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A recent study from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine explores the ethical considerations in global plastic and reconstructive surgery missions. The research emphasizes the importance of informed consent, awareness of risks, and adherence to core medical ethics principles such as autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. The study suggests that improved communication, education of visiting surgeons, and data collection can enhance the ethical delivery of medical care in resource-limited settings. For more information, the full article is available in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - Global Open. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Hutt Hospital discusses the declining interest in surgical careers globally and the increasing demand for surgical procedures due to aging populations. The study compares international pathways to surgeon development, highlighting differences in education and training among countries. Recommendations include a maximum 6-year university/medical education requirement, single-program surgical training, and improved support for family building during training. The research aims to identify best practices to enhance the attractiveness of surgery as a career choice. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University of California San Diego (UCSD) highlights the impact of complications from aesthetic procedures on the healthcare system. The study, which focused on patients who experienced complications after cash-paid aesthetic procedures, found that abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, and injectable fillers were the most common procedures leading to complications. The research emphasizes the importance of thorough communication between patients, surgeons, and healthcare facilities to minimize complications and ensure appropriate care. The study suggests that larger referral hospitals are well-equipped to manage complications from aesthetic procedures, but that providing care for this population is resource-intensive. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of California explores the changing landscape of career pathways in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The research suggests a shift from the traditional "risk versus reward" model to a new paradigm of "control versus choice," emphasizing autonomy as a key factor. The study identifies five main components that influence a plastic surgery career, including clinical practice model, administrative duties, corporate support, academic involvement, and financial considerations. Researchers highlight the importance of finding a balance in these components to create a successful and fulfilling practice. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus focused on the common peroneal nerve (CPN) and its branching patterns to aid in operative planning for CPN reconstruction. The research found that the CPN's distal branching patterns were highly variable, but the fascicular topography within the fibular tunnel was consistent. The study suggested that surgeons should focus on the anterior half of the nerve for ankle dorsiflexion restoration and consider distal nerve transfers from the tibial nerve motor branches. This research provides valuable information for peripheral nerve surgeons and was published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - Global Open. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Geneva University Hospitals analyzed the safety and efficacy of the lateral arm free flap (LA-FF) in reconstructing soft tissue defects. The meta-analysis included 25 articles with a total of 1272 flaps in 1256 patients, showing an overall flap failure rate of 3% and a donor site complication rate of 11%. The LA-FF is primarily used for head and neck post-tumoral resection and upper and lower limb post-traumatic reconstruction, demonstrating its effectiveness in these areas. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences in Saudi Arabia utilized Generative Pre-trained Transformer 4 artificial intelligence (GPT-4 AI) technology to evaluate the compliance of randomized controlled trial (RCT) abstracts in plastic surgery journals with CONSORT guidelines. They found that out of 371 RCT abstracts analyzed, compliance scores were generally low, with specific areas such as trial design, participant details, and intervention descriptions lacking compliance. The study highlighted the potential of AI technology in improving research reporting quality and emphasized the importance of adhering to CONSORT guidelines in plastic surgery research for more reliable and transparent outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Mayo Clinic focused on the sexual dimorphism in the midface skeletal structure of White patients. Using advanced three-dimensional imaging techniques, the study found distinct differences in the midfacial skeleton between men and women, with men exhibiting broader and more pronounced facial features compared to women. The research sheds light on the importance of understanding these differences for craniofacial, aesthetic, and gender-affirming surgeries. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the London Clinic proposed a technique of ultrasound-guided deep liposuction in the lumbar triangle to achieve favorable aesthetic results in body contouring. The study involved 142 patients who underwent the procedure, resulting in a high level of satisfaction and a significant reduction in waist measurements postoperatively. The research concluded that deep liposuction in the lumbar region is a safe technique that enhances patient satisfaction with aesthetic outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have developed a novel training system for teaching atraumatic soft tissue handling in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The system uses a pressure-sensing forceps that measures the force applied to tissue and provides real-time biofeedback. In a study involving 78 students and trainees, the researchers found that the system was effective in improving tissue handling skills, with a significant reduction in pressure applied to the tissue after participants received audible feedback. The findings suggest that the Tissue Handling Trainer System could be a valuable tool for surgical simulation training. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers from the Mayo Clinic explores the availability of diversity scholarships for underrepresented students in plastic surgery subinternships. The study found that approximately 52.7% of US integrated plastic surgery programs offer monetary support for visiting medical students from underrepresented backgrounds. The average monetary support provided was $1670. The study also revealed that programs with lower rankings in reputation and research were less likely to have scholarships available, and programs located in the Midwest region were more likely to offer diversity scholarships. The researchers suggest that further investigation into the development of these scholarship opportunities would be beneficial. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Weill Medical College of Cornell University discusses the timing of laceration repair in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The research found that delaying primary repairs of uncomplicated wounds does not increase the rate of infection or impact the final cosmetic outcome. The study, which included a retrospective review of cases over a 14-year practice, concluded that qualified professionals can safely apply delayed repair in carefully selected cases. The full article can be accessed for free online. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand, explored the viability of the lateral supramalleolar flap in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Traditionally, this flap requires the transection of the superficial peroneal nerve (SPN), resulting in loss of foot sensation and potential chronic pain. However, the researchers found that by preserving the SPN during the suprafascial harvest of the flap, it can still be safely raised without compromising its viability. The study included five patients with soft tissue defects around the lateral malleolus, and all flaps survived without complications while maintaining sensory distribution of the SPN postoperatively. [Extracted from the article]

Columbia University researchers have conducted a study on the use of three-dimensional (3D) technologies in orthoplastic surgery, specifically in the reconstruction of soft tissue defects following sarcoma resection. The study highlights the benefits of 3D planning and manufacturing technologies in improving surgical precision and patient outcomes. These technologies allow for the creation of patient-specific solutions, such as tumor models and cutting guides, which aid in conceptualizing and verifying surgical approaches and serve as blueprints for reconstruction. The implementation of 3D planning techniques in orthoplastic surgery has shown promising results in enhancing postoperative quality of life and reducing associated morbidities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine compared the use of Cortiva Silhouette and AlloDerm in prepectoral two-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction. The study found that Cortiva Silhouette was noninferior to AlloDerm in terms of safety and providing soft-tissue support. Cortiva Silhouette was associated with greater tissue expander fill volumes, larger silicone implants, and fewer complications compared to AlloDerm. This research provides valuable insights into the use of acellular dermal matrices in breast reconstruction. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital examined the timing of pediatric breast reduction surgery and its coverage by insurance. The study found that practitioners often delay offering breast reduction to adolescents below the age of 18 due to presumed insurance denial. However, the study's findings suggest that surgeons need not delay in facilitating preauthorization for breast reduction in symptomatic patients presenting anytime during their teenage years. The study analyzed data from 2012 to 2022 and included 121 cisgender female patients with macromastia aged 12-20 years. There were no significant differences in the age or body mass index of patients who underwent breast reduction compared to those who did not, and there were no significant differences in the proportion of patients undergoing breast reduction by age or insurance class. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign analyzed the use of Generative Pre-trained Transformer 4 (GPT-4) in generating practice questions for the Plastic Surgery In-Service Training Examination (PSITE). The study found that while GPT-4 can generate practice questions, the quality of the questions was poor, with false information and inadequate explanations. However, the researchers suggest that with proper supervision from trained plastic surgeons, GPT-4 has the potential to be an effective educational tool. It is important for trainees to exercise caution as the technology continues to develop. [Extracted from the article]

A recent systematic review conducted by researchers at King Saud University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, analyzed questionnaires assessing patient satisfaction in plastic surgery. The review included 105 studies and found that general/overall satisfaction was the most common topic addressed, with cosmetic outcomes being the most frequently assessed category. The most commonly used measurement tools were the BREAST-Q and self-developed questionnaires. The researchers emphasized the importance of a holistic approach and well-established, validated tools in improving plastic surgery outcomes and enhancing the quality of care. They also called for future research to refine assessment tools and promote patient-centered outcomes in plastic surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Mayo Clinic examined the impact of policy changes on family planning goals among plastic surgery trainees. The study found that the American Board of Plastic Surgeons' update to the leave policy, which extended personal leave to 12 weeks without delaying graduation, and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education's update to the lactation policy had a positive effect on trainees considering starting a family during their training. However, the study also highlighted the challenges that trainees, particularly women, still face in balancing their personal and professional lives. The researchers concluded that further efforts are needed to create a fair environment for trainees to work and have a family. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center presents fresh data on plastic and reconstructive surgery. The research focuses on the work and sleep patterns of residents on "home call" shifts. The study found that residents on home call shifts spend a significant amount of time in the hospital and have reduced hours of sleep compared to residents on general call shifts. The findings highlight the need to discuss the protection of residents on home call shifts according to Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) regulations. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Heidelberg examined the impact of plastic surgery on functional independence in older patients. The study found that approximately 8% of older patients who underwent plastic surgery experienced a loss of functional independence after the procedure. Factors associated with this loss of independence included age, a history of falls, longer operation times, and longer hospital stays. The researchers suggest that further studies should be conducted to better understand the risks and develop interventions to optimize care for this patient population. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report highlights the development of a surgical training device and instructional video to aid in the training of junior residents in flexor tendon repair, a complex procedure in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The study involved simulation workshops for residents, who then performed cadaveric flexor tendon repairs before and after the training. The results showed that the simulator was realistic and useful, leading to improved surgical technique and increased confidence among participants. The researchers suggest that this three-dimensional printed model could be mass-produced and incorporated into hand surgery training programs. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from the University of Melbourne discusses the presence of tiny arteriovenous (AV) shunts in the hands and feet, as well as larger shunts in the inner canthus and human eye. The study examined 14 archival and six new upper limbs and discovered AV shunts between the brachial, ulnar, and radial arteries and their venae comitantes, as well as between arterial perforators and subcutaneous veins. The researchers suggest that these shunts may play a role in blood flow variation, temperature regulation, tissue transfer, flap prefabrication, and flap necrosis. The full report can be accessed for free online. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Melbourne in Australia has validated the use of the Breast Idea Volume Estimator (BIVE) application in estimating breast volume in transfeminine individuals who have undergone testosterone-mediated puberty. The study collected clinical photographs and 3D scans from 82 breasts of 41 participants and compared the estimates provided by BIVE with the gold standard of 3D scan calculated volume. The results showed that BIVE provided accurate, precise, and reliable measurements of breast volume. This research is significant as it contributes to the understanding of plastic and reconstructive surgery techniques for achieving optimal feminization in transfeminine individuals. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Tulane University focused on pediatric head and neck desmoid tumors (DTs) and their impact on normal anatomical development. The study aimed to provide a comprehensive systematic review on this topic, analyzing lesion location, intervention, management, and outcomes based on age groups. The researchers found that most head and neck DTs localized to the mandible, cranium, and neck, and were typically treated with local resection. They also recommended additional resection of the tumor to achieve negative margins and emphasized the need for robust follow-up data collection to establish best management practices. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Indiana University School of Medicine discusses research on plastic and reconstructive surgery. The study focuses on implant-based breast reconstruction salvage using negative pressure wound therapy with instillation (NPWTi-d). The researchers compared outcomes of this salvage pathway with traditional implant removal. The study found that the salvage pathway was successful in 81.3% of cases, resulting in fewer implant-free days and a faster time to final reconstruction. This research provides valuable insights for patients and healthcare professionals in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A researcher from Washington University has published findings in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery regarding the use of 3D-printed models for nasal analysis. The study aimed to explore the application of these models in identifying accurate nasal anatomy. The research found that the 3D-printed models were a valuable tool for understanding nasal anatomy, and there was a moderate correlation between the number of correctly matched model-photograph pairs and the postgraduate year of the residents. The study suggests that continued standardization of designs and assessments will enhance the educational utility of these models. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research on plastic and reconstructive surgery, specifically focusing on the reconstruction of the nasal ala. The researchers from Federico II University Hospital in Naples, Italy, present their findings on the use of the nasolabial turnover flap for full-thickness nasal ala reconstruction. They compare this technique with other commonly used alternatives and highlight the advantages of the nasolabial turnover flap. The study concludes that this flap is a reliable and valuable option for achieving successful nasal ala reconstruction, with good functional and cosmetic outcomes. The researchers suggest that even less-experienced surgeons could consider using this technique. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Mayo Clinic analyzed the changes in hyoid bone position with aging and its impact on neck contour changes. The researchers used 3D volumetric reconstruction of 282 neck computed tomography scans and categorized the cohort into three age groups. They found that as individuals age, the hyoid bone descends in both sexes, and an increase in body mass index (BMI) is associated with forward movement. However, hyoid horizontal distance was not affected by age and sex, but rather by BMI. Further studies are needed to assess the correlation of hyoid position between upright and supine positions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Aichi Medical University in Japan explored the use of near-infrared spectroscopy devices for monitoring blood flow in buried deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps used in breast reconstruction surgery. The researchers found that the NIRO200NX device accurately evaluated the blood flow in both exposed and buried-type DIEP flaps, with only a few misjudgments likely caused by hematoma. The study suggests that the NIRO200NX device could be a reliable tool for monitoring blood flow and predicting outcomes in breast reconstruction using the DIEP flap transfer. The full research article can be accessed for free online. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania provides updates on trends and predictors in plastic and reconstructive surgery residency programs. The study found that there has been a decline in the number of independent plastic surgery residency programs, while applicant participation has increased. The research also revealed that successful matches were associated with certain factors such as US allopathic medical school graduates, university-affiliated general surgery residencies, and high test scores. Program leaders displayed varied commitments, with some planning to discontinue offering the independent track. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the American University of Beirut explores a novel technique for ulnar nerve transposition at the elbow, specifically for the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome. The technique involves creating a neo-tunnel using the epitrochleo-olecranon ligament to anatomically stabilize the ulnar nerve. The study involved nine patients who reported subjective improvement in symptoms and functional improvement postoperatively, with no complications. The researchers concluded that the neocubital tunnel technique is a safe and relatively noninvasive surgical alternative for decompression of the cubital tunnel. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Vanderbilt University Medical Center explores the use of a surgical technique called the pedicled nonislanded foot fillet flap to avoid above-the-knee amputation after trauma. Lower extremity trauma can have a significant impact on patients' quality of life, and many undergo multiple procedures in an attempt to salvage their limbs. The study found that the technique was successful in five patients, with all amputation stumps healing without complications. The researchers suggest that this technique is particularly valuable in low-resource settings where prostheses may not be readily available. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham in the United Kingdom explores the role of clinical observational parameters in nerve regeneration for plastic and reconstructive surgery. The study aimed to determine if commonly used clinical examination tests can detect a failing nerve repair and prompt earlier intervention. The researchers found that the progression of Tinel sign, a tingling sensation along a nerve, was associated with recovery measured by motor and sensory grades. Thermographic imaging also showed a temperature difference between injured and noninjured nerves. Further studies could investigate the extent to which thermographic imaging predicts final nerve repair outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center researchers have conducted a study on plastic and reconstructive surgery. The study focuses on a technique called "thigh perforator exchange," which involves intraflap perforator augmentation of anterolateral thigh free flaps. The researchers found that this technique is simple and rapid to perform, with no observed vascular complications. The study provides valuable insights into improving peripheral perfusion in large anterolateral thigh flaps. For more information, readers can refer to the journal article published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Global Open. [Extracted from the article]