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Microsurgical methods, such as free vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) and lymphatico-venous anastomosis (LVA), have been increasingly used in the last two decades to treat lymphedema patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of VLNT in the management of upper and lower limb secondary lymphedema in a long-term follow-up period. During a period of 8 years, 782 patients were examined in our lymphedema clinic with primary or secondary upper or lower limb lymphedema. From a total of 137 surgically managed patients, 92 underwent a VLNT. Their mean age was 48.3 years and mean BMI 28.4. The values concerning the volume of the affected limbs, the infection rates, the feeling of pain and heaviness and the overall function, were measured at the induction of patients in the study and at the last follow-up appointment. Follow-up ranged from 28 to 120 months. Postoperative lymphoscintigraphy of the operated patients showed positive findings in 78,9% of our cases. The mean volume of the affected limb was decreased by 55.2% at the last follow-up examination, the infection episodes were significantly reduced, and all patients reported significant reduction of pain and feeling of heaviness of the affected extremity with an overall functional improvement. The vascularized lymph node transfer represents an effective microsurgical procedure in volume reduction, decrease of infections, and functional improvement of secondary upper and lower limb lymphedema patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late presentation of extravasation injuries from chemotherapeutic agents is not uncommon. Twenty-four patients with extravasation injuries presented with upper limb extravasation but without any skin necrosis between the second and the fourteenth day following injury day. We flushed out the infiltrated area with 300—500 ml of normal saline through multiple stab incisions. All 24 patients responded well to the procedure and no further complications occurred. The average time for the complete healing of the wounds was 15 days. All the patients were able to continue their chemotherapy treatment without delay. Patients were followed up for a mean period of 13 months. They all recovered with no functional deficit and only mild scarring. Early recognition and immediate treatment of extravasation injuries are of paramount importance. In cases with no evidence of skin necrosis, a delayed wash-out procedure appears to be very effective in removing the extravasated drug and minimizing further tissue damage. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Hand injuries typically present with localized symptoms. However, we report an unusual case of a 32-year-old female who experienced a transient complete loss of sensation and motor function in her entire left nondominant hand after sustaining a minor 1 cm stab wound between the third and fourth metacarpals. Wound exploration under local anesthesia revealed no tendon, vascular, neural, or bony injury. Remarkably, she spontaneously regained full hand sensation and function within 120 minutes of the injury. Extensive neurological evaluation, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies (NCS), and somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs), ruled out organic pathology and supported a diagnosis of functional neurological disorder (FND), specifically functional movement disorder (FMD). Close collaboration between hand surgeons, neurologists, and occupational therapists is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate multidisciplinary management. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying FND and optimize evidence-based treatment for FND in the context of hand trauma. The increased awareness of this condition across specialties involved in hand injury management is crucial to facilitate timely diagnosis and avoid unnecessary interventions., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Kyriazidis et al.)

Background: Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography, a key diagnostic tool for lymphedema, is influenced by the dilution process of ICG dye, impacting patient experience. Methods and Results: In our study, we assessed three different ICG diluents-water for injection (WFI), normal saline (NS), and Dextrose ® plus human albumin-in five healthy volunteer individuals undergoing superficial lymphography of the upper limb over 3 weeks. Results indicated that NS, as a diluent for ICG, caused the least discomfort during injection, in contrast to WFI, which led to the highest levels of discomfort. Transport time of ICG from the injection site to the axillary lymph nodes was notably shorter in intradermal injections than in subdermal injections. Conclusion: Our findings advocate for using NS as the optimal and cost-effective diluent for ICG, enhancing patient experience.

Background:  The aim of our study was to evaluate a new propeller vascularized lymphatic tissue flap (pVLNT) combined with aligned nanofibrillar collagen scaffolds (CS) (BioBridge) in reducing lymphedema in the rat lymphedema model., Methods:  Unilateral left hindlimb lymphedema was created in 15 female Sprague-Dawley rats following inguinal and popliteal lymph nodes (LN) resection and radiation. An inguinal pVLNT was elevated from the contralateral groin and transferred through a skin tunnel to the affected groin. Four collagen threads were attached to the flap and inserted in the hindlimb at the subcutaneous level in a fan shape. The three study groups consisted of group A (control), group B (pVLNT), and group C (pVLNT + CS). Volumetric analysis of both hindlimbs was performed using micro-computed tomography imaging before the surgery (at initial time point) and then at 1 and 4 months, postoperatively, and the relative volume difference (excess volume) was measured for each animal. Lymphatic drainage was assessed by indocyanine green (ICG) fluoroscopy for number and morphology of new collectors and the time required for ICG to move from injection point to the midline., Results:  Four months after the induction of lymphedema, an increased relative volume difference remained in group A (5.32 ± 4.74%), while there was a significant relative volume reduction in group B (-13.39 ± 8.55%) and an even greater reduction in group C (-14.56 ± 5.04%). ICG fluoroscopy proved the functional restoration of lymphatic vessels and viability of pVLNT in both B and C groups. Notably, only group C demonstrated statistically significant improvements in lymphatic pattern/morphology and in the number of lymphatic collectors as compared with the control group A., Conclusion:  The pedicle lymphatic tissue flap combined with SC is an effective procedure for the treatment of lymphedema in rats. It can be easily translated into treatment of humans' lower and upper limb lymphedema and further clinical studies are warranted., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

The combined use of a deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap coupled with vascularized inguinal lymph nodes (VILNs) for simultaneous breast and lymphedema reconstruction has already been well established, and promising results have been reported. However, a standardized approach for the planning and shaping of this combined flap is still lacking. We aimed to propose a comprehensive algorithmic approach for delayed unilateral breast and lymphedema reconstruction using a predesigned abdominal flap associated with inguinal lymph node transfer. We present in detail the preoperative measurements and surgical technique of the chimeric flap, which combines a predesigned DIEP template and a preselected inguinal lymph node flap, based on the preoperative computed tomography angiography and SPEC-CT findings, respectively; four different flap types are described according to the location of the pedicles of the two flap components. Our results of a series of 34 consecutive female patients with unilateral mastectomy and arm lymphedema, who underwent this combined predesigned reconstructive procedure, are retrospectively analyzed and reported. We recorded a high survival rate of the chimeric flaps in our series, with only one case of partial ischemic loss of a DIEP skin island. In the majority of our patients, the pedicles of the combined flaps were located in opposite positions. After a mean 35-month follow-up, we recorded a 47% mean volume difference reduction of the lymphedematous compared to the unaffected arm; no donor-site lymphedema was documented. Self-evaluation questionnaires showed high patient satisfaction rates regarding breast reconstruction. This algorithmic approach provides standardized guidance for accurate design and transfer of the DIEP-VILN chimeric flap while achieving highly satisfactory outcomes for both breast and lymphedema reconstruction., Competing Interests: None., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Competing Interests: None declared.

Because lipofilling is often associated with various reconstructive procedures, especially breast reconstructions, improving fat-graft retention remains a major concern for plastic surgeons. We conducted an experimental protocol in a rat model simulating an autologous breast reconstruction method using the fat-augmented latissimus dorsi myocutaneous (LDM) flap. This study aimed to compare the survival rates of autologous adipocytes when injected subcutaneously and intramuscularly and to evaluate the role of recipient host tissue, volume of the injected fat, and postoperative radiation on fat-graft retention. Thirty rats were divided into five groups (A, B, C, D, and E), of six rats each. All animals underwent a pedicled LDM flap transfer to the anterior thoracic wall, and different volumes of autologous fat were injected into three recipient areas, namely, the pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi muscles and the subcutaneous tissue of the flap's skin island, as follows: 1 mL of fat was injected in total in group A, 2 mL in groups B and D, and 5 mL in group C. Group D animals received postoperative radiation (24 Gy), whereas group E animals (controls) did not undergo any fat grafting procedure. Eight weeks after surgery, adipocyte survival was assessed in all groups using histological and immunochemistry techniques. The results showed that the pectoralis major muscle was the substrate with the highest adipocyte survival rates, which were proportional to the amount of fat injected, followed by the latissimus dorsi muscle and the subcutaneous tissue. Increased volumes of transplanted fat into the subcutaneous tissue did not correspond to increased adipocyte survival. Irradiation of host tissues resulted in a statistically significant decrease in surviving adipocytes in all three recipient sites (p<0.001). Our study strongly suggests that muscle ensures optimal fat-graft retention, whereas postoperative radiation negatively affects adipocyte survival following fat transplantation., Competing Interests: None., (© 2023 The Author(s).)

Secondary lymphedema is a common condition among cancer survivors, and treatment strategies to prevent or treat lymphedema are in high demand. The development of novel strategies to diagnose or treat lymphedema would benefit from a robust experimental animal model of secondary lymphedema. The purpose of this methods paper is to describe and summarize our experience in developing and characterizing a rat hindlimb model of lymphedema. Here we describe a protocol to induce secondary lymphedema that takes advantage of micro computed tomography imaging for limb volume measurements and visualization of lymph drainage with near infrared imaging. To demonstrate the utility of this preclinical model for studying the therapeutic benefit of novel devices, we apply this animal model to test the efficacy of a biomaterials-based implantable medical device., Competing Interests: TZ, PT and MP are employees of Fibralign Corporation that manufactures the BioBridge medical device. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest, (© 2023 Nguyen, Dionysiou, Zaitseva, Zhou, Sue, Deptula, Moroz, Tabada, Rockson, Paukshto, Cheng and Huang.)

Background: Lymphedema is a debilitating and progressive clinical entity characterized by abnormal accumulation of lymph and fluid in the extracellular space. Most of the cases in western population are related to cancer treatment. Research on cancer-related lymphedema (CRL) is mounting for potential risk factors associated to disease, treatment, or patient. However, only a few cancer survivors with the same risk factors will develop lymphedema, giving rise to the hypothesis that inherited genetic susceptibility may play a role in CRL pathophysiology. This systematic review aimed to identify, critically appraise, and summarize the results of individual studies that have examined the genetic predisposition to CRL. Methods and Results: A comprehensive literature search in MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Scopus was conducted from inception to February 2021. Screening of available studies and quality of the included studies were carried out by two reviewers independently. Eight studies fulfilled eligibility criteria, involving 573 women with breast-cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) among 1,481 participants. Associations between the development of CRL and genetic factors were observed for variations in 23 genes in patients with BCRL. Conclusions: The present systematic review is the first examining specifically the genetic predisposition in CRL. Statistically significant genetic variations were found in 23 genes in patients with BCRL. These preliminary findings highlight the importance of genetic susceptibility in the development of CRL, altering the traditional perception of its iatrogenic etiology. Additional well-designed research, aiming toward the confirmation of previously performed genetic analyses and functional assessment of the genetic variations, is required.

Background: In this experimental study, the authors investigated whether fat placement in the pocket during implant insertion affects capsule formation., Methods: Twenty albino Wistar rats, 400 g each, were used. The rats were divided into two groups, A and B, of 10 rats each. At the dorsum of each rat, four pockets (2 × 2 cm each) were dissected, two left and two right of the midline. In each pocket, a 1 × 1 × 1.5-cm silicone implant was inserted. In the two left pockets, only silicone implants were placed (control). In the two right pockets, 0.4 ml of fat was injected around the implant. Animals in group A were killed 2 months postoperatively, and those in group B were killed 4 months postoperatively. The implants were dissected with the capsule and sent for histopathologic examination., Results: The data of the fat transfer group was compared with control in groups A and B. Capsule thickness, neovascularization, myofibroblast layer thickness, and mast cell population demonstrated no statistically significant difference in either group A (p = 0.385, p = 0.862, p = 0.874, and p = 0.210, respectively) or group B (p = 0.338, p = 1.000, p = 0.288, and p = 0.344, respectively). Inflammation was statistically significantly less (p = 0.07) at 4 months (group B) in the fat transfer group compared to the control group. Likewise, cellularity was statistically significantly less (p = 0.019) at 4 months for the fat transfer group compared with the control group., Conclusion: Fat injection in the pocket during implant placement may reduce inflammation and cellularity of capsules and predispose to faster capsule maturation., Clinical Relevance Statement: Fat transfer around implants may positively affect implant-based breast reconstruction and/or breast augmentation., (Copyright © 2022 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

Background: We tested our hypothesis that implantation of aligned nanofibrillar collagen scaffolds (BioBridge™) can both prevent and reduce established lymphedema in the rat lymphedema model. Our authors report clinical cases that demonstrate new lymphatic formation guided by BioBridge™ as seen by near-infrared (NIR) fluoroscopy and magnetic resonance (MR) lymphography., Methods: A rat lymphedema model was utilized. A prevention group received implantation of BioBridge™ immediately after lymphadenectomy. A lymphedema group received implantation of BioBridge™ with autologous adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC; treatment group) or remained untreated (control group). All subjects were observed for 4 months after lymphadenectomy. The hindlimb change was evaluated using computed tomography-based volumetric analysis. Lymphagiogenesis was assessed by indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography., Results: Animals in the treatment group showed a reduction in affected limb volume. Animals in the prevention group showed no increase in the affected limb volume. ICG fluoroscopy demonstrated lymph flow and formation of lymphatics toward healthy lymphatics., Conclusions: In the rat lymphedema model, implantation of BioBridge™ at the time of lymph node removal prevents the development of lymphedema. Treatment of established lymphedema with the BioBridge™ and ADSC reduces lymphedema. New lymphatic vessels are demonstrated by NIR fluoroscopy and MR lymphography. These findings have implications for the treatment of lymphedema in human subjects., (© 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: This retrospective study aimed to assess the impact of certain flap characteristics on long-term outcomes following microsurgical treatment in Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema (BCRL) patients., Methods: Sixty-four out of 65 BCRL patients, guided by the "Selected Lymph Node" ("SeLyN") technique, underwent Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer (VLNT) between 2012 and 2018. According to their surface size, flaps were divided into small (<25 cm 2 , n = 32) and large (>25 cm 2 , n = 32). Twelve large and six small flaps were combined with free abdominally based breast reconstruction procedures. Lymphedema stage, flap size, vascular pedicle and number of lymph nodes (LNs) were analyzed in correlation with long-term Volume Differential Reduction (VDR)., Results: At 36-month follow-up, no major complication was recorded in 64 cases; one flap failure was excluded from the study. Mean flap size was 27.4 cm 2 , mean LNs/flap 3.3 and mean VDR 55.7%. Small and large flaps had 2.8 vs. 3.8 LNs/flap ( p = 0.001), resulting in 49.6% vs. 61.8% VDR ( p = 0.032), respectively. Lymphedema stage and vascular pedicle (SIEA or SCIA/SCIP) had no significant impact on VDR., Conclusion: In our series, larger flaps included a higher number of functional LNs, directly associated with better outcomes as quantified by improved VDR.

Background:  The use of autologous tissues is considered the mainstay for delayed breast reconstruction. Aside the free abdominal flaps, which are most commonly used, the fat-augmented latissimus-dorsi (FALD) flap has been recently shown a reliable alternative option for pure autologous breast reconstruction. In this retrospective study, we aim to compare outcomes of autologous breast reconstructions using the extended FALD and deep inferior epigastric perforator flap (DIEP) flap, with an emphasis on patients' characteristics, demographic data, complications, and patients' satisfaction after a minimum 12-month follow-up., Methods:  Our series consists of 135 women who underwent a delayed postmastectomy unilateral autologous breast reconstruction from 2011 to 2017: 36 patients (Group A) had an extended FALD flap and 99 (Group B) a free DIEP flap performed by the same surgeons. Demographic data, breast volume, medical history, smoking, complications, and patients' satisfaction were recorded and analyzed. Student's t -test for independent variables, Mann-Whitney U -test, and Chi-squared test were used to compare the reported variables., Results:  Patients' age, body mass index (BMI), and pregnancy history were statistically different between groups ( p  < 0.001, p  = 0.004, p  < 0.001, respectively); younger age (35.1 vs. 41.2 years), lower BMI (25.6 vs. 28.4), and fewer pregnancies were recorded in Group A. Breast volume was also found significantly smaller in Group A patients ( p  = 0.009). Past medical history using the ASA physical status classification score, previous radiation therapy, history of smoking, and incidence of overall complications were similar in both groups. Overall satisfaction scores were found slightly higher, but not statistically significant, in the free-flap group ( p  = 0.442)., Conclusion:  The use of the FALD flap may provide comparable outcome to the DIEP flap in delayed breast reconstruction in terms of complications and patients' satisfaction; it should be considered a good reconstructive option for young and thin nulliparous patients, with small to medium size opposite breast., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Background: Soft tissue defects to the dorsum of fingers are quite demanding for the reconstructive surgeon especially in the cases that bone and extensor tendons are exposed. The purpose of our study was to describe a new adipofascial island flap by a single dorsal digital perforator (dorsal adipofascial digital artery perforator, DADAP)., Materials: Methods: In 8 patients (7 male, 1 female), 12 soft tissue defects to the dorsum of the fingers (3 index, 6 middle, 2 ring, 1 little finger), ranging from 1 × 2 cm to 2 × 4 cm, were reconstructed using the DADAP flap., Results: The flaps sizes ranged from 2.5 × 1.5 cm to 8 × 3 cm. The defects were covered in 9 cases by a propeller-rotation type flap and in 3 by a turn-over flap. In 4 cases a tendon graft was used to cover the tendon defect and in 3 cases an open joint was reconstructed. In all cases a splint thickness skin graft (SSG) covered the flaps. Mean follow-up was 18 months. One patient developed distal tip flap necrosis and was treated conservatively. Delayed wound healing with partial SSG failure due to haematoma was observed in 3 fingers, but the underlying flap was viable and complete healing was achieved by secondary intention., Conclusions: The use of DADAP flap is a fast, safe and reliable solution to cover the defects of the dorsum of fingers and can be performed under local anaesthesia as a day surgery., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Introduction Reverse neurocutaneous and propeller perforator flaps are both used to reconstruct diabetic distal lower limb defects. Our study aims to compare outcomes between these two groups of flaps with an emphasis on indications and complication rates. Method A retrospective analysis was conducted, reviewing data from 54 diabetic patients who underwent reconstruction of acute or chronic wounds of the foot and ankle between 2005-2018. Thirty-four patients (Group A) had a reverse neurocutaneous flap (NCF): nineteen sural and fifteen lateral supramalleolar flaps. Twenty patients (Group B) had a propeller flap (PF) based on peroneal (n = 13) or posterior tibial artery perforators (n = 7). All patients had a preoperative Doppler examination to identify the nutrient artery of the flap. In both groups, we recorded patients' demographics, characteristics of the defect, postoperative complications and time to heal. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 59 months. Student's t-test and chi-squared test were used for statistical analysis. Results Mean patients' age was 59.1 and 50.8 years for Group A and B, respectively. Defects were located at the Achilles zone (n = 16), posterior heel (n = 14), foot dorsum (n = 9), lateral and medial malleolar areas (n = 8), anterior ankle (n = 5) and lateral foot (n = 2). Mean size of the defect was 42.8 cm 2 in Group A and 23 cm 2 in Group B. Uneventful healing was recorded in 20/34 neurocutaneous flaps and in 12/20 propeller flaps; complications included two complete flap losses (one NCF, one PF), seventeen distal flap necroses (10 NCFs, 7 PFs), fifteen delayed wound healing events over the donor or recipient site (12 NCFs, 3 PFs). Secondary surgeries were required in 15 NCF and 8 PF patients. Mean healing time was 48.1 and 40.7 days for Group A and B, respectively. All patients, except one NCF case, which resulted in leg amputation, returned to previous levels of ambulation. Conclusion Reverse neurocutaneous and propeller flaps may provide stable reconstruction of diabetic lower limb defects; neurocutaneous flaps are specially indicated for larger and more distally located defects, although they might be associated with longer healing time and additional revision surgeries. Propeller flaps were more frequently used in younger patients for smaller and more proximally located defects., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: Chemical modification of mRNA (mmRNA) substantially improves their stability and translational efficiency within cells. Nanofibrillar collagen scaffolds were previously shown to enable the spatially localized delivery and temporally controlled release of mmRNA encoding HGF both in vitro and in vivo . Materials & methods: Herein we developed an improved slow-releasing HGF mmRNA scaffold and tested its therapeutic efficacy in a porcine model of peripheral arterial disease. Results & conclusion: The HGF mmRNA was released from scaffolds in a temporally controlled fashion in vitro with preserved transfection activity. The mmRNA scaffolds improved vascular regeneration when sutured to the ligated porcine femoral artery. These studies validate the therapeutic potential of HGF mmRNA delivery from nanofibrillar scaffolds for treatment of peripheral arterial disease.

Background: A new technique named "Selected Lymph Node" ("SeLyN") was evaluated, aiming to identify the most functional groin lymph nodes (LNs) for an effective LN transplantation., Methods: Bilateral lower-limb SPECT-CT was performed in the upper-limb lymphedema patients, to select the most radioactive inguinal LN. Recorded data included demographics, stage, etiology of lymphedema, flap consistency in accordance to preoperative findings, flap size, number of LN, and harvesting time. Infection episodes per year and volume changes of the upper limbs were documented. Donor-site complications were recorded and lower-limb evaluation was performed through clinical examination, volume analysis, and lymphoscintigraphy., Results: A total of 41 patients underwent a "SeLyN" transfer technique. The mean flap size was 28.34 cm 2 containing a mean of 3.4 LNs. The mean time spent on flap harvest was 39 minutes. A mean 56.5% volume reduction (P < .001) and a mean 1.41 to 0.29 infection episodes per patient per year (P < .001) were recorded. Clinical evaluation and lymphography of the donor site advocated no major complications for a mean follow-up period of 42.5 months., Conclusions: "SeLyN" is a safe and effective technique in selecting the most suitable LNs, minimizing the donor-site morbidity, and decreasing the overall operating time., (© 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Abstracts Background: Among current surgical options used for treating breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), autologous lymph node transfer (ALNT) is shown to provide favorable results. However, postoperative donor-site lymphedema (DSL), following the lymphatic flap harvesting from the groin area, has already been reported. Our aim is to summarize the recent literature for evidence of DSL following an ALNT for BCRL., Methods and Results: A PubMed bibliographic search was performed for published studies evaluating donor-site complications following LNT in BCRL patients. We recorded demographic data of the patients, the type of flap used, the follow-up, the donor-site morbidity, and the diagnostic tests performed pre- and postoperatively. Statistical analysis was conducted to document any correlation between the incidence of DSL and the abovementioned recorded parameters. According to our results, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. From a total of 189 patients, three cases with DSL of the lower limb were reported (1.6%). No statistically significant correlations were found., Conclusion: ALNT has become increasingly popular and is considered an effective surgical option for treating BCRL of the upper limb. Although the incidence of postoperative DSL is low, insufficient data on patients' demographics, surgical details, and postoperative assessment do not allow extracting significant correlations. Meticulous technique of lymph node harvesting should be seriously considered to further minimize this infrequent but debilitating complication.

Secondary lymphedema is a common postcancer treatment complication, but the underlying pathological processes are poorly understood and no curative treatment exists. To investigate lymphedema pathomechanisms, a top-down approach was applied, using genomic data and validating the role of a single target. RNA sequencing of lymphedematous mouse skin indicated upregulation of many T cell-related networks, and indeed depletion of CD4 + cells attenuated lymphedema. The significant upregulation of Foxp3, a transcription factor specifically expressed by regulatory T cells (Tregs), along with other Treg-related genes, implied a potential role of Tregs in lymphedema. Indeed, increased infiltration of Tregs was identified in mouse lymphedematous skin and in human lymphedema specimens. To investigate the role of Tregs during disease progression, loss-of-function and gain-of-function studies were performed. Depletion of Tregs in transgenic mice with Tregs expressing the primate diphtheria toxin receptor and green fluorescent protein ( Foxp3 -DTR-GFP) mice led to exacerbated edema, concomitant with increased infiltration of immune cells and a mixed T H 1/T H 2 cytokine profile. Conversely, expansion of Tregs using IL-2/anti-IL-2 mAb complexes significantly reduced lymphedema development. Therapeutic application of adoptively transferred Tregs upon lymphedema establishment reversed all of the major hallmarks of lymphedema, including edema, inflammation, and fibrosis, and also promoted lymphatic drainage function. Collectively, our results reveal that Treg application constitutes a potential new curative treatment modality for lymphedema.

Microsurgical techniques are increasingly used for treating severe lymphoedema cases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of free vascularized lymph node transfer (LNT) in stage II breast cancer-related lymphoedema patients in comparison with non-surgical management. During the last 3 years, 83 female patients were examined at our lymphoedema clinic. Finally, 36 cases were included in this study and randomly divided in two groups: group A patients (n = 18, mean age 47 years) underwent microsurgical LNT; followed by 6 months of physiotherapy and compression, while group B patients (n = 18, mean age 49 years) were managed by physiotherapy and compression alone for 6 months. Patients of both groups removed their elastic garments after 6 months and were re-examined 1 year later. All the 36 patients had detailed evaluation of the affected extremity including limb volume measurement, infection episodes and scale scoring of pain, feeling of heaviness and functional status both at baseline and 18 month. Limb volume reduction was observed in both groups; mean reduction was greater in group A (57 %) than in group B (18 %). Infection episodes in group A were significantly reduced compared to those in group B patients. All group A patients reported painless and feeling of heaviness-free extremities with overall functional improvement, while the corresponding changes in group B patients were no more than marginal. Moreover, the LNT procedure was estimated as cost effective compared to conservative treatment alone. LNT represents an effective therapeutic approach for stage II lymphoedema patients; it significantly reduces limb volume, decreases recurrent infections and improves the overall function.

Introduction: Extravasation injuries are a common and challenging problem in hospitalized newborns. Accidental infusion leakage into the surrounding tissues in immature infants may frequently result in skin necrosis, with significant risk of functional and cosmetic impairment., Material and Methods: In the present study we reviewed 34 cases of severe extravasation injuries occurring in 1,409 neonates hospitalized in a single neonatal unit over 24 months (incidence 2.4%). Total parenteral nutrition solutions were involved in most cases. All patients were treated within 30 minutes after the injury was recorded using a flush-out technique with normal saline irrigation and occlusive paraffin dressings of the infiltrated area., Results: The majority of injuries affected preterm, low-birthweight infants (mean gestation 32 wks + 6 days, mean birth weight 1,885 g), with a mean age at the time of injury of 11.6 days and a mean weight of 2,045 g. Neither gestational age (p = 0.87) or birthweight significantly affected (p = 0.07) the incidence of extravasation injuries, although the incidence of skin necrosis had a significant correlation with gestational age (p = 0.009) and birthweight (p < 0.001). All patients responded well to treatment and their wounds healed uneventfully within a maximum of 25 days without the need for secondary surgery for skin coverage., Conclusion: Extravasation injuries in extremely preterm and low-birthweight infants are more likely to lead to skin necrosis. Peripheral venous catheterization should be performed with caution in these patients to prevent such injuries. Immediate irrigation with normal saline is recommended to reduce toxic sequelae in the infiltrated area., (© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

The electric fly-swatter is a household device used widely in Greece to kill mosquitoes. It consists of a racket-shaped electrical screen which is free of toxic and other chemicals. When the screen touches the insects, the contact generates an electric flash of light and the insects are incinerated. We present the case of a 15% flame burn caused by the flash of light produced by an electric fly-swatter. According to our review of the literature, this is the second case of burn injury caused by an electric fly swatter.

Background: Free abdominal flaps are the first option in autologous breast reconstruction using the multidetector-row computed tomographic angiography for mapping the abdominal perforators. The authors aim to evaluate the impact of using a preoperative design for shaping the new breast symmetrical to the contralateral breast, assisted by multidetector-row computed tomographic angiography., Methods: Thirty-two consecutive patients who underwent delayed unilateral breast reconstruction with free abdominal flaps were divided into two groups. In group A, the new breast was shaped intraoperatively and inset, whereas in group B, a preoperative design of the new breast was used. All patients underwent multidetector-row computed tomographic angiography before the operation and the flaps were centralized around the selected perforators. Both groups were evaluated for the time spent on flap harvest, time spent on breast shaping and inset, complication rates, and secondary operations required for breast symmetrization. Independent surgeons evaluated the final aesthetic outcome., Results: The mean time spent on harvesting the flap was not significantly different between the two groups (p > 0.05); the mean time spent on breast shaping and inset was significantly shorter in group B (p < 0.001). There were no differences between the two groups regarding complications recorded, whereas symmetrization surgery was significantly less in group B (p < 0.05). At a mean follow-up 17.3 months, the final aesthetic outcome was greater in group B., Conclusion: Predesigned breast shaping assisted by multidetector-row computed tomographic angiography promotes a significant reduction in the overall operative time and the need for secondary symmetrization procedures., Clinical Question/level of Evidence: Therapeutic, II.

Objectives: Distal flap necrosis remains a major complication in subdermal plexus (random) skin flaps. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been shown to improve the survival of ischemic random skin flaps in rats. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of locally injected autologous PRP on the survival of long (5:1 length-to-width ratio) subdermal plexus skin flaps in dogs., Methods: A 2x10 cm subdermal plexus skin flap was created bilaterally on the abdominal wall of six Beagle dogs. One randomly selected side received 2.5 ml of fresh auto-logous PRP injected evenly between sutures underneath the flap, whereas the other side was left untreated (control). Skin flap survival was evaluated macroscopically, histologically and by laser-Doppler flowmetry measurements of tissue perfusion., Results: Flap percentage survival on day 10 (96.3% versus 74.5%; p = 0.046) and tissue perfusion (p <0.036) were significantly higher in PRP-treated flaps compared with controls. Histologically, there was less oedema in PRP-treated flaps compared to controls (p = 0.01), whereas collagen production and angiogenesis did not differ significantly between the two groups., Clinical Significance: The use of locally injected autologous PRP increases tissue perfusion and improves the survival of long subdermal plexus skin flaps in dogs.

Introduction: Management of skin avulsion injuries of the upper extremity may require coverage with large flaps or skin autografts. Cutaneous grafting is frequently combined with artificial skin to optimize the final functional and cosmetic result. The conventional use of bilaminated dermal substitutes consists of a two-stage procedure and requires long immobilization of the operated area. The purpose of this retrospective study is to evaluate the impact of a dermal regeneration template immediately covered by skin grafts in a one-step procedure for reconstructing skin avulsion injuries of the hand and forearm., Materials and Methods: We performed this technique in eight patients who presented with extended skin defects of the hand and forearm following skin avulsion injuries. Dimensions of the defects ranged from 160 to 1,250 cm(2). After debridement, Integra(®) Single Layer was applied and covered with unmeshed thin skin autografts; compressive dressings were used for 1 week and mobilization started by the second postoperative week. Histological examination of the grafted areas was performed 2 weeks after surgery. Functional and cosmetic outcome was assessed 12 months postoperatively., Results: The overall take rate of the dermal substitute and skin graft was 95-98 %. Histological results showed complete incorporation and vascular proliferation of the template, which allowed the neo-vascularization of the overlying autograft. The mean grip strength of the operated hands was at the 83 % of the normal contralateral hands. Pliability and overall appearance of the reconstructed areas was satisfactory (mean Vancouver Scar Scale Score 1.875)., Conclusions: The use of Integra(®) Single Layer dermal substitute and immediate skin overgrafting consists an alternative reconstructive option for managing extended skin avulsion injuries of the upper extremity; it reduces postoperative immobilization, minimizes donor site morbidity and provides good functional and esthetic results in a single surgical procedure.

The purpose of this prospective experimental and clinical study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the intralesional injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), in the management of non-healing chronic wounds. Skin defects were created in the ears of 20 white New Zealand rabbits. In the study group, autologous PRP was injected intralesionally. The control group was treated conservatively. Nineteen out of 20 cases of the study group healed within a mean time of 24·9 days. In the control group, seven defects healed within a mean period of 26·7 days, seven ulcers did not heal at day 28 and in six cases a full thickness ear defect was recorded. For a 3-year period, 26 patients with chronic ulcers underwent surgical debridement and intralesional injection of PRP. A histological study was performed before and 7 days after PRP injection. Ten patients healed within a mean period of 7 weeks. In 16 cases, PRP prepared the wound bed for the final and simpler reconstructive procedure. Intralesional injection is a newly described method for application of PRP and represents an effective therapeutic option when dealing with non-healing wounds., (© 2012 The Authors. International Wound Journal © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Medicalhelplines.com Inc.)

The dorsoradial flap is a recently described cutaneous flap, which is harvested from the distal forearm and indicated for covering dorsal soft tissue defects of the hand and thumb. Vascularization of the flap is assured by a cutaneous branch of the radial artery, which arises at the level of the first intermetacarpal space and supplies the skin of the distal quarter of the forearm dorsum. This area corresponds to the skin island of the dorsoradial flap. We report our clinical experience on seven patients where this flap was used for covering post-traumatic defects of the thumb. Dimensions of the defect varied from 18 to 28 cm(2). The donor site was skin grafted. All flaps survived and provided satisfactory coverage of the defect. Based on a secondary vascular axis, the flap has a large skin paddle and a wide rotation arc that allows soft tissue reconstruction of the dorsal and radiopalmar areas of the thumb.

Introduction: Leiomyoma of the mammary papilla is one of the most uncommon nipple tumors with only 50 cases reported in the literature until now. To the best of our knowledge we present the first report of a nipple leiomyoma that originated from a traumatic abrasion caused by breastfeeding., Case Presentation: A 35-year-old healthy Caucasian female with a cauliflower-like tender and pink nodular mass that was approximately 10mm in diameter presented to our out-patients department. The patient suggested that the mass originated from a traumatic abrasion caused by breastfeeding three years ago and it has been slowly growing ever since.An excision biopsy was performed. The histological and immunohistochemical examination confirmed the diagnosis of leiomyoma. There were no postoperative complications or any sign of local recurrence four years postoperatively., Conclusions: Leiomyoma of the mammary papilla is a rare benign neoplasm that usually appears as a solid tender nodule. Differential diagnosis comprises breast carcinoma, leiomyosarcoma and myoid hamartoma. The recommended treatment is complete excision of the tumor with histologically confirmed tumor-free margins otherwise recurrence is possible. A detailed history of the patient's disease can reveal the original etiology. This is an original case report that will have particular interest to plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and pathologists. The pathogenetic mechanism was trauma of the nipple. According to our review of the literature this particular information has never been reported and we think that it may advance our knowledge of this very infrequent tumor.

Late presentation of extravasation injuries from chemotherapeutic agents is not uncommon. Twenty-four patients with extravasation injuries presented with upper limb extravasation but without any skin necrosis between the second and the fourteenth day following injury day. We flushed out the infiltrated area with 300-500 ml of normal saline through multiple stab incisions. All 24 patients responded well to the procedure and no further complications occurred. The average time for the complete healing of the wounds was 15 days. All the patients were able to continue their chemotherapy treatment without delay. Patients were followed up for a mean period of 13 months. They all recovered with no functional deficit and only mild scarring. Early recognition and immediate treatment of extravasation injuries are of paramount importance. In cases with no evidence of skin necrosis, a delayed wash-out procedure appears to be very effective in removing the extravasated drug and minimizing further tissue damage.

The short saphenous vein can be used "in situ" to create a temporary arteriovenous shunt for lengthening the recipient vessels of the injured limb in microsurgical reconstructions of the lower extremity. We report our results using this single-anastomosis turnover technique in three high-energy trauma patients who presented open tibial fractures associated with vascular injuries. The construction of the arteriovenous fistula provided arterial access and venous drainage to a free latissimus dorsi flap that was transferred to cover the soft tissue defect. In all three cases, this single stage procedure was successful; the flap survived and provided good long term results. The use of the ipsilateral small saphenous vein "in situ" for immediate arteriovenous loop formation may be of great value in complex lower leg reconstructions. It is a reliable adjunctive technique that provides healthy vessels to supply the free flap, permitting stable wound coverage and high rate of limb salvage.

Background: Repair and rehabilitation of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon in zone I may be demanding. The aim of the authors' study was to assess a new technique for reinsertion of the distal flexor digitorum profundus tendon., Methods: The authors' series consisted of 18 patients who required primary (n = 10) or secondary (n = 8) repair of the flexor digitorum profundus tendon in zone I. A half-Bruner incision was extended into the distal volar skin to expose the insertion site. Two drill holes were made through the base of the distal phalanx obliquely from the insertion of the profundus tendon in a dorsolateral direction. A modified Kessler suture was passed through the tendon and then through these holes and tied anteriorly, providing transosseous, internal fixation. Range of movement was assessed according to Moiemen's categories., Results: Fourteen patients had excellent or good results, two patients had fair results, and one patient had a poor result. One patient failed to complete physiotherapy and was lost to follow-up. No tendon rupture was documented during a mean follow-up period of 8 months., Conclusions: The authors' technique anchors the flexor digitorum profundus tendon or the graft in an anatomical position on the distal phalanx, without the need for external sutures or additional incisions. Furthermore, this is accomplished with minimal morbidity to the surrounding highly specialized tissue. The authors' results compare favorably with those of other techniques in the literature.