Titanium mesh cranioplasty for cosmetically disfiguring cranio-facial tumours in a resource limited setting

Background

The aesthetic reconstruction of disfiguring cranio-facial defects after tumour excision can be quite challenging to the neurosurgeon with limited resources. The choice of cranioplasty implant, intraoperative technicalities and the patients' postoperative appearance are critical considerations in management. There are a number of synthetic materials available for cranioplasty, however, the customised implants are not readily available in our practice setup. They are also mostly constructed and contoured after the bony defect has been created or require sophisticated software construction pre-operatively.

Methods

Eight patients with cranio-facial tumour pathologies who presented to our neurosurgical service, and had titanium mesh cranioplasty for the correction of cosmetically disfiguring cranio-facial tumours.

Results

There were 6 females, and 2 male patients respectively, with an age range between 28 and 74years. The histological diagnoses were meningioma, frontal squamous cell carcinoma, fibrous dysplasia, frontal mucocoele, cemeto-ossifying fibroma, osteoma, and naso-ethmoidal squamous cell carcinoma. The patient with naso-ethmoidal squamous cell carcinoma had post-operative subgaleal empyema which was amenable to incision and drainage procedure. The patient with a frontal cemento-ossifyng fibroma had a transient immediate post-operative mechanical ptosis, which resolved completely in 3months. All of the total eight patients (100%) had satisfactory cosmetic outlook at a minimum follow up period of 1month post-operatively (Numeric Rating Scale of at least 7/10). One of the patients required a revision surgery on account of implant displacement.

Conclusion

Cranioplasty is a common reconstructive neurosurgical procedure. It is important to the neurosurgeon for its neuro-protective function, and in the restoration of intra-cranial CSF dynamics. However, the cosmetic outlook appears to be more important to patients in the absence of pain and/or neurological deficits. Titanium mesh reconstruction is commonly used globally, and is becoming the preferred choice in low resource settings.

Effectiveness and toxicity of five-fraction prone accelerated partial breast irradiation

PURPOSE

Our institution was an early adopter of 5-fraction accelerated partial breast irradiation (ABPI) to treat women with early-stage breast cancer. This study reports long-term oncologic and cosmetic outcomes.

METHODS

We included patients receiving APBI 600 cGy × 5 fx delivered every other day or every day between 2010 and 2022. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with development of late toxicities, clinician, and patient-rated cosmesis. Kaplan-Meier methodology was used to calculate overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and locoregional recurrence-free survival (LR-RFS).

RESULTS

442 patients received APBI either daily (56%) or every other day (44%) in the prone position (92%). At a median follow-up of 48 months (range: 5.96-155 months), 12 (2.7%) patients developed a local recurrence (LR). Out of 258 patients with > 3-month toxicity data available, the most common late grade ≥ 2 adverse event was breast fibrosis (6.2%). On multivariate analysis, daily APBI treatment (vs every other day) did not correlate with an increased risk of any late grade ≥ 2 toxicity though it did correlate with a lower risk of any late grade ≥ 2 fibrosis. Overall, at a median follow-up of 80 months, the rates of good-excellent physician and patient-rated cosmesis were 95% and 85%, respectively, with no difference between patients treated on consecutive vs. every other day. On multivariate analysis, patients who did not receive any adjuvant therapy were at increased risk of developing a LR. Five-year OS, LRFS, and DFS were 97.2%, 97.7%, and 89.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Five-fraction APBI delivered primarily in the prone position either daily or every other day was effective with low rates of local recurrence, minimal toxicity, and excellent cosmesis at long-term follow-up.

No difference in operative time, outcomes, cosmesis, or return to activity and/or sport after minimally invasive versus open repair of primary Achilles ruptures: a retrospective review

PURPOSE

To compare clinical outcomes and the rate of return to sport among patients that have undergone minimally invasive repair versus open approach of an acute Achilles tendon rupture.

METHODS

Patients who underwent surgical repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture at a single urban academic institution from 2017 to 2020 with minimum 2-year follow-up were reviewed retrospectively. Preinjury sport participation and preinjury work activity information, the Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS), the Tegner Activity Scale, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System for mobility and pain interference were collected.

RESULTS

In total, 144 patients were initially included in the study. Of these, 63 patients were followed with a mean follow-up of 45.3 ± 29.2 months. The mean operative time did not significantly differ between groups (p = 0.938). Patients who underwent minimally invasive repair returned to sport at a rate of 88.9% at a mean of 10.6 ± 5.8 months, compared to return rate of open procedures of 83.7% at 9.5 ± 5.5 months. There were no significant differences in ATRS (p = 0.246), Tegner (p = 0.137) or VAS pain (p = 0.317) scores between groups. There was no difference in cosmetic satisfaction between PARS and open repair groups (88.4 vs. 76.0; p = 0.244).

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent minimally invasive repair of acute Achilles tendon ruptures demonstrate no significant differences with respect to cosmesis, operative time, patient-reported outcomes and the rate and level of return to activities when compared to an open approach.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Evaluation of the validity and reliability of a self-assessment questionnaire for cosmetic outcomes after thyroidectomy: a cross-sectional validation study

PURPOSE

The Self-Assessment Questionnaire for Cosmetic Outcomes (SAQCO) was developed by us to evaluate the cosmetic outcome of patients after thyroidectomy. This study aimed to examine the reliability and validity of SAQCO.

METHODS

We analyzed the cosmetic outcomes of 368 patients who underwent thyroidectomy and completed the SAQCO 1 year after surgery. The one-dimensionality, reliability, and validity of SAQCO were assessed using factor analysis models, Cronbach's alpha, and test-retest statistics. The differences in cosmesis indices between patient characteristics and surgical parameters were analyzed through comparative and regression analyses.

RESULTS

The unidimensional convergence of SAQCO was examined. A Cronbach's alpha of 0.91, strong item-total correlation values (from 0.77 to 0.89), and a test-retest correlation value of 0.86 indicated the internal consistency and reliability of the SAQCO. The cosmesis index was significantly highest in the transoral (92.3 points) and transaxillary groups (90.9 points), followed by the postauricular (84.8 points) and transcervical groups (76.4 points).

CONCLUSION

This study examined the reliability and validity of the SAQCO and showed that it is a suitable questionnaire for assessing cosmetic satisfaction of patients after thyroidectomy. The transoral and transaxillary approaches yield significantly superior cosmetic results compared to the conventional transcervical and postauricular approaches.

Endoscopic Tympanoplasty as an Alternative to Microscopic Tympanoplasty: A Comparative Study on Surgical Outcomes and patient satisfaction

Background

Chronic otitis media treatment has evolved, with microscopic surgeries as the gold standard and endoscopic surgeries as a newer addition.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study includes 209 patients who underwent type 1 tympanoplasty, utilizing both endoscopic and microscopic techniques, between January 2019 and December 2022 at a tertiary care institute in India. The study aims to compare hearing outcomes, graft uptake, hospital stay, postoperative pain, and cosmesis between the two groups.

Results

Mean AB gap closure was 17.09 + 5.98 dB in the endoscopic group and 16.74 + 5.05 dB in the microscopic group (P = 0.687). The duration of surgery was 79.26 ± 17.37 min in the Endoscopic group and 91.92 ± 15.35 min in the Microscopic group. (P = < 0.00001). The Endoscopic group experienced less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stay (P = < 0.00001, P = 0.0008), and exhibited better cosmetic outcomes (P = 0.00001) compared to the microscopic group.

Conclusion

Endoscopic tympanoplasty is a better alternative to microscopic tympanoplasty, delivering comparable hearing outcomes, shorter surgical duration, improved pain scores, and better cosmesis.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-023-04184-4.

Neck scar perception after neck dissection in HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

IMPORTANCE

While there has been an increased understanding of the impact of visible neck scars in some patients with certain diseases, this has not yet been explored in the HPV+ OPSCC population.

OBJECTIVE

To understand patients' perception of their scar and the impact on their quality of life (QOL) at least 6 months after neck dissection (ND) for HPV+ oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

In this retrospective case-control study, patients who underwent primary transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and ND for HPV+ OPSCC between 2016 and 2021 at a single tertiary care center were identified. Data analysis was performed in January 2022.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Dermatology Life Quality Index was modified (mDLQI) to assess patients' perceptions of their scars. The primary outcome was the mean mDLQI survey score with higher scores corresponding to worse perceptions. Three questions adapted from the Self-Consciousness Scale (SCS) were also included to assess awareness of appearance. All questions were scaled on a 0-3 Likert Scale. Tweedie generalized linear model was used to understand the relationship between mDLQI score and patient- and procedure-specific factors (including the three SCS survey questions). An additional exploratory logistic regression was performed to understand the risk factors for clinically significant mDLQI score change.

RESULTS

A total of 67 patients (response rate 57 %) completed the survey with a mean mDLQI survey score of 0.84 (max 30). Although there was a statistically significant negative association between private insurance and mDLQI survey score (95 % Confidence Interval [CI]: -2.72 - -0.38), and a positive association between the SCS score and mDLQI survey score (95 % CI: 0.23-0.81) (p < 0.05), these variables were not found to be risk factors for a clinically significant difference in mDLQI on multivariable analysis.

CONCLUSION

The majority of patients felt their neck scars did not interfere with their daily lives. Patient perceptions of neck scars were consistent despite differing patient characteristics and treatment regimens.

Applications of supraorbital keyhole craniotomy in pediatric cranial trauma: illustrative series of two cases and systematic literature review

Minimally invasive (MIS) approaches to neurosurgical diseases continue to increase in popularity due to their association with decreased infection risk, shorter recovery time, and improved cosmesis. Cosmesis and lower morbidity are especially important for pediatric patients. The supraorbital keyhole craniotomy (SOKC) is one MIS approach shown to be effective for both neoplastic and vascular pathologies in pediatric patients. However, it is limited data on its use in pediatric trauma patients. Two cases employing SOKC in pediatric trauma patients are presented here along with a systematic review of the literature. We queried PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception to August 2022 using the Boolean search term: (supraorbital OR eyebrow OR transeyebrow OR suprabrow OR superciliary OR supraciliary) AND (craniotomy OR approach OR keyhole OR procedure) AND (pediatric OR children OR child OR young) AND "trauma". Studies that discussed the use of an SOKC in a pediatric patient having sustained trauma to the frontal calvarium and/or anterior fossa/sellar region of the skull base were included. Details were extracted on patient demographics, trauma etiology, endoscope use, and surgical and cosmetic outcomes. We identified 89 unique studies, of which four met inclusion criteria. Thirteen total cases were represented. Age and sex were reported for 12 patients, 25% of whom were male; the mean age was 7.5 years (range: 3-16). Pathologies included acute epidural hematoma (9), orbital roof fracture with dural tear (1), blowout fracture of the medial wall of the frontal sinus with supraorbital rim fracture (1), and compound skull fracture (1). Twelve patients were treated with a conventional operating microscope, while one underwent endoscope-assisted surgery. Only one significant complication (recurrent epidural hematoma) was reported. There were no reported cosmetic complications. The MIS SOKC approach is a reasonable option for select anterior skull base trauma in the pediatric population. This approach has been used previously for successful frontal epidural hematoma evacuation, which is often treated by a large craniotomy. Further study is merited.

Cosmetic satisfaction and patient-reported outcomes following surgical treatment of single-suture craniosynostosis: a systematic review

PURPOSE

This study provides a systematic review on cosmetic satisfaction and other patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) of patients who underwent surgical treatment of SSC.

METHODS

A systematic review of all articles published from inception to 1 June 2022 was performed. Articles were included if they reported on subjective assessment of cosmetic satisfaction or other PROMs by patients or their families using questionnaires or interviews.

RESULTS

Twelve articles, describing 724 surgical treatments of SSC, met the inclusion criteria. Cosmetic satisfaction was evaluated in the following ways: 1) use of the VAS score, binary questions or a 5-point scale to rate general, facial or skull appearance; 2) use of an aesthetic outcome staging in which personal opinion was added to the treating surgeon's opinion; and 3) use of an evaluation of anatomical proportions of the skull and face. A trend towards an overall improvement in cosmetic satisfaction following surgical treatment of SSC was observed. Reported PROMs included general health, socioeconomic status, patients' and their families' rating of the normalcy and noticeability of their appearance and how much this bothered them, and patients' answers to the Youth Quality of Life with Facial Differences (YQOL-FD) questionnaire. No clear overall trend of the reported PROMs was identified.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review illuminates that there is a wide variation in outcomes for evaluating cosmetic satisfaction and other PROMs of patients who underwent surgical treatment of SSC, suggesting that further research is needed to develop an inclusive and uniform approach to assess these outcomes.

Comparison of adverse events in partial- or whole breast radiotherapy: investigation of cosmesis, toxicities and quality of life in a meta-analysis of randomized trials

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE

Adjuvant whole breast radiotherapy and systemic therapy are part of the current evidence-based treatment protocols for early breast cancer, after breast-conserving surgery. Numerous randomized trials have investigated the therapeutic effects of partial breast irradiation (PBI) compared to whole breast irradiation (WBI), limiting the treated breast tissue. These trials were designed to achieve equal control of the disease with possible reduction in adverse events, improvements in cosmesis and quality of life (QoL). In this meta-analysis, we aimed to investigate the differences between PBI and WBI in side effects and QoL.

MATERIAL/METHODS

We performed a systematic literature review searching for randomized trials comparing WBI and PBI in early-stage breast cancer with publication dates after 2009. The meta-analysis was performed using the published event rates and the effect-sizes for available acute and late adverse events. Additionally, we evaluated cosmetic outcomes as well as general and breast-specific QoL using the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23 questionnaires.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies were identified (n = 19,085 patients). PBI was associated with a lower prevalence in any grade 1 + acute toxicity and grade 2 + skin toxicity (OR = 0.12; 95% CI 0.09-0.18; p < 0.001); (OR = 0.16; 95% CI 0.07-0.41; p < 0.001). There was neither a significant difference in late adverse events between the two treatments, nor in any unfavorable cosmetic outcomes, rated by either medical professionals or patients. PBI-technique using EBRT with twice-daily fractionation schedules resulted in worse cosmesis rated by patients (n = 3215; OR = 2.08; 95% CI 1.22-3.54; p = 0.007) compared to WBI. Maximum once-daily EBRT schedules (n = 2071; OR = 0.60; 95% CI 0.45-0.79; p < 0.001) and IORT (p = 0.042) resulted in better cosmetic results grade by medical professionals. Functional- and symptom-based QoL in the C30-scale was not different between PBI and WBI. Breast-specific QoL was superior after PBI in the subdomains of "systemic therapy side effects" as well as "breast-" and "arm symptoms".

CONCLUSION

The analysis of multiple randomized trials demonstrate a superiority of PBI in acute toxicity as well breast-specific quality of life, when compared with WBI. Overall, late toxicities and cosmetic results were similar. PBI-technique with a fractionation of twice-daily schedules resulted in worse cosmesis rated by patients.

The Outcome of Purse-string Versus Conventional Wound Closure Techniques in Patients Undergoing Stoma Reversal: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing stoma reversal may experience surgical site infections and poor scarring. A purse-string closure approach may lower the incidence of surgical site infections due to its inherent ability to drain wound exudates. This study compared the frequency of surgical site infections and the cosmetic outlook of the scar among patients undergoing stoma reversal with linear and purse-string skin closure techniques.

SETTING AND DURATION

Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Child Health Sciences Lahore with a duration of one year (June 2021 to June 2022).

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial (TCTR20210417001) was conducted with IRB approval. A total of 124 patients undergoing stoma reversal were randomly assigned to two groups (62 in each): Group A received conventional linear skin closure, while Group B received purse-string wound closure. The study evaluated surgical site infection, cosmetic outcome, and length of stay.

RESULTS

Both groups had similar age, gender ratio, indication for surgery, and length of stay. The purse-string group had a significantly lower incidence of SSI (38.7 % vs. 14.5 %; p = 0.002) and better scar quality (Manchester scar scale showed 'good' scar quality in 63 % of patients vs. 22.6 % in the linear closure group, p-value <0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The purse-string technique for skin closure resulted in fewer surgical site infections and improved scar appearance.

Snatching: A modified cosmetic technique in pterygium surgery without using scalpel

AIM

To evaluate the cosmetic surgical outcomes of primary corneal pterygia excision using the avulsion (snatching) technique.

METHODS

A prospective, interventional study included twenty-five eyes of 25 patients with primary pterygium underwent excision were followed up for at least 6 months. In all patients, snatching (modified avulsion) technique was utilised to avulse the pterygium head off the corneal surface and remove any residual fibres by Colibri without need for keratectomy with a scalpel.

RESULTS

The study involved 25 eyes of 25 patients with an average age of 42.5±56.5 years. The mean follow-up was 6 months. One-week post-op, 8 patients (32%) reported they can tell which is the operated eye but looked untouched while 17 (68%) patients reported that the operated eye looked red but is accepted. Twenty patients (80%) reported some discomfort while the remaining 5 patients (20%) reported no discomfort. Cornea examination showed a clear cornea in 18 eyes (72%), 6 eyes (24%) had mild keratitis, and 1 eye (4%) had clouding at the surgical site. Over an average of six months post-op follow-up period, all the patients (100%) reported they cannot tell which eye had the surgery and none (0%) of them reported discomfort. Examination of the cornea was clear in 24 (96%) eyes, but 1 (4%) eye had mild keratitis.

CONCLUSION

Snatching (modified avulsion) technique was found to be effective, safe, and presents decent aesthetic appearance for the management of primary corneal pterygia when safety points are firmly followed.

Use of Paramedian Forehead Flap in an Octogenarian:A Case Report

Increase in life expectancy has led to increased number of octogenarian and nonagenarians population. These old people have increased chances of developing skin tumours like slow growing basal cell carcinoma on the sun exposed parts of body. Many a times surgeons all over the world are bit conservative in managing these elderly patients and compromise on cosmetic aspects due to very advanced age of these patients. This report is about an 87-year-old female with BCC of nasal dorsum who underwent a major surgical procedure to maintain facial aesthetics.

Subjective scar assessment scales in orthopaedic surgery and determinants of patient satisfaction: A systematic review of the literature

PURPOSE

Scar assessment tools can be utilized during the post-operative period to monitor scar progress. The primary aim of this systematic review was to evaluate current subjective scar assessment scales utilized in orthopaedic surgery. The secondary aim was to identify determinants of patients' satisfaction with their scars and evaluate current measurement scales.

METHODS

The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses checklist was followed. Electronic databases, currently registered studies, conference proceedings and the reference lists of included studies were searched. There were no constraints based on language or publication status. A narrative synthesis provided a description and evaluation of scales utilized in orthopaedic surgery. Determinants of patient satisfaction were identified along with the scales used to measure satisfaction.

RESULTS

A total of 6059 records were screened in the initial search. Twenty-six articles satisfied the inclusion criteria, assessing 7130 patients. In the literature, six validated subjective scar scales were identified, including the Vancouver scar scale, patient and observer scar assessment scale, Manchester scar scale, Stony Brook scar evaluation scale, visual analogue scale, and Hollander wound evaluation scale. Studies utilizing these scales to evaluate scars following orthopaedic procedures did so successfully. These were total hip arthroplasty, total knee arthroplasty, and limb reconstruction. The scales demonstrated satisfactory validity. Functional outcomes such as restoration of movement ranked among patients' highest concerns. Scar cosmesis was found to be amongst patients' lowest priorities.

CONCLUSIONS

Subjective scar assessment scales identified in the literature were not designed specifically for orthopaedic surgery. However, these were able to appropriately assess scars in the studies identified in this review. Current evidence suggests the effect of scar cosmesis on patient satisfaction with orthopaedic procedures is limited.

Intrastromal keratopigmentation: a boon for unsightly corneal scars

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to improve cosmesis in patients with corneal opacity (CO) using newer organic micronized pigments.

METHODS

Settings: Tertiary Care eye center, Design: Retrospective study.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Patients with unsightly corneal scars not suitable for keratoplasty, eccentric corneal opacity not requiring keratoplasty, or lenticular opacity/anterior or posterior capsular opacities in non-seeing eyes. Micronized organic pigment was used for keratopigmentation by the intrastromal pocket technique (ISPT) in deep corneal opacities and lenticular opacities, whereas the intrastromal needle puncture technique (ISNT) was used in superficial opacities or corneoiridic scars. The records of 463 patients were reviewed and analyzed for the duration of the past 7 years.

RESULTS

Two hundred and ninety-three (63.2%) patients underwent ISNT, eight underwent combined technique, and the rest underwent ISPT. The postoperative follow-up period showed more watering and redness in the needle puncture technique (p > 0.001), which resolved in 70.4% of patients by the end of 4 weeks. Repeat procedures were required in 5.3% of the patients with ISNT. The patient's satisfaction grading showed excellent levels in 375 (80.9%) patients, 45 (9.7%) had good satisfaction levels, and the rest had average satisfaction levels.

CONCLUSION

Intrastromal keratopigmentation is a boon for unsightly corneal scars and gives respite to the patients from the social stigma.

Cosmetic satisfaction and patient-reported outcome measures following cranioplasty after craniectomy - A prospective cohort study

Introduction

Evaluating patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) helps optimize preoperative counseling and psychosocial care for patients who underwent cranioplasty.

Research question

This study aimed to evaluate cosmetic satisfaction, level of self-esteem, and fear of negative evaluation (FNE) of patients who underwent cranioplasty.

Material and methods

Patients who underwent cranioplasty from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2020 ​at University Medical Center Utrecht and a control group consisting of our center' employees were invited to fill out the Craniofacial Surgery Outcomes Questionnaire (CSO-Q), consisting of an assessment of cosmetic satisfaction, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the FNE scale. To test for differences in results, chi-square tests and T-tests were performed. Logistic regression was used to study the effect of cranioplasty-related variables on cosmetic satisfaction.

Results

Cosmetic satisfaction was seen in 44/80 patients (55.0%) and 52/70 controls (74.3%) (p ​= ​0.247). Thirteen patients (16.3%) and 8 controls (11.4%) had high self-esteem (p ​= ​0.362), 51 patients (63.8%) and 59 controls (84.3%) had normal self-esteem (p ​= ​0.114), and 7 patients (8.8%) and 3 controls (4.3%) had low self-esteem (p ​= ​0.337). Forty-nine patients (61.3%) and 39 controls (55.7%) had low FNE (p ​= ​0.012), 8 patients (10.0%) and 18 controls (25.7%) had average FNE (p ​= ​0.095), and 6 patients (7.5%) and 13 controls (18.6%) had high FNE (p ​= ​0.215). Cosmetic satisfaction was associated with glass fiber-reinforced composite implants (OR 8.20, p-value ​= ​0.04).

Discussion and conclusion

This study prospectively evaluated PROMs following cranioplasty, for which we found favorable results.

Comparison of laparoscopic port site skin closure techniques (CLOSA): transcutaneous suturing versus subcuticular sutures versus adhesive strips: a prospective single-blinded randomized control trial

BACKGROUND

Cosmesis is an essential aspect of laparoscopic surgery. Various methods of skin closure techniques have been described. We conducted a study to evaluate the cosmesis and patient satisfaction with the scars three months after laparoscopic surgery using transcutaneous suture (TS) vs. adhesive strips (AS) and subcuticular suturing (SS).

METHODS

A randomized, controlled, prospective study was conducted at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar. The included patients were randomly assigned among the three arms. The time for skin closure was measured. Wounds were assessed till discharge, at 14 days, one month, and three months. Cosmesis was measured by the Hollander Wound evaluation scale (HWES) for each incision separately, and patient satisfaction by a 10- point Visual analog scale (VAS).

RESULTS

One hundred six patients were assessed for eligibility, and 90 patients were randomized. Three-month follow-up data was obtained from 83 patients (92.22%). Baseline characteristics were similar among the groups. Cosmetic outcome was assessed in 312 incisions across 83 patients, and 206 (66.03%) incisions had an HWE Score of 0, but there was no significant difference (p = 0.86). Patient satisfaction was highest in the TS group (TS = 1.29, SS = 1.79, AS = 2.04, p = 0.03). Time for skin closure was the least in the AS arm (41.4 secs, p = 0.00). Skin dehiscence was significantly more in the AS arm. Four (4.44%) patients had port site infections.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that skin closure by transcutaneous, subcuticular, or adhesive strip methods had comparable cosmetic outcomes at three months. However, the transcutaneous closure method showed better patient satisfaction and minimal post-operative complications.

Was Marilyn Monroe myopic and an early adopter of colored contact lenses? A review of the evidence and the early history of colored contact lenses

Wide availability and uptake of contact lenses came with the development of the first polymethyl methacrylate corneal lenses during the late 1940s. It is less well known that colored contact lenses were developed simultaneously. These innovations allowed both a degree of spectacle independence for ametropes and an ability to vary eye color. The impact on facial and ocular cosmesis was substantial, particularly for public figures such as actors. We have obtained contact lenses and matching casts manufactured by their inventor, Kevin M. Tuohy. Measurements of these suggest they were made for a myope, and we provide indirect evidence that the lenses were made for Marilyn Monroe. We also provide evidence that Monroe is likely to have been myopic, used colored contact lenses to change her eye color and may have been an early sufferer of contact lens overwear syndrome. The importance of ocular cosmesis can be overlooked in ophthalmic practice, yet it is of great interest to and importance for patients. It appears that discomfort, and even risk, will be tolerated to achieve a particular appearance. This is reflected in current techniques aimed at achieving improved cosmesis.

Factors Associated With Cosmetic Outcomes After Treatment With a Novel Form of Breast Intraoperative Radiation Therapy

INTRODUCTION

Precision breast intraoperative radiation therapy (PB-IORT) incorporates computed tomography-guided treatment planning and high dose rate brachytherapy to deliver a single dose of highly conformal radiational therapy. The purpose of this study is to determine factors associated with poor cosmetic outcomes after treatment with PB-IORT.

METHODS

The study included all consecutive participants enrolled in an ongoing phase II clinical trial that had completed a minimum of 12 mo of follow-up. A poor cosmetic outcome was defined as scoring "fair" or "poor" on the Harvard Cosmesis evaluation, or "some" or "very much" on any of the three general cosmesis categories. Statistical analysis was performed utilizing R.

RESULTS

The final cohort included 201 participants, of which 181 (90%) had an overall good/excellent cosmetic outcome. Group 1 consisted of 162 (81%) participants who reported only excellent/good cosmetic outcomes. Group 2 consisted of 39 (19%) participants who reported some aspect of a poor cosmetic outcome. On multivariable analysis, participants with ductal carcinoma in situ were significantly more likely to experience a poor cosmetic outcome (odds ratio 2.45, 95% confidence interval 1.03-5.82, P = 0.04), and those who received subsequent whole breast irradiation were also more likely to have a poor cosmetic outcome (odds ratio 10.20, 95% confidence interval CI 1.04-99.95, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with need for further radiation after PB-IORT are at increased risk for a poor cosmetic outcome. Larger balloon volume and distance between the skin do not have deleterious effects on cosmetic outcomes.

Oncoplastic Breast Surgery: a Single-Institution Experience

Oncoplastic breast surgery involves immediate reshaping of the breast after tumor excision. It enables wider excision of the tumor while maintaining a satisfactory cosmetic outcome. One hundred and thirty seven patients underwent oncoplastic breast surgery at our institute between June 2019 and December 2021. The procedure performed was decided based on the location of tumor and volume of excision. All patient and tumor characteristics were entered into an online database. The median age was 51 years. The mean tumor size was 3.666 cm (± 0.2512). Twenty-seven patients underwent a type I oncoplasty, 89 patients type 2 oncoplasty, and 21 patients a replacement procedure. Only 5 patients had margin positivity out of which 4 patients underwent a re-wide excision with negative margins. Oncoplastic breast surgery is a safe and effective method to manage patients who need conservative surgery of breast tumors. It allows us to provide good esthetic outcome to the patients ultimately aiding in better emotional and sexual well-being.

Early Toxicity and Patient-Reported Cosmetic Outcomes in Patients Treated With Adjuvant Proton-Based Radiotherapy After Breast-Conserving Surgery

INTRODUCTION

To evaluate the dosimetric data, early toxicity, and patient-reported cosmetic outcomes in breast cancer patients treated with adjuvant proton-based radiotherapy (RT) after breast-conserving surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of our institutional database to identify breast cancer patients treated with breast-conserving surgery followed by proton-based RT from 2015 to 2020. Patient-reported cosmetic outcomes were graded as excellent, good, fair, or poor. Early toxicity outcomes were graded by the treating physician during treatment. Dose-volume histograms were reviewed to obtain dosimetry data.

RESULTS

We identified 21 patients treated with adjuvant proton-based RT. Median whole breast dose delivered was 46.8 Gy (range, 40.0-50.4 Gy). Target volumes included the regional lymph nodes in 17 patients (81%). Seventeen patients (81%) received a lumpectomy boost. The median planning target volume V95 was 94% (range, 77%-100%), V100 71% (range, 60%-97%), V110 2% (range 0%-18%), and median max point dose was 115% (range, 105%-120%). The median ipsilateral breast V105 was 367.3 cc (range, 0-1172 cc) and V110 was 24.1 cc (range, 0-321.3 cc). Grade 2 and 3 dermatitis occurred in 62% and 14% of patients, respectively. Grade 2 and 3 pain was reported by 33% and 10% of patients, respectively. Median follow-up at the time of cosmetic evaluation was 27 months (range, 5-42 months). Four patients (21%) reported fair cosmetic outcome and 15 patients (79%) reported good or excellent cosmetic outcome. No poor cosmesis was reported.

CONCLUSION

Adjuvant proton-based radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery is well tolerated with acceptable rates of acute toxicities and a high rate of good-to-excellent patient-reported cosmetic outcomes.

Cold burns as a result of cosmetic cryolipolysis: An emerging concern from the NSW Statewide Burn Injury Service

Cold burns are an uncommon mechanism of burn injury in Australia, where environmental exposure to freezing temperatures is rare. Aetiological research shows that most likely causes are related to intentional injury or industrial accidents¹ Cryolipolysis, a cosmetic technique advertised as 'fat freezing', has recently emerged as a method of fat reduction and body contouring. Whilst perceived as safe^4,5, this study presents the world's first case series on cold burns sustained from cryolipolysis. A retrospective review was undertaken of the New South Wales Statewide Burn Injury Service (SBIS) Registry, a prospectively collected database of all patients treated by NSW burns units. Ten patients from 2012 to 2020 were identified who sustained cold burns as a direct complication of cosmetic cryolipolysis. Mean total body surface area (TBSA) injured was 1% (range 0.5-3%). Burn depth ranged from superficial to full thickness. Two patients required excision and split-thickness skin grafts. Mean time to complete healing was 10 days (range 7-13) for those patients with partial thickness injuries, and 38 days (range 32-45) for those who required skin grafts. This case series provides strong evidence that cyrolipolysis can cause cold burns leading to varying degrees of skin injury, even requiring skin grafts. These injuries should be classified as burns and referred to specialist burn centres for treatment. Further research is needed to determine the specific aspects of cryolipolysis cold burn risk, and practitioners trained to reduce this risk and include it in consent processes. The authors advocate for education and regulation to prevent such injuries, and challenge perceptions of the technique as a minor, risk-free cosmetic treatment.

Zone 1 and 2 flexor tendon repair via a longitudinal incision crossing the volar distal interphalangeal joint: functional and cosmetic outcomes

INTRODUCTION

The primary aim of this study was to present patient-reported functional outcomes after zone 1 and 2 flexor tendon repair using a novel longitudinal volar approach crossing the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) perpendicularly. The secondary aims were to investigate the cosmetic outcomes, satisfaction and complication rates associated with this technique.

METHODS

Over a 6-year period, 75 patients underwent flexor tendon repair using this technique. The quick version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), five-level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-5L), Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and satisfaction questionnaires were collected. QuickDASH scores were available for 59 patients (79%), and POSAS scores were available for 45 patients (60%) at a mean follow-up of 48 months. Concomitant nerve repairs were undertaken in 24 cases.

RESULTS

The median QuickDASH score was 4.5 (interquartile range [IQR] 1.1-12.5) and median POSAS score was 12 (IQR 8-16). No significant difference was observed in median QuickDASH score between patients with and without a concomitant nerve repair (4.5 vs 6.8; p = 0.36). Fifty-six patients (94%) were satisfied. Two patients required open tenolysis, and a single case of early re-rupture occurred that required revision open repair.

CONCLUSIONS

Utilising validated patient-reported functional outcomes, this study demonstrated that a direct longitudinal incision over the DIPJ for zone 1 and 2 flexor tendon repairs can result in excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes, with high rates of patient satisfaction and low rates of complications. This challenges previously held dogma that longitudinal incisions crossing flexion creases should be avoided.

Is This Novel Incision for Benign Parotid Tumors the Answer for Improved Esthetics and Access?

Background

Incision scars and postoperative cosmesis are critical in the management of benign parotid tumors. Traditional incisions have a typical visible scar in the retromandibular area or require wide skin flaps.

Purpose

In this study, we introduced a new surgical approach called the tri-split flap approach and evaluated its technical feasibility and surgical outcomes.

Materials and Methods

Eleven patients with clinically benign parotid gland tumors underwent the tri-split flap approach and were followed for six to ten months postoperatively. Facial weakness, salivary fistula formation, first bite syndrome, earlobe numbness, and the subjective cosmetic results were evaluated.

Results

All tumors were completely excised, and the patients were highly satisfied with the esthetic outcome of the surgery. No patients developed wound dehiscence, facial nerve injury, or first bite syndrome during the follow-up period. One patient developed a minor salivary fistula that resolved after three weeks.

Conclusion

The tri-split flap approach not only provides adequate exposure of the surgical site to achieve complete resection of benign parotid gland neoplasms but also results in a very short and highly concealed post-operative scar. This technique is a potential surgical approach in parotidectomy.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12663-021-01605-1.

5-Fluorouracil in primary, impending recurrent and recurrent pterygium: Systematic review of the efficacy and safety of a surgical adjuvant and intralesional antimetabolite

Pterygium is an ultraviolet-related disease characterized by an aberrant, wing-shaped and active wound-healing process. There is nothing quite as disheartening for the surgeon or patient as the recurrence of pterygium, and various adjuvants have been studied to ameliorate this. This systematic review provides a comprehensive summary of the efficacy and safety of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) as an antimetabolite agent for pterygium management. An appraisal of electronic searches of six databases identified 34 clinical studies reporting recurrence outcomes of 5-FU use in primary, impending recurrent and recurrent pterygia. In vitro and in vivo studies of 5-FU showed dose- and duration-dependent cytostatic and cytotoxic effects in human cells. 5-FU is relatively inexpensive, available, and easy to administer, making it attractive for resource-limited scenarios. However, the published evidence demonstrates a recurrence rate of 11.4-60% with the bare scleral technique, 3.5-35.8% with conjunctival rotational flaps, 3.7-9.6% with conjunctival autografts for intraoperative topical 5-FU, and 14-35.8% for preoperative and intraoperative injections. This suboptimal efficacy brings the role of 5-FU as an adjuvant for pterygium surgery into question and the authors do not recommend its use. In contrast, postoperative intralesional injections of 5-FU to arrest progression in impending recurrent pterygium and true recurrent pterygia were more promising, with success rates of 87.2-100% and 75-100%, respectively. Furthermore, 5-FU as a treatment modality, without surgery, effectively arrested progression in 81.3-96% of primary and recurrent pterygia. Other treatments such as topical and intralesional corticosteroids, cyclosporine and anti-VEGF agents are discussed. Complications of 5-FU increase with higher doses and range from transient and reversible to severe and sight-threatening. For pterygium, 5-FU has a predilection for causing scleral thinning, corneal toxicity, and graft-related complications. Additional study with extended follow-up is needed to elucidate the optimal dose, frequency, duration, and long-term safety of 5-FU injections. If 5-FU is used in the management of pterygium, it should be with caution, in selected patients and with vigilant long-term monitoring.

Effect of eyeliner and mascara use on tear film and meibomian glands

PURPOSE

This study was conducted to see whether eyeliner, mascara, or combined eyeliner and mascara (EM) use affects tear production, tear film stability, and meibomian gland (MG) loss.

METHODS

Two hundred and twenty healthy women underwent noninvasive tear break-up time (NTBUT) measurement, meibography, and Schirmer testing. Study groups were no makeup (NM) group, eyeliner-only group, mascara-only group, and those who used both EM. The one-way analysis of variance test was used for group comparisons. Chi-square test was used for meiboscale comparison.

RESULTS

NTBUT (seconds) results were 11.5 ± 4.8 (no makeup), 21.3 ± 69 (eyeliner only), 21.8 ± 6.5 (mascara only), and 22.5 ± 7.0 (eyeliner-mascara). The differences between groups were significant (P < 0.0001). All makeup groups (eyeliner only, mascara only, eyeliner-mascara) had significantly diminished values compared with NM group (P < 0.001, P < 0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively). Schirmer test (millimeters) results were 22.7 ± 6.4 (NM group), 21.3 ± 6.9 (eyeliner only), 21.8 ± 6.5 (mascara only), and 22.5 ± 7.0 (eyeliner-mascara) with no significant differences between groups (P = 0.66). Meiboscale grading revealed that NM group had significantly lower values of MG loss compared with eyeliner-only (EO) (P = 0.01), mascara-only (MO) (P = 0.002), and eyeliner-mascara groups (P = 0.007). There were no significant differences between EO and MO (P = 0.31), EO and eyeliner-mascara (P = 0.39), or MO and eyeliner-mascara groups (P = 0.91).

CONCLUSION

None of the makeup groups had changes in Schirmer wetting. All eye cosmetic groups have significant changes of NTBUT and meibography compared with NM subjects, and yet combined use of EM does not affect ocular surface more adversely than their separate use.

Steri-stripTM versus subcuticular skin closure of paediatric groin wounds: A randomised study

BACKGROUND

A technique that offers the best chance of an optimal result is most appropriate to be employed for wound closure.

AIMS

We set out to compare the cosmetic outcome, and wound complication rates associated with clean paediatric groin wounds closed using Steri-Strip™ or subcuticular suturing.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

A prospective randomised study.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Children of African descent with unilateral and bilateral clean groin wounds were randomised into subcuticular suture skin closure and Steri-Strip™ groups and followed up postoperatively. Cosmetic assessment and outcome were scored based on parents' satisfaction using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and a single Plastic Surgeon assessed pictures of the scars using the Hollander Wound Evaluation Scale (HWES). Statistical analysis was used SPSS version 18.

RESULTS

Seventy-five wounds were assessed, (n = 35, Steri-Strips™) and (n = 40, suturing). Closure with Steri-Strips resulted in scars with comparable cosmesis as those with subcuticular suturing. Wound complications were also similar. There was no statistically significant difference between mean VAS scores on the 5^th day (P = 0.320), 2^nd week (P = 0.080), 4^th week (P = 0.070) and 8^th week (P = 0.080). The HWES scores were also comparable at those times.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that skin closure of clean paediatric groin wounds with SteriStrips™ gives comparative cosmetic outcomes with subcuticular suturing.

Columellar strut grafts versus septal extension grafts during rhinoplasty for airway function, patient satisfaction and tip support

IMPORTANCE

Different techniques exist to provide tip support in rhinoplasty. There is little evidence to provide a consensus on the most effective choice.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluating columellar strut graft (CSG) and septal extension grafts (SEG) for their influence on airway function, patient satisfaction and tip support.

DESIGN, SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken on 165 adult patients who underwent open rhinoplasty with either a CSG or SEG, from February 2012 to August 2019 in a single tertiary facial-plastic practice in Sydney, Australia. Operations were for both cosmetic and functional indications, and both primary and revision cases were assessed. Airway testing and patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) were performed preoperatively and at least 6 months following the procedure. Photographic tip analysis was taken from approximately 4 and 12-month postoperative photographs.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Nasal peak inspiratory flow (NPIF) and total nasal airway resistance (NAR) were the primary airway functional outcomes. The primary PROMs analysed were a visual analogue scale (VAS) for nasal obstruction and 13-point Likert scale for global cosmesis, the Nose Outcome Symptom Evaluation (NOSE), and the nasal obstruction score. Tip support was determined by the nasolabial angle (NLA) and Simon's ratio as assessed by Rhinobase developed by Apaydin et al. on lateral Frankfort plane photographs. Data normalised as an improvement over preoperative baseline, accounting for individual variability.

RESULTS

A total of 165 patients was assessed (35.2 ± 12.9 yrs, 72% female), 100 (61%) of which received SEG. There were similar nasal airway assessments between CSG and SEG groups, with ΔNPIF (20.0 ± 42.1 L/min v 19.9 ± 44.9 L/min, p = 0.983) and Δ "obstructed" NAR (-1.13 ± 1.90 v -1.02 ± 4.33 Pa/cm3/s, p = 0.849). Amongst PROMs, a greater cosmetic outcome was seen in the SEG group (7.20 ± 2.97 v 5.69 ± 3.45, p < 0.01) with all other assessments similar between CSG and SEG techniques. Photographic analysis of tip projection showed reduced NLA distortion in the SEG.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

While greater patient-perceived cosmesis was seen in patients with a SEG, there were similar airflow and patient-reported nasal function between groups. Photographic analysis of tip projection showed SEG patients additionally benefited from less NLA distortion and greater tip maintenance.

Innovative Standards in Oncoplastic Breast Conserving Surgery: From Radical Mastectomy to Extreme Oncoplasty

BACKGROUND

Oncoplastic breast conserving surgery (OBCS), which is the current procedure of choice for eligible BC patients, describes a philosophy that prioritizes oncologic and cosmetic outcomes. However, knowledge gaps regarding training, acceptance, and practice preclude standardization and make it difficult to design algorithmic guidelines to optimize individualized management in the era of precision medicine.

SUMMARY

The harmony between patient expectations and oncologic goals creates the state of the art of OBCS. Nevertheless, to achieve these goals, multidisciplinary approach is a must. Surgical decisions require a comprehensive evaluation including patient factors, tumor biology, genetics, technical considerations, and adjunct therapies. Moreover, the quality-of-life (QOL) issues should be considered as the highest level of priority with a shared decision making instituted on realistic discussions with the patient.

KEY MESSAGES

The standardization in OBCS should be initiated via defining a breast surgeon who should gain theorical and practical competence on techniques via national or international educational programs. The algorithmic patient assessment with appropriate documentation before and after surgery should be established. A simple and safe global lexicon should be designed regarding techniques to be proposed and quality metrics to be considered. Additionally, international multicenter prospective trials should be instituted to overcome knowledge gaps. It is evident that OBCS is the perfect union of science with art. Nevertheless, at the very end, the question is not the nature of the surgeon/artist who would be the extremist, the innovator, or the conservative, but the patient's satisfaction, prognosis, and QOL that conclude the cascade of state of the art of OBCS.

A systematic review of oncoplastic volume replacement breast surgery: oncological safety and cosmetic outcome

INTRODUCTION

Oncoplastic breast conserving surgery allows higher volume excision to achieve oncological safety with minimal aesthetic compromise. The primary outcome of this study was to assess the oncological safety in the setting of volume replacement oncoplastic breast conserving surgery. The secondary objective was to assess cosmetic outcome.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines to explore the oncological safety of oncoplastic breast conserving surgery, with particular focus on volume replacement. Resection margin rates, re-excision rates, conversion to mastectomy rates, local and distant disease recurrence, volume replacement techniques, cosmetic outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures were assessed.

FINDINGS

The search criteria identified 155 articles, of which 40 met the inclusion criteria. These studies included 2,497 patients with a mean age of 47.8 years (range 38.4-59.6 years), a body mass index of 24.3kg/m² (22.1-28.0kg/m²), with a mean follow-up of 37.1 months (6-125 months). A variety of volume replacement techniques were used, most commonly latissimus dorsi and chest wall perforator flaps. Whole mean pathological tumour size was 29.7mm (17-65mm) and mean specimen weight was 123.6g (46.5-220g). Mean re-excision rate was 7.2% and completion mastectomy rate was 2.3%. Locoregional and distant recurrence rate was 2.5% (0-8.1%) and 3.1% (0-14.6%), respectively. There were a variety of patient-reported outcome measures employed, with overall good to excellent outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This review demonstrates that volume replacement oncoplastic breast conserving surgery is a safe option in terms of re-excision, completion mastectomy rates, and local and distant recurrence. Available patient-related outcome measures and cosmetic assessment tend towards better outcomes compared with wide local excision and mastectomy. However, data are significantly limited, with a paucity of high-level evidence, and it is therefore necessary to be cautious regarding the strength and interpretation of data in this review. Further prospective studies are required on this subject.

Meta-analysis comparing the outcomes of single stage (foreskin pedicled tube) versus two stage (foreskin free graft & foreskin pedicled flap) repair for proximal hypospadias in the last decade

BACKGROUND

Despite many technical advances the debate continues on single versus staged procedures for proximal hypospadias. In this systematic review and meta-analysis we have compared the contemporary outcomes of proximal hypospadias repair: single stage foreskin pedicle tube (FPT) versus two stage foreskin free graft (FFG) and two-stage foreskin pedicled flap (FPF) over the last decade.

METHODS

A systematic literature review of publications in English of the following electronic databases was conducted: Cochrane Database, PUBMED, MEDLINE and EMBASE. The following keywords were used: (proximal) AND (hypospadias) AND (repair OR urethroplasty) AND (outcomes OR complications). The publication date range for studies was from January 2010 to December 2020. Outcomes analyzed were complications like urethro-cutaneous fistula (UCF), glans dehiscence (GD), meatal stenosis (MS), urethral stricture (US), urethral diverticulum (UD), recurrent curvature or residual chordee (RC), buried penis (BP) and poor cosmesis (PC) as per objective assessment scores, or poor graft uptake (PGF) during first stage. We also divided the papers based on case load into two groups: < 5 cases or >5 cases operated per year and compared the post-operative outcomes.

RESULTS

The I 2 statistics for prevalence of total complications showed high heterogeneity with I 2 of 88% for one stage repair and 92% & 98% for two stage repairs. The pooled data from 26 articles covered a total of 2664 patients; mean follow-up of 4.5 years (1.8-14 years). One stage repair (FPT) was used in 680 (25%) patients while two stage repair was used in 1984 (75%) patients. Complications were encountered in 285/680 (42%) of those who underwent single stage repair (FPT) and this was significantly higher (Fishers; p = 0.001) than 414/1984 (21%) complication rate seen in two stage repair. Among the two different techniques of two stage operations over-all complication rate was not significantly different (Fisher's; p = 0.1) between FFG (155/674; 23%) and FPF (259/1310; 20%). FFG was superior to FPF in terms of individual complications UCF, MS, GD and UD. For two-stage FPT and FPF repairs the complication rate significantly reduced (p = 0.01) with increasing case load. For single stage repairs the complication rate remained high despite the increasing case load.

CONCLUSIONS

Two-stage repair of proximal hypospadias had significantly less complications compared to single stage repair. Among two-stage repairs specific complications were significantly less for FFG, although total complications were not significantly different from that seen with FPF. The results of two-stage repairs improved with higher case load supporting the concept of dedicated hypospadias centres.

Longitudinal analysis of retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy regarding cosmesis outcomes: comparison of lateral transperitoneal and reduced port laparoscopic adrenalectomy

The aim of this study is to compare patient-reported cosmesis and satisfaction outcomes between lateral retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy (LRA), laparoendoscopic single site and reduced port adrenalectomy (LESS/RP-A) and lateral transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LTA). A total of 26, 86 and 50 patients who underwent LRA, LESS/RP-A and LTA were included in the study. All LESS/RP-A cases were performed taking the transumbilical approach. We mailed a questionnaire to all patients 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after operation. Questionnaires inquiring about cosmesis (0: very ugly, 10: very beautiful) on the basis of a visual analogue scale were administered. The mean scores of cosmesis at postoperative months 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 were 7.11, 7.00, 6.57, 5.25 and 5.46 for the LRA group, 8.43, 8.86, 8.95, 8.46 and 9.09 for the LESS/RP-A group and 7.18, 7.74, 7.58, 7.44 and 8.09 for the LTA group. The difference in cosmesis score between the LRA and LESS/RP-A groups gradually increased after surgery, and the cosmesis score for the LRA group was significantly lower at every postoperative point. The difference in cosmesis score between the LRA and LTA groups gradually increased after surgery, and the cosmesis score for the LRA group was significantly lower at postoperative months 9 (p = 0.015) and 12 (p = 0.002). This study is the first comprehensive longitudinal analysis of patient-reported cosmesis outcomes between LRA, LESS/RP-A and LTA. LRA was the surgical procedure that resulted in lower cosmesis scores when compared with those following the LESS/RP-A and LTA procedures.

Acute and late complications and toxicities of skin brachytherapy

Skin cancer is the most prevalent malignancy, and its incidence is rising. Surgery is the primary treatment, however, morbidity of surgical resection in certain parts of the body warrant alternate treatment options such as radiation therapy. Complex topology of the skin can pose a challenge for treatment with photon and electron external beam radiotherapy techniques. Brachytherapy can be an attractive radiotherapy technique for these regions. Furthermore, brachytherapy results in lower dose to the underlying deep organs. The goal of this manuscript is to provide a brief overview of the role of brachytherapy for skin malignancies and to outline potential acute and long-term toxicities.

Management of Granulomatous Mastitis Following Aesthetic Breast Surgery

BACKGROUND

Granulomatous mastitis (GM) is not among the well-known diseases in the field of aesthetic breast surgery (ABS). The clinical presentation of GM resembles infectious diseases or malignancies, but the management of these diseases is quite different. In this study, we aimed to present the management of GM in patients who underwent ABS.

METHODS

In this study, patients with GM (n = 65) and patients who underwent ABS (n = 531) were evaluated. A total of six GM patients with a history of ABS were included in the study between January 1, 2010, and January 1, 2019. The data were collected retrospectively. The quantitative variables are shown as medians (minimum-maximum), and categorical variables are shown as numbers and percentages (%).

RESULTS

Median duration of disease onset after the ABS was 16 (8-38) months. After the diagnosis of GM was obtained, all patients received steroid treatment. Median steroid treatment duration was 10 (8-20) weeks. Methotrexate was administered in two patients due to persistent breast mass and steroid side effect. Surgical excision was performed in three patients with wide excision. No patient needed further surgery such as mastectomy. Median follow-up period was 37.5 (18-70) months.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to declare GM in patients who underwent ABS. Atypical clinical presentation such as breast abscess, mass or fistula after ABS should alert the surgeon about GM. Unlike other mastitis, the primary treatment of this rare disease is steroid and immunosuppressive treatment. Insufficient knowledge about GM can lead to unnecessary surgeries or breast loss.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Prognostic factors for local recurrence and survival and impact of local treatments on survival in lacrimal gland carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To identify prognostic factors for local recurrence, distant metastasis and disease-specific survival (DSS) for lacrimal gland carcinoma.

METHODS

All consecutive patients with lacrimal gland carcinoma treated from January 1998 through December 2018 were included. Log-rank tests and univariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to study risk factors and survival.

RESULTS

Overall, 55 patients were included in this study, and 5 patients were excluded from the survival analysis. Median age was 46 years (range: 10-76). 43 patients (78%) had adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC). 31 patients (56%) had T2 disease at presentation. 28 patients (51%) underwent orbital exenteration with or without adjuvant radiotherapy or chemoradiation, 26 (47%) underwent eye-sparing surgery with or without adjuvant radiotherapy or chemoradiation, and 1 received palliative chemoradiation. 11 patients (22%) experienced local recurrence; 14 (29%) experienced distant metastasis. Five- and 10-year local-recurrence-free survival rates were 0.71 (95% CI 0.58 to 0.88), and 5- and 10-year distant-metastasis-free survival rates were 0.67 (95% CI 0.53 to 0.85) and 0.49 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.81), respectively. There was no significant difference in risks of local recurrence, distant metastasis or DSS between ACC patients who had orbital exenteration and those who had eye-sparing surgery. Perineural invasion was negatively associated with local-recurrence-free survival (p=0.02). Among patients with ACC, basaloid/solid histologic type was associated with significantly worse DSS than non-basaloid/solid histologic type (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

For lacrimal gland carcinoma, orbital exenteration with adjuvant therapy and eye-sparing surgery with adjuvant therapy are associated with similar recurrence outcomes. Eye-sparing surgery is associated with better DSS. Perineural invasion is a risk factor for local recurrence. ACC with basaloid/solid subtype correlates with worse DSS.

Laparoscopic hidden incision endoscopic surgery (hides) nephrectomy VS. Traditional laparoscopic nephrectomy: Non-inferior surgical outcomes and better cosmetic results

INTRODUCTION

The benefits of laparoscopic total nephrectomy in pediatric patients are well established. Traditional Ports placement (TPP) still follows Clayman's classic description: except for the umbilical scar, the other laparoscopic scars are exposed in the abdomen. Advances in robotic surgery permitted the development of HidES (hidden incision endoscopic surgery) technique, to obtain a better final cosmetic aspect with the scars located intraumbilically and in the hypogastric region, in an area easily hidden by underwear. As robotic surgery is related to higher costs and lacks availability, a pure laparoscopic HidES technique was developed.

OBJECTIVES

1.Evaluate safety and efficacy of pure laparoscopic HidES.2. Compare HidES with TPP nephrectomy series to assess non-inferiority and cosmetic outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Twenty-one pediatric patients with symptomatic poor functioning kidneys (DMSA<10%) underwent HidES nephrectomy. Their intra and post-operative outcomes were recorded prospectively. HidES group was compared to an equivalent group of thirty-two patients who underwent TPP nephrectomy.

RESULTS

There were no conversions to open surgery in the TPP or HidES groups. There was a significant difference in operative time between HidES (53.4min) and TPP (109.4 min), with p = 0.004 and the mean bleeding volume was 65.5 ml. There was no significant difference in bleeding between HidES (71 ml) and TPP (120 ml) (p = 0.06), no intraoperative complications and no complications above Clavien-Dindo II during the 6-week follow-up. Satisfaction reached 100% in HidES group, whereas in TPP satisfaction was 63% (p = 0.004).

DISCUSSION

HidES benefit over TPP is to conceal visible scars above underwear, improving cosmetical outcome. A prospective HidES group was compared to a retrospective TPP database due to decreasing number of nephrectomies being performed, which is a limitation of our study. HidES surgeries were performed by pediatric urologists (associate staff) while TPP group surgeries were performed by PGY-5 urological residents assisted by the associate staff, which is a clear limitation and can explain shorter operative times for HidES. During HidES surgeries an improved visualization of the operative field by the inferior trocar positioning was noted, which helps the posterior dissection of renal pedicle. Previous published study comparing robotic TPP and HidES pyeloplasty showed equal results for both groups with cosmetic advantages. Objective satisfaction was assessed with statistically advantage in favor of HidES procedure, consonant with other evidence that supports the benefit of scar location in patient and parental satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

HidES nephrectomy proved to be safe, feasible and not inferior to the traditional nephrectomy in experienced hands, with better cosmesis.

Cosmetic Approaches to Parotidectomy

The parotid gland is located in a cosmetically sensitive area. Given cultural emphasis on cosmesis, using minimally invasive or hidden incisions, when appropriate, can significantly improve patient satisfaction and quality of life following surgery. Facelift-style incisions have been used since the late 1960s to approach parotid pathology. Several alternative incisions, including technology-assisted approaches, also have been described in the literature. To that end, this article explore the existing data regarding several historical and emerging cosmetic approaches to the parotid gland comparing relative advantages and disadvantages of each.

Considerations in Oncoplastic Surgery

The development of oncoplastic surgery (OPS) is one of the greatest achievements for the treatment of breast cancer. OPS combines oncological resection with plastic surgery techniques in a single procedure to allow the excision of tumors without compromising cosmetic outcome. It allows better aesthetic-functional outcomes and consequently an improvement of the psychological aspects of patients with breast cancer.OPS begins with preoperative design considering breast volume, tumor size, and location and distance from nipple of the tumor, with clinical breast examination and image studies. Various techniques of volume replacement and volume displacement methods described here can help the decision-making process so the best results concerning the aesthetic-functional aspects can be achieved.The outcome measurement of the oncoplastic breast surgery consisted of local recurrence, cosmesis, and patients satisfaction. In OPS for breast cancer patients, aesthetic assessment could be performed by various methods. And questionnaires on quality of life can be applied as a scientific method to assess results. In this chapter, we introduced our results of assessment of both aesthetic and QOL outcomes in OPS patients.

Feasibility and efficacy of modern minilaparoscopy with 2.9 mm laparoscope for diagnostic and level II gynaecological procedure

Objective

Laparoscopy has now become a state-of-the-art technique for many diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with known advantages over laparotomy. There is scarce literature from India regarding minilaparoscopy, as per our literature review. Therefore, we performed this study with a 2.9-mm laparoscope to determine its feasibility and efficacy for diagnostic purposes and level II surgeries with the aim of reducing postoperative pain and better cosmesis.

Methods

This was a prospective study conducted from June 2019 to March 2020. Diagnostic modern minilaparoscopy with a 2.9-mm telescope was performed under general anesthesia by a single surgeon. Operative intervention was performed depending on the intraoperative findings.

Results

The mean age was 29.3 years. The most common indication for laparoscopy was infertility (98%). Only diagnostic laparoscopy was performed in 76% of patients, while 24% underwent operative laparoscopy. The various operative procedures performed were cystectomy, salpingectomy, ovarian drilling, and adhesiolysis. The mean visual analog scale scores at 1 hour and 2 hours postoperatively and discharge were 1.57±0.59, 1.41±0.51, and 1.29±0.47, respectively. Mild pain was present in 70 (72.2%) patients at the time of discharge, and only one patient had severe pain. Five or more analgesic tablets were required in only 16.5% of patients in the postoperative period. There was no wound infection or port-site hernia at follow-up.

Conclusion

Modern minilaparoscopy with a 2.9-mm laparoscope is a feasible and safe option for diagnostic laparoscopy and level II gynecological procedures with minimal postoperative morbidity, such as pain and wound infection, and provides good cosmetic outcomes.

IOERT versus external beam electrons for boost radiotherapy in stage I/II breast cancer: 10-year results of a phase III randomized study

Background

Intraoperative radiotherapy with electrons (IOERT) boost could be not inferior to external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) boost in terms of local control and tissue tolerance. The aim of the study is to present the long-term follow-up results on local control, esthetic evaluation, and toxicity of a prospective study on early-stage breast cancer patients treated with breast-conserving surgery with an IOERT boost of 10 Gy (experimental group) versus 5 × 2 Gy EBRT boost (standard arm). Both arms received whole-breast irradiation (WBI) with 50 Gy (2 Gy single dose).

Methods

A single-institution phase III randomized study to compare IOERT versus EBRT boost in early-stage breast cancer was conducted as a non-inferiority trial. Primary endpoints were the evaluation of in-breast true recurrences (IBTR) and out-field local recurrences (LR) as well as toxicity and cosmetic results. Secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and patient’s grade of satisfaction with cosmetic outcomes.

Results

Between 1999 and 2004, 245 patients were randomized: 133 for IOERT and 112 for EBRT. The median follow-up was 12 years (range 10–16 years). The cumulative risk of IBTR at 5–10 years was 0.8% and 4.3% after IOERT, compared to 4.2% and 5.3% after EBRT boost (p = 0.709). The cumulative risk of out-field LR at 5–10 years was 4.7% and 7.9% for IOERT versus 5.2% and 10.3% for EBRT (p = 0.762). All of the IOERT arm recurrences were observed at > 100 months’ follow-up, whereas the mean time to recurrence in the EBRT group was earlier (55.2 months) (p < 0.05). No late complications associated with IOERT were observed. The overall cosmetic results were scored as good or excellent in physician and patient evaluations for both IOERT and EBRT. There were significantly better scores for IOERT at all time points in physician and patient evaluations with the greatest difference at the end of EBRT (p = 0.006 objective and p = 0.0004 subjective) and most narrow difference at 12 months after the end of EBRT (p = 0.08 objective and p = 0.04 subjective analysis).

Conclusion

A 10-Gy IOERT boost during breast-conserving surgery provides high local control rates without significant morbidity. Although not significantly superior to external beam boosts, the median time to local recurrences after IOERT is prolonged by more than 4 years.

Cosmetic outcome of femtosecond laser-assisted pterygium surgery

Background

To examine the cosmetic outcome of femtosecond laser-assisted pterygium surgery (FLAPS) with conjunctival autograft (CAG) and its potential predictive factors.

Methods

This was a prospective interventional case series (NCT02866968). We included 29 patients (29 eyes) with primary pterygium who underwent FLAPS. Cosmetic outcome was graded by two graders (an ophthalmology resident and an experienced ophthalmologist) using Hirst classification system (1–4 = excellent–poor). Weighted Cohen’s kappa analysis was performed to examine the intra- and inter-rater reliability. The relationship between cosmetic outcome and various factors were determined by Spearman’s correlation coefficients (r).

Results

The preoperative severity of pterygium (Tan grading system) was mild/atrophic (7%), moderate/intermediate (62%), and severe/fleshy (31%). An ultrathin CAG (mean thickness of 74.5 ± 9.8 μm) was fashioned intraoperatively. An excellent cosmetic outcome of FLAPS (median ± IQR) was observed at 3 months (1.0 ± 1.0) and remained similar at 6 months (1.0 ± 0.0) and 12 months (1.0 ± 0.0) postoperatively. At final follow-up, 27 (93%) patients achieved good-to-excellent cosmetic outcome, with 1 (3%) patient having a poor outcome due to incomplete pterygium removal. Weighted kappa analysis of Hirst grading system showed excellent intra-rater (κ = 0.86–0.95) and inter-rater reliability (κ = 0.84–0.88). There was a weak and borderline significant correlation between good cosmetic outcome and reduced postoperative CAG thickness (r = 0.38, P = 0.06) but not with age, gender, preoperative pterygium severity, or intraoperative CAG thickness.

Conclusions

FLAPS can result in an excellent cosmetic outcome, which may be attributed to the beneficial effect of an ultrathin CAG.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02866968. Registered in July 2016,

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40662-021-00230-w.

Analysis of the electron-stream effect in patients treated with partial breast irradiation using the 1.5 T MR-linear accelerator

•

The electron-stream effect is responsible of an out-of-field dose when performing partial breast irradiation at the MR-linac.

•

The electron-stream effect is located to the patient́s chin and, for lateral targets, to the arm.

•

The electron-stream effect is effectively minimized by a bolus.

•

Novel concepts and clinical trials for breast cancer at the 1.5 T MR-linac can be tested.

Introduction

The hybrid magnetic resonance linear accelerator (MRL) has the potential to test novel concepts in breast cancer patients such as daily MR-guided real-time plan adaptation. Before starting clinical trials, preparatory studies for example of the MR-dependent electron stream effect (ESE) are necessary.

Material and Methods

To prospectively investigate the ESE, data from 11 patients treated with partial breast irradiation (PBI) at the 1.5 T MRL were evaluated. A bolus was placed on the chin and in vivo dosimetry results were compared with the dose simulated by the treatment planning system (TPS). The same measurements were carried out for three patients treated at a conventional linac. Toxicity and cosmesis were evaluated.

Results

Median doses measured and simulated on top/ underneath the bolus were 1.91 / 0.62 Gy and 2.82 / 0.63 Gy, respectively. Median differences between calculations and measurements were 0.8 Gy and 0.1 Gy. At the conventional linac, median measured doses on top/ underneath the bolus were 0.98 and 1.37 Gy. No acute toxicity exceeding grade 2 was recorded. Cosmesis was good or excellent and patient reported outcome measures were mostly scored as none or mild.

Conclusion

The dose due to the ESE is low, correctly predicted by the TPS and effectively minimized by a bolus.

Cosmetic outcomes after transoral robotic thyroidectomy: Comparison with transaxillary, postauricular, and conventional approaches

OBJECTIVES

Transoral thyroidectomy does not involve neck incision, and its postoperative cosmetic outcome is thought to be superior to that of conventional thyroidectomy and other remote-access procedures. This study aimed to compare the cosmetic outcomes between transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT) and conventional transcervical thyroidectomy and two common remote-access robotic thyroidectomies via the transaxillary and postauricular approaches.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed 160 patients who underwent TORT, robotic thyroidectomies via the transaxillary or postauricular approach, or conventional transcervical thyroidectomy (40 patients in each group). The postoperative cosmetic outcomes, including cosmetic satisfaction and scar consciousness scores, were evaluated using self-assessment cosmesis questionnaires at 3 months and 1 year postoperatively. The cosmesis index was defined as the sum of the percentage scores for cosmetic satisfaction and scar consciousness.

RESULTS

Cosmetic satisfaction scores, scar consciousness scores, and cosmesis indexes were significantly higher for the transoral, transaxillary, and postauricular approaches than the conventional approach at 3 months and 1 year postoperatively. There was a trend of better cosmetic outcomes, especially regarding scar consciousness, for the transoral and transaxillary approaches than for the postauricular approach, but the difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative cosmesis of TORT, as well as the transaxillary and postauricular approaches, is superior to that of conventional thyroidectomy. The cosmetic outcomes of the transoral and transaxillary approaches seem to be better than those of the postauricular approach.

Clinical appearance and reliability in visual assessment after in situ fusion for high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis

PURPOSE

The current literature on clinical appearance after surgery for high-grade spondylolisthesis is inconclusive. The few long-term comparative studies on surgical reduction versus in situ fusion report contradictory findings concerning appearance-related issues. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate and quantify clinical appearance three decades after in situ fusion for high-grade isthmic spondylolisthesis.

METHODS

The Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22r questionnaire, digital photographs and standing lateral radiographs were used to evaluate clinical appearance for 22 patients three decades after in situ fusion for high-grade spondylolisthesis. The appearance was assessed by two spine surgeons, by the patient themselves, and by quantification of cosmesis relevant radiographic variables including pelvic parameters and sagittal balance.

RESULTS

The surgeon inter- and intraobserver reliability of the photographic evaluation of the trunk deformity was at most moderate (Cohen's kappa 0.5). Correlation analysis revealed at most medium correlation between radiographic outcome and self-rated (SRS-22r) self-image (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient 0.3). The agreement between patient and surgeon-rated trunk appearance was poor (Cohen's kappa 0.2).

CONCLUSIONS

Photographic evaluation of the trunk deformity in high-grade spondylolisthesis is unreliable. There were only weak correlations between patient self-assessed trunk appearance and radiographic parameters. The results reflect the pronounced subjectivity of cosmesis, and that the trunk deformity in high-grade spondylolisthesis is not easily observed.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Incision planning in complex abdominal wall reconstruction

Background

Complex abdominal wall reconstruction (CAWR) has evolved dramatically over the last 10 years and has become a speciality in its own right. Usually surgery is carried out by a General Surgeon, sometimes alone and sometimes in combination with a Plastic Surgeon. Patients frequently have multiple incisions over the abdomen, soft tissue excess and skin redundancy and planning the incisions to allow for a comprehensive abdominal wall reconstruction can be a challenge.In order to help simplify incision planning we examined our personal series of 150 cases to formulate a classification system for the incision and provide a simple algorithm.

Methods

Over an 8 year period from 2007 to 2015, 150 patients underwent complex abdominal wall reconstruction, patient demographics, outcome and complications were recorded. Preoperative photographs of the planned incisions were reviewed by the senior author and classified into 4 groups.

Results

All patients fell into one of four groups. Type 1, using existing incisions (28%). Type 2, using an abdominoplasty approach (26%). Type 3, a fleur-de-lys approach (43%). Type 4, a free style group where the incisions are so complex that the above three categories are not suitable (3%).

Conclusion

Soft tissue management in CAWR can be challenging with the primary objective to achieve uncomplicated primary wound healing while optimising the aesthetic outcome. We present a simple classification system and associated algorithm, which can help surgical planning and identify cases that may benefit from a joint procedure with a Plastic Surgeon.

Feasibility and safety of breast-conserving surgery via a periareolar incision for cancers located far from the nipple-areolar complex: a retrospective study

Purpose

We performed breast-conserving surgery (BCS) using periareolar incisions for cancers located far from the nipple–areolar complex (NAC) and examined if BCS via a periareolar incision maximized cosmesis and maintained oncologic safety. One of the most important goals of BCS is to improve cosmesis after surgery and quality of life, but the skin incision can affect cosmesis based on the tumor location.

Methods

Fifty-five patients with breast cancers located far from the NAC underwent BCS via periareolar incisions between January 2017 and April 2018. If a sentinel lymph node biopsy was required, another skin incision was created in the axilla using the conventional technique. Medical records of patients were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

The mean patient age was 48.1 ± 10.6 years. The mean tumor size was 1.8 ± 1.0 cm (range 0.2–4.5 cm) on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); the mean distance from the NAC to the tumor was 5.9 ± 1.9 cm (range 4.0–12.3 cm). Patients with cancers in the subareolar area were excluded even though the distance from the nipple was > 4 cm on MRI. Negative microscopic margins were obtained in all patients. There was no surgical complication such as seroma, bleeding, or infection. Re-operation was not needed. All patients received whole breast radiation therapy. After surgery and radiation therapy, periareolar incision scars were nearly invisible.

Conclusion

For cancers located far from the NAC, BCS via periareolar incisions is feasible and leads to superior cosmesis in selective patients. Moreover, BCS seems oncologically safe, although long-term outcomes need to be evaluated.

Randomized clinical trial comparing skin closure with tissue adhesives vs subcuticular suture after robotic urogynecologic procedures

BACKGROUND

Skin closure techniques during minimally-invasive gynecologic surgery is largely based on surgeon preference. The optimum technique would theoretically be safe, rapid, inexpensive, and result in good cosmetic appearance. Cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive (Dermabond) may be a comparable and safe option for port site closure as compared with subcuticular suture. In this randomized clinical trial, we hypothesized that operative time for skin closure would be less than subcuticular suture during robotic urogynecologic procedures.

AIM

To compare skin closure during robotic urogynecologic surgeries for tissue adhesives and subcuticular suture.

METHODS

Fifty female subjects > 18 years of age undergoing robotic urogynecologic procedures were randomized to have port site closure with either cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive (n = 25) or subcuticular suture (n = 25). All procedures and postoperative evaluations were performed by the same board certified Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgeon. Incisional closure time was recorded. Each subject was followed for 12-wk postoperatively. Incision cosmesis was evaluated using the Stony Brook Scar Evaluation Scale.

RESULTS

A total of 47 subjects (cyanoacrylate group, n = 23; suture group, n = 24) completed the 12-wk postoperative evaluation. Closure time was significantly less (P < 0.0005) using cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive (5.4 ± 2.0 min) than subcuticular suture (24.9 ± 5.6 min). Cosmesis scores were significantly higher in the cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive group than subcuticular suture (P = 0.025). No differences were found between bleeding, infection, or dehiscence (P = 1.00, P = 0.609, P = 0.234, respectively). No statistical demographical differences existed between the two study arms.

CONCLUSION

Our study supported our original hypothesis that cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive for port site closure during robotic urogynecolgic procedures uses less time than with subcuticular suture. Our study also supports that tissue adhesive is comparable to cosmetic outcome while not jeopardizing rates of bleeding, infection, or dehiscence.

Preliminary Results of a Randomized Study on Postmenopausal Women With Early Stage Breast Cancer: Adjuvant Hypofractionated Whole Breast Irradiation Versus Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (HYPAB Trial)

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to report preliminary data of a randomized phase III trial comparing hypofractionated whole breast irradiation (HWBI) and accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The HYPAB trial enrolled postmenopausal women with biopsy-proven infiltrating breast cancer, clinically negative axilla, single T1 to T2 tumors, who were treated with breast-conserving surgery. Patients were randomized 1:1 after surgery to HWBI (40.5 Gy whole breast, 48.0 Gy to surgical bed, 15 fractions over 3 weeks) or APBI (30 Gy delivered in 5 fractions of 6 Gy given on alternate days on the surgical bed). Cosmetic outcome was the primary end point of the study.

RESULTS

A total of 172 patients were enrolled. After a median follow-up of 36 months, 5 local failures and 3 locoregional failures were recorded, with no difference between the 2 treatment arms. Use of HWBI as compared with APBI was significantly correlated with increased incidence of overall (62% vs. 14%; P < .001) and grade 2 (18% vs. 1%; P < .001) acute skin toxicity. APBI was correlated with a lower incidence of overall late toxicity as compared with HWBI (18% vs. 41%; P = .001), but no significant difference was found in term of occurrence of grade 2 events (1% vs. 4%; P = NS). At comparative assessment between baseline and post-radiotherapy evaluation, impairment in cosmetic outcome was reported in 19 (11%) patients. Owing to premature closure of the study, no per-protocol comparison between the treatment arms was performed.

CONCLUSION

APBI with the VMAT technique is safe and feasible, with lower acute toxicity when compared with HWBI.

UK National Artificial Eye Questionnaire study: comparisons between cosmetic shell and artificial eye users. Part 1: demographics, comfort and satisfaction

AIMS

To compare the unique experiences related to artificial eye (AE) versus cosmetic shell (CS) wear.

METHODS

In this observational, cross-sectional study, the National Artificial Eye Questionnaire (NAEQ) was employed nationwide within the National Health Service England. The proportions or mean values of the aetiology of sight or eye loss, demographics, length of prosthesis wear, reported adjustment time to the prosthesis, comfort, discharge and satisfaction of appearance were compared between AE and CS respondents.

RESULTS

Overall, 951 respondents wore an AE, while 238 wore a CS. In both, trauma was the leading cause for the prosthesis (47.6% and 44.1%, respectively); however, these groups differed in the proportions of the other aetiologies (p<0.0001). AE respondents were generally older (p=0.002) and had longer overall prosthesis wear (p<0.0001) compared with CS respondents. The overall comfort score was similarly, relatively high in both AE and CS respondents (80.4±0.73 vs 81.41±1.45; p=0.51). The discharge-related patient satisfaction ranking was relatively low, in both groups, with a small trend towards worse discharge scores among AE wearers (59.41±0.76 vs 62.26±1.52, p=0.094). Self-reported length of time that has taken to adjust to wearing the prosthesis was not significantly different (p=0.17). Appearance of the eye (p=0.032) and motility of the prosthesis (p<0.0001) were ranked superior by CS respondents compared with AE.

CONCLUSIONS

This study characterises unique aspects of CS versus AE in a large national cohort. The results should provide reinforcement to the gain in popularity of CS.

Lower donor-site morbidity using QT autografts for ACL reconstruction

PURPOSE

Comparing scar cosmesis and regional hypoesthesia at the incision site between quadriceps tendon (QT), bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB), and hamstring tendon (HT) for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

METHODS

Ninety patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with QT, HT or BPTB were evaluated at 1-year post-op. Scar cosmesis was assessed using the patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS) and length of the incision. Sensory outcome was analyzed by calculating the area of hypoesthesia around the scar. The classical ACL reconstruction functional follow-up was measured using the Lysholm score and KOOS.

RESULTS

Concerning QT versus BPTB group, QT patients have a significantly lower mean POSAS (24.8 ± 6.3 vs. 39.6 ± 5.8; p < 0.0001), shorter mean incision (2.8 ± 0.4 cm vs. 6.4 ± 1.3 cm; p < 0.0001), lower extent of hypoesthesia (8.7 ± 5.1 cm² vs. 88.2 ± 57 cm²; p < 0.0001), and better Lysholm score (90.1 ± 10.1 vs. 82.6 ± 13.5; n.s.). No significant difference was seen in KOOS (90.7 ± 7.2 vs. 88.4 ± 7.0; n.s.). Concerning QT versus HT group, no significant difference was found regarding mean POSAS score (24.8 ± 6.3 vs. 31.8 ± 6.2; n.s.), mean length of the incision (2.8 ± 0.4 cm vs. 2.5 ± 0.6 cm; n.s.), KOOS (90.7 ± 7.2 vs. 89.8 ± 8.2; n.s.) and mean Lysholm score (90.1 ± 10.1 vs. 87.8 ± 0.6; n.s.). The mean measured area of hypoesthesia was significantly higher in the HT group (70.3 ± 77.1 cm² vs. 8.7 ± 5.1 cm²; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Quadriceps tendon harvesting technique has the safest incision by causing less sensory loss compared to BPTB and HT. It also has the advantage of a short incision with more cosmetic scar compared to BPTB, with no difference compared to HT. However, no significant difference in terms of functional outcome was shown between the three autografts. These findings provide surgeons evidence about their clinical practice and help with graft choice decisions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.