Dynamic Reconstruction of the Lower Lip With Free Functioning Gracilis Muscle Transfer

ABSTRACT

The restoration of large full-thickness lip defects still remains a formidable challenge for the reconstructive surgeons. Traumatic injuries, infections and tumors (primarily squamous cell carcinoma) are the most common source of the lip defects. Lower lips are more important in providing oral competence, unfortunately throughout the life-time they are significantly more exposed to ultraviolet radiation and thus are the most common site for the lip cancers (89%). This type of defect requires a complex reconstruction of an adequate sphincter function, defined vermilion, proper oral lining and sufficient mouth opening. To maintain the oral competence, it is of paramount importance to restore the function of orbicularis oris, which principally composes the body of the lip. Currently, the dynamic reconstructions are gaining considerable interest. They enables not only improvement of appearance but also a restoration of function and preservation of health-related quality of life. The use of the free gracilis muscle transfer to reconstruct the lower lip and its dynamic character in contrast to other, static reconstructions can provide the sufficient movement of the lower lip, which does not depend on function of other mimic muscles as it becomes an independent motor unit with its own neurotization. In our opinion the free functioning gracilis muscle flap, due to its anatomic and functional features as well as low-rate donor-site morbidity is the worth considering option for a lower lip reconstruction.

Microvascular nose reconstruction after extended tumor resection

<b>Introduction:</b> The nose is the central and probably the most important organ of the face. In view of the three-dimensional shape and variety of tissues, reconstructive surgery after tumor resection in this anatomical region requires the surgeon's knowledge of anatomy. <br><b>Materials and Method:</b> In the years 2010-2019, 48 patients were treated in the Oncological and Reconstructive Surgery Clinic for extended nasal tumors, which required the use of free microvascular flaps after resection for functional and aesthetic supply of anatomical structures of the nose. <br><b>Results:</b> In 48 patients, a total of 92 free microvascular flaps were used for nasal reconstruction including: radial forearm free flap in 24 patients, radial forearm free flap with radial bone in 14 patients, auricular free flap in 16 patients, radial forearm free flap in combination with auricle free flap in 7 patients, double auricular free flap in 6 patients, radial forearm free flap in combination with double auricular free flap in 4 patients. Total necrosis of the free flap was noted in 4 cases, partial in 6 patients. <br><b>Conclusions:</b> The presented surgical techniques using microvascular free flaps constitute a recognized method of treatment and should be used in everyday surgeon practice. The results demonstrated in this article allow to obtain optimal functional and aesthetic effects.

Virtual surgical planning and cone beam computed tomography in reconstruction of head and neck tumors - pilot study

<b>Introduction:</b> The aim of the study was to prove that a combination of visual surgical planning (VSP) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an optimal technique in fibular free flap reconstructions after complex tumor resections in the head and neck region and that it leads to better functional and aesthetic outcomes. <br><b>Material and method:</b> Six patients (3 females, 3 males) with head and neck tumors were included in the study. The region concerned midface in 2 cases and mandible in 4 patients. On the basis of computed tomography of the head, fibular free flap (FFF) reconstruction was planned with the VSP technique. The 3D-printed models were prepared. At the beginning of the operation and a few minutes after the reconstruction, an xCAT CBCT by XORAN was performed. Minor corrections of the angles of the reconstructed bony parts were made where needed. The time of the operation was assessed for each case. Functional and cosmetic results were evaluated in a 1-year follow-up. <br><b>Results:</b> The mean time of operation was 6 hours and 48 minutes, which was approximately 1hour and 40 minutes less than standard reconstructive surgery. Functional recovery was achieved in all patients. Aesthetic result was unsatisfactory for 2 patients due to insufficient soft tissue masses of FFF. <br><b>Conclusions:</b> The authors claim that intraoperative CBCT imaging, regardless of the cost, improves the accuracy of aesthetic outcome of reconstructive surgeries based on VSP, especially in the region of the midface and the mandible. Further studies on a higher number of subjects are required.

Cell-cycle gene expression analysis using real time PCR in locally advanced squamous-cell head and neck cancer

PURPOSE

The analysis of gene expression, especially those involved in cell cycle control, can help to discover mechanisms determining the outcome of radiation treatment. The main purpose of this study was to examine the expression level of genes responsible for cell cycle regulation in samples of the head and neck cancer, obtained during surgery.

METHODS

Postsurgical samples of SCC of head and neck region were collected. Over 80 genes were analysed using cell cycle quantitative real-time RT-PCR Array method. Presence of 14 high-risk HPV types DNA in frozen or paraffin-embedded tumour pathological samples was also assessed. To correlate gene expression with selected pathological features and clinical outcome we used different hierarchical clustering method.

RESULTS

Hierarchical clustering demonstrated the association between gene expression within certain clusters and gender, tumour site, T stage, N stage, grade, pathological subtype or tumour recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite some limitations we were able to identify gene clusters that allowed to classify patients according to selected clinical features and occurrence of tumour recurrence. The results of the analysis also confirm that the incidence of HPV infection among the patients from Upper Silesia is relatively low, whereas HPV negative tumours, likely associated with smoking, appeared dominant.

The Use Of Anterolateral Thigh Flap (ALTF) For Functional Tongue Reconstruction With Postoperative Quality Of Live Evaluation

The use of microsurgery for oral reconstruction of cancer patients, has become standard treatment in restoring oral function. The free anterolateral thigh flap is one of the most preferred options in reconstruction after total, subtotal or hemiresection of the tonque due to squamous cell cancer. The aim of the study was to present the reconstructive method using anterolateral thigh free flap with evaluation of quality of live.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Clinical material includes 46 consecutive patients with tongue cancer, who underwent complex surgical treatment between 2009 and 2011. There were 36 males and 10 females and the M: F ratio was 3.6: 1. All of them were reconstructed using the anterolateral thigh free flap. The quality of life was evaluated 6 months after completing the treatment, based on postoperative functional and aesthetic status.

RESULTS

The overall flap survival rate was 96%. Surgical complications were observed in 8 patients (17%). Donor site was closed primarly in 42 cases and in remaining 4 skin graft was required. In all 46 cases understandable speech and return to unrestricted diet mastication and swallowing were achieved. The mean follow-up period after treatment was 32 months. Analysis of aesthetic effects evaluated in 23 cases and shows generally very good results. According to average transformed scores the QOL can be characterized as excellent for >90, very good for 76-90, good for 51-75, moderate for 25-50 and bad for <25 points.

CONCLUSIONS

Anterolateral thigh flap, with its versatility in design, long pedicle with a suitable vessel diameter, low donor site morbidity, and very good aesthetic effects, could be the ideal flap for functional tongue reconstruction.

Epidermal differentiation complex (locus 1q21) gene expression in head and neck cancer and normal mucosa

Epidermal differentiation complex (EDC) comprises a number of genes associated with human skin diseases including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis and hyperkeratosis. These genes have also been linked to numerous cancers, among them skin, gastric, colorectal, lung, ovarian and renal carcinomas. The involvement of EDC components encoding S100 proteins, small proline-rich proteins (SPRRs) and other genes in the tumorigenesis of head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) has been previously suggested. The aim of the study was to systematically analyze the expression of EDC components on the transcript level in HNSCC. Tissue specimens from 93 patients with HNC of oral cavity and 87 samples from adjacent or distant grossly normal oral mucosawere analyzed. 48 samples (24 tumor and 24 corresponding surrounding tissue) were hybridized to Affymetrix GeneChip Human 1.0 ST Arrays. For validation by quantitative real-time PCR (QPCR) the total RNA from all180 samples collected in the study was analyzed with Real-Time PCR system and fluorescent amplicon specific-probes. Additional set of samples from 14 patients with laryngeal carcinoma previously obtained by HG-U133 Plus 2.0 microarray was also included in the analyses. The expression of analyzed EDC genes was heterogeneous. Two transcripts (S100A1 and S100A4) were significantly down-regulated in oral cancer when compared to normal mucosa (0.69 and 0.36-fold change, respectively), showing an opposite pattern of expression to the remaining S100 genes. Significant up-regulation in tumors was found for S100A11, S100A7, LCE3D, S100A3 and S100A2 genes. The increased expression of S100A7 was subsequently validated by QPCR, confirming significant differences. The remaining EDC genes, including all encoding SPRR molecules, did not show any differences between oral cancer and normal mucosa. The observed differences were also assessed in the independent set of laryngeal cancer samples, confirming the role of S100A3 and LCE3D transcripts in HNC. In HNC of oral cavity only one family of EDC genes (S100 proteins) showed significant cancer-related differences. A number of other transcripts which showed altered expression in HNC require further validation.

Flap prefabrication using high-density porous polyethylene in an animal model – an experimental study

BACKGROUND

The search for new surgical flap techniques and modifications of already existing ones is gaining increasing popularity. Progress in flap designing and harvesting have improved the functional and aesthetic results, especially in head and neck reconstruction.

MATERIAL/METHODS

Ten pigs were used in this study. In the first operation, high-density porous polyethylene prefabrication was performed bilaterally in all pigs. After 8 weeks, each prefabricated complex was explored, resected, and macroscopically evaluated.

RESULTS

All of 20 prefabricated flaps survived. No serious surgical complications were observed. In 2 cases there was chronic inflammation and in 4 cases there was instability of the implant.

CONCLUSIONS

After this experimental study, we believe that the use of high-density porous polyethylene in flap prefabrication may be a good option for reconstruction of 3-dimensional defects, especially in patients with limited donor tissues.

The use of prefabrication technique in microvascular reconstructive surgery

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of the study was to develop standards for the prefabrication of free microvascular flaps in an animal model, followed by their application in clinical practice, and quantitative/qualitative microscopic assessment of the extent of development of a new microvascular network.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was carried out in 10 experimental pigs. As the first stage, a total of 20 prefabricated flaps were created using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a support material, placed horizontally over an isolated and distally closed vascular pedicle based on superficial abdominal vessels. After completing the animal model study, one patient was selected for the grafting of the prefabricated free flap.

RESULTS

All 20 free flaps prefabricated in the animal model were analyzed microscopically, exhibiting connective tissue rich in fibroblasts and small blood vessels in the porous areas across the entire thickness of the PTFE element.

CONCLUSIONS

Flap prefabrication is a new and fast developing reconstruction technique. The usefulness of prefabrication techniques and their status in reconstructive surgery still needs to be investigated experimentally and clinically. The method based on prefabricated free flaps is the first step towards anatomical bioengineering that will make it possible to replace missing organs with their anatomically perfect equivalents.

VDR gene single nucleotide polymorphisms and their association with risk of oral cavity carcinoma

Vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3 (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3)) is a hormone playing a crucial role in numerous biological processes in the human body, including induction and control of cell proliferation and differentiation. Numerous data relate the vitamin D3 level with various types of cancer. It has been suggested that SNPs in the vitamin D3 receptor (VDR) gene might influence both the risk of cancer occurrence and cancer progression. The aim of this study was to search for genetic correlations between individual SNPs in the VDR gene and the risk of oral cavity carcinoma. Two SNPs were selected based on the literature and our previous results. Seventy-three patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck and one hundred control subjects were investigated. Two SNPs in the VDR gene were genotyped in minisequencing reactions followed by capillary electrophoresis. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE), the χ(2) test and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. The SNP rs2238135 in the VDR gene displayed statistical differences in frequency between the tested groups (p=0,0007). Furthermore, the G/C genotype of the rs2238135 in the VDR gene was characterized by a 3.16 fold increased risk of oral cavity carcinoma. The obtained results provide evidence for a genetic association between rs2238135 in the VDR gene and the occurrence and risk of oral cavity cancer.

Salvage surgery of recurrence after laryngectomy--when should the alt free flap be modified?

BACKGROUND

Reconstruction of the pharynx and cervical esophagus has significantly progressed in the last 2 decades. A revolution in microvascular surgery has provided numerous choices for primary restoration, or in secondary reconstructions necessary for recurrences or complications of primary surgery. The goals of reconstruction after laryngopharyngoesophagectomy are to provide continuity of the alimentary tract, to protect major blood vessels, to heal the primary wound, and to restore the swallowing and breathing functions with minimal donor site and neck morbidity and deformation.

CASE REPORT

We present 3 cases with complex defects of the laryngopharynx, cervical esophagus and trachea and anterior neck skin following central neck exenteration safely reconstructed with a single anterolateral thigh flap. No postoperative complications occurred in any of the 3 cases of reconstructions, each using a single anterolateral thigh flap.

CONCLUSIONS

This approach significantly simplified the reconstruction, with quick recovery, short hospital stay and excellent functional and aesthetic results.

Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) with low-energy photons as a boost in patients with early-stage oral cancer with the indications for postoperative radiotherapy : treatment feasibility and preliminary results

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility and preliminary results of intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) with low-energy photons as a boost in patients with early-stage oral cancer with the indications for postoperative radiotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2003 and 2006, 16 patients with early-stage cancer of mobile tongue (n = 10 [63%]) or floor of the mouth (n = 6 [37%]) treated at Maria Skłodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, Poland, were evaluated for IORT boost with the INTRABEAM®System (Carl Zeiss Surgical GmbH; IORT-PRS) because of the high risk of local recurrence due to positive margins on frozen pathologic section. After tumor resection, the applicator was positioned in the tumor bed. The applicator's diameter (range: 1.5-5 cm) was selected to encompass high-risk area of tumor recurrence. The dose (5 Gy, 7 Gy, or 7.5 Gy) was applied according to tumor volume and bone proximity. External-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) was provided to the tumor bed in all patients (50 Gy) and to the nodal area, when needed. Toxicity and local tumor control were assessed.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 36 months. IORT did not increase acute mucosal reaction. Local tumor control was found in all cases. Early mucosal reaction did not exceed 3 according to the RTOG scale and healed in median time of 35 days after completion of EBRT. No late adverse effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

This preliminary report has demonstrated the feasibility of IORT-PRS for patients with early oral cancer with the indications for postoperative radiotherapy. This method may be considered an alternative boost technique, although additional studies are needed to establish long-term results in a larger group of patients.

Direct and remote outcome after treatment of tumours involving the subtemporal fossa and related structures with the extended subtemporal approach

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to present our results of the surgical treatment of subtemporal fossa tumours and surrounding regions using the extended subtemporal approach.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-five patients (10 women, 15 men) with subtemporal fossa tumours were included in the study. The neurological and performance status of the patients were assessed before and after surgery as well as at the conclu-sion of treatment. The approximate volume of the operated tumour, its relation to large blood vessels and cranial nerves, as well as consistency and vascularisation were assessed.

RESULTS

The symptom duration ranged from 2 to 80 months (mean: 14 months). In 44% of patients, headache was the predominant symptom. Less frequent symptoms were: paralysis of the abducent nerve and disturbances of the trigeminal nerve. Approximate volume of the tumours ranged from 13 to 169 cm3 (mean: 66 cm3). The most frequent histological diagnosis was meningioma (16%), followed by angiofibroma, neurinoma and adenocystic carcinoma (12%). Total or subtotal resection was achieved in 80% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The extended subtemporal approach allows for the removal of tumours of the subtemporal fossa and surrounding regions. This approach also allows one to remove tumours expanding in the regions surrounding the subtemporal fossa only. In such cases the subtemporal fossa constitutes the way of the surgical approach.

[Extended supraomohyoid neck nodes dissection in early nodal stages of oral cavity and oropharynx squamous cell cancer]

BACKGROUND

Extended supraomohyoid neck nodes dissection (ESOHND) involves surgical resection of nodal levels from I to IV. The incidence of occult metastases in level V is rare and mainly depends of the location and size of the primary tumour in oral cavity and oropharynx squamous cell cancer.

AIM

The aim of this study was to present the results of treatment with extended supraomohyoid neck dissection.

METHODS

The records of 72 patients with cancer of the oral cavity undergoing extended supraomohyoid neck dissection (ESOHND) during the period 15.12.2003 - 13.06.2005 were reviewed.

RESULTS

Tumor and nodal stage were: T2-9(13%), T3-39(54%), T4-24(33%), N0-14(19%), N1-31(43%), N2-25(35%), N3-2(3%). 64 patients were treated with surgery and postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy. The follow-up period ranged from 11 to 27 months. The surgical failure rate was 8% (occurred in 6 of 72 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary analysis suggests extended supraomohyoid neck nodes dissection to be considered as a therapeutic and diagnostic procedure in patients with squamous cell cancer of oral cavity and oropharynx.

[Partial parotidectomy--alternative method in surgical management of parotid gland Warthin tumours]

82 patients with adenolymphoma of parotid gland treated with surgery in Department of Oncological Surgery Cancer Center, Gliwice in the period of 1986-2004 were retrospectively analyzed. They were about 22% of all patients with parotid gland tumors operated in that period. In almost 70% of cases partial parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation was performed as a treatment of choice. In that group DFS was over 95%. Local recurrence occurred in less then 5%, only in cases with multiple tumor in histopathological examinations. Quality of life parameters were also analyzed. In the analysis complications rate increased with the extension of surgical treatment. It revealed in the postoperative cosmetic defect evaluation. Partial resection of the parotid gland could be useful method of surgical treatment of adenolymphoma selected cases. It allows to achieve the same results as classic parotidectomy with lower risk of significant complications. In analyzed group the local recurrence was always combined with multi lesional growth of the tumor.

Fibula Free Flap for Mandible Reconstruction: Analysis of 30 Consecutive Cases and Quality of Life Evaluation

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the use of fibula free flaps (FFF) for mandible reconstruction in patients with oral cavity cancer and to assess the quality of life (QOL) of the patients who underwent reconstructive surgery. Thirty patients with T(3), T(4) oral cavity carcinoma underwent surgical resection of the primary tumor infiltrating the mandible or primarily originating from the mandible. According to the length (less or more than 8 cm) and localization (anterior or posterior) of the mandibular defect, patients were subdivided into four groups. In all cases an osseoseptocutaneous FFF was chosen for postresective defect reconstruction. To reconstruct anterior mandibular defects, two osteotomies were needed to give the fibula a proper shape. For extended defects, the fibula usually required more than one osteotomy. Skin islands were designed based on Doppler cutaneous perforator findings. The fibular free skin islands remained viable in all patients and no partial or total skin loss was observed. In the majority of patients (87 percent) the facial artery was used for arterial anastomosis. In 6 month follow-ups, the QOL was evaluated as very good except for socioeconomic items. Pain was mild and incidental. Appearance and subjective feeling scores were excellent in two groups with mandibular defects smaller than 8 cm, although in patients with larger defects, they were still very good. Functional effects remained good, and they correlated with the size of defects. In contrast, social activities, recreation, and employment were below patients' expectations and generally reflected the current situation in Poland, but no correlation with the results of reconstruction was found. The present results show that osseocutaneous fibula free flap used in reconstructive surgery for cancer of the oral cavity allows more radical and aggressive resection with very good or excellent functional and aesthetic outcome. Estimated QOL seems an important part of evaluation of the treatment outcome.

[Reconstruction of lower lip resection defect by using Karapandzic technique--early treatment results]

In 1974 Karapandzic described reconstruction technique of the lower lip resection defects by using neuro-vascular flap of the upper lip. In this paper authors present six cases of this reconstruction, were defect after resection was in the range of 50-80% of lower lip. In all cases the result was excellent, comparing to other plastic techniques. Based on the authors scale, functional and aesthetic result was scored. Authors suggest that this reconstruction can be an alternative to other methods using rotation flaps in particular cases of lower lip cancer.

Outcome of surgery for adenoid cystic carcinoma of head and neck region

INTRODUCTION

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is an uncommon malignant epithelial tumour of salivary glands. The treatment of choice for these tumours is considered by some to be radical surgery, combined in many centres with postoperative radiotherapy. The goal of such treatment is local control and preservation of function.

AIMS

The aim of the retrospective study was to analyse the results of surgery for patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma treated at the Institute of Oncology in Gliwice during the period of 1970-1989.

MATERIAL

The analysed group includes 47 patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma. All patients underwent macro- and microscopically proven radical resection of the primary lesion located in major or minor salivary glands.

RESULTS

Five- and 10-year survival rate was 85% and 47%, respectively, and 5-year disease-free survival rate was 79%. As the group of patients treated with surgery and radiotherapy was too small (nine cases), the results of combined treatment were not analysed. Local recurrence after surgery occurred in 21% of patients in different time intervals (even as long as 10 years after completion of treatment).

CONCLUSION

High risk of local recurrence after surgery suggests that postoperative radiotherapy should always be given. Late development of local recurrences suggests that follow-up should be for a minimum of 10 years.