessels as recipient vessels and that it is a worthy addition in the field of perforator-anastomosed flaps, extending its application also to head and neck reconstructions. Moreover, a brief literature review about alternative recipient vessels for depleted neck is also provided.

Combined pedicled superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap with lymphatic tissue preservation and lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) for defect reconstruction and lymphedema-lymphocele prevention in thigh sarcoma surgery: Preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Sarcoma surgery often requires large tissue resection to be treated safely. When the tumor is localized in the groin and/or medial thigh, lymphocele and lymphedema are common complications because of the rich lymphatic network present there. The aim of this study is to share the outcome of seven patients who received defect reconstruction in this area with combined pedicled superficial circumflex artery perforator (SCIP) flap with lymphatic tissue preservation and lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) for prevention of lymphatic complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Seven patients who underwent surgical resection of sarcoma in the groin and/or adductors compartment received defect reconstruction with pedicled SCIP flap combined with LVA. For a better dead space obliteration, four of them also received an additional tissue flap: two pedicled deep inferior epigastric perforator flaps and two free anterolateral thigh flaps. Indocyanine green lymphography was performed in all cases to identify the lymphatic pathway, make the preoperative marking and check the patency of the anastomoses.

RESULTS

All seven patients were successfully treated reaching a good aesthetic result and a full range of motion. No immediate nor delayed complications such as lymphocele or lymphorrhea and early extremity lymphedema were observed during the follow up (range: 6-9 months; mean: 7.3) and no secondary procedures were required.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of the pedicle SCIP lymphatic tissue transfer with LVA seems to be effective in preventing the development of lymphatic sequelae after large resections in the medial thigh.

Lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) for treatment of secondary breast lymphedema: A case report and literature review

Breast lymphedema (BLE) is a rather common complication occurring after surgical breast cancer treatment. Microsurgical lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) is a validated technique for the management of lymphedema in the extremities and it is gaining approval also for the breast one. Here, we report a case of breast lymphedema successfully treated with LVA. A 52 years old woman referred chronic erythema, diffuse swelling and pain after breast surgery, axillary lymphnode dissection and adjuvant radiotherapy. Conservative treatments had been performed for 14 months without improvement of symptoms. The patient was then referred for surgery and multiple LVAs were performed at the right breast. A total of 3 LVAs have been performed, two lymphatic vessels were anastomosed to a single Y-shaped vein and one additional vessel was linked to another nearby vein of similar caliber. All the LVAs were executed using 12-0 microsutures and their patency was confirmed with intraoperative ICG lymphography. Immediately after this intervention the swelling decreased in size and the erythema disappeared and a sensation of relief was reported by the patient. The postoperative course was uneventful and at the 6 and 12 months follow up no signs and symptoms of recurrence were noted. Therefore, we believe that this case adds another significant evidence of the efficacy of LVA for treatment of secondary BLE refractory to conservative treatment. Moreover, we provide a literature review of previous reports of breast lymphedema treated recurring to this procedure.

Soft tissue coverage of a total gluteal defect with a combination of perforator-based flaps: A case report

Soft tissue defects in the buttock area are often related to decubitus ulcers, which are usually small to medium-large size and can be regularly treated with local flaps. However, when the defects have bigger size, such as those involving the whole gluteal region, the coverage can become more challenging, since this specific area needs both a good resistance to pressure and an acceptable functional result. The most common solution for similar cases is the use of multiple local flaps, or, in extreme situations, a free flap. In particular, local flaps based on perforator vessels are, in selected cases, a consolidated alternative to free flap allowing an efficient reconstruction of soft tissue defects using adjacent similar tissues, providing the benefit of "like with like" coverage. Here we present a case of a large mycosis fungoides nidus of the gluteal region measuring 25 cm × 18 cm reconstructed using two large perforator flaps adjacent to the defect combined with a remote one for coverage of the donor site. The cranial flap was designed based on a perforator arising from the superior gluteal artery and transferred into the defect by means of a V-Y advancement, while the two caudal propeller flaps in the posterior thigh were both based on perforators of the profunda femoris artery and rotated 180°, respectively. To obtain a tension-free cover of the donor site defect we applied the concept of "sequential" propeller flaps. Post-operative course was uneventful and the patient was ambulatory with assistive devices after 1 week. At 6 months follow-up, wounds were completely healed without complications and a good functional result was obtained. This report showed the great coverage potential of multiple perforator-based local flaps when properly combined allowing primary closure of the donor site. In particular, we managed to reconstruct a total gluteal defect using just ipsilateral side tissue, reducing morbidity, and obtaining a stable result.

Lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) for treatment of iatrogenic lymphocele in the thigh

BACKGROUND

Lymphocele is a collection of lymphatic fluid within the body. It is caused by an impairment of lymph drainage and often occurs after a surgical intervention. In this setting conservative treatment is usually ineffective. The aim of this report is to share the outcomes of 11 patients with iatrogenic lymphocele in the thigh area treated by supermicrosurgical lymphovenous anastomosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eleven patients presenting iatrogenic lymphocele in the thigh were referred for surgery after an unsuccessful conservative therapy. Patients' mean age was 56 years old, two males and nine females. All of them presented a moderate-to-severe lymphocele in the medial thigh after a surgical intervention that damaged the rich lymphatic pathway present there. Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography was always performed to visualize the lymphatic vessels and to make the preoperative marking.

RESULTS

All the 11 patients were successfully treated by means of one or more (range: 1-3; mean: 1.5) lymphaticovenous anastomoses without complications. Three of them also received a pedicled sartorius flap for dead space obliteration. All the patients reached full range of motion (ROM) and no recurrences were observed during follow up (range: 6-12 months; mean: 8). Intra-operative ICG lymphography was performed in all cases to check the patency of the anastomoses.

CONCLUSIONS

Lymphaticovenous anastomosis confirmed to be a minimally-invasive and effective procedure for the treatment of postsurgical lymphoceles in the leg. For large lymphoceles a muscle flap may be indicated for volume restoration and prevention of recurrences.

Imaging Accuracy in Preoperative Staging of T3-T4 Laryngeal Cancers

Background: Preoperative imaging impacts treatment planning and prognosis in laryngeal cancers. We investigated the accuracy of standard computed tomography (CT) in evaluating tumor invasions at critical glottic areas. Methods: CT scans of glottic cancers treated by partial or total laryngectomy between Jan 2015 and Aug 2019 were reviewed to assess levels of tumor invasion at critical glottic subsites. CT accuracy in the identification of tumor extensions was determined against the gold standard of histopathological analysis of surgical samples. Results: This study included 64 patients. In the anterior commissure, CT showed high rates of false positives at all levels (sensitivity 56.2–70%, specificity 87.8–92.3%); in the anterior vocal fold, it overestimated the deep invasion (19.5% specificity, 90.3% sensitivity), while it underestimated the extralaryngeal spread (63.6% sensitivity, 98.1% specificity). In the posterior paraglottic space (pPGS), false negative results were more frequent for superficial extensions (25% sensitivity, 95.8% specificity) and deep invasions (58.8% sensitivity, 82.3% specificity). Shorter disease-specific and disease-free survivals were associated with pStage IV (p: 0.045 and 0.008) and with the pathological involvement of pPGS (p: 0.045 and 0.015). Conclusions: Negative prognostic correlation of pPGS involvement was confirmed on histopathological data. CT staging did not provide a satisfactory prognostic stratification and should be complemented with magnetic resonance imaging.

Short versus mid-long-term outcome of transanal irrigation in children with spina bifida and anorectal malformations

PURPOSE

We assessed short- and mid-long-term clinical efficacy of transanal irrigation (TAI) and its effect on the quality of life of children with spina bifida (SB) and anorectal malformations (ARM).

METHODS

Seventy-four pediatric patients (age 6-17 years) with SB and ARM with neurogenic bowel dysfunction were enrolled for a prospective and multicentric study. Patients were evaluated before the beginning of TAI (T0), after 3 months (T1) and after at least 2 years (range 24-32 months) (T2) using a questionnaire assessing bowel function, the Bristol scale, and two validated questionnaires on quality of life: the CHQ-PF50 questionnaire for the parents of patients aged 6-11 years and the SF36 questionnaires for patients aged between 12 and 18 years.

RESULTS

Seventy-two patients completed TAI program in T1, and 67 continued into T2. Bowel outcomes (constipation and fecal incontinence) improved in both the SB and the ARM groups in the short and mid-long term. In both groups at T1 and T2, parents and children reported an improvement in quality of life and there was a significant increase of stool form types 4 and 5 as described by the Bristol scale. Common adverse effects during the study were similar at T1 and T2 without serious complications.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed a sustained improvement in bowel management and quality of life in SB and ARM children during the study, more significant in the short term than in mid-long term. To maintain success rates in the mid-long term and to reduce the dropout rate, we propose patient training and careful follow-ups.