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Myelomeningocele is a common dysraphic defect leading to severe impairment throughout the patient's lifetime. Although surgical closure of this anomaly is usually performed in the early postnatal period, an estimated 330 cases of intrauterine repair have been performed in a few specialized centers worldwide. It was hoped prenatal intervention would improve the prognosis of affected patients, and preliminary findings suggest a reduced incidence of shunt-dependent hydrocephalus, as well as an improvement in hindbrain herniation. However, the expectations for improved neurological outcome have not been fulfilled and not all patients benefit from fetal surgery in the same way. Therefore, a multicenter randomized controlled trial was initiated in the USA to compare intrauterine with conventional postnatal care, in order to establish the procedure-related benefits and risks. The primary study endpoints include the need for shunt at 1 year of age, and fetal and infant mortality. No data from the trial will be published before the final analysis has been completed in 2008, and until then, the number of centers offering intrauterine MMC repair in the USA is limited to 3 in order to prevent the uncontrolled proliferation of new centers offering this procedure. In future, refined, risk-reduced surgical techniques and new treatment options for preterm labor and preterm rupture of the membranes are likely to reduce associated maternal and fetal risks and improve outcome, but further research will be needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The authors' previous research suggested the hypothesis that aesthetic surgery in general has a positive impact on quality of life (QoL). This prospective study aimed to investigate the indication-specific effect on QoL in patients undergoing transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation., Methods: Seventy-seven patients underwent aesthetic breast augmentation. Fifty patients met the inclusion criteria. All of them answered one set of the questionnaires preoperatively, and the follow-up set at 6 months postoperatively. The testing instruments included a self-developed indication-specific questionnaire and five standardised and validated questionnaires with German norm data available: Questions on Life Satisfaction, Modules (FLZ M , German version), the Freiburg Personality Inventory-Revised (FPI-R), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SRES), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) and the Breast-Q | Augmentation., Results: Our self-developed indication-specific questionnaire shows high satisfaction with the postoperative results. The FLZ M demonstrated significant improvements in the module life in general (p < 0.001), 'hobbies' (p < 0.001), 'health' (p = 0.04), 'family life' (p = 0.03) and 'partner relationship/sexuality' (p < 0.001). Moreover, the FPI-R revealed a significant improvement in emotional stability (p < 0.001). Moreover, the PHQ-4 showed a significant reduction in overall psychological distress (p < 0.001). Further, Breast-Q indicated a significant increase in psychological (p < 0.001) and sexual well-being (p < 0.001)., Conclusion: Transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation has a significant impact on QoL and sexuality. The surgery leads to a higher satisfaction not only with the result of intervention and the outer appearance specifically, but also with life and the state of health generally. It improves emotional stability. Therefore, the authors' hypothesis in a previous research was confirmed for this specific indication prospectively., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Reconstructing scalp defects after basal cell carcinoma removal in elderly patients is challenging. This case report emphasizes Matriderm® as a successful alternative, addressing limitations of traditional methods. The application of Matriderm® in resource-limited scenarios adds insights to surgical literature, and its' usage addresses challenges in patients, contributing to surgical knowledge., Competing Interests: The authors report there are no competing interests to declare., (© 2024 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.)

Background: The study examines, for the first time, the impact on quality of life after liposuction for lipoedema. The influence of aesthetic plastic interventions and their effects on treatment outcomes has been a major focus of our research group over the past 20 years., Methods: A total of 35 patients were invited to participate in our prospective study, with 30 responding to both the pre- and postoperative questionnaires. The patients received the questionnaires pre-operatively, and 6 months after the liposuction. Our questionnaire set included a self-developed, indication-specific part, along with standardised and validated questionnaires such as the Questions on Life Satisfaction (FLZ M ), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and the Freiburg personality inventory-revised (FPI-R)., Results: Our self-developed questionnaire showed that our patients feel more balanced, more attractive and more self-confident after the treatment. The FLZ M showed significant improvements in all three modules: the general satisfaction with life, the state of health and the outer appearance (body image). Using the PHQ-4, a significant improvement in the two subscales of anxiety and depression could be determined, as well as a reduction in overall mental stress. In addition, the RSES showed a significant improvement in self-esteem post-operatively. Furthermore, the FPI-R indicated a significant improvement in emotional stability., Conclusions: Liposuction improves the quality of life in lipoedema patients. Post-operatively, our patients reported less pain and were more satisfied with their bodies and appearance. The hypothesis that liposuction in lipoedema improves the quality of life as a multidimensional construct could be confirmed., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2024 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Our previous retrospective study indicates that esthetic surgery in general results in a significant improvement in Quality of life (QoL). This is the first indication-specific prospective evaluation of QoL after blepharoplasty using standardized and validated questionnaires., Objectives: To report changes in QoL after blepharoplasty prospectively with a 6-month follow-up., Methods: The same surgical team performed an esthetic blepharoplasty on 50 patients. Participants answered 1 set of questionnaires preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. The instrument consisted of a self-developed indication-specific part specially designed for blepharoplasty and 4 validated and standardized testing instruments (FLZ, FPI-R, RSES, and PHQ-4) with norm data for German-speaking countries available., Results: This study reveals a high rate of satisfaction after blepharoplasty. 96% felt better about themselves and 94% would undergo the procedure again. Statistically significant increased values were found postoperatively in the items "income" ( P =0.016), "family life" ( P =0.028), "partner relationship" ( P =0.039), "ability to relax" ( P <0.001), "energy" ( P <0.001), "hobbies" ( P <0.001), and with their outer appearance in general ( P =0.018). Blepharoplasty showed a statistically significant improvement in emotional stability ( P =0.017) and a reduction in depressive symptoms ( P <0.001). Our patients had statistically significantly higher self-esteem before ( P <0.001) and after ( P <0.001) the intervention., Conclusion: Our prospective study shows that blepharoplasty increases most aspects of QoL significantly, has a positive effect on emotional and physical well-being, and reduces the incidence of depressive symptoms and anxiety., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2022 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.)

Background: Lumbrical muscles originate in the palm from the 4 tendons of the flexor digitorum profundus and course distally along the radial side of the corresponding metacarpophalangeal joints, in front of the deep transverse metacarpal ligament. The first and second lumbrical muscles are typically innervated by the median nerve, and third and fourth by the ulnar nerve. A plethora of lumbrical muscle variants has been described, ranging from muscles' absence to reduction in their number or presence of accessory slips. The current cadaveric study highlights typical and variable neural supply of lumbrical muscles., Materials: Eight (3 right and 5 left) fresh frozen cadaveric hands of 3 males and 5 females of unknown age were dissected. From the palmar wrist crease, the median and ulnar nerve followed distally to their terminal branches. The ulnar nerve deep branch was dissected and lumbrical muscle innervation patterns were noted., Results: The frequency of typical innervations of lumbrical muscles is confirmed. The second lumbrical nerve had a double composition from both the median and ulnar nerves, in 12.5% of the hands. The thickest branch (1.38 mm) originated from the ulnar nerve and supplied the third lumbrical muscle, and the thinnest one (0.67 mm) from the ulnar nerve and supplied the fourth lumbrical muscle. In 54.5%, lumbrical nerve bifurcation was identified., Conclusion: The complex innervation pattern and the peculiar anatomy of branching to different thirds of the muscle bellies are pointed out. These findings are important in dealing with complex and deep injuries in the palmar region, including transmetacarpal amputations.

Background: There is a lack of data concerning the prevalence of eating disorders in patients requesting aesthetic surgery in spite of a large body of literature on the psychopathology of these patients. This may mostly be due to insufficient diagnostic assessment instruments. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of eating disorders and their comorbidities in patients undergoing aesthetic surgery., Methods: The assessment of prevalence of the eating disorders as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder as well as other mental disorders was performed with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV mental disorders (SCID), axis 1., Results: 212 patients (198 females, 14 males), requesting different types of aesthetic surgery, were included in this study. Eating disorders had a current prevalence of 8.0% (17/212) and a lifetime prevalence of 11.3% (24/212). Anorexia nervosa was predominantly found in patients with breast augmentation [current: 7.4% (2/27); lifetime: 11.1% (3/27)] and rhinoplasty [6.3 (1/16); 12.6% (2/16)]. Bulimia nervosa dominated in patients with liposuction [10% (3/30); 13.3% (4/30)] and binge eating disorder in patients with abdominoplasty [current/lifetime: 10.8% (4/37)]. Levels of significance (p ≤ 0.002) were reached for prevalence of the eating disorders in above mentioned types of surgery, when compared to prevalence data of the general population (two proportion Z test for SPSS)., Conclusion: Eating disorders are distributed according to a certain pattern in the different types of aesthetic surgery. Interestingly, the current prevalence of eating disorders (17/212) was comparable to that of body dysmorphic disorder (26/212)., (Copyright © 2021. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

As our previous studies have shown, cosmetic surgery has a positive correlation with postoperative well-being. The aim of this study was to prospectively examine the postoperative changes in quality of life (QoL) after a rhinoplasty. Thirty-four patients who underwent septorhinoplasty performed by a single surgeon from July 2015 to October 2018 reported in indication-specific self-developed and different validated questionnaires (FLZM or Fragen zur Lebenszufriedenheit Module, Freiburg Personality Inventor, Rosenberg self-esteem scale, Functional Rhinoplasty Outcome Inventory 17 [FROI-17], and Glasgow Benefit Inventory [GBI]) on the status of their QoL preoperatively (T0) and 6 months' follow-up (T1). Our goal was to assess the difference in psyche and self-esteem and to get objective insights into the effect of the operation. Significant improvements in QoL in terms of general module, health, and appearance were noted. The general part of the FLZM showed increasing T1 values in the sum scores ( p  = 0.005). With regard to the item "health," T1 was better than the norm data ( p  = 0.003). The statistically significant improvement for the item nose appearance ( p  < 0.0001) after operation and T1 versus reference data ( p  < 0.010) should be highlighted. The subjective patient ratings showed statistically significant T1 improvements for all items of the FROI-17: overall nose ( p  < 0.0001), nasal function ( p  = 0.001), general/further symptoms ( p  = 0.006), and confidence increased by aesthetic changes ( p  < 0.0001). Furthermore, the GBI score shows an improved QoL after rhinoplasty ( p  < 0.0001). Based on the assessment of a variety of disease- and nondisease-specific validated questionnaires, numerous improvements in the QoL of the patients were observed. Therefore, we support septorhinoplasty as a meaningful procedure regarding QoL improvement. The level of evidence is Level II prospective cohort study., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Background: Partly as a result of the increasing attention directed toward transgender individuals and despite much research work on the topic of quality of life (QOL) of transgender, there is still a lack of studies using standardized questionnaires in their evaluation., Aims: We designed a survey to evaluate the influence of surgery after phalloplasty (osteofasciocutaneous fibula free flap or osteofasciocutaneous radial free forearm flap) on QOL, emotional stability, self-esteem, and psyche of postoperated transgender men., Methods: The present study included 32 transgender men who had undergone gender-affirming surgery (GAS) exclusively in our department between 2000 and 2012. Apart from our self-developed, indication-specific questionnaire with questions on socioeconomic and demographic data as well as postoperative satisfaction, the testing instrument included 4 frequently used, standardized testing instruments, which we compared with normative data. These included (a) a self-assessment test Fragebogen zur Lebenszufriedenheit with questions on QOL consisting of 3 modules (general satisfaction, satisfaction with health, and satisfaction with body image/outer appearance), (b) the Freiburg Personality Inventory, (c) the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Questionnaire, and (d) the Patient Health Questionnaire 4., Findings: Our self-developed, indication-specific questionnaire showed that 88% of our patients were very satisfied with the aesthetic result, 75% have had sex after surgery, and 72% were very satisfied with sexual function after GAS. Eighty-one percent had a strong improvement of QOL, and 91% would undergo the same treatment again. Eighty-four percent would recommend GAS to others. All patients lived as men fulltime., Discussion: Our study reveals that GAS plays an important part in the interdisciplinary treatment of transgender individuals as it improves the QOL in transgender men in most aspects of everyday life and has a positive influence on the patients' psyche and self-esteem in a retrospective study., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest and sources of funding: none declared., (Copyright © 2021 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: We sought to identify independent risk factors for positive sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), local recurrence (LR), metastasis (M) and death caused by cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) (DCS) in high-risk cSCC patients. Moreover, we compared the Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) system with the previous used in Greece (based on tumor size) and proposed a new classification system., Methods: 1,524 cSCC patients were enrolled between January 2004 and December 2014, from two medical institutions. Potential risk factors for SLNB (local recurrence/LR, metastasis/M, death caused by SCC/DCS) were analyzed by univariate and multivariate Cox logistic regression models., Results: Of the included patients with a median follow-up of 60 months 107 developed local recurrence (7%) while 84 developed metastases (5.5%). Among 36 patients undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), 25% showed a positive SLNB with a false-negative result (11%). On multivariate analysis, key prognostic factors for LR were tumor diameter ≥2 cm, poor differentiation, incomplete excision and perineural invasion and for M were high-risk tumor site, tumor diameter ≥2 cm, poor differentiation, invasion beyond subcutaneous tissue, incomplete excision, perineural invasion and recurrence. DCS seems to be affected by tumor diameter ≥ 2 cm, poor differentiation, invasion beyond subcutaneous tissue, incomplete excision, perineural invasion and recurrence independently., Conclusions: These suggest the determined role of tumor diameter of cSCCs. Harnessing knowledge and collecting the up-to-date data along the clinical journey of high-risk cSCC, the future looks bright (development of new clinical trials, adjuvant therapies and tumor staging with SLNB).

Background: There are few studies evaluating depression, self-esteem, and mental health after gender confirming treatment of transgender women. Most of these studies include different surgical techniques and nonvalidated questionnaires. With our survey, we are aiming to assess psychopathologies and mental health as well as sexuality among a group of patients treated by the same surgeon performing our self-developed combined surgical technique. This vaginoplasty approach is characterized by constructing the vaginal cavity with parts of the penile and scrotal skin as well as the longitudinally incised urethra., Materials and Methods: Forty-seven transgender women who underwent gender confirming treatment between 2007 and 2013 were included in a retrospective study. The assessment of our study group was performed by means of self-developed indication-specific questionnaires and 3 standardized questionnaires that can be compared with norm data., Results: Preoperative psychotherapy was mostly considered as helpful by the patients, yet postoperatively, only a third of our study participants were still under therapeutic treatment. Furthermore, we could show a change in sexual preference toward a more bisexual orientation. Gender confirming treatment satisfied the expectations for most of the patients and, in their opinion, should have been performed earlier. Results of the standardized Patient Health Questionnaire 4, a short depression screening questionnaire, did not significantly differ from healthy norm data. The Freiburg Personality Inventory, Revised, revealed normal emotionality and sane self-assessment within our study group. High self-esteem and significantly higher scores than norm data were found for the Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale., Conclusions: Gender confirming treatment with the combined technique is an important part of a multi-structured treatment of transgenders and does have effects on psychological well-being. It seems to decrease psychopathologies and implicates several ameliorations for transgender women. Findings need to be verified in prospective studies including preoperative evaluations.

Background: The authors' previous research suggested the hypothesis that aesthetic surgery in general has a positive impact on quality of life (QoL). This prospective study aimed to investigate the indication-specific effect on QoL in patients undergoing aesthetic liposuction. To our knowledge, no other prospective study has been conducted using standardised and validated questionnaires with a comparable return rate and sample size., Methods: Sixty-four patients underwent aesthetic liposuction. Forty-two patients met the inclusion criteria, and 38 of them answered one set of questionnaires preoperatively and the follow-up set at six months post-operatively. The testing instrument included a self-developed, indication-specific questionnaire and four standardised and validated questionnaires with German norm data available: Questions on Life Satisfaction, Modules (FLZ M , German version), the Freiburg Personality Inventory-Revised (FPI-R), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4)., Results: Our self-developed indication-specific questionnaire showed high satisfaction with the postoperative results. The FLZ M demonstrated significant improvements for all modules, concerning life in general (p = 0.02), health (p = 0.04) and body image (p = 0.02). Moreover, the FPI-R revealed a significant improvement in emotional stability (p < 0.01). Moreover, the PHQ-4 showed a significant reduction in overall psychological distress (p = 0.03) and anxiety (p = 0.01)., Conclusion: Liposuction had significant impact on QoL. The surgery led to a higher satisfaction not only with the result of intervention and the outer appearance specifically but also with life and the state of health generally. It improved emotional stability and reduced anxiety. Therefore, the authors' hypothesis in a previous research was confirmed for this specific indication prospectively., (Copyright © 2019 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: The aim of the current study is to investigate the first and second lumbrical nerves as potential fibers donors to the deep motor branch of the ulnar nerve to avoid intrinsic atrophy in high ulnar nerve injuries., Methods: Sixteen fresh frozen cadaveric hands were dissected, the radial lumbrical nerves accessed, and a coaptation, either in reverse end-to-side or in double end-to-side through a bridge nerve graft, was created to the deep motor branch of ulnar nerve. Semithin sections were taken from samples of donor and recipient nerves for qualitative (nerve architecture) and quantitative studies (fiber count and donor/recipient ratio)., Results: The first lumbrical showed a robust trunk and a superior axon density (9,126.50 ± 2,923.41 axons/mm 2 ) to the ulnar motor branch (7,506.50 ± 1,137.50 axons/mm 2 distal to the opponens tunnel and 7,947.75 ± 1,741.24 axons/mm 2 before its terminal branching); the ulnar motor branch showed a higher axon number (2,633.51 ± 410.00 distal to the opponens tunnel and 2,345.75 ± 2,101.56 before its terminal branching) than the first lumbrical (1,410.56 ± 823.89); section areas occupied by axons were higher in proximal (0.20 ± 0.16) and distal (0.26 ± 0.20) ulnar samples than the first lumbrical (0.17 ± 0.16). Donor/recipient ratio first lumbrical/deep motor branch of the ulnar nerve were 1:1.86 (distal to the opponens tunnel) and 1:1.67 (at its terminal branching); data about the second lumbrical were ruled out because of bias., Conclusions: A transfer from the first lumbrical nerve to the deep motor branch of the ulnar nerve in palm is suitable to avoid intrinsic atrophy., (© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Adipose tissue contains an abundant population of mesenchymal stromal cells (= adipose stromal cells [ASC]) with multilineage differentiation, immunomodulatory and trophic potential promising for cell-based therapies. Although intensely investigated in pre- and clinical studies, little is known about the impact of donor characteristics on the viability of ASC. To correlate patient data to the quality of processed adipose tissue and to establish a first step towards a manufacturing process for cell therapy, we evaluated the effects of 2 harvesting systems (LipiVage, TTF-System) and donor characteristics on cell viability of nucleated cells in a cohort of 44 samples obtained from 17 donors.The impact of donor-specific factors (localization, age, body-mass-index, chronic diseases, intake of drugs, nicotine consumption or disorders of the thyroid gland) and the harvesting system on nucleated cell (NC) counts and viability of processed lipoaspirates were statistically analyzed.Increasing age has a significant positive influence on NC viability (P = 0.001). Donors with intake of thyroid hormones based on a hypothyroidism and suctioned with the LipiVage-System reached a significantly higher viability of NC (P = 0.038). No statistical difference was shown between the 2 harvesting-systems (P = 0.338) and the donor sites (P = 0.294).We focused on a potential correlation between NC viability and donor characteristics. Based on the donor cohort investigated in this study, cells from elderly patients suctioned with the LipiVage-System and taking thyroid hormones yielded cells of higher viability, suggesting an improved quality for subsequent manufacturing procedures. Further investigations are necessary to understand and correlate this data to ASC in vitro characteristics.

Background: In our previous retrospective study, we detected an increased quality of life after aesthetic abdominoplasty. In this survey, we analyzed quality of life, self-esteem, emotional stability, and mental health before and after aesthetic abdominoplasty prospectively., Methods: Twenty-two female patients were surveyed before and six months after their surgeries. The testing instrument consisted of a self-developed indication-specific questionnaire and four standardized tests (Questions on Life Satisfaction plus a specified part body image, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Freiburg Personality Inventory, and Patient Health Questionnaire-4)., Results: Significantly increased values were found concerning feeling comfortable in swimwear in front of the mirror or the sexual partner and at social or professional activities (each p=0.000). Women had less problems doing sports (p=0.029) and felt more feminine (p=0.012). Sum scores of general life satisfaction (p=0.016) and scores of the items leisure activity (p=0.003), relaxing abilities (p=0.002), and sexuality (p=0.046) showed significant improvements. The body image improved in general (p=0.010) and in particular in the items abdomen, hips, and waist (each p=0.000). Emotional stability increased significantly (p=0.029). We detected a mild mental depression in 27% and a moderate depression in 32% of our patients before surgery. Depressive disorders were significantly reduced (p=0.004) down to mild depression in 18% and moderate depression in 9% of the patients., Conclusion: Positive results for quality of life shown in the retrospective study were confirmed. Abdominoplasty improves general life satisfaction and satisfaction with health and outer appearance and increases emotional stability. Depressive patients showed a significant improvement after aesthetic abdominoplasty., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: It has been theorized that there are 2 subgroups within the male-to-female (MtF) transgender population: individuals who are predominantly androphilic and those who are predominantly gynephylic or interested in both male and female partners., Aim: To explore the role of a dichotomous distribution of age at dysphoria onset in individuals diagnosed with MtF gender dysphoria., Methods: 40 patients who presented to a surgical clinic in Germany for gender-affirming surgery (GAS) were included in this study. Their age distribution was plotted as a histogram and the population was then divided at the median self-reported age of onset of gender dysphoria-that is, those 17 years and younger and those 18 years and older. The 2 groups were then compared with regard to demographic data, partnership history, various quality of life parameters, as well as sexual orientation and sexual history., Main Outcome Measure: Self-designed questionnaires for demographics and sexuality, Questions on Life Satisfaction and Body Image (FLZ M ), Freiburg Personality Inventory, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Patient Health Questionnaire were used., Results: Early-onset, gender-dysphoric MtF patients underwent GAS at a much younger age (mean 32.7 vs 43.8 years, P = .004), but had similar characteristics regarding weight, height, body mass index, marital status, and living situation to individuals who reported later onset of gender dysphoria. Preoperatively, they showed greater depressive symptoms (4.6 vs 3.3 points, P = .045), which disappeared after GAS. Following surgery, the younger MtFs were predominantly attracted to men (52.6%), whereas individuals who were diagnosed with late-onset of gender dysphoria preferred women or both men and women (85.7%) as sexual partners (P = .010). Younger trans individuals were more frequently sexually active (73.7% vs 42.9%, P = .049)., Conclusion: Our findings suggest that there are 2 MtF populations that differ in age of dysphoria onset, sexual history, and multiple personal details including sexual orientation. These data may be used to improve care to transgender individuals by providing treatment reflecting their sexual interests. Zavlin D, Wassersug RJ, Chegireddy V, et al. Age-Related Differences for Male-to-Female Transgender Patients Undergoing Gender-Affirming Surgery. Sex Med 2019;7:86-93., (Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Several studies have been conducted evaluating psychological effects following aesthetic surgery, however few of them following blepharoplasty!, Purpose: To determine whether blepharoplasty affects quality of life and satisfaction as well as, emotional stability and self-esteem in patients who underwent only blepharoplasty., Design: A retrospective study including transdermal blepharoplasty operations between the years 1995 and 2008., Methods: A self-developed and indication-specific questionnaire especially for blepharoplasty, as well as the standardized testing instruments FLZM, FPI-R, and RSES, concerning quality of life, body image, personality, and self-esteem was utilized., Participants: A total of 123 patients were included in the study. Forty-six patients participated in the study., Main Outcomes and Measures: Results were compared with the existing representative norm data from the German speaking countries., Results: In the indication-specific questionnaire, 44 patients reported a positive influence on their personal wellbeing, and 33 were more satisfied with their appearance (follow-up 3-95 months; average 48.5 months); 20 felt more self-confident, and 25 felt more attractive.Statistically significant increased values in quality of life (FLZM) were found in the aspects work (P = 0.02), mobility (P < 0.001) and independence from assistance or help (P < 0.001).Higher scores concerning personality and self-esteem compared with the respective random sample were found in the questionnaires FPI-R (P = 0.02) and RSES (P < 0.001)., Conclusion and Relevance: Among plastic surgical interventions, blepharoplasty is a minimal invasive operation, which is very well tolerated by patients. Patients take advantage in personal wellbeing, self-esteem, and different aspects of their daily life.

Background: Currently available patient-reported outcome measures are limited in the field of sex reassignment surgery (SRS). Standardized questionnaires deliver high evidence data on satisfaction of male-to-female (MTF) transgender patients but do not allow any modification in their clinical application. We therefore designed a prospective study using self-developed indication-specific questionnaires to evaluate the aesthetic, functional, and sexual outcomes of MTF patients undergoing SRS., Methods: Forty-nine adult MTF transgender patients who underwent two-stage SRS were eligible for study inclusion between September 2012 and January 2014. Forty patients (= N) ultimately filled out both parts of the questionnaire sets: 1 day before the first stage (T0) and 6 months after the second stage of SRS (T1). These questionnaires focused on demographic characteristics, the satisfaction with aesthetic and functional results, and sexuality., Results: Patients rated their surgical satisfaction of most items with mean scores above 7 on a 0-10-point scale. Many items evaluating everyday life activities improved significantly after SRS compared to T0 (p < 0.01). All but one patient (97.5%) reported no regrets about having undergone surgery, and the majority recommended it to other patients with gender dysphoria. Femininity and sexual activity increased significantly postoperatively (p < 0.01). Satisfaction with intercourse and orgasm was high: 6.70 and 8.21, respectively, on a 0-10 scale., Conclusion: Satisfaction with the cosmetic outcome, as well as the functional and sexual outcomes, reveal positive effects of SRS using the combined technique on transgender patient lives. Nevertheless, standardized and validated SRS-specific questionnaires are lacking., 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 .

Background: Several therapy options exist for male-to-female (MTF) transgenders desiring sex reassignment. Surgery includes numerous different procedures. Of those, vaginoplasty is predominant and aims at providing attractive esthetics and fully functional genitals. This study aimed to present the surgical results of our modified combined vaginoplasty technique in a consecutive patient cohort., Methods: We included 40 MTF transgender patients who underwent a two-stage sex reassignment surgery (SRS) in an observational prospective study between September 2012 and January 2014. Demographic characteristics, medical and surgical history, operative details, and outcomes after surgery were documented. Postoperatively, 23 patients received a pelvic examination following the standardized protocol., Results: Measured vaginal depth was 11.77-14.99 cm depending on the size of the dilator used (25-40 mm). Vaginal, clitoral, and labial sensitivities were intact and favorable in all examined patients. Nineteen women (47.5%) opted for breast augmentations to achieve a feminine cosmesis, making it the most common nongenital operation. Complications were mostly minor and temporary. Severe adverse events, such as wound infections (n = 3), colon injuries (3), short (1) or narrow (1) vaginas, or partial clitoral necroses (1), were rare and immediately addressed by the surgical team. No vaginal construction was lost, and no secondary reconstructive approaches were required., Conclusion: Satisfactory physical results and favorable low rates of complications endorse our combined technique for MTF SRS. These findings, however, need to be confirmed by other research groups as well. Therefore, in our opinion, MTF SRS remains an evolving area of development, whose research is aiming to establish a state-of-the-art surgical technique., (Copyright © 2017 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: None.

Background: The authors' previous research showed that various plastic surgical procedures can increase a patient's quality of life in its different aspects. In a prospective setting, they evaluated whether sex reassignment surgery has similar effects for male-to-female transgender patients compared to baseline data before sex reassignment surgery., Methods: All 39 patients who underwent their first-stage male-to-female sex reassignment surgery between October of 2012 and January of 2014 received one set of questionnaires preoperatively (time 0) and approximately 6 months after their final operation (time 1). Each set contained self-developed, indication-specific questions combined with the standardized validated Questions on Life Satisfaction, Modules (German version) questionnaire, the Freiburg Personality Inventory, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the Patient Health Questionnaire, which were compared to available norm data., Results: The mean patient age was 38.6 years. The majority of the patients were highly educated, childless, and single. Significant improvements were found in the Questions on Life Satisfaction, Modules (German version), especially for the items "partnership," "ability to relax," "energy," "freedom from anxiety," "hair," "breast," and "penis/vagina" (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the patients appeared more emotionally stable (p = 0.03), showed higher self-esteem (p = 0.01), and showed much lower depression/anxiety (p < 0.01)., Conclusions: The positive study findings were confirmed with the results from prior retrospective studies. However, medical literature focuses largely on surgical and functional satisfaction and not overall quality of life. In addition, standardized questionnaires are used rarely and solely retrospectively, with the risk of recall bias. The increased quality of life of transgender women postoperatively endorses sex reassignment surgery as a valuable option for these patients., Clinical Queston/level of Evidence: Therapeutic, IV.

Background: Surveys on quality of life (QOL) of male-to-female (MTF) transsexuals have found low QOL scores before and increased satisfaction scores after sex-reassignment surgery (SRS). To our knowledge, many of them lack standardized questionnaires and comparisons with normative data to evaluate different vaginoplasty techniques., Aim: To analyze patient satisfaction and QOL after SRS., Methods: Forty-seven patients participated in this study. All patients had surgery with our self-developed combined technique on average 19 months before the survey. They completed a self-developed indication-specific questionnaire concerning demographic and socioeconomic issues and postoperative satisfaction. Furthermore, a standardized self-assessment questionnaire on satisfaction and QOL (Fragen zur Lebenszufriedenheit Module [FLZ M ]; Questions on Life Satisfaction Modules ) was used. The FLZ M consists of three modules (general life satisfaction, satisfaction with health, and satisfaction with body image) with scores of weighted satisfaction for each item. Results of the general and health modules were compared with normative data., Outcomes: Demographics, QOL, general life satisfaction, satisfaction with health, and satisfaction with body image., Results: The self-developed indication-specific questionnaire showed that 91% experienced an improvement of QOL. All patients stated they would undergo SRS again and did not regret it at all. Patients stated their femininity significantly increased. For the FLZ M , the sum score for general life satisfaction (P < .001) was significantly lower than the normative data, whereas the sum score of the satisfaction with health module (P = .038) did not reach statistical significance. The two modules also showed positive trends for different items. Values of the body image module showed a significant increase in satisfaction with breasts (P < .001) and genitals (P = .002)., Clinical Implications: The findings of this survey emphasize the importance of SRS in the interdisciplinary gender-reassignment process. The detailed description of our combined technique could help to improve the surgical outcome and patient satisfaction of this complex and non-standardized surgery., Strengths and Limitations: This is the first description of a new surgical technique (combined technique) for MTF SRS. QOL was assessed by a large number of patients by standardized questionnaires and could be compared with normative data. Because this is a retrospective study, we can draw only careful conclusions for pre- and postoperative changes., Conclusion: Our self-developed combined surgical technique seemed to have a positive influence on QOL after SRS. Satisfaction with breasts, genitals, and femininity increased significantly and show the importance of surgical treatment as a key therapeutic option for MTF transsexuals. Papadopulos NA, Lellé J-D, Zavlin D, et al. Quality of Life and Patient Satisfaction Following Male-to-Female Sex Reassignment Surgery. J Sex Med 2017;14:721-730., (Copyright © 2017 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Nerve fibers are attracted by sutureless end-to-side nerve coaptation into the recipient nerve. Opening a window in the epineurium enhances axon attraction and myelination. The authors analyze the features of nerve repair by end-to-side coaptation. They highlight the known mechanisms of axon sprouting and different hypotheses of start up signals (presence or absence of an epineurial window, role of Schwann cells, signaling from the distal trunk). The clinical literature is also presented and differences between experimental and clinical applications are pointed out. The authors propose their point of view and perspectives deriving from recent experimental and clinical experiences., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: None declared.

Background: In previous studies, our research group already evaluated the impact of aesthetic surgery on "quality of life" (QoL). This study evaluates QoL factors and perceptions of well-being after otoplasty as a single indication., Methods: Eighty-one patients who underwent otoplasty were divided into three age groups: Youth 1 (Y1) = 8-12 years (n = 17), Youth 1 (Y2) = 13-17 years (n = 13), and Adult ≥18 years (n = 51). For competitive analysis, 2 groups of tests were used: a standardized self-assessment test on life satisfaction (FLZ(M)), the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI), the standardized Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), the standardized Freiburg Personality Inventory (FPI-R), the Patient Health Questionnaire 4 (PHQ-4), and a self-developed and indication-specific questionnaire for "Adult" group. The tools for the groups Y1 and Y2 were: PHQ-4, KINDL(R), the Glasgow Child Benefit Inventory (GCBI), and a self-developed and indication-specific questionnaire either., Results: Our data bared numerous significant improvements on patients' QoL. In the items "friends" (P = 0.036) and "freedom of anxiety" (P = 0.034) of the FLZ(M), important improvements were found. In section "satisfaction with appearance" (body image), the items "hair" (P = 0.003) and "ear" (P = 0.034) were to point out. The RSES (P = 0.001) and the FPI-R (P = 0.035) data indicated a well-balanced emotional stability. The results of the GBI/GCBI (P = 0.000/P = 0.000) showed a higher QoL of postsurgery patients. The data of the KINDL questionnaire provided increasing values in the modules "friends" (P = 0.033) and "total score" (P = 0.040) for boys of the ages 8 to 12. For all age groups, there was a less affinity to depression (PHQ-4) and a high satisfaction with the aesthetical result (indication-specific questionnaire)., Conclusions: This study showed higher QoL in all age groups by using standardized tools in comparison with the norm data. The knowledge of postoperative psychologic benefits, such as "satisfaction with appearance" (body image) and "different areas of life," self-confidence, and self-esteem as well as lower level of depression support meaningfulness of otoplasty., Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, III: Retrospective cohort or comparative study.

Purpose: The diagnostic use of computer tomography angiography (CTA) to identify perforating blood vessels for abdominal free-flap breast reconstruction was extended to estimate the three-dimensional (3D) preoperative flap volume and to compare it with the real intraoperative flap weights in order to (1) evaluate the accuracy of CTA-based 3D flap volume prediction, and (2) to analyze abdominal tissue estimation for required breast volume reconstruction., Methods: Preoperative CTA was performed in 54 patients undergoing unilateral breast reconstruction with a free, deep, inferior epigastric artery perforator flap. 3D flap volumes ([Formula: see text]) based on CTA data were calculated and compared with the actual intraoperative flap weight (g). In addition, a breast volume to flap volume ratio was calculated to analyze whether the estimated 3D abdominal flap volume would match that of the breast to be removed., Results: 40 CTA data sets (74.1 %) fulfilled the technical requirements for a reliable determination of flap volume. 3D CTA flap volume prediction showed no relevant differences to the actual flap weight (p = 0.44) and high correlations (r = 0.998, [Formula: see text]), allowing a prediction accuracy within 0.29 [Formula: see text] 3.0 % (range: from [Formula: see text]8.77 to 5.67 %) of the real flap weight. Significantly larger flap volumes were harvested compared with the actually required breast volumes ([Formula: see text]), leading to an average of 21 % of the remnant flap tissue potentially being discarded., Conclusions: CTA-based 3D flap volume prediction provides accurate preoperative guidelines concerning the needed amount of abdominal tissue that can be harvested to achieve acceptable symmetry.

Prediction of resection weight (RW) in reduction mammaplasty is helpful in achieving breast symmetry and in fulfilling the stringent reimbursement requirements of health insurance companies. Current breast volume estimations are largely based on surgeon's experience, which are partially unreliable and often cumbersome to obtain. Therefore, this study aims to develop a formula to predict RW based on 3D surface imaging. A total of 68 breasts were treated with bilateral T-scar, and 40 breasts were treated with bilateral or unilateral vertical-scar reduction mammaplasty. Linear distances and volume measurements were assessed 3-dimensionally preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Significant correlations between the RW and the calculated preoperative breast volume (ρ = 0.804) and the sternal notch to nipple distance (ρ = 0.839) were found in both techniques (P < .001). Regression equations with the RW were performed to derive prediction formulas. Surgeons may benefit from the formulas in terms of improvement in preoperative planning, dealing with insurance coverage questions, and optimizing patient consultation.

One major objective of all types of breast reduction procedures is to achieve a long-lasting, stable and aesthetically pleasing three-dimensional (3-D) breast shape, but current surgical outcome evaluation is limited. This study compares the extent of soft-tissue oedema and breast tissue migration related to 3-D breast morphology changes after inverted T-scar and vertical-scar breast reduction over 12 months. 3-D breast surface scans of patients undergoing inverted T-scar (n=52 breasts) and vertical-scar (n=44 breasts) reduction mammaplasty were obtained preoperatively and 2-3 days, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 12 months postoperatively. 3-D images were analysed at each time point comparing distances, 3-D breast contour deviations (%), breast surface (cm2) and volume (cc) measurements including volumetric distribution between the upper portion (UP) and the lower portion (LP) of the breast (%). Total postoperative breast volume decreased by 11.7% (T-scar) and by 7.8% (vertical-scar) during the first 3 months (both p<0.001) without relevant changes in the following months, indicating that soft-tissue oedema is resolved after 3 months. The T-scar (vertical-scar) group showed a preoperative UP to LP volumetric distribution of 43:57% (45:55%) versus 86:14% (91:9%) immediately after surgery. Breast tissue significantly redistributes (both p=0.001) from the UP to the LP during the first postoperative year by 16.5% (T-scar) and 21% (vertical-scar), resulting in a final UP to LP ratio of 70:30% for both techniques, without further breast contour deviations (both p>0.05) after 6 months (T-scar) and 9 months (vertical-scar). Breast morphological changes after reduction mammaplasty are completed after a period of 3-6 months in the T-scar group and 6-9 months in the vertical-scar group., (Copyright © 2013 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Three-dimensional (3-D) surface imaging has gained clinical acceptance, especially in the field of cranio-maxillo-facial and plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery. Six scanners based on different scanning principles (Minolta Vivid 910®, Polhemus FastSCAN™, GFM PRIMOS®, GFM TopoCAM®, Steinbichler Comet® Vario Zoom 250, 3dMD DSP 400®) were used to measure five sheep skulls of different sizes. In three areas with varying anatomical complexity (areas, 1 = high; 2 = moderate; 3 = low), 56 distances between 20 landmarks are defined on each skull. Manual measurement (MM), coordinate machine measurements (CMM) and computer tomography (CT) measurements were used to define a reference method for further precision and accuracy evaluation of different 3-D scanning systems. MM showed high correlation to CMM and CT measurements (both r = 0.987; p < 0.001) and served as the reference method. TopoCAM®, Comet® and Vivid 910® showed highest measurement precision over all areas of complexity; Vivid 910®, the Comet® and the DSP 400® demonstrated highest accuracy over all areas with Vivid 910® being most accurate in areas 1 and 3, and the DSP 400® most accurate in area 2. In accordance to the measured distance length, most 3-D devices present higher measurement precision and accuracy for large distances and lower degrees of precision and accuracy for short distances. In general, higher degrees of complexity are associated with lower 3-D assessment accuracy, suggesting that for optimal results, different types of scanners should be applied to specific clinical applications and medical problems according to their special construction designs and characteristics.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the intraoperative findings, postoperative complications, donor site morbidity and patients' Quality of Life in order to evaluate the usefulness of the free osteofasciocutaneous fibula flap in the reconstruction or construction of a mandibula, neophallus, lower leg or forearm., Materials and Methods: 104 patients were treated with free osteofasciocutaneous fibula flaps in our clinic. 23 for mandible reconstruction, 66 for neophallus reconstruction, 9 for lower leg reconstruction and 6 for forearm reconstruction. These patients were asked to answer a questionnaire and to be present for a clinical and a radiological examination in our department. In addition, their previous records were evaluated retrospectively., Results: The dimension of the surface of the skin island was 178.6 cm(2) (72-352 cm(2)) in average and the average length of the fibular bony part was 15.4 cm (10-23 cm). The most frequent and severe complication was skin island edge necrosis (n=7); no total flap necrosis was found. Donor-site morbidity was low, since no joint instability could be reported. Quality of Life was improved according to the standardised FLZ(M) questionnaire., Conclusion: Advantages of free osteofasciocutaneous fibula flaps were the wide cortical bone and the relative constant anatomy, the long pedicle, flat, uniform and sufficient large and pliable skin island, as well as the good blood circulation also by massive modelling of the skin and bone part. The skin island could be harvested large enough in order to reconstruct extended soft-tissue defects in the face and the extremities as well as to construct neophallus in its normal size without any restrictions. The lower leg donor-site morbidity was moderate and can be readily covered with a sock in patients' everyday life common activities. Finally, in our hands, the utilisation of the free osteofasciocutaneous fibula flap is the best possible therapy for these difficult composite reconstructions., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To conduct objective quantitative and qualitative evaluations of the long-term result in endoscopic forehead-lift., Methods: Medical charts of 143 patients who underwent endoscopic forehead-lift between 1994 and 2007 were reviewed for postoperative complications and the duration of complaints. Patients received a questionnaire to evaluate satisfaction and social restriction after surgery. Objective photographic preoperative and postoperative eyebrow-to-eye distances in a relaxed position and during muscle contractions were obtained., Results: A total of 98 patients (69% response; mean follow-up, 38 months) showed high satisfaction (score, 7.1 of 10). In a relaxed position, mean midpupil-to-eyebrow elevation was 5.6 mm after surgery, with significant eyebrow symmetry between the left and right eyes (P < .05), and showed significant influence of time (P = .005) on persisting eyebrow elevation, with a decrease of almost 1 mm per year. Measurements during muscle contraction showed no relevant differences., Conclusion: Endoscopic forehead-lift enables long-lasting results with highly satisfied patients.

Background: Currently, postoperative outcome analysis in breast augmentation is essentially subjective, and objective evaluation of treatment efficacy is lacking. This study evaluates the influence of anatomic and round implant parameters on breast contour changes after subpectoral breast augmentation using three-dimensional (3D) surface imaging., Methods: 3D surface breast scans of 17 patients (34 breasts) undergoing subpectoral breast augmentation with round implants and of ten patients (20 breasts) receiving anatomic implants via an axillary approach under endoscopic assistance or a submammary fold incision were obtained before and 6 months postoperatively. 3D linear distance, breast volume, and surface measurement were correlated with the implanted round and anatomic implant parameters, and the resulting breast shape changes were evaluated., Results: Total breast volume changed in correlation with the implant size (2.4% difference; r=0.894; p<0.001). Implant volume and type influence the nipple-to-inframammary fold distance (N-IMF). Every inserted 100 ml implant volume enlarges the N-IMF distance by 0.8 cm (anatomic>round; p=0.01). Postoperatively, the IMF dropped by an average of 1.3 cm for round implants and by 1.1 cm for anatomic implants, without relevant differences between the applied surgical incision and the selected implants (p>0.05). Breast projection increased significantly more with anatomic implants (2.4 cm) than with round implants (1.7 cm) (p=0.01). The breast projection increase was 22% less than expected for round implants and 25% less than expected for anatomic implants based on the manufacturer implant parameters (p<0.01), without essential differences regarding the surgical incision., Conclusions: 3D breast shape changes induced by round and anatomic implants after subpectoral augmentation mammaplasty are objectively documented including breast projection, volume, and N-IMF distance changes. 3D surface imaging may have a potential clinical contribution to objective surgical outcome research., Level of Evidence Iii: 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 at www.springer.com/00266.

Background: In a previous prospective study, the authors evaluated the quality of life in patients undergoing aesthetic surgery. In this survey, the authors split up the operative indication and analyzed quality of life, self-esteem, and emotional stability after abdominoplasty alone., Methods: Sixty-three patients participated in the study. The testing instrument consisted of a self-developed questionnaire to collect demographic and socioeconomic data and a postoperative complication questionnaire developed especially for abdominoplasties. In addition, a standardized self-assessment test on satisfaction and quality of life (Questions on Life Satisfaction), the Rosenberg Self -Esteem Questionnaire, and the Freiburg Personality Inventory were used., Results: Significantly increasing values in some items of the standardized self-assessment test on satisfaction and quality of life were found: sum scores of the General Life Satisfaction showed a significant improvement (p = 0.004) and the scores of the items housing/living conditions (p = 0.000) and family life/children (p = 0.000). Within the Satisfaction with Health module, a significant improvement in the items mobility (p = 0.02) and independence from assistance (p = 0.01) was found. Values in the module Satisfaction with Appearance (Body Image) increased regarding satisfaction with the abdomen (p = 0.001). Over 84 percent were very satisfied with the aesthetic result, 93.4 percent would undergo the same treatment again, and 88.9 percent would further recommend the operation. Data revealed that participants' self-esteem was very high and their emotional stability was very well balanced., Conclusions: This study demonstrates that abdominoplasty increases most aspects of quality of life, particularly family life, living conditions, mobility, and independency from assistance. Also, patient self-esteem and emotional stability ratings are very high postoperatively.

This study develops an objective breast symmetry evaluation using 3-D surface imaging (Konica-Minolta V910(®) scanner) by superimposing the mirrored left breast over the right and objectively determining the mean 3-D contour difference between the 2 breast surfaces. 3 observers analyzed the evaluation protocol precision using 2 dummy models (n = 60), 10 test subjects (n = 300), clinically tested it on 30 patients (n = 900) and compared it to established 2-D measurements on 23 breast reconstructive patients using the BCCT.core software (n = 690). Mean 3-D evaluation precision, expressed as the coefficient of variation (VC), was 3.54 ± 0.18 for all human subjects without significant intra- and inter-observer differences (p > 0.05). The 3-D breast symmetry evaluation is observer independent, significantly more precise (p < 0.001) than the BCCT.core software (VC = 6.92 ± 0.88) and may play a part in an objective surgical outcome analysis after incorporation into clinical practice., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

In this report we highlight the use of PET scan in plastic and reconstructive surgery. PET scanning is a very important tool in plastic surgery oncology (melanoma, soft-tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas, head and neck cancer, peripheral nerve sheath tumors of the extremities and breast cancer after breast esthetic surgery), as diagnosis, staging, treatment planning and follow-up of cancer patients is based on imaging. PET scanning seems also to be useful as a flap monitoring system as well as an infection's imaging tool, for example in the management of diabetic foot ulcer. PET also contributes to the understanding of pathophysiology of keloids which remain a therapeutic challenge.

This study explores the quality of life in 118 patients following severe and major hand injury with a Hand Injury Severity Score >50. Each patient answered five different validated outcome measures (DASH (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), FLZ(M) ('Fragen zur Lebenszufriedenheit'), HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score), BDDE-SR (Body Dysmorphic Disorder Examination-Self Report) and FBeK ('Fragebogen zur Beurteilung des eigenen Körpers'), which were incorporated into a single questionnaire. Each of these questionnaires covered one or more of the established quality-of-life domains. Patients with pain and pressure sensations were significantly less satisfied in life, showed lower levels of health satisfaction, had higher levels of anxiety and depression and showed higher body dysmorphic disorder levels (all p < 0.001). General life satisfaction in this hand-injury study group is highly dependent on the patients` satisfaction with their health and appearance as well as self-confidence. The quality-of-life outcomes improve with time, and despite evidence of continued impairment in the injured hand, the majority of patients had a normal quality of life., (Copyright © 2011 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Conventional nerve conduits lack cellular and extracellular guidance structures critical for bridging larger defects. In this study, an exogenous matrix for axonal regeneration was provided by pretreated muscle tissue. In 24 rats, 14-mm sciatic nerve segments were resected and surgically reconstructed using one of the following methods: autograft (AG); bovine type I collagen conduit; (MDM) collagen tube filled with modified denatured autologous muscle tissue. For 8 weeks, functional regeneration was evaluated by footprint and video gait analysis. Evaluation was complemented by electrophysiology, as well as qualitative and quantitative structural assessment of nerves and target muscles. Group AG was superior both structurally and functionally, showing higher axon counts, a more normal gait pattern, and less severe muscle atrophy. Fiber quality (fiber size and myelin thickness) was highest in group MDM, possibly related to the myelin-producing effect of muscular laminin. However, axon count was lowest in this group, and ultrastructural analysis of the denatured muscle tissue showed areas of incomplete denaturation that had acted as a mechanical barrier for regenerating axons. In light of these results, the often advocated use of muscular exogenous matrix for peripheral nerve reconstruction is reviewed in the literature, and its clinical application is critically discussed. In conclusion, combined muscle tubes may have a positive influence on nerve fiber maturation. However, muscle pretreatment is not without risks, and denaturation processes need to be further refined., (Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: Changes in breast-morphology occur after all types of breast surgery, but a systematic and objective surgical result assessment is currently lacking. Three-dimensional (3-D) surface imaging offers the ability to quantitatively evaluate breast contour, shape, surface and volume changes after surgery. This study evaluates 3-D breast contour and volume changes after breast augmentation over time., Methods: 3-D surface imaging of 14 subpectoral breast-augmentation patients (n = 28 breasts) were accomplished over six time periods (preoperative (OP), post-OP 1: 2-3 days; post-OP 2: 1 week; post-OP 3: 1 month; post-OP 4: 3 months; and post-OP 5: 6 months after surgery) and linear-distance measurement, breast volume and surface changes were analysed. 3-D breast-contour- and volume variations are expressed in percentage changes over time., Results: All breast measurements changed significantly between pre-OP and post-OP 1 (Friedmann test, p = 0.001-0.025). First significant postoperative changes over time compared with post-OP 1 for breast volume, surface, sternal notch to nipple and nipple to inframammary-fold-distance measurements are quantifiable after 1 month (post hoc Wilcoxon test, p = 0.001 for all) with further relevant breast volume (post hoc Wilcoxon test, p = 0.041) and surface changes (post hoc Wilcoxon test, p = 0.037) between months 1 and 3 after surgery. The inframammary fold dropped by 1.4 cm after 6 months and final breast volume ± 0.5% is reached between months 1 and 3 after surgery. Valuable reductions in breast contour and volume by nearly 85% are also reached after 1 month (Wilcoxon test, p = 0.001) and changed to 98% after 3 months and 100% after 6 months., Conclusions: Breast morphological changes following subpectoral breast augmentation are completed after 3 months. 3-D surface imaging may play a part in comparing different breast-augmentation techniques., (Copyright © 2011 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: In the last decades, several surgical approaches have been used to improve the appearance and quality of life of female Poland syndrome patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the women's quality of life and long-term outcome after breast reconstruction., Methods: Forty-nine women with Poland syndrome who were treated surgically between 1974 and 2007 received standardized questionnaires to evaluate their quality of life and satisfaction after surgical treatment., Results: Patient response was 65%, with 32 completed questionnaires by 16 women who had pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous (LDM) flaps, 12 with tissue expander or silicone implants, and 4 who had free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flaps. Of these patients, 16 were satisfied or highly satisfied with their postoperative appearance (13 with LDM, 2 with prosthesis, and 1 with TRAM), 16 patients would recommend the same surgery to others under similar circumstances (10 with LDM, 5 with prosthesis, and 1 with TRAM), and 18 patients would choose the same method again (14 with LDM, 3 with prosthesis, and 1 with TRAM)., Conclusions: In our study, we found that satisfactory outcome in breast reconstruction was achieved particularly when using the LDM flap, which remains the only method that recreates the anterior axillary fold. Future studies on reconstruction methods with autogenous tissue (e.g., TRAM, deep inferior epigastric perforator [DIEP] flap) are needed, however, to analyze quality of life and long-term outcome in patients with Poland syndrome.

Background/aim: Our aim was to evaluate the impact of in vitro cultured amnion cells, injected and/or seeded in different scaffolds, on in vivo fetal membrane repair., Materials and Methods: Amnion cells, isolated from allogeneic fetal membranes, were cultured on three different scaffolds for 14 to 21 days. In 33 mid-gestational rabbits, fetoscopic access sites were randomly allocated to four closure study groups: conventional collagen plug, as well as collagen plug, collagen foil, and fibrin glue as scaffolds for the cultured amnion cells. All membrane access sites were sealed with fibrin glue, and the myometrium closed with sutures. Fetal survival, amnion membrane integrity, and the presence of amniotic fluid were evaluated one week later., Results: Cultures showed good survival in the collagen scaffolds. The use of collagen plug as a scaffold for the in vitro cultured amnion cells improved the integrity of fetal membranes to 80%, better than that of any other study group., Conclusion: Despite the need for additional studies, the present data suggest that amnion cells can be a practical and important source of cells for the engineering of constructs for sealing of the fetal membrane.

Background: Herein, we present our latest protocol of following three operative stages for complete phalloplasty, applied in 37 female-to-male transsexuals: first, mastectomy, ovariohysterectomy, urethral lengthening, vaginectomy, colpocleisis, and neourethra prelamination; second, neophallus creation with free sensate osteofasciocutaneous fibula (n = 31) or radial forearm (n = 6) flap; and third, urethral connection, neoscrotum formation, and testicle prosthesis implantation., Results: Occasionally, wound healing disturbance and slight asymmetry of the breasts was observed, as well as colpocleisis revision needed. Partial flap necrosis took place in 6 patients, while 12 presented urethral stricture and 6 a fistula. Despite inferior neophallus sensibility, patients whose neophallus was created using fibula flap experienced better sexual intercourse. However, overall patients' satisfaction was superior., Conclusions: The applied protocol demonstrates the effectiveness of such a multistage and interdisciplinary approach for female-to-male transsexuals, offering an essential improvement of their quality of life, concerning their successful integration into the reassigned gender position in the society.

To date, the dominant blood supply to the head of the fibula and to the growth plate is known to be the anterior tibial artery. The peroneal artery had been used before, among other donor pedicles, for microvascular transfers of this epiphyseal region. This study presents the long-term results of this now obsolete pedicle and compares them to other reports in the literature. Follow-up was performed in 1996 and in 2003 with six patients who underwent wrist reconstruction in the 1980s. Procedures were performed following one resection of a malignant synovialoma, two traumatic hand amputations, and three radial aplasias. Evaluation was performed with functional and radiographic examinations. Three cases that were examined in 2003 are presented in detail. The study shows that if growth plates are closed at the time of procedure or the transplanted fibula is long enough to ensure anastomotic flow between metaphyseal and epiphyseal vessels, results are good. If any of these two conditions is not fulfilled, vascular supply to the epiphysis is insufficient. Long bone deviation or bone necrosis will result. These results confirm clinically current knowledge about the epiphyseal and metaphyseal blood supply to the fibula.

The final outcome of severe hand injuries is not solely determined by the residual functional impairment, but is also a function of non-functional criteria, including the sequelae of the accompanying psychological trauma. This paper reviews the literature with respect to the psychological impact of severe hand injuries, including the special impact of amputations, adaptation processes, adaptation stages, prognostic criteria and aesthetic issues influencing the final individual outcome, including present recommendations for promoting a positive outcome. Motivated and psychologically stable people are reported to do well irrespective of the severity of a hand injury. In patients who find it difficult to cope mentally, successful treatment strategies have been proposed. Their implementation is in a constant state of evolution and includes not only improved surgical techniques and advanced pharmacological pain management but also early psychotherapeutic input and involvement of patients in decision making for treatment.

Objective: To investigate the influence of several magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences on amniotic fluid temperature and intrauterine sound pressure., Material and Methods: Temperature and sound pressure measurements during MRI (1.5 T) in pregnant ewes were done. Linear levels and third octave band spectra were compared., Results: No significant changes in the temperature of amniotic fluid were observed. Intrauterine summation levels reached peak levels up to 103.0 dB(A) before starting the MRI sequence and levels up to 116.0 dB(A) during a real-time sequence. Evaluating the octave band spectra, peak levels did not exceed 100.0 dB(L)., Conclusions: Our delimited data revealed no harm for the fetus by an increase in amniotic fluid temperature or hazards for the fetal auditory system by different MRI sequences., (Copyright 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.)