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Botulinum injection is a well-known non-surgical intervention utilized in the management of myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). However, sparse evidence exists regarding the utility of ultrasound guidance of injectate or lidocaine as a predictive marker of patient response to botulinum toxin A (BTX-A). A 39-year-old male active duty service member demonstrated typical signs and symptoms of MPS. He reported a 10-year history of neck and back spasms that were triggered by exertion but also could occur spontaneously. Based on the characteristic regional motor-sensory defects, treatment options were discussed. With shared decision-making, the patient opted to try ultrasound-guided injection of lidocaine followed by xenomin brand BotoxA. Immediately following lidocaine injection, the patient reported complete relief of symptoms. Both injections were uncomplicated, and the patient reported great reduction in symptoms during the subsequent visit 2 months later. Relief of pain following ultrasound-guided injection of lidocaine may serve as an indicator of successful patient response to BTX-A in patients with MPS., (© The Association of Military Surgeons of the United States 2024. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site–for further information please contact journals.permissions@oup.com.)

We evaluated real-life experiences of a topical neuro-peptide serum containing 2% acetyl hexapeptide-8, 2% dipeptide diaminobutyroyl, 5% polyhydroxy acids (PHA), 5% niacinamide, and 1% laminaria extract (topical neuro-peptide serum [TNP-serum]). The TNP-serum works synergistically by stimulating 9 key skin biomarkers to reduce wrinkles and produce a skin-brightening effect. Here, we highlight the real-life experiences of 5 dermatologists and 2 surgeons, using an integrated skincare regimen consisting of botulinum toxin type-A (BTX-A) injection in conjunction with twice daily TNP-serum. Real-world cases provide evidence for combination treatments that may be used in cosmetic dermatology to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. TNP-serum appears to complement BTX-A injections to improve radiance, reduce fine lines, and reduce wrinkles in diverse patients. Incorporating TNP-serum into integrated skincare regimens may offer an additive effect to BTX-A injections and, ultimately, optimize patient results. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23:11(Suppl 2):s3-14.

Background: Botulinum toxin (BT) has become one of the most frequently sought aesthetic procedures for wrinkle reduction., Objective: This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of a novel device using radiofrequency (RF) and high-intensity facial muscle stimulation (HIFES) in patients injected with BT., Methods: Twelve patients were divided into an Active (N=10) and a Control group (N=2), where the Active received four treatments and the Control none. The facial expressions documented by digital photographs (neutral) and videos (frown, smile, surprise expressions) were taken at all visits (baseline, after last Tx, 1 and 3-month follow-ups) and were evaluated using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and 3D automated analysis. The subject's therapy comfort and satisfaction were assessed., Results: The Active group reported high satisfaction with treatment comfort (6.3±0.2 points on the 7-point Likert scale). 3D analysis showed reduced wrinkle severity (37.4%) and volume increase (+1.5 mL) on the cheeks at 3 months. GAIS evaluation demonstrated the most prominent improvement in smiling facial expression by 2.2±0.1 points. No adverse events were observed., Conclusion: The study results suggest that the combination of HIFES and synchronized RF is a safe and effective treatment for improving facial appearance and muscle tone in patients injected with BT. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(11):937-942.  doi:10.36849/JDD.7938.

Background: Primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PPH) constitutes a distressing dermatologic condition that greatly affects patients' quality of life. Its management still needs to be addressed to find a suitable therapeutic modality that is readily available, cost effective, and gives patients a quite long disease-free period., Objective: To assess the efficacy of fractional CO 2 laser as a delivery method for botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A) and aluminum chloride in treating PPH., Patients and Methods: Twenty-four subjects with PPH were treated on both hands with fractional CO 2 laser followed on the right hand with topical BTX-A and on the left hand with topical aluminum chloride. Minor's starch-iodine test and Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) were used for evaluation of treatment response and for follow-up., Results: There was a significant improvement in HDSS in both groups, but there was no statistically significant difference in the therapeutic response for both modalities. There was a statistically significant longer disease-free period in the BTX-A-treated hands., Conclusion: Fractional CO 2 laser-assisted drug delivery (LADD) represents a safe, minimally invasive procedure that enhances the delivery of BTX-A and aluminum chloride, the two most widely used agents for treating PPH, with a comparable anhidrotic response., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objectives: Evaluating the effectiveness and safety of repeated high-dose intradetrusor abobotulinumtoxin A (Dysport®) injections for the treatment of pediatric neurogenic bladders refractory to medications., Design: Retrospective interventional study., Participants: The cohort included 37 children (22 boys and 15 girls) of median age 9.2 years. Inclusion criteria were diagnosis of neurogenic bladder and failure to respond to medical treatment. Exclusion criteria were augmented bladder, insufficient data, and interval of > 11 months between video-urodynamic study and Dysport injection., Interventions: All participants were treated with an intra-detrusor injection of Dysport 30 IU/kg (up to 1000 IU) under general anesthesia. Repeated (second and third) injections were scheduled (6-12 months) in patients who demonstrated an improvement in cystometric parameters. All participants underwent video urodynamic testing before onset of treatment and 4-5 months after subsequent injection., Main Outcome Measures: Success of treatment was defined as a decrease in end filling pressure (EFP) to < 40 cm H 2 O and/or a 20% increase in maximal cystometric capacity (MCC). These parameters along with initial bladder features were evaluated for ability to predict treatment success., Results: No side effects of Dysport were observed or reported. The overall success rate was 62%. MCC increased by a median of 30% (IQR 200-300, p < 0.001), 37% (IQR 197-310, p = 0.001) and 45% (IQR 245-300, p = 0.025) after the first, second and third injections, respectively. Median EFP decreased from 45 cm H 2 O to 34 cm H 2 O (IQR 20-45, p = 0.029), 23 cm H 2 O (IQR 20-37, p = 0.004), and 20 cm H 2 O (IQR 12-32, p = 0.049) after the first, second, and third injections, respectively. No predicting factor of success of treatment were found; However, three of five cases of "end stage" bladder showed improvement., Conclusions: High-dose Dysport injection is safe and effective for the treatment of neurogenic bladder. Studies with larger cohort and a control group would further elucidate which bladders would benefit most. At present, we recommend treating also bladders with "end stage" features with botulinum toxin before considering augmentation., (© 2024 The Author(s). Neurourology and Urodynamics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: This pooled analysis of randomized controlled studies investigated the safety and efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA in male and female patients with overactive bladder (OAB)., Methods: Data were pooled from four similarly designed trials in North America and Europe. Adults with idiopathic OAB for ≥6 months inadequately managed by at least one anticholinergic were randomized 1:1 or 2:1 to receive onabotulinumtoxinA 100 U or matched placebo in Cycle 1 and could request open-label retreatment with onabotulinumtoxinA 100 U at ≥12 weeks. Efficacy outcomes at Week 12 included the primary endpoint of mean urinary incontinence (UI) episodes per day and other variables, such as the proportion of patients with ≥50% reduction in daily UI episodes. Safety was assessed by monitoring treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). Analyses by sex were descriptive. Males were further analyzed by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) diagnosis status., Results: In the pooled population (N = 1564), there were 194 males (12.4%) and 1370 females (87.6%). Mean number of baseline UI episodes per day was 4.9 in males and 5.5 in females. At Week 12, numerically greater mean reductions from baseline in number of daily UI episodes were observed with the onabotulinumtoxinA 100 U group (females: -3.0; males: -2.2) versus placebo (females: -1.1; males: -1.3). Achievement of ≥50% reduction in daily UI episodes was numerically greater with onabotulinumtoxinA 100 U (females: 64.8%; males: 61.2%) versus placebo (females: 30.6%; males: 44.8%), and numerically higher in males without BPH (onabotulinumtoxinA: 65.1%; placebo: 50.9%) versus with BPH (onabotulinumtoxinA: 54.3%; placebo: 36.6%). A total of 34.7% of males and 39.4% of females experienced at least one TEAE in the first 12 weeks during treatment Cycle 1. Urinary tract infection rate was 13.1% in females and 4.2% in males; incidence of hematuria was 6.8% in males and 1.1% in females. Incidence of urinary retention (defined as incomplete emptying, requiring catheterization) was 2.7% in females and 4.7% in males., Conclusion: OnabotulinumtoxinA 100 U was efficacious and well tolerated in men and women with OAB, including in males with and without BPH. No new safety findings were identified when data were analyzed by sex., (© 2024 The Author(s). Neurourology and Urodynamics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Crow's feet lines in the lateral canthal region are a common concern among aging patients, initially appearing as dynamic wrinkles during facial expressions and becoming more pronounced with age. Botulinum neurotoxin temporarily paralyzes muscles by inhibiting acetylcholine release, smoothing wrinkles and enhancing skin's youthful appearance. Effective treatment requires tailored approaches considering individual anatomy and muscle activity. Recent cadaveric studies identified the tear trough muscle, emphasizing its role in infraorbital support and aging. Clinically, patients often present medial eye wrinkles after BoNT treatment for crow's feet, prompting exploration of underlying mechanisms and management strategies. Three cases demonstrated that medial BoNT injections in the orbicularis oculi muscle significantly improve medial eye wrinkles and tear trough appearance. The study underscores the importance of understanding muscle hyperactivity and anatomical variations for precise treatment. Enhanced injection techniques targeting specific areas can achieve better outcomes and minimize complications, particularly in culturally sensitive regions where facial expressions are valued. This research highlights the necessity for comprehensive anatomical knowledge and patient-specific treatment strategies to address medial eye wrinkles effectively., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Botulinum toxin application into the abdominal wall prior to major hernia repair can reduce the complexity of surgery and has been increasingly used in recent years, even if it is an off-label use., Objective: To what extent is botulinum toxin used in hernia surgery in German-speaking countries and what is the current evidence in the literature?, Material and Methods: In a voluntary online survey of German Society for General and Visceral Surgery (DGAV)-certified competence centers and reference centers for hernia surgery, aspects of botulinum toxin application were surveyed and the results analyzed., Results: A total of 57 centers took part in the survey, of which 27 (47%) use botulinum toxin. The main reasons for not using it were lack of experience and reimbursement. Of the centers 85% have treated less than 50 patients with botulinum toxin. The main indications were midline hernias (M2-4 according to the EHS classification) with a hernia gap > 10 cm (W3 according to EHS classification) and loss of domain situations. The application was predominantly ultrasound-guided by designated hernia surgeons with 100-200 Allergan or 500 Speywood units 4-6 weeks preoperatively and without complications related to the botulinum toxin application., Conclusion: Botulinum toxin injections in hernia surgery appear to be safe and effective. Ultrasound-guided preoperative bilateral administration is supported by the available data. Specific course and information formats should be offered by the hernia surgery institutions., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

Objectives: Retrograde Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction (RCPD) is treated by botulinum toxin (BTX) injection into the cricopharyngeus. This prospective study compares the effectiveness and side effects of operating room (OR) and in-office (IO) injections., Methods: Patients over 18 years of age with inability to burp, abdominal, thoracic, or cervical gurgling sounds, bloating, and excessive flatulence were diagnosed with RCPD and included in the study. Injections were performed in the OR (80U) or IO (30U) by the senior author. An RCPD questionnaire quantifying major and minor symptoms on a Likert scale, Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10), and Generalized Anxiety Score-7 (GAD-7), were completed preinjection; at 1, 2, and 3 weeks; and 3 months postoperatively. Linear mixed models were used to analyze effects of BTX injection on RCPD symptoms, the EAT-10, and the GAD-7., Results: 108 (55 M/53F) patients completed the pretreatment survey, 53 (31 OR vs. 22 IO) completed the 3-week follow-up, and 36 (22 OR vs. 14 IO) completed the 3-month questionnaire. Average posttreatment RCPD scores were significantly lower in both groups at 3 weeks and 3 months (p < 0.0001), There was no difference between IO or OR (p = 0.4924). GAD-7 scores were significantly lower in both groups at week 3 (p = 0.0018) and month 3 (p = 0.0012). Postinjection EAT-10 scores were significantly higher in OR compared with IO (p = 0.0379)., Conclusion: OR and IO injections are equally effective in the treatment of RCPD. Postinjection dysphagia is more severe after the OR injections which may be related to higher doses of BTX used. General anxiety levels decrease with treatment., Level of Evidence: 2 Laryngoscope, 134:4614-4619, 2024., (© 2024 The Author(s). The Laryngoscope published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.)

Introduction: Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injections are widely used for the treatment of masseter muscle hypertrophy in Southeast Asia. However, there remains a lack of consensus regarding the optimal injection technique. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and patient discomfort associated with single-entry point injections versus multiple three-point injections for masseter muscle hypertrophy treatment with BoNT., Materials and Methods: Sixteen participants, comprising both male and female Korean adults aged 22-63, were enrolled in the study. On the left side of the face, single-entry point injections were administered, followed by multidirectional injections, while on the right side, three-point injections were given. Pain intensity during the procedure was assessed using visual analogue scale scores., Result: Our results revealed that participants experienced lower levels of pain with single-entry point injections compared to three-point injections (average visual analogue scores of 3.31 and 5.19, respectively)., Conclusion: These findings highlight the potential benefits of single-entry point injections in reducing patient discomfort during masseter muscle hypertrophy treatment with BoNT. We advocate for further research to validate these findings and encourage practitioners to consider single-entry point injections as a viable option for enhancing treatment outcomes in their clinical practice., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: The popularity of noninvasive botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injections for masseter muscle hypertrophy is increasing among Asian individuals with a square-shaped lower face., Aims: This study aimed to analyze the adverse events (AEs) caused by BTX-A injections into the masseter muscle., Patients/methods: This observational study retrospectively evaluated 46 250 patients who underwent BTX-A injections into the masseter muscle in 2022. The inclusion criteria were the diagnosis of an AE by the physician at the return visit and subsequent follow-up of progress (n = 223). The patients who were lost to follow-up (n = 40) were excluded from the study., Results: Among the 223 patients with AEs, the most common AE was paradoxical bulging (88.3%, n = 197/223). The average period from treatment until confirmation of improvement was 159.6 ± 113.6 days (range 13-667 days) for all AEs, all of which were temporary. The period until improvement was 166.1 days in the intervention group (n = 122) and 151.9 days in the observation group (n = 101) (p = 0.24). As the period until improvement of AEs included the period until the patients visited the clinics and the improvements were confirmed by physicians, the actual period was likely to have been shorter., Conclusions: (1) All AEs were temporary. (2) All AEs improved within 22.2 months (within 5.3 ± 3.8 months on average). (3) There was no significant difference between the intervention and observation groups in the period until the improvement of AEs., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Interstitial cystitis (IC)/bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is an unpleasant sensation related to the bladder with lower urinary tract symptoms lasting more than 6 weeks, unrelated to an otherwise identifiable cause. The etiology is likely multifactorial including urothelial abnormalities, neurogenic pain upregulation, and potentially bladder and vaginal microbiome alterations. Despite treatment effectiveness of both bladder instillations and intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injection for this condition, a head-to-head comparison has not been performed., Objective: To compare the efficacy of bladder instillations and intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injection for treatment of IC/BPS., Study Design: Patients with O'Leary-Sant (OLS) questionnaire scores of ≥6, meeting clinical criteria for IC/BPS, and desiring procedural management were randomized to bladder instillations or intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injection. The primary outcome was the difference in OLS scores at 2 months posttreatment between groups. Secondary outcomes included evaluation of sexual function, physical/mental health status, pain, patient satisfaction, treatment perception, retreatment, and adverse event rates., Results: Forty-seven patients were analyzed with 22 randomized to bladder instillations and 25 to onabotulinumtoxinA injection. There were no differences in demographic and clinical characteristics between groups. From baseline to 2 months posttreatment, there was a decrease in OLS subscales in all patients (Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index [ICSI] -6.3 (confidence interval [CI] -8.54, -3.95), P<.0001; Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index [ICPI] -5.9 (CI -8.18, -3.57), P<.0001). At 2 months posttreatment, patients in the onabotulinumtoxinA group had significantly lower OLS scores compared to those in the bladder instillation group (ICSI 6.3±4.5 [onabotulinumtoxinA] vs 9.6±4.2 [instillation], P=.008; ICPI 5.9±5.1 [onabotulinumtoxinA] vs 8.3±4.0 [instillation], P=.048). The difference in OLS scores between groups did not persist at 6 to 9 months posttreatment. There were no statistically significant differences between baseline and posttreatment time points for the remaining questionnaires. Eight percent of patients who received onabotulinumtoxinA injection experienced urinary retention requiring self-catheterization. Patients who underwent onabotulinumtoxinA injection were significantly less likely to receive retreatment within 6 to 9 months compared to patients who received bladder instillations (relative risk 13.6; 95% CI, 1.92-96.6; P=.0002). There were no differences between groups regarding patient satisfaction, perception of treatment convenience, or willingness to undergo retreatment., Conclusion: Both onabotulinumtoxinA injection and bladder instillations are safe, effective treatments for patients with IC/BPS, with significant clinical improvement demonstrated at 2 months posttreatment. Our findings suggest that intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injection is a more effective procedural treatment for this condition than bladder instillation therapy and associated with decreased rates of retreatment., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background: For children with upper brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI; C5, C6, ±C7 roots), most clinics first recommend nonsurgical treatment followed by primary and/or secondary surgical interventions in selected patients. Since 2008, we have used an infant shoulder repositioning protocol (supination-external rotation [Sup-ER]) designed to prevent shoulder internal rotation contracture and its potential effects on the shoulder joint. This study characterizes our clinic's current choice, number, and timing of primary and secondary procedural interventions (including Botox) and compares Sup-ER protocol patients with those of our historical controls., Methods: The records of all patients with upper BPBI who underwent procedures from 2001 to 2018 were retrospectively reviewed and grouped into a historical (2001-2007, n = 20) and recent (2008-2018, n = 23) cohort. Patient demographics, procedure types and timing, and functional outcomes were collected and analyzed., Results: Since the 2008 institution of the Sup-ER protocol, fewer brachial plexus exploration and grafting (BPEG) surgeries were performed and none in later infancy, where nerve transfers were preferred. There were more and earlier Botox injections. There were fewer tendon transfers, and the preoperative indications were from a higher level of function., Conclusions: We now see fewer indications for BPEG surgeries overall. After the 3-month-age group, more direct nerve transfers are indicated instead of the BPEG surgery if nerve surgery is required at all. Shoulder tendon transfer rates have decreased. Humeral osteotomies are not seen in our recent group. Glenoid osteotomies within tendon transfers are rare in both groups., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common sexual problem, resulting in adverse effects on the quality of life, of both the patient and the partner. The idea of muscular contraction inhibition during the ejection phase of ejaculation by Botulinum toxin-A injection may delay ejaculation., Aim of Study: This study was performed to assess the efficacy and safety of Botulinum toxin-A injection in PE treatment., Material and Methods: This study included 45 married male patients diagnosed with primary PE. All included patients were injected with 75 units of Dysport equal efficacy of 25 units of Botulinum toxin-A (Botox) into three sites: the root of the penis (Group 1), glans penis (Group 2), and each side of the ischiocavernosus muscle (Group 3). All patients were subjected to an assessment of intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) using a stopwatch and answering the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) Questionnaire before and after treatment., Results: There was a statistically significant improvement in IELT after treatment in all groups. The most significant improvement was shown in Group 3 (average 108% increase), followed by Group 1 (74%) and Group 2 (40%), respectively. There was a positive correlation between age and the improvement in improved IELT. There was a statistically significant improvement in PEDTq scores in Group 1 and Group 3., Conclusion: Botulinum toxin-A injection into the root of the penis and ischiocavernosus muscle could be recommended in the treatment of premature ejaculation., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Objective: Chronic migraine encephalalgia (CME) with concomitant temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a serious illness with limited effective treatment options. This study explores the effectiveness of onabotulinumtoxinA (BtxA) as an adjunct therapeutic to TMJ arthroscopy in the relief of CME., Methods: A retrospective cohort study of patients receiving TMJ arthroscopy, with or without BtxA injections for CME, was conducted. Variables assessed include pain using a visual analog scale (VAS), maximal incisal opening (MIO), muscle soreness, and headache frequency and duration., Results: Sixty patients (44 BtxA, 16 Control), consisting of 56 (93.3%) females, met inclusion criteria. A significant reduction in pain is reported with patients receiving BtxA ( p < 0.0001) on VAS as compared to Control group. BtxA treatment also significantly reduced headache frequency and duration ( p < 0.05)., Conclusion: These results support the use of adjunctive BtxA treatment with arthroscopy for the treatment of CME in the context of TMD.

Background: Botulinum Toxin (BoNTA) is the most used nonsurgical aesthetic procedure to treat facial expression lines., Aims: This study compared the efficacy of Prabotulinum toxin-A, a novel BoNTA that originates from Clostridium botulinum Hall-A, with onabotulinum toxin-A in treating facial expression lines using the Facial Wrinkle Scale (FWS) and FACE-Q questionnaires., Methods: This was an experimental, comparative, longitudinal, open-label, and prospective study. Patients aged between 25 and 40 years with upper-third facial expression lines were included. Follow-ups were made at three, seven, 30, and 120 days., Results: A total of 26 patients were included: 20 female, and six males, with a mean age of 28.26 years. An average of 31.00 IU and 31.38 IU were administered to the onabotulinum and prabotulinum groups, respectively. The prabotulinum group demonstrated superiority in FWS and Face-Q scores between the first and third days (p ≤ 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively), which continued on day 7. By day 30, there were no differences in the scores of the two questionnaires., Conclusions: Prabotulinum toxin-A is a safe and effective treatment for upper-third facial wrinkles. On day three and seven, the results suggest that prabotulinum toxin-A has a quicker onset of action than onabotulinum toxin-A. On days 30 and 120, both groups showed similar FWS and Face-Q scores., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Purpose: To compare the quality of life (QoL) in the same patients first treated with botulinum toxin A (BTA) injections for neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) and then with bladder augmentation (BA)., Method: Retrospective study of patients who had BA after BTA treatment between January 2012 and December 2022. Qualiveen Short Form questionnaires and a 7-level Likert/PGI-I scale to answer the question "How would you describe your quality of life after surgery compared to when you felt your best with BTA injections?" were collated and analyzed., Results: Fifty-two BAs for neurogenic bladder (NDO or low compliance) were performed in patients with a median age of 43years [33; 52] previously treated with BTA. After a median follow-up of 33.5 [13.8; 54.3] months, the median Qualiveen-SF global score after BA was significantly higher than that obtained at best BTA efficacy (1.63 [1; 2.63] vs. 2.63 [1.88; 3], P=0.012), as were the scores for the fear, constraints/restrictions and limitations/inconvenience domains. The median PGI-I score was +3 [2; 3] (truly better QoL) and 85.4% of patients reported a QoL after BA superior to the best QoL under BTA., Conclusion: BA provides a greater range of QoL improvement than BTA injection for patients who have experienced both treatments. Long-lasting effects and absence of need to perform iterative retreatment were the main reasons., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.)

Background: Hemifacial spasm (HFS) is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by unilateral facial muscle spasms, negatively impacts quality of life due to social embarrassment. Botulinum Neurotoxin (BoNT) injections have emerged as a viable therapeutic approach. This systematic review evaluated the efficacy and safety of BoNT injections for HFS management, along with effects on patients' quality of life and mental health., Materials and Methods: A systematic search for studies on BoNT treatment for HFS published between January 1, 2000, and May 1, 2024, was performed across major databases. Study quality was evaluated using Cochrane and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tools, with data management handled by EndNote X9 and statistical analyses conducted via Review Manager (RevMan 5.4) and STATA 14.0., Results: Thirty-five studies met the inclusion criteria: 2 RCTs comprising 83 HFS patients compared the efficacy of perioral injections of botulinum toxin and placebo, while 33 single-arm studies reported outcomes for 2786 patients post-BoNT injection. The selection of 17 single-arm studies focused on the effectiveness rate as the key outcome metric. Pooled estimate signified a remarkably high effectiveness (ES: 0.882, 95% CI: 0.830, 0.926, P < 0.001). Analysis of depression scale (SMD: -0.85, 95% CI: -1.34, -0.35, P < 0.001), anxiety scale (SMD: -1.50, 95% CI: -2.19, -0.80, P < 0.001) and total scale of quality of life (SMD: -0.64, 95% CI: -0.87, -0.41, P = 0.766) showed that BoNT therapy worked well especially in improving mental state and quality of life. Ptosis was considered as the most common adverse reaction during BoNT injections (OR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.81, P = 0.843)., Conclusion: BoNT injection showed validity and clinical safety in the treatment of HFS, particular for depression relief. Injections around the mouth were only effective for HFS cases with severe symptoms. A standardized strategy for BoNT injections in managing HFS, detailing parameters such as injection sites, doses, and frequencies, remained elusive. Additional RCTs are necessary to further elucidate the interplay between efficacy and these components., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

The first-line management of cervical dystonia (CD) symptoms is intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA). However, a comparison of safety among BoNTAs is difficult because, per regulatory authorities, units of BoNTA activity are not interchangeable. Dysphagia and muscle weakness are widely considered two key adverse events to monitor closely in the treatment of CD. This integrated analysis compared the safety of BoNTAs approved for CD in the US by evaluating relationships between the incidence of dysphagia and muscle weakness in prescribing information and the core neurotoxin content. Coefficients The coefficients of determination (R 2 ) and trendlines were estimated via regression-based lines of best fit. Adverse drug reaction (ADR) rates were strongly correlated with core neurotoxin amounts for conventional BoNTAs (slope coefficients: dysphagia = 0.048, R 2 = 0.74; muscle weakness = 0.096, R 2 = 0.82). The published ADR rates at approved doses for conventional BoNTAs were higher compared with DaxibotulinumtoxinA (DAXI; DAXXIFY ® , Revance Therapeutics, Inc., Nashville, TN, USA) by core neurotoxin content. The use of a core neurotoxin amount was found to be an effective method for comparing the safety of BoNTA products. Current clinical trials suggest that DAXI, a novel BoNTA formulation, provides a potentially wider safety margin compared with other approved BoNTAs for CD. The lower amount of core neurotoxin administered at approved doses compared with conventional BoNTAs may explain low on-target ADRs like muscle weakness, whereas reduced diffusion from the injection site is thought to be responsible for low off-target ADRs like dysphagia.

Background: Treating an underactive bladder (UAB) is challenging. Previously, we introduced a more precise method of transvaginal ultrasound-guided botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) injection into the external urethral sphincter as a treatment option for patients with UABs. Although many patients experience good results, those with an UAB and excessive residual urine still require catheterization. Therefore, we developed a new method that combines transvaginal ultrasound-guided BoNT-A injection with a transurethral bladder neck incision. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 16 patients who experienced symptoms of UAB and chronic urine retention. The treatment consisted of a combination of transvaginal ultrasound-guided BoNT-A injection and a transurethral incision of the bladder neck (TUI-BN). The primary objective was to assess the efficacy of this combined treatment in improving symptoms in women with UABs. Results: Our study demonstrated significant improvements after treatment, including increased voiding volume, decreased post-void residual (PVR) urine, and improved voiding efficiency. The frequency of clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) decreased at 1 and 3 months post-surgery, along with improvements in the AUA symptoms score and the Patient Perception of Bladder Condition (PPBC) score. Conclusions: Our study showed significant improvements in the surgical treatment of UABs using a combination of transvaginal ultrasound-guided BoNT-A and TUI-BN.

Background: Cervical dystonia is widely understood to benefit from botulinum toxin injections. The injection practices may be influenced by specific factors, including the method of injection. Three main guidance methods can be used: palpation of anatomical landmarks, ultrasound, and electromyography. We investigated how target muscles and doses of botulinum toxin were modified after the transition from surface anatomy (non-guided) to ultrasound (US-guided), in patients with cervical dystonia. We also determined the long-term dose trend., Methods: We studied a group of 82 patients, who received non-guided injections (median: 16.5 cycles/5.1 years) followed by US-guided injections (median: 12.0 cycles/3.8 years)., Results: More muscles, and especially deep muscles, were injected during the US-guided period. The total dose and number of injected muscles were higher when US guidance was used, but the mean dose per muscle was lower. Over the long term, the total dose stabilized, and the mean dose per muscle decreased during the US-guided period., Conclusions: According to our results, the guidance method has a strong impact on the botulinum toxin injection strategy in cervical dystonia (target muscles and dose). Also, the treatment appeared more stable when using US guidance; this could be explained by the good precision of such injections.

Introduction: Bruxism is characterised by a repetitive activity in the masticatory muscles that involves teeth clenching or grinding and/or forceful mandibular movements. Its management is typically initiated when individuals start experiencing the adverse effects of the condition. One of the available intervention forms is the administration of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A). Numerous systematic reviews have addressed the use of BoNT-A to manage bruxism; however, the results are controversial. The current overview aims to determine BoNT-A's effectiveness for managing bruxism in relation to placebo, the absence of treatment or alternative interventions in the adult population., Methods and Analysis: This study will include systematic reviews (SRs), with or without meta-analysis, aiming to evaluate the efficacy of BoNT-A for bruxism in adults. A broad literature search will be carried out on Cochrane Library, EMBASE, LILACS, Livivo, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and the grey literature. Experts in the topic and reference lists of included SRs will also be consulted. The study selection will be conducted in two phases by two independent reviewers. Data collection will be performed by one author and cross-checked by another. The methodological quality of included SRs will be evaluated using AMSTAR-II. A narrative synthesis will be employed as the formal method to combine individual study data. The overlap across studies will be quantified by the corrected covered area and illustrated by the Graphical Representation of Overlap for Overviews., Ethics and Dissemination: This overview does not require ethics approval, as it uses secondary data from previously published studies. The results will be disseminated through the publication in a high-impact journal., Osf of Registration: DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/RB45T., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Objective: To observe the efficacy of vocal cord botulinum toxin type A injection in the treatment of refractory laryngeal contact granuloma and to analyze the factors affecting the curative effect. Methods: Fifty-two patients with refractory laryngeal contact granuloma who received vocal cord botulinum toxin type A injection under topical anesthesia from May 2021 to May 2023 were analyzed retrospectively. Among them, 51 were males and 1 was female, aged 22-66 (48.98±8.87)years old. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 12 months. Outcome measures in terms of patient cure rate, total effective rate, complications and recurrence rate were calculated. The median [ M ( Q 1 , Q 3 )] was used to represent non-normally distributed measurement data, and Logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent risk factors affecting efficacy. Results: The cure rate of 52 patients with refractory laryngeal contact granuloma treated by vocal cord botulinum toxin type A injection was 78.8% (41/52), and the total effective rate (including cure, marked and effective) was 90.4% (47/52). The median number of injections was 1[1,2]. Following a single injection, the cure rate was 69.2% (36/52), and the median treatment duration for cured patients was 3 [3,3] months. Hoarseness occurred in 88.5% (46/52) of patients, with recovery within 3 months in all cases. Additionally, 21.2% (11/52) of the patients experienced cough, sore throat, dyspnea, all of whom recovered within 3 months. One patient among the 41 cured cases was lost to follow-up, and the recurrence rate at the 12th month was 17.5% (7/40). Multivariate regression analysis indicated that age, granuloma size, history of PPI treatment, previous corticosteroid injections, prior surgical excision, pharyngeal reflux, chronic cough, pharyngeal reflux, chronic cough and vocal overuse were not independent risk factors for cure and recurrence. Conclusion: Vocal cord botulinum toxin type A injection is an alternative for the treatment of refractory laryngeal contact granuloma, which offers benefits such ashigh cure rate, short treatment cycle and less injection times.

Purpose: To evaluate the influence of patients' serum vitamin D levels on muscle strength characteristics and whether it impacts the durability of botulinum toxin (BT) treatment., Methods: The muscle strength of the frontal and corrugator muscles was evaluated before and after the application of TB with pre- and post-application control measurements, and at weeks 2, 5 and 12. The effect of vitamin D on muscle strength and its interaction with BT were investigated in 20 patients. The muscle contraction force was measured by surface electromyography., Results: The results revealed statistically significant differences between the frontal measurement groups at weeks 2 and 5, as well as for the corrugator in the same weeks and at week 12. Regarding vitamin D, significant differences were observed only in the initial group with vitamin D > 30 ng/mL compared to < 30 ng/mL for the frontal muscles. Patients with higher levels of vitamin D had higher average muscle strength compared to those with lower levels in all evaluations., Conclusions: It was observed that vitamin D influences muscle strength and the necessary dosage of BT.

Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) caused by trigger points in muscles is a common cause of local or generalized pain, which is clinically common, has a high incidence, and has no specific cure. The most popular and widely used clinical method mainly targets the trigger point for treatment, i.e. trigger point injection (TPI) therapy. The injectable drugs mainly include glucose, saline, local anesthetics, botulinum toxin type A, platelet-rich plasma, platelet-poor plasma, steroid preparations, etc. This method is low cost and less invasive, and early clinical applications have shown good efficacy. In this paper, we have reviewed clinical research progress in treating MPS with TPI therapy., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Botulinum Neurotoxin A (BoNT/A) is a bacterial protein that has proven to be a valuable pharmaceutical in therapeutic indications and aesthetic medicine. One major concern is the formation of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) to the core BoNT/A protein. These can interfere with the therapy, resulting in partial or complete antibody (Ab)-mediated secondary non-response (SNR) or immunoresistance. If titers of nAbs reach a level high enough that all injected BoNT/A molecules are neutralized, immunoresistance occurs. Studies have shown that continuation of treatment of neurology patients who had developed Ab-mediated partial SNR against complexing protein-containing (CPC-) BoNT/A was in some cases successful if patients were switched to complexing protein-free (CPF-) incobotulinumtoxinA (INCO). This seems to contradict the layperson's basic immunological understanding that repeated injection with the same antigen BoNT/A should lead to an increase in antigen-specific antibody titers. As such, we strive to explain how immunological memory works in general, and based on this, we propose a working hypothesis for this paradoxical phenomenon observed in some, but not all, neurology patients with immunoresistance. A critical factor is the presence of potentially immune-stimulatory components in CPC-BoNT/A products that can act as immunologic adjuvants and activate not only naïve, but also memory B lymphocyte responses. Furthermore, we propose that continuous injection of a BoN/TA formulation with low immunogenicity, e.g., INCO, may be a viable option for aesthetic patients with existing nAbs. These concepts are supported by a real-world case example of a patient with immunoresistance whose nAb levels declined with corresponding resumption of clinical response despite regular INCO injections.

In recent decades, intradetrusor injections of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) have been widely applied to treat incontinence in both idiopathic overactive bladder (iOAB) and neurogenic detrusor overactivity incontinence (NDOI). This analysis, based on the French National Hospital Discharge Database (PMSI), aims to describe real-world trends in intradetrusor BoNT-A use between 2014 and 2022. Among 32,864 patients who received at least one intradetrusor BoNT-A injection, 18,320 (55.7%) had conditions coded under iOAB, 13,376 (40.7%) under NDOI, and 1168 (3.6%) under other indications. The overall mean interval between two intradetrusor BoNT-A injections was 9.7 months, ranging from 8.7 months in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) to 11.5 months in patients with cerebral pathologies. The median number of injections was two (quartile 1-quartile 3, 1-4) in patients with spina bifida, whereas it was five (2-10) in those with MS. Only 31% of patients with iOAB received more than two intradetrusor BoNT-A injections. Regardless of its indication, BoNT-A was well tolerated. Adverse events occurring during or requiring hospitalization included infections (3.8%), hematuria (0.53%), and bleeding episodes necessitating transfusions (0.11%), all recorded within the initial month following BoNT-A injection. Our analysis of the PMSI database highlights a broad spectrum of intradetrusor BoNT-A injection practices.

One of the authors (K-H. Y.) convened a panel of seven aesthetic experts from South Korea and Australia to create guidelines for treating facial lines of the upper face with letibotulinumtoxinA. The panel members provided recommendations for injection sites, dosage, and injection techniques for using letibotulinumtoxinA and also considered relevant anatomy, patient assessment and selection, and individual variations to evaluate clinical strategies for minimizing complications. The panelists provided recommendations for treating forehead horizontal lines, glabellar frown lines, and lateral canthal lines. The guidelines developed by the panel will support clinical practitioners of all skill levels in providing safe and effective aesthetic treatments of the forehead, glabellar complex, and lateral canthal lines with letibotulinumtoxinA., Competing Interests: None of the authors have any conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 International Society of Plastic and Aesthetic Nurses. All rights reserved.)

Summary: Aging of the face is the result of the interrelation of three-dimensional changes occurring over time among the 5 different layers of the face and its associated structures. Knowledge regarding the causes of these changes and identification of new key anatomic structures have helped elucidate one of the most complex areas of the human body. This has resulted in the introduction of pharmacologic agents to help stop, mitigate, or counteract signs of aging and restore the youthful appearance of the face. The authors performed a systematic search of the literature to review the current highest-level evidence of facial antiaging pharmacologic agents. Pharmacologic and minimally invasive antiaging treatments can target different components of facial aging and continue to evolve. With continuous research efforts, traditional treatments, such as botulinum toxin type A, injectable fillers, and chemical peels, are emerging in newer, more effective formulations, with longer lasting clinical results. However, for soft-tissue descent and facial volume loss, surgery remains the standard treatment. An adequate understanding of the three-dimensional process of facial aging over time (the fourth dimension), facial anatomy, and the pharmacologic properties of antiaging/rejuvenation agents are the sine qua non of facial antiaging treatment. The specific modality should be tailored to patient characteristics, preferences, and goals., (Copyright © 2023 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

Background: Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a common complication after esophagectomy. BOTOX injections and pyloric surgeries (PS), including pyloroplasty (PP) and pyloromyotomy (PM), are performed intraoperatively as prophylaxis against DGE. This study compares the effects of pyloric BOTOX injection and PS for preventing DGE post-esophagectomy., Methods: We retrospectively reviewed Moffitt's IRB-approved database of 1364 esophagectomies, identifying 475 patients receiving BOTOX or PS during esophageal resection. PS was further divided into PP and PM. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were compared using Chi-Square, Fisher's exact test, Wilcoxon rank-sum, and ANOVA. Propensity-score matching was performed between BOTOX and PP cohorts., Results: 238 patients received BOTOX, 108 received PP, and 129 received PM. Most BOTOX patients underwent fully minimally invasive robotic Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy (81.1% vs 1.7%) while most PS patients underwent hybrid open/Robotic Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy (95.7% vs 13.0%). Anastomotic leak (p = 0.57) and pneumonia (p = 0.75) were comparable between groups. However, PS experienced lower DGE rates (15.9% vs 9.3%; p = 0.04) while BOTOX patients had less postoperative weight loss (9.7 vs 11.45 kg; p = 0.02). After separating PP from PM, leak (p = 0.72) and pneumonia (p = 0.07) rates remained similar. However, PP patients had the lowest DGE incidence (1.9% vs 15.7% vs 15.9%; p =  < 0.001) and the highest bile reflux rates (2.8% vs 0% vs 0.4%; p = 0.04). Between matched cohorts of 91 patients, PP had lower DGE rates (18.7% vs 1.1%; p =  < 0.001) and less weight loss (9.8 vs 11.4 kg; p =  < 0.001). Other complications were comparable (all p > 0.05). BOTOX was consistently associated with shorter LOS compared to PS (all p =  < 0.001)., Conclusion: PP demonstrates lower rates of DGE in unmatched and matched analyses. Compared to BOTOX, PS is linked to reduced DGE rates. While BOTOX is associated with more favorable LOS, this may be attributable to difference in operative approach. PP improves DGE rates after esophagectomy without improving other postoperative complications., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: In postparetic synkinesis, muscle tone imbalance between upper and lower lip depressors and elevators results in the inability to produce an effective smile. Surgical treatments to improve smile focus on restoring tonicity balance between perioral muscles by weakening hypertoned muscles through selective myectomies or selective neurectomies. The goal of this study was to compare objective outcomes between selective myectomies alone with those of selective myectomies combined with selective neurectomies., Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed on postparetic synkinesis patients who underwent depressor anguli oris (DAO) myectomies or DAO and platysma myectomies with selective neurectomies. Objective outcomes included preoperative and postoperative analyses of smile measures (excursion, angle, and dental show) and botulinum toxin type A administration (periorbital and platysmal)., Results: Thirty-seven patients underwent DAO myectomies only (myectomy group), and 18 patients underwent DAO and platysma myectomies with selective neurectomies (myectomy-neurectomy group). Within-group analyses showed significant angle improvement in both groups ( P < 0.05) and improved smile excursion in the myectomy-neurectomy group ( P < 0.05). Between-group comparisons showed significant closed mouth smile excursion improvement (difference in means, -1.14 mm; 95% CI, -2.19 to -0.09 mm; P = 0.034) and a significant decrease in platysmal botulinum toxin type A administration (difference in means, 27.36 units; 95% CI, 18.72 to 36.00 units; P < 0.001) in the myectomy-neurectomy group compared with the myectomy group., Conclusions: This study suggests that selective myectomies and selective myectomies with selective neurectomies provide overlapping and differing benefits to perioral synkinesis. Selective neurectomies and platysma myectomy provided slightly improved excursion and significantly decreased botulinum injections to the platysma., Clinical Question/level of Evidence: Therapeutic, III., (Copyright © 2023 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

Background: Masseter hypertrophy is a common condition that causes a undesirable square face, and often treated with botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA). Subjective assessments of BoNTA effectiveness vary from physician to patient, necessitating an objective approach for evaluation. This study introduces three-dimensional photography (3DP) for the first time in clinical assessment to evaluate BoNTA treatment for masseter hypertrophy., Methods: Ten patients received 36U of BoNTA at three injection points on each side masseter muscle. 3DP scanner using Artec Eva® was taken at the first, third, and sixth postoperative months for objective evaluation. Patient's self-perceived prominence, patients self-rated satisfaction, and physicians provided 5-grade scores were the subjective indicators., Results: A significant decrease in left masseter volume at the sixth month (P = 0.002, P = 0.004 at rest and clenching, respectively) was observed. Patient's self-perceived prominence decreased at the first (P = 0.021) and third (P = 0.039) months. Physicians' scores significantly decreased at all postoperative months. No significant changes were noted in the right masseter volume and patients self-rated satisfaction. Patient self-rated satisfaction did not consistently correlate with objective measures, except for left masseter with clenching at the sixth month., Conclusion: Three-dimensional photography accurately quantifies facial changes post-BoNTA treatment. Despite objective improvements, patient satisfaction may not align consistently. Reliable assessment tools are crucial in cosmetic surgery to manage expectations and prevent disputes., 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 ., (© 2024. Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature and International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.)

Objective: Using bibliometric methods, this study analyzed and summarized the current situation and development of the global application of botulinum toxin in dermatology., Methods: Literature published in the Web of Science Core Collection database from January 1, 2000 to October 28, 2023 was searched for topics such as "Botulinum toxin," "Dermatology," and so forth. The number of publications, countries, institutions, journals, authors, cited literature, keywords, and so forth, were analyzed and a visual knowledge map was created using scientometric tools such as CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Scimago Graphica., Results: A total of 2039 documents were retrieved and 1877 documents were included after de-duplication and transformation. The country with the highest number of published periodical articles was the United States; the main research institution was Yonsei University; the author with the highest number of published periodical articles was Kim, Hee Jin; and the high-frequency keywords mainly related to indications, combination therapy, and safety optimization., Conclusion: The results of this study provide information on the current status and trends in clinical studies of botulinum toxin in dermatology, which will help researchers identify hotspots and explore new research directions in this field., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Condylar is one of the most vulnerable sites to be traumatized in pediatric mandible fracture, while temporomandibular joint ankylosis might be the most severe complication of condylar fracture in children. There exists a long-time controversy on the treatment of condylar fractures in children. Considering the risk of facial nerve injury and a certain probability of absorption or even ankylosis after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of condylar fractures, a series of nonsurgical approaches are preferred in cases without severe malocclusion or shortening of the ramus. Our treatment plan was carried out through combining procedures of Botulinum toxin A injection in lateral pterygoid muscle with ORIF of para symphyseal fracture; subsequently, a conservative way of the occlusal splint with elastic traction was performed. Three patients of bilateral or unilateral condylar fractures, aged between 2 y and 6 y, were involved in this treatment. After more than 1 year's follow-up, the occlusion was satisfactory in all patients. Condylar remodeling was approximately complete in 3 months, and no unwanted complications were observed. We may expect this method to offer a new idea when dealing with children's condylar fracture., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.)

Background: Because of its unique advantages, frontal expansion has become a common tool for Asian nasal reconstruction, but it has the limitations of prolonging the duration and pain in the expansion area. Based on the fact that the denervation effect of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) has been widely used in the reconstruction of superficial organs, we hypothesized that BTX-A would shorten the length of nasal reconstruction sequence and alleviate the discomfort of patients., Methods: A comparative retrospective study was conducted of consecutive patients underwent sequential treatment of nasal reconstruction between June 2010 and July 2012. Data on demographics, BTX-A injection plan and expansion duration were collected and analyzed. Phased pain intensity outcomes were evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS). Photographs were collected during the follow-up period., Results: Thirty patients were enrolled in the study; 15 (50%) with and 15 (50%) without BTX-A pre-injection. Demographic data were homogeneous. The duration of the observation group (BTX-A pretreated) (133.87 ± 13.64 days) was significantly shortened versus the control group (164.27 ± 14.08 days, P<0.001). At the initial stage, no significant difference was found in the VAS scores (P=0.64). At the medium stage, the VAS score of the observation group (2.07 ± 0.80) was significantly lower than the control group (3.00 ± 0.53, P<0.01). At the terminal stage, the VAS score of the observation group (1.93 ± 0.59) was significantly lower than the control group (2.73 ± 0.70) but with a narrower disparity., Conclusion: Pre-injection of BTX-A is effective in shortening the duration of the expansion phase, as well as relieving the pain associated with expansion., Level of Evidence Iv: The journal asks authors to assign a level of evidence to each article. For a complete description of Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, see the Table of Contents or the online Instructions for Authors at www.springer.com/00266 ., (© 2024. Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature and International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.)

Purpose: Ventral hernias are a common complication of laparotomy, posing challenges particularly when primary fascial closure is unattainable. Although chemical component separation using preoperative botulinum toxin A (BTX) injections has emerged as a promising adjunct, objective evidence of its efficacy remains limited. This study aimed to objectively assess the effect of preoperative BTX on traction force during ventral hernia repair., Methods: A prospective, single-blind study was conducted on patients with midline incisional hernias following liver transplantation. BTX was administered unilaterally, and the traction force required to medially advance the anterior rectus sheath was measured intraoperatively. Pre- and post-injection CT scans were analyzed for changes in hernia size and LAW muscle measurements. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate traction force differences between BTX-injected and uninjected sides., Results: Ten patients underwent hernia repair with primary fascial closure achieved in all cases. Comparison of pre- and post-injection CT scans showed no significant changes in hernia size. LAW muscle length increased by 1.8 cm, while thickness decreased by 0.2 cm. Intraoperative traction force measurements revealed a significant reduction on the BTX-injected side compared to the uninjected side (p < 0.0001). The traction force ratio on the BTX-injected to the uninjected side averaged 57%, indicating the efficacy of BTX in reducing tension., Conclusion: Preoperative BTX significantly reduces traction force during ventral hernia repair, highlighting its potential as an adjunctive therapy in complex cases. While challenges remain in patient selection and outcome assessment, BTX offers a promising avenue for enhancing abdominal wall reconstruction outcomes and reducing surgical complications., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Preoperative injection of Botulinum Toxin A (Botox) has been described as an adjunctive therapy to facilitate fascial closure of large hernia defects in abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of Botox injections on fascial closure and overall outcomes to further validate its role in AWR. A prospectively maintained database was retrospectively reviewed to identify all patients undergoing AWR at our institution between January 2014 and March 2022. Patients who did and did not receive preoperative Botox injections were analyzed and compared. A total of 426 patients were included (Botox 76, NBotox 350). The Botox group had significantly larger hernia defects (90 cm 2 vs 9 cm 2 , p < 0.01) and a higher rate of component separations performed (60.5% vs 14.4%, p < 0.01). Despite this large difference in hernia defect size, primary fascial closure rates were similar between the groups (p = 0.49). Notably, the Botox group had higher rates of surgical-site infections (SSIs)/surgical-site occurrences (SSOs) (p < 0.01). Following propensity score matching to control for multiple patient factors including age, sex, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hernia size, the Botox group still had a higher rate of component separations (50% vs 26.3%, p = 0.03) and higher incidence of SSIs/SSOs (39.5% vs 13.5%, p = 0.01). Multimodal therapy with Botox injections and component separations can help achieve fascial closure of large defects during AWR. However, adding these combined therapies may increase the occurrence of postoperative SSIs/SSOs., (© 2024. Italian Society of Surgery (SIC).)

Background: This study aimed to elucidate the effects of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) treatment for patients diagnosed with masseter hypertrophy on the temporalis muscle, with a particular focus on assessing alterations in muscle thickness, electromyographic (EMG) activity, and the development of muscle pain., Methods: The present randomized triple-blinded clinical trial enrolled 26 female participants aged between 25 and 50 years complaining about masseter hypertrophy. Participants received 75U of BoNT-A (abobotulinumtoxinA) in both masseter muscles and after three months were randomized to receive a second treatment session of saline solution (S-BoNT-A) or BoNT-A (M-BoNT-A). Longitudinal assessments included temporalis muscle thickness through ultrasound, EMG activity, subjective pain, and masseter prominence severity after one, three, and six months of the first injection session. Muscle thickness, EMG, and subjective pain were analysed using two-way ANOVA with repeated measures and post hoc Sidak test, and for masseter prominence severity, Friedman and Mann-Whitney tests were used., Results: Regarding inter-group comparisons, a higher muscle thickness (p < 0.02) and a higher EMG activity (p < 0.01) were found in the M-BoNT-A group at the 6-month follow-up. For subjective pain assessments, inter-group comparisons showed a higher prevalence of painful regions in M-BoNT-A group at the 6-month follow-up (p < 0.02). No significant differences were found in masseter prominence severity at the 6 months assessment between groups., Conclusion: BoNT-A treatment for masseter hypertrophy lead to structural and functional changes in the temporalis muscle, presenting higher changes after multiple injections of this treatment., Level of Evidence I: 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 ., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

In the past, various techniques had been described to repair large complex ventral hernias. Laparoscopic technique of components separation showed low complication rates and better overall outcome. Recently, Botulinum Toxin A (BTA) has shown benefit in achieving tension-free repair. We describe here our multimodal technique combining BTA injection, laparoscopic anterior components separation (LACS) and open mesh repair. Ten consecutive cases performed over 3 years were studied. A standardised technique was used with a reasonably short learning curve. Patients who generally fit for general anaesthesia were offered surgery after detailed preoperative imaging work up and informed consent. Demographic details, preoperative risk stratification, intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were recorded and analysed. A structured step by step management strategy was adopted. Total ten (n = 10) cases with median age of 42.5 years (range 28-76 years), male to female ratio of 8:2 and median BMI of 32.6 were included. Three patients had pre-existing stomas. Median diameter of hernial defect was 10 cm, IQR 4.8 cm and range of 6-20 cm. No intraoperative or immediate complications were observed. Median hospital stay was 6 days. Two seromas (20%) and two return to theatre (20%) were observed. One recurrence (10%) was observed after median follow-up of 32 months. No 90-day mortality was recorded. Multimodal technique of BTA injection, LACS and midline mesh repair is a reproducible, safe and effective option to repair large complex ventral hernias., (© 2024. Italian Society of Surgery (SIC).)

Introduction: Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT/A) is an effective non-surgical method for treating gummy smile (GS). This systematic review evaluated the efficacy, duration, and safety of different BoNT/A injections., Methods: Four electronic databases were searched for relevant literature, generating 1106 references., Results: The review included 13 prospective, controlled clinical trials. The mean pre-injection anterior gingival exposure ranged from 3.5 mm to 6.8 mm, reaching maximum effect at 2-4 weeks post-injection. Most studies indicated complete improvement in gingival exposure post-injection, with gingival exposure reduced to ≤3 mm. The dosage of BoNT/A was determined by the severity of gingival exposure, with effects lasting up to 12-24 weeks. Levator labii superioris alaeque nasi (LLSAN), levator labii superioris (LLS), and zygomaticus minor (ZMi) were the main targeted muscles. Next, bibliometric analysis was conducted to provide an overview of the existing publications on managing gummy smiles., Conclusions: This data demonstrates that BoNT/A can effectively treat various types of GS triggered by muscle hyperactivity. It is a non-intrusive treatment with significant improvement, high safety, minimal side effects, and high patient satisfaction. This study was preregistered in the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42024509183)., Clinical Significance: This study systematically reviewed and compared previous results on efficacy, duration, patient satisfaction, and adverse effects of different botulinum toxin type A doses and injection sites, laying a solid foundation for further studies that use BoNT/A in the management of gummy smiles., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) is widely utilized in the management of hypertrophic and keloid scars. One proposed mechanism for scar prevention involves the inhibition of fibroblast migration in scars by BoNT-A. However, the data regarding the effect of BoNT-A on the migration of normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) is limited., Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of different types and dilutions of BoNT-A on the migration of NHDF., Methods: In vitro scratch wound assay, NHDF cells were cultured, incubated, and subjected to scratching using a sterile tip. Subsequently, the scratched NHDF monolayer was treated with different types of BoNT-A, including onabotulinumtoxinA (ONA), incobotulinumtoxinA (INCO), prabotulinumtoxinA (PRABO), or letibotulinumtoxinA (LETI), at varying concentrations of 10, 20, 25, 40, 50, and 100 units/milliliter (U/mL). Additionally, abobotulinumtoxinA (ABO) was administered at concentrations of 33, 50, 66, 71, 100, 150, 300, and 500 U/mL. Normal saline solution (NSS) served as a negative control. The extent of NHDF migration was evaluated by comparing each dilution of BoNT-A with the controls using high-content imaging at the 48-h time point. Furthermore, the viability of the of NHDF was assessed., Results: The concentrations of 25, 40, and 50 U/mL of ONA (p < 0.001) and 25 U/mL of LETI (p < 0.05) demonstrated significantly inhibited NHDF migration in comparison to the control group. Conversely, all dilutions of PRABO, INCO, and ABO exhibited comparable NHDF migration to that of the control group. Regarding NHDF viability, no significant decrease was observed across any of the BoNT-A types and dilutions., Conclusion: Different types and dilutions of BoNT-A demonstrated variable inhibitory effects on NHDF migration in vitro. The selection of BoNT-A formulation may significantly impact the clinical outcome of scar prevention related to fibroblast migration., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Patients with hypertrophic scarring tend to experience recurrence after treatment, which often occurs in areas of the body with high skin tension., Aims: To evaluate better treatments aimed at reducing the risk of scar recurrence in areas of high skin tension., Methods: Patients were randomly divided into the following three treatment groups: botulinum toxin type A (BTA) via dual-plane micro-drop injections, triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) suspension, and CO 2 via fractional CO 2 laser. Interventions were implemented in all three groups once a month for three consecutive sessions. After the final treatment, scarring was evaluated at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS)., Results: The 3-month POSAS score for each scar indicator in the treatment groups was significantly lower than that in the preoperative groups (p < 0.001). The scar score in the TAC group decreased at 3 months and increased thereafter. For other groups, the scar score continually decreased at all time points according to the Patient Scar Assessment Scale. Based on the Observer Scar Assessment Scale, the scar score continuously decreased at all time points in the BTA group; in the TAC group, it decreased at 1 month and increased thereafter; and in the CO 2 group, the scar score decreased at 3 months and subsequently stabilized., Conclusions: All three treatment methods were effective. However, the BTA group experienced a reduced risk of scar recurrence and maintained long-term treatment effects., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Although the efficacy of botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) has been shown to vary depending on injection layer, reconstitution volume, and BoNTA formulation, the effect of injection pattern has rarely been mentioned. The authors compared the therapeutic effects in patients treated with BoNTA with retrograde linear and traditional spot injection techniques., Methods: Twenty-eight participants were enrolled in a split-face, patient-blinded randomized clinical trial. Each patient received BoNTA injected with linear injection technique on one side and with spot injection technique on the other side. Outcomes included wrinkle improvement rates (WIRs) of the 2 injection techniques determined by wrinkle scores derived from an Antera 3-dimensional camera, muscle activity assessed by ultrasound, and patient-reported pain rating on a numeric rating scale., Results: All participants completed the study. For forehead wrinkles, WIR on the linear side was significantly larger than that on the spot side at 1 week and 1 month ( P < 0.02). For glabellar wrinkles, WIR on the linear injection side was significantly larger than that on the spot side at 1 week ( P = 0.04). However, for periorbital wrinkles, WIR on the spot side was significantly larger than that on the linear side at 1 week ( P < 0.03). No significant difference was observed between the injection patterns in terms of muscle contraction and numeric rating scale pain scores., Conclusions: Compared with the traditional spot injection, retrograde linear injection was superior in reducing forehead lines and glabellar lines, but less effective in reducing periorbital lines when identical dosages were injected., Clinical Question/level of Evidence: Therapeutic, II., (Copyright © 2023 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

Background: Botulinum toxin has proven effective in treating persistent myogenous temporomandibular disorders (M-TMDs) unresponsive to conservative therapies. While the usual injection sites are the masseter and temporalis muscles, the deeper lateral pterygoid muscle (LPM) is often overlooked due to its difficulty of access and the risk of local complications. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of botulinum toxin-A injections (BTX-A) in the LPM with MR-guided navigation of patients with persistent M-TMDs., Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 34 patients suffering from M-TMDs despite conservative therapies with a total of 51 injection sessions. All of them were treated by BTX-A injections in the LPM using MR-guided navigation, masseter and temporalis with clinical guidance. The effectiveness of the treatment was evaluated with measures of maximum pain-intensity scores of breakthrough and background pain, maximal interincisal mouth opening (MIO), and the presence of joint sounds. The assessment was conducted before injections, and subsequently, at 1 and 3 months postoperatively. Adverse events and perception of improvement with the treatment were also reported for each injection sessions., Results: BTX-A injections in the LPM significantly improved pain scores intensity with a reduction of 65 % and 49 % respectively at the 1- and 3-month follow-ups, with peak effectiveness at 1 month. This study showed also a statistically significant improvement in mean MIO at 3 months post-injection and a decrease in joint sounds with persistence in 9,7 % of cases at 3-month follow-up compared to 41,2 % at baseline. No significant adverse events were observed. Patients treated with BTX-A injections in the LPM had a subjective complete improvement in their perception of treatment efficacy in 63 % of cases at the end of the follow-up period., Conclusions: This study reports clinical experience on the use of MR-guided navigation to perform accurate, reliable, and safe BTX-A injections in the LPM. Although our results appear to be encouraging regarding symptom improvement of patients suffering from persistent M-TMDs, this approach may not be feasible as a primary standard procedure for managing M-TMDs. Further research is necessary to explore potential reproducible, safe, and cost-effective alternatives to enhance the accessibility of the LPM in clinical practice., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Dr. Martenot has nothing to disclose. Dr. Devoti has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pons has nothing to disclose. Pr. Meyer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Brumpt has nothing to disclose. Dr. Louvrier is a paid expert trainer for the laboratory MERZ PHARMA FRANCE. Dr. Bertin has nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.)

Introduction: Botulinum toxin type A causes muscle paralysis and is widely used in the masticatory muscle for stomatognathic diseases, such as temporomandibular disorder, bruxism, or masseteric hypertrophy. Nonetheless, its muscular effect remains unclear. Better understanding could aid improved use and perhaps new indications, particularly in dentofacial orthopaedics and orthognathic surgery., Methods: This systematic review explored the histologic and functional effects of botulinum toxin in animal and human masticatory muscles and was conducted in accordance with the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. The MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library electronic databases were searched for relevant articles. The inclusion criteria were human or animal masticatory muscle analysis after botulinum toxin injection(s) AND histological structural/ultrastructural analysis by optical or electronic microscopy OR functional effect analysis by bite force evaluation (occlusal force analyzer) and muscle activity (electromyography)., Results: Of an initial 1578 articles, 44 studies were eventually included. Botulinum toxin injection in the masticatory muscle altered its histological structure and functional properties. The human and animal studies revealed ultrastructural change, atrophy, and fiber type modifications of the masticatory muscles after one injection. Botulinum toxin decreased bite force and muscle activity, but recovery was uncertain., Conclusions: Muscle forces applied on the skeleton is a key feature of facial growth. Masticatory muscle paralysis changes mechanical stress on bones, which rebalances the force applied on facial bones. This new balance could benefit dental deformity or surgical relapse. Therefore, botulinum toxin could limit the orthognathic effect of the masticatory muscles in such patients. Given the uncertain recovery, multiple injections should be avoided, and usage should not deviate from established consensus., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effects on bite force and muscle thickness of the botulinum toxin (BoNT) injection for patients with sleep bruxism (SB) by comparing injections into the masseter muscle only and both the masseter and the anterior belly of the digastric muscle (ABDM) in a clinical trial., Methods: Twelve SB patients received BoNT-A injections using US-guided techniques into the masseter muscle only (Group A), while the remaining 12 SB patients received injections into both the masseter and ABDM (Group B). Bite force and muscle thickness were measured before injection, as well as 1 and 2 months after injection., Results: The bite force and masseter muscle thickness decreased in both Group A and Group B before injection, and at 1 and 2 months after injection. However, there was no significant difference (p > .05, repeated measures analysis of variance) between the two groups, and there was also no significant difference in ABDM thickness (p > .05, repeated measures analysis of variance)., Conclusion: This study is the first to assess the short-term effects of BoNT injected into ABDM for SB control. Results show no influence on SB reduction, suggesting the need for further research on BoNT's effectiveness in controlling intense ABDM contractions during sleep and assessing suprahyoid muscle potential impact on rhythmic masticatory muscle activity occurrence., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Oral Rehabilitation published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Botulinum toxin type A is currently strongly recommended for the treatment of anal fissures (AFs). However, there is still no consensus on dosage or injection technique. This study provides further efficacy and safety evidence in a 2-year follow-up., Method: Prospective, open-label, single-arm, single-center study carried out in adult patients with AFs non-responsive to previous treatments. Patients were treated with incobotulinumtoxinA (incoBoNT/A) injected in both laterals and posterior intersphincteric groove. Healing rate at 2 years was the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included internal anal sphincter pressures, incontinence, and safety., Results: A total of 49 patients were treated with a mean incoBoNT/A dose of 40.5 U (spread across three locations). Healing rate at 2 years was 83.9% with a 24.5% of recurrence throughout the study. Only 7 patients (14.3%) reported adverse events (AEs) that were mild and temporary. Mean reduction in anal resting pressure was -9.1 mmHg at 3 months (p = 0.001). Mean reduction in voluntary squeeze pressure was -27.5 mmHg at 3 months (p < 0.001). Mean pain perception measured with a visual analog scale decreased by -6.5 points at 2 years (p < 0.001). There was an incontinence increase at 1 month of 1.3 points (p = 0.006), but baseline values were restored at 6 months., Conclusion: We present results that support the use of incoBoNT/A as a second line for AFs that do not respond to ointment therapy. IncoBoNT/A injection is a less invasive treatment that should be considered before surgery due to its efficacy and its safety which includes no permanent impairment., Trial Registration: ISRCTN90354265; Registered on 16th February 2024. Retrospectively registered., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

With the increasing use of Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injections in the masseter muscles for both medical and aesthetic purposes, there is a constant need to continually enhance the efficacy of these treatments and reduce the risk of potential adverse events. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the masseter muscle's anatomical structure and essential landmarks and emphasizes the advantages of ultrasound (US) guidance in improving the precision of BoNT-A injections compared to conventional blind methods. The review is supplemented with comprehensive figures, including graphics, clinical images, and ultrasound visuals, to support the discussion. Potential complications such as paradoxical bulging, inadvertent injections into the risorius muscle or parotid gland, facial paralysis, and the risk of bone resorption are examined. Future research should aim at refining injection techniques and assessing the long-term effects of repeated treatments to ensure optimal patient care and safety.