Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): Review of Epidemiology and Prevalence Assessment in Europe

BACKGROUND

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) epidemiologic studies focus on incidence and risk estimates.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to perform a thorough literature review, and to provide an accurate estimate of BIA-ALCL prevalence in Europe.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar databases to identify publications reporting BIA-ALCL epidemiology. Research was conducted between November 2019 and August 2020. European prevalence was assessed as the ratio between pathology-confirmed cases and breast implant-bearing individuals. The Committee on Device Safety and Development (CDSD) collected data from national plastic surgery societies, health authorities, and disease-specific registries to calculate the numerator. The denominator was estimated by combining European demographic data with scientific reports.

RESULTS

Our research identified 507 articles: 106 were excluded for not being relevant to BIA-ALCL. From the remaining 401 articles, we selected 35 that discussed epidemiology and 12 reviews. The CDSD reported 420 cases in Europe, with an overall prevalence of 1:13,745 cases in the 28 member states of the European Union (EU-28). Countries where specific measures have been implemented to tackle BIA-ALCL account for 61% of the EU-28 population and actively reported 382 cases with an overall prevalence of 1:9121.

CONCLUSION

Countries where specific measures have been implemented show a higher prevalence of BIA-ALCL compared with the European mean, suggesting that these countries have improved the detection of the condition and reduced underreporting, which affects the numerator value. Other nations should adopt projections based on these measures to avoid underestimating how widespread BIA-ALCL is.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Omental flap for treatment of spondylodiscitis with lumbosacral dehiscence: A case report

We report a case of pedicled omental flap use together with osteosynthesis treatment of a chronic L4-L5 spondylodiscitis due to a large sacral eschar. The 43-years-old patient was paraplegic and had depleted regional flaps solutions due to multiple previous surgeries. The procedure was carried out in supine position then in prone position whereby the dissected flap was recovered through the spine. The surgery was performed by a multidisciplinary team. First, we used an anterior approach for spine osteosynthesis with a metal implant and flap harvest. Then, in a prone position, we completed the vertebral reconstruction by an L3 athrodesis to the pelvis. The flap was recovered through the spine defect, on the side of the implant. It was a right sided pedicled. Complete wound healing was 120 days. The omental flap proved to be a reliable solution in the absence of recipient vessels for free flap transfer and depleted regional flap solutions. It also spared the latissimus dorsi muscle required for a wheelchair user as in our case. The omental flap is still performed in spine surgery especially in oncologic context to prevent wound dehiscence and for spondylodiscitis coverage. The anterior approach allows for both spine osteosynthesis and flap dissection.

[Autologous breast reconstruction by deep inferior epigastric free flap: Classic and minimally invasive extraperitoneal approaches]

Perforator free flaps allow breast reconstructions « like with like » with skin and fat, excluding mammary gland, with a low morbidity. Those autologous reconstructions prevent material associated infections, capsular contracture and implant replacements, associated to breast reconstructions including implants. DIEP flap was described in 1994 to reduce the morbidity faced with TRAM flaps harvest. It only includes sub-umbilical skin and deep epigastric vessels. Deep inferior epigastric vessels harvest requires rectus abdominis muscle sheet opening and traction on rectus muscles, both associated with increased risks of abdominal bulges. Since 2014, we developed a minimally invasive DIEP harvest by totally extra-peritoneal laparoscopic dissection of epigastric vessels with a 70% reduction of aponeurosis opening and avoiding traction on rectus' motor nerves. We report both classic and minimally invasive DIEP harvest techniques. Bresat reconstructions by DIEP require that the ombilicus can be transposed and are indicated for all patients with need for skin inset, particularly secondary breast reconstructions. The reconstructed breast as a volume that follows patients weight variations and allows for improved quality of life on a long term. Its minimally invasive totally extra peritoneal harvest by laparoscopy, with or without robotic assistance, offers a reduced morbidity and might allows for reduced risks of abdominal wall weakness on a long-term.

[Clinical photography by smartphone in plastic surgery and protection of personal data: Development of a secured platform and application on 979 patients]

BACKGROUND

The clinical photography in plastic and reconstructive surgery has known a numerical breakthrough. The storage of online data, massive means of analysis such as facial recognitions algorithms poses a serious issue when it comes to the protection of personal data. We will assess a platform's benefits in connection with the computerized medical record, which will allow keeping the photos filed and centralized in a smart and secure manner.

METHOD

We interviewed 300 plastic surgeons about the role of smartphone in their clinical practice. Concomitantly, we developed an innovative platform called Surgeon^©, a secure way to index, file and send photographs with a smartphone on our hospital's server. Each photographic sequence was qualified using a specific form. We then collected prospectively, between May 1st 2017 and March 30th 2018, the number of patients photographed, the number of sequences and photographs taken and the average number of sequences per patient.

RESULTS

Out of 86 French plastic surgeons surveyed, 81% say that they could not go on with their daily practice today without their smartphone. Photographs taken were stored in their smartphones (50%) or synced with virtual storage (25.6%). A majority (80.2%) would use a dedicated secured smartphone application. Our application allowed us to photograph 979 patients, or 2345 sequences and 8112 photographs, with an average of 2.28 sequences per patient.

CONCLUSION

Thanks to its ergonomics and security, this platform can be set up in a hospital ward and beyond.

Secondary bladder exstrophy repair with a bilateral gracilis muscle flap in an adult female patient: Case report of an original procedure

Classical bladder exstrophy (CBE), affecting 1 birth out of 30,000, is characterized by an evaginated bladder plate through a defect in the lower abdominal wall, multiple abdominal wall anomalies including a pubic bone arch dehiscence. Numerous approaches from childhood to adulthood are thus required, depending on the severity of the deformity, including the associated genital anomalies. We report the case of a 19-year-old woman with CBE with a history of three-failed primary closure. We performed a secondary neck closure with a concomitant suspension of the bladder neck and reconstruction of the lower abdominal wall using a bilateral gracilis muscle flap transposition. The early postoperative course was uneventful. The patient was discharged at day ten postoperatively. The upper part of the genital sutures (labia minora) secondary healed in three weeks. Assessment at 2, 6 and 16 months postoperatively, respectively noticed a complete healing with successful sexual intercourses, perceived gracilis contraction by the patient, and finally, recent attempts to get pregnant. Neither urinary infection nor urinary leaks occurred. Bilateral crossed gracilis muscles transfer linking both rectus abdominis muscle in front of the reconstructed bladder neck might benefit to bladder exstrophy patients.

The posterior-based buccinator myomucosal flap (Bozola's flap)

Based on a case of reconstruction after oncologic resection of the hard palate, the authors document the key technical points for harvesting a posterior-based buccinator myomucosal flap (Bozola's flap), and its limitations and indications after oncologic resection of tumors originating from the oral cavity and/oropharynx.

Medicinal leech therapy and Aeromonas spp. infection

While the use of medicinal leech therapy (MLT) in reconstructive and orthopaedic surgery is widely described, post-operative complications related to leeches remain a major concern. Aeromonas spp. strains are involved in the majority of reported cases. As surgical success rate is directly impacted, an adapted antibiotic prophylaxis should be instituted in order to minimize these complications. We assessed pharmaceutical process, microbiological control and related infections in order to provide data and choose the appropriate antibiotherapy for patients requiring MLT. We report a clinical and microbiological study over a 24-month period. Clinical data were collected from patients' database, and microbiological analysis both on leeches' tank water and crushed leeches were performed to characterize isolated strains and their susceptibility to antibiotics. A total of 595 leeches were used to treat 28 patients (12 in plastic surgery and 16 in orthopaedic surgery), and three documented cases of post-operative infections were reported. Aeromonas spp. isolates yielded from 62 % of analyzed batches (75 % of Aeromonas veronii). Eighteen Aeromonas spp. isolates yielded from 23 water samples and three crushed leeches. Isolates were similar in tank and crushed leeches. Strains were susceptible to fluoroquinolones, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, aminosides, and third-generation cephalosporins but resistant to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and second-generation cephalosporins. According to collected data, routine tank water microbiological analyses are mandatory in order to identify leeches' batches containing resistant strains and to discard them. In this context, the surgeon is able to select an appropriated antibiotic prophylaxis in order to avoid MLT associated serious post-operative complications.

[Breast reconstruction with profunda artery perforator flap: A prospective study of 30 consecutive cases]

INTRODUCTION

Many flaps have been described in autologous breast reconstruction, the most common being the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap. This flap cannot be harvested in a certain range of patients. The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap, based on perforators from profunda femoral artery, is therefore a good option.

OBJECTIVE

The goal was to highlight technical tips, particularities, and complications of our series of the 30 first PAP flaps for breast reconstruction in our department.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

We did a prospective study of all PAP flaps for breast reconstruction between November 2014 and October 2015. Thirty patients were included. We used 2 different types of skin design: classical or with vertical extension. The following parameters were recorded: pedicle length, flap weight, surgery duration, complications on donor or recipient site and type of recipient vessels.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven percent of the cases were delayed breast reconstruction, 23% were immediate. Twenty-five flaps were with classical skin design, and 5 with vertical extension. Mean flap weight was 301g (195-700g). Mean pedicle length was 9.88cm (8.2-12.5cm). Internal mammary vessels were the recipient vessels for 90% of the patients, versus 10% for circumflex scapular vessels. Mean surgery duration was 328min (195-610min). We had two total flap failures. The complications on the donor-site were 2 seroma, and 4 late healing scars. No lymphoedema occurred.

CONCLUSION

PAP flap is a good option when abdominal flap harvesting is not possible. The donor-site is well tolerated, with low morbidity. The indication is for patients with small to medium breast volume.

A new strategy for prophylactic surgery in BRCA women: Combined mastectomy and laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy with immediate reconstruction by double DIEP flap

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic surgery remains the most effective modality for reducing both breast and ovarian cancer rate in woman at high risk, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. Autologous breast reconstruction with bilateral deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap allows predictable and durable results. However, existing two-step approach separating salpingo-oophorectomy and reconstruction could even make DIEP flap impossible, or make insufflation more difficult during laparoscopy. Other authors described one-step procedure but with open laparotomy. The goal of this study was to verify the feasibility of a simultaneous procedure, including laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy.

METHODS

We included BRCA mutation careers scheduled for simultaneous laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy, and bilateral breast reconstruction with DIEP flaps. The first step of the procedure was laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy and ports had to be strategically placed to avoid interference with the following procedure. The second step was bilateral breast reconstruction with DIEP flaps. We reviewed medical charts. Surgical procedure was analyzed for duration, revisions and surgical complications.

RESULTS

During 1-year period, eight patients agreed to a simultaneous procedure. All of them were BRCA positive, mean age was 38.3years (range, 39-50), and mean BMI was 28.3kg/m(2) (range, 21-33). The mean duration of the entire procedure was 524minutes (range, 405-630) and the mean hospital stay 9.2 days (range, 8-14). There was 100% flap survival. No abdominal wall dehiscence occurred.

CONCLUSION

One-step procedure for prophylactic surgery of ovarian and breast hereditary malignancies is feasible. First salpingo-oophorectomy with open laparoscopy then bilateral immediate or delayed breast reconstruction with DIEP flaps can be performed.

[Poly Implant Prothèse (PIP®) incidence of complications in breast reconstructive surgery: A retrospective comparative analysis]

INTRODUCTION

On 29 March 2010, the Poly Implant Prothèse (PIP(®)) breast prosthesis was withdrawn from the market by the ANSM. In this study we review our experience with PIP(®) implants in breast reconstruction. We compare our complications with other types of breast implants used during the same period at our institution.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

This is a retrospective study conducted at the Hospital René Huguenin of the Institut Curie (Paris, France). It includes 327 prostheses, from 268 patients who underwent surgery for breast reconstruction between February 2008 and February 2012: 69 PIP(®) (Group 1), 82 Mentor(®) (Group 2) and 179 Allergan(®) (Group 3). The objective of the study was to compare the rates of early and late complications for each prosthesis. Our results are compared with the current literature.

RESULTS

With regard to the rate of early complications (hematoma, infection, seroma, wound dehiscence), no difference was observed between the three groups (P not significant). However, the study found that 100% of the 13 PIP(®) implants with early complications required surgical revision. There were too few late complications (capsular contracture, prosthetic rupture) in our cohort to allow statistical comparison between the three groups (P not significant). We compare our results with the current literature.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the lack of significant difference in the occurrence of early adverse events between the three groups of implants. This may explain the time taken for surgeons to become aware there was a problem with the PIP(®) implants. The low rate of late complications in our series does not allow statistical analysis between the three groups of implants.

Ipsilateral breast cancer recurrence after Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction: Incidence and radiological presentation

PURPOSE

To assess the incidence and presentation of ipsilateral cancer recurrences (ICR) after deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction for breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data of 247 consecutive women with DIEP flap reconstruction after breast cancer in our institution between 1997 and 2009 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up time was 4.1years±3.2 (SD) (median: 3years; range: 1month - 14years). Thirty-one patients (12.5%, 95%CI: =8.7-17.3) presented 34 relapses, in average 4.1years±2.6 after mastectomy: 14 (41%) were ipsilateral, 6 (18%) contralateral and 14 (41%) metastatic. ICRs occurred earlier (3.9 vs. 5.8years; P<0.05) than non-ICRs. Most ICRs (10/14, 71%) involved the periphery of the flap and presented as palpable nodules. The remaining (4/14, 29%) involved the axilla and 3/4 (75%) were palpable. Imaging procedures detected infra-clinical ICRs in 3 of 10 imaged patients (30%).

CONCLUSION

ICRs after DIEP flap reconstruction are more frequent than contralateral recurrences suggesting the need for imaging follow-up of the reconstructed breast.

[Breast reconstruction with Profunda Artery Perforator flap in lithotomy position. Surgical technique]

Autologous breast reconstruction provides great cosmetic, functional and sustainable incomes. Various flaps have been described in autologous breast reconstruction, Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator flap (DIEP) being the most frequent. For patients with a non-sufficient abdomen for a DIEP based breast reconstruction, the Profunda Artery Perforator Flap (PAP), based on profunda arteris perforators, is a current trend, but few publications detailed the flap harvest. Comparing with a TUG flap, the morbidity linked to the muscle harvest is decreased. Usually the dissection is done in prone or in "frog leg" position. The aim is to describe a technical option: we propose a different position, with a harvest of the PAP in lithotomy position. It offers additional comfort and security for the surgeon and decreases the operative time. The pedicle had an average of 7cm in length; the artery diameter was 2.2mm and the vein 2.5mm. The cosmetic incomes are very good six months postoperative.

[Dislocation of the thumb extensor tendons: an anatomical, clinical study and new classification]

The authors report on 11 cases of ulnar dislocation of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) due to rupture of the dorsal aponeurosis at the thumb metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. This condition is rare. By performing a descriptive study of this injury, we were able to establish a classification system for thumb extensor tendon dislocation. The series included 11 patients with a mean age of 27years. All patients presented with either varus or rotational thumb injury. This resulted in an active extension deficit in the thumb MCP joint with EPL dislocation behind the MCP. Surgery was required in all cases. We defined three different injury presentations: 1) dissociated form with isolated EPL dislocation, but the EPB still in place; 2) complete form with dislocation of both tendons on the ulnar side of the MCP; 3) dissociated or complete form associated with a severe sprain of the lateral collateral ligament of the thumb MCP joint. The surgical treatment was adapted to each case. A classification into three types of dislocation of the extensor tendons at the MCP joint of the thumb was established. This rare condition must be identified at the time of thumb MCP joint injury and also when harvesting the EPB. This new classification system has a diagnostic and therapeutic role as it precisely describes the dislocation type and the resulting damage. Only a surgical treatment can produce good repairs.

Anaesthesia and intensive care management of face transplantation

The face-grafting techniques are innovative and highly complex, requiring well-defined organization of all the teams involved. Subsequent to the first report in France in 2005, there have been 17 facial allograft transplantations performed worldwide. We describe anaesthesia and postoperative management, and the problems encountered, during the course of seven facial composite tissue grafts performed between 2007 and 2011 in our hospital. The reasons for transplantation were ballistic trauma in four patients, extensive neurofibromatosis in two patients, and severe burns in one patient. Anaesthesia for this long procedure involves advanced planning for airway management, vascular access, technique of anaesthesia, and fluid management. Preparation and grafting phases were highly haemorrhagic (>one blood volume), requiring massive transfusion. Median (range) volumes given for packed red cell (PRC) and fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) were 64.2 ml kg(-1) (35.5-227.5) and 46.2 ml kg(-1) (6.3-173.7), respectively. Blood loss quantification was difficult because of diffuse bleeding to the drapes. The management of patients with neurofibromatosis or burns involving the whole face was more difficult and haemorrhagic than the patients with lower face transplantation. Average surgical duration was 19.1 h (15-28 h). Postoperative severe graft oedema was present in most patients. Most patients encountered complications in ICU, such as renal insufficiency, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and jugular thrombosis. Opportunistic bacterial infections were a feature during the postoperative period in these highly immunosuppressed patients.

Feasibility, reproducibility, risks and benefits of face transplantation: a prospective study of outcomes

Composite tissue allotransplantations can be indicated when autologous transfers fail to restore human appearance. We report the reproducibility, difficulties, serious adverse events and outcomes of our patients. Five patients were included in a registered clinical research protocol after thorough screenings assessed by an independent expert committee systematically discussing the alternative options. One patient suffered from plexiform neurofibromas, two from third degree burns and two from gunshot injuries. They were included on a national waiting list with a dedicated face procurement procedure. Transplants were harvested from heart beating brain-dead donors before other tissues and organs. Induction immunosuppressive therapy included antithymocyte globulins, steroids, mycophenolate mophetil and tacrolimus. Maintenance therapy included the last three ones associated with extracorporeal-photopheresis. Four patients were transplanted with 7- to 38-month follow-up. One could not due to multiple panel reactive antibodies after 18 months on waiting list. Acute cellular rejections were controlled by conventional treatment. Opportunistic infections affected all patients and lead one patient to die two month after the transplantation. Voluntary facial activity appeared from 3 to 5 month. Face transplantation has been reproducible under conventional immunosuppression. Major improvements in facial aesthetic and function allowed patients to recover social relations and improved their quality of life.

[The surgical innovation: From the legal framework through the veritable ethics innovation - Technical aspects and practical applications]

Grace to the creativity of surgeons and the introduction of new technologies, second half of the XXth century opened the era of innovations and decisive progress. At the same time, however, is born the feeling of distrust and claiming which has come with the graving and threatening juridiciarisation. The evolution of complex structures of our society joined the ingenuity researchers unlimited makes formal law and the legal framework constantly to adapt oneself to circumstances. In the field of surgery, it's necessary to make work in integrity the innovation and protection at the patient's and their dignity. The legal framework that governs today innovation in surgery must still to go further and will precise. Dignity, compelling paradigm for all those who seek to better understand and better protect human starred as impassable limit any search and any experimentation. To make this chapter more alive, we have supplemented it and illustrated by the testimony some of the most fruitful French last years innovative in order to enrich our thinking of the fruit of their large and brilliant experience.

[Preoperative angiographic CT-scan for perforator flap transfer. Clinical applications in an emergency unit of reconstructive surgery: four clinical cases]

Our experience of the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap has led us to perform systematically an abdominal CT-scan for the pretherapeutic checking. This exam gives us a precise vascular mapping of musculocutaneous and septocutaneous perforators artery of the flap, may enable a better orientation in the dissection and reduce the surgery time. We have enlarged the indication of this exam to the members flaps who needs the dissection of a musculocutaneous or a septocutaneous perforators vessels: Nakajima's et al. classification [1]. The mapping of perforating vessels on 3D reconstruction pictures helps us to planify the vascular cutaneous autologous grafts.

[Complications of injections of hypoosmotic solutes in an underage patient]

Liposuction represents the standard surgical treatment of localized fat excess. Some non-plastic-surgery-board-certified practitioners are likely to offer non-invasive alternatives treatments. We report the clinical case of a 14-year-old female patient who followed a Lipectomy treatment. The Lipectomy technique consists in a hypodermic injection of hypotonic solutions in order to obtain an adipocytes lysis by osmotic shock. No PubMed referenced scientific publication is related to the efficacy or the tolerance of this technique. Postoperative evolution was marked by a polymicrobial subcutaneous abscess that needed two surgical evacuations and 10 days of overnight stay in our department. Through this clinical case, we evoke the possible dangers linked to the application of a non-evaluated medical technique and the necessity of establishing an official validation agency related to innovative techniques in aesthetic medicine and surgery.

[Treatment of HIV facial lipoatrophy with a submalar porous polyethylene implant (Medpor)]

Human immunodeficiency virus associated facial lipoatrophy is becoming epidemic and is a distressing sign for patients. Non permanent fillers provide only temporary results and cannot be the solution for severe cases. Lipodystrophy makes the lipofilling difficult to perform with a fibrous low quality fat difficult to harvest. We propose another solution using porous polyethylene implants (Medpor). Eight patients underwent submalar augmentation through an upper gingivobuccal sulcus incision that allows a subperiosteal dissection. The implants are carved to provide the desired augmentation. Overall, eight patients had good or very good aesthetic postoperative outcomes as determined by the patient and the surgeon. No complications occurred and results remain natural. Porous polyethylene implant (Medpor) is our treatment of choice for mild to severe facial lipoatrophy. Besides these implants could be removed easily later if needed.

Histopathologically dysplastic neurofibromas in neurofibromatosis 1: diagnostic criteria, prevalence and clinical significance

BACKGROUND

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours (MPNSTs) correspond to the most frequent and aggressive neoplasic complications associated with poor prognosis in neurofibromatosis 1.

OBJECTIVES

To define the dysplastic neurofibroma potentially at risk of transformation and evaluate its prevalence and incidence.

METHODS

According to our database, we retrospectively included, between 1 March 2000 and 31 August 2004, all patients who had subcutaneous and/or plexiform neurofibromas removed surgically. Tumour specimens were systematically reviewed; dysplastic neurofibroma was defined by the association of high cellularity and the presence of atypical cells. Clinically atypical and histopathologically dysplastic neurofibromas were analysed using Fisher's exact test. In addition, three high-grade MPNSTs were analysed retrospectively for the presence of associated histopathologically dysplastic neurofibroma.

RESULTS

Among the 89 plexiform and/or subcutaneous neurofibromas surgically removed, high cellularity and cytonuclear atypia were observed in 19% and 17% of cases, respectively. Both criteria were associated in 8.9% of cases (n=8); Mib-1 immunostaining was negative in all cases (n=7). In univariate analysis, only neurological symptoms were significantly associated with dysplasia (P=0.02). Interestingly, dysplastic neurofibroma areas could be identified within or at the periphery of two MPNSTs.

CONCLUSIONS

The association of hypercellularity and cytonuclear atypia could be considered as a potential histological prognostic factor of transformation leading to increased surveillance.

[Can one propose aesthetic surgery to one male or female patient with an hereditary angio-oedema?]

The hereditary angio-oedema (HAE) is a rare disease characterised by the occurrence of spontaneous or secondary, subcutaneous and submucosal swellings within any part of the body and especially in the upper respiratory tract. Surgery, due to the stress and the oro-tracheal intubation is a high risk situation for severe attack occurrence that may engage the patient life. This explains reluctance for surgeons and anesthesiologists to perform surgical operations in these patients. We think that efficiency of the prophylaxis and the emergency care for acute attacks can allow them to propose to these patients, plastic and aesthetic surgery in optimal security conditions. Androgens represent the main part of HAE prophylaxis treatment but usually cause masculinization in the females. We report this case of a woman, affected by HAE, treated by danazol: Danatrol for long-term prophylaxis who developed a mammary hypotrophy for which she was desirous to correct with breast implant. This surgery provided good morphological results without complication and was enabled to increase the observance of the prophylaxis treatment. Through this case report we lend a practical view of the surgery management of these patients affected by hereditary angio-oedema.

Prélèvement de greffe de peau totale en regard du ganglion sentinelle : un site donneur préférentiel après exérèse de mélanomes cutanés. À propos de 16 cas

Wound defects resulting from wide local excision for cutaneous melanoma, can require the use of skin graft for closure. Harvesting the skin graft can result in an additional morbidity. The increasing use of sentinel lymph node biopsy in cutaneous melanoma allows us the development of an alternative technique for obtaining donor skin. This method utilizes the skin overlying the sentinel lymph node as the skin graft donor site. Sixteen patients with cutaneous melanoma over than 1 mm of Breslow index, underwent wide local excision with sentinel lymph node biopsy and full thickness skin graft harvested from the node biopsy site. After a median follow-up of 18 months, there were no graft failure, one case of lymph swelling was relieved in the donor site. There were no melanoma recurrence and no metastasis. One case of in transit metastasis was treated by local excision and suture. In cases were primary closure is not feasible or cosmetically unfavourable, the use of the sentinel lymph node site as a skin graft donor, provides an alternative technique sparing the patient an additional skin graft donor site defect.

[Total lower lip reconstruction with double cross-lip flaps. Case report]

Total lower lip reconstruction can be performed with double cross-lip flaps. This simple technique gives satisfactory results both functionally and cosmetically. One clinical case is reported and the different procedures of total lower lip reconstruction are discussed.

[Vacuum-Assisted Closure for the reconstruction of a complex wound of the penis]

The authors report the case of a complex defect of the penis in children. Vacuum-Assisted Closure therapy as been shown to be very effective in enhancing wound debridement and the rate of granulation tissue formation. Complete closure of this complex wounds was obtained with a bilateral scrotal flap.

Les voies de recherche en immunologie appliquées à l'allotransplantation de tissus composites

Hand and composite tissue allotransplantation (CTA) holds great potential for reconstructive surgery but its development is currently limited by the side-effects of the immunosuppressive drugs. Induction of specific tolerance, a situation where the recipient does not mount an immune response against the allograft but remains fully immunocompetent, holds exciting promise. Generation of mixed hematopoietic chimerism by infusing the recipient with donor bone marrow cells has been shown to induce tolerance without chronic immunosuppression. Genetic matching of the donor and the recipient is another option for transplanting composite tissues with only an initial course of immunosuppression. Experiments demonstrated long-term survival of musculoskeletal allografts between MHC-matched miniature swine. Finally, new immunosuppressive agents with a more targeted action will reduce side-effects and may prevent the development of chronic rejection. Skin-specific immunosuppression is particularly useful for limb transplants since skin, regarded as the most antigenic component, is easily accessible to topical or irradiation therapies.

Utilisation du Vaccum-Assisted Closure® pour la reconstruction d'une perte de substance thoracique transfixiante avec exposition d'une plaque en Gore Tex® : à propos d'un cas

Vacuum-Assisted Closure (VAC) technique has been used in the treatment of acute and chronic wounds. The authors report a case of large thoracic defect, where the VAC was used to cover an exposed Gore Tex prosthesis after the failure of a latissimus dorsi flap. The VAC managed to save the Gore Tex prosthesis before a delayed reconstruction.

Evaluation of Skin Viscoelasticity in Type 1 Neurofibromatosis Patients

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a frequent autosomal dominant disease characterized by cutaneous benign tumors called neurofibromas. Surgery takes an important place in managing these skin disorders. However, skin distensibility and softness of NF1 patients quickly offset the surgical benefit. The aim of this study was to determine the rheological behavior of neurofibromas and compare it with healthy skin in an attempt to comprehend what leads to this phenomenon. Thirty patients were admitted to this study. A group of 24 healthy control subjects was also included. The skin elasticity was assessed by a noninvasive in vivo suction device (Cutometer) including 5 consecutive suctions. The assessments were performed on neurofibroma skin, the supposedly healthy skin around neurofibromas and the healthy skin of control subjects. The extensibility at the first and the fifth traction in NF1 patients (neurofibromas and the supposedly healthy skin around it) was significantly different compared to the healthy skin of control subjects. The viscoelastic parameters obtained from the neurofibromas were significantly different in comparison to those obtained from the supposedly healthy skin of NF1 patients and the healthy skin of control subjects. The rheological profiles of the neurofibromas and the apparent healthy skin of NF1 patients demonstrated a hyperextensibility behavior, but in neurofibromas, the skin was unable to return to its initial position at the end of the stretch.

Couverture des pertes de substance de la cuisse et de la région pelvienne par un lambeau perforant abdominal en îlot pédiculé sur les vaisseaux épigastriques inférieurs (DIEP)

The deep inferior epigastric perforator flap (DIEP) is a variation of the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (TRAM). This flap was used as a pedicled flap to reconstruct the pelvis and thigh region after resection for cancer (four cases). Various flaps have been described for covering theses tissue defects but we prefer this perforator flap for its many advantages. This flap is very reliable and generates minimal functional sequelae on donor site. This flap is useful to cover soft tissue defects after vascular and oncologic surgery, a situation that was rarely reported to our knowledge.

Necrotizing fasciitis during de novo minimal change nephrotic syndrome in a kidney transplant recipient

Skin infections and particularly necrotizing fasciitis (NF) represent a rare but serious complication after transplantation. Optimal management depends on prompt diagnosis with identification of the causative organisms to allow appropriate antibiotic therapy in association with surgical debridement. We report a case of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) NF as the single pathogen in a renal transplant recipient, during the course of a de novo minimal-change nephrotic syndrome, treated with high-dose steroids. Antibiotic therapy together with surgical debridement and discontinuation of immunosuppressive treatment led to a complete recovery, despite persistence of the nephrotic syndrome. The development of de novo minimal-change nephrotic syndrome after renal allograft transplantation should alert physicians to the possibility of MRSA NF during an increase in the immunosuppressive regimen.

[Mammaplasty: the "love position"]

The authors describe a new position of the patient that enables the surgeon to perform a bilateral and synchronous mammaplasty, without switching sides. The patient is first raised in the sitting position, then the thigh and leg holders of the operating table are spread out to a 45-60 degrees angle. The surgeon stands in between the thighs, where he faces the chest and can operate on the breasts. The entire operation is performed by the surgeon, approaching both breasts simultaneously without the need for switching positions. The direct and central access, along with the continuing visual control of the shaping, turns the operation into a simple and faster one with better control of the cosmetic result.

[Reconstructive surgery using composite tissue allografts: perspectives from the first clinical cases]

Tissue allotransplantation is defined by the transfer of tissues harvested from a cadaveric donor (in a brain dead condition) and revascularized to a recipient subject. This is based on the mastery of microsurgical techniques and on the induction of a therapeutic immunosuppression for the recipient. The first allografts (flexor tendon systems, knees and femoral diaphysis, hands, nerves, larynx) opened the field of composite tissue allotransplantation (C.T.A.) in reconstructive surgery. Immunosuppressive agents are now efficient enough to prevent the rejection of the allografts. The first patients operated on did not suffer from major or irreversible complications, but some potential side-effects of the immunosuppression remain an obstacle to the development of allografts in reconstructive surgery. The early functional results of the allografts are encouraging but their long term evolution remains uncertain. Some immunological (the chronic rejection) or psychological (the refusal of the graft and of its constraints) phenomenon might curtail the functional, aesthetic and psychological result. Currently considered as an extreme solution to exceptional indications, C.T.A. represents a tremendous hope for the future of reconstructive surgery.

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors associated with neurofibromatosis type 1: a clinicopathologic and molecular study of 17 patients

OBJECTIVE

To identify potential prognostic factors and criteria for early detection of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).

DESIGN

Retrospective study of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors in a cohort of 395 patients with NF1 followed up between October 1, 1988, and January 1, 1999; review of the clinical and histological characteristics of treatment and course; and analysis of p53 mutations and overexpression in tumors.

SETTING

Teaching hospital referral neurofibromatosis center for adults.

PATIENTS

Seventeen patients with NF1 (9 males and 8 females). Mean +/- SD patient age at diagnosis was 32 +/- 14 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

(1) Clinical symptoms, (2) comparison of p53 mutations and overexpression in benign vs malignant tumors; and (3) median survival.

RESULTS

Twelve patients had high-grade tumors. All tumors except 1 developed on preexisting nodular or plexiform neurofibromas. Pain and enlarging mass were the first and predominant signs. None of the benign tumors displayed significant p53 staining or p53 mutations. Six of 12 malignant tumors significantly overexpressed p53, and 4 of 6 harbored p53 missense mutations. Median survival was 18 months overall, 53 months in peripheral locations, and 21 months in axial locations.

CONCLUSIONS

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are highly aggressive in NF1. They mostly arise from plexiform or nodular neurofibromas. Investigations and deep biopsy of painful and enlarging nodular or plexiform neurofibromas should be considered in patients with NF1. Late appearance of p53 mutations and overexpression precludes their use as predictive markers of malignant transformation.

[Preservation of the muscle in the use of rectus abdominis free flap in breast reconstruction: from TRAM to DIEP (Deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap. Technical notes and results]

The advantages of TRAM (Transverse Rectus Abdominus Muscle) flap for breast reconstruction is now well recognised. This technique allows a cosmetic reconstruction with a more natural shape than with conventional reconstruction with prosthesis. However the disadvantage is the need of removal of part or all rectus abdominis muscle. If the techniques of free flap are now recognised to be more reliable than pedicle TRAM they have not demonstrate a superiority in term of parietal sequellae. To avoid such problem some teams have progressively developed the DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Peforator Flap). This flap is harvested only on the transmuscular perforators. We are presenting here our expertise which progressively has leed us from free partial TRAM to DIEP. From december 1995 to january 1997 we have practice 18 breast reconstructions with free flap. On 13 DIEP we had only one parietal complication due to incomplete closing of the aponeurosis at the lowest part of the surgical approach. This complication was easily corrected as the muscle was still tonic. On 5 TRAM, clinical examination finds parietal weakness on 3 cases. We believe that this technique is full of promises as it brings autologous tissue with no complication on donor site.

Diagnosis of digital pulley rupture by computed tomography

Seven patients who presented with a rupture of the digital pulley were investigated by computed tomography. The rupture involved the A2 and A4 pulleys in four cases, the A2 pulley in two cases and, in the final case, the A4 pulley alone. A sagittal-plane CT scan gave a precise analysis of the rupture in all cases. Two cases were surgically repaired and CT scanning was used in their postoperative assessment. When performed by a radiologist with an interest in musculoskeletal pathology, we have found CT scanning to be an excellent imaging procedure in the investigation and diagnosis of digital pulley injury. This can be useful when the diagnosis of digital pulley rupture cannot be made by history and physical examination.

[Results of flexor tendon repair using the Tsuge technic. Apropos of a series of 95 fingers]

The authors review a series of 76 patients with 95 fingers involved, 66.6% of them occurring in zone II. The core stitch was performed according to the Tsuge technique (type II) combined with a peritendinous running suture. Results based on TAM were excellent or good in 60%, fair in 22%, and poor in 18%. Influencing factors were associated lesions, mainly vascular and lesions in zone II. Rupture occurred in 5% and adhesion in 22% of cases. Providing similar results to those of other techniques published in the current literature, the Tsuge techniques is preferred because it is simpler and faster to perform.

Anterolateral thoracic fascia: an anatomic and surgical entity

This anatomic study, based on six subjects, is aimed at a better description of the anterolateral thoracic fascia, not previously studied in its entirety. The literature describes a fascia of the pectoralis major m. continuous with that of the serratus anterior m., starting at the lateral border of the pectoralis major or pre-pectoral. The upper limits have never been studied and the lower limits are ill-defined, the aponeurosis of the pectoralis major or the pre-pectoral fascia being continuous with that of the rectus abdominis m. It is shown that this fascia, from a retropectoral origin, extends to the base of the axilla above and is stretched as bridge between the pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi mm. and the muscles of the anterolateral wall of the abdomen. This fascia has some surgical importance as a plane of coverage in the protection of mammary implants. The lack of concordance with classical anatomic accounts, the histology and the vascularisation of this fascia call for complementary studies.

A study of the orientation of the fibers of the flexor carpi radialis tendon: anatomy and clinical applications

The authors report a series of 41 dissections of the forearm intended to study the orientation of the fibers of the flexor carpi radialis (FCR). This shows that there is a constant torsion of the fibers of the FCR by an average of 180 degrees. Half of this torsion occurs in the forearm and half in the sheath of the FCR at wrist level. Awareness of this torsion is particularly useful surgically when the tendon is employed in ligamentoplasty, particularly after trapeziectomy. Our study of the orientation of the fibers was aimed at the ability to perform subcutaneous splitting of the fibers for use of part of the tendon.

[Resectable tumors of the peripheral nerves. Apropos of 73 nerve tumors in 53 patients]

The authors report on a study of 53 patients suffering from resectable nerve tumors of the peripheral nerves, representing a total of 73 tumors. This concerns a round, hard swelling, with slight transversal movement, located along the course of a nerve. This swelling was painful and percussion led to lancinating pains along the course of the nerve. The same surgeon operated on all of these patients. The surgical treatment of the 46 patients undergoing surgery for the first time always consisted in a simple enucleation after opening of the epineurium with good results. Seven cases were seen in the stage of sequelae and five were clearly improved by a second operation. The principal surgical procedures are given. The maximum time of follow-up was 14 years and the minimum 12 months, with an average of 52 months. Our study included 34 women and 19 men suffering from one or more nerve tumors. The average age was 50.7 years, ranging from 17 years to 88 years. 39 patients had schwannomas, 1 lymphoma of the sciatic nerve, 2 hemangiomas of the sheath of Schwann, 6 intraneural cysts and 5 fibrolipomas. The authors analyse the diagnosis difficulties, the additional examinations and particularly RMI which has been perform on 7 patients and revealed to be very sensitive and of a great liability.

[Effect of inadequate filling of deflation of inflatable breast prostheses. Statistical study of 535 inflatable prostheses]

This study was based on a series of 535 inflatable prostheses used for breast reconstruction or augmentation with a mean follow-up of 5.15 years. The authors specifically analysed the statistical correlation between underinflation and deflation due to late rupture. They demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the initial filling of the prostheses which subsequently deflated and the initial filling of all prostheses of the series. The mean filling of prostheses which subsequently deflated was 89% while the mean filling of all prosthesis in the series was 100%. The various pathologies are analysed according to the cosmetic or reconstructive indications. The two series, cosmetic and reconstructive, were homogeneous in terms of filling volume and deflation; the only difference concerned the age distribution. Patients undergoing breast reconstruction with a prosthesis were older than patients undergoing augmentation surgery for small breasts. The authors discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this type of prosthesis.

Vascular anatomy of the forearm muscles: a study of 50 dissections

This anatomic study is based on 50 adult cadaver upper extremities. The general disposition of the forearm arteries and muscles and the main anatomic variations encountered are specified. Constant existence of an "anterior oblique artery" satellite of the pronator teres was established. The median nerve artery was principally dedicated to the flexor digitorum superficialis and participated appreciably in the constitution of palmar arches in only one case. A supernumerary intermedial radial muscle was found only in two cases. The abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis appeared as a single muscular and vascular unit in 84 percent of cases. All the arteries destined for muscles were reckoned whatever their caliber might be. Despite its limitations, this study confirms the very great number of the forearm muscular pedicles. Each forearm contained an average of 264 muscular vascular pedicles. The systematization of the origins and destinations of the 13,158 muscular pedicles is described in a numbered manner for each of the 20 normal forearm muscles and for each of the 12 studied arterial segments. The pronator teres was likely to be supplied by all the anterior arteries of the upper limb. The flexor carpi radialis had one or two dominant pedicles originated from the recurrens ulnaris anterior, recurrens ulnaris, or ulnaris-interossea communis arteries, and many transversal branches originated from the radial artery. The flexor carpi ulnaris was supplied in its proximal third by the recurrens ulnaris posterior artery and in its distal two-thirds by many branches of ulnar artery.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)