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This study investigated the characterization, antifungal activity, and biocompatibility of green agar/silver and collagen/silver bionanocomposite films for wound healing and cell growth scaffolds. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are known for their antimicrobial properties, but their toxicity and harsh synthesis limit their applications. To address this, green‐synthesized AgNPs G‐AgNPs were incorporated into agar/collagen suspensions at specific concentrations and three different G‐AgNP‐agar and two different G‐AgNP‐col bionanocomposite films were produced. Nanoparticle homogeneity and film quality were characterized through SEM analysis. Mechanical properties were tested using a uniaxial tensile tester, revealing that the bioplastic control samples exhibited UTS of 3.86 MPa compared to 0.60 MPa for collagen, a 6‐fold improvement. Viable cell metabolic activity derived from MTT assay showed that Col‐4%AgNPs and Bio‐30%AgNPs had a 42.9% and 51.6% increase in net metabolic activity respectively compared to control on day 4. Fluorescence microscopy confirmed enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation in G‐AgNP‐incorporated samples. Antifungal properties were evaluated against Cladosporium spores, able to cause severe diseases when in contact with human skins, following ISO 16869:2008 standards. The demonstrated unique properties and tunability of G‐AgNPs bionanocomposites can be employed in a variety of specialties for wound‐healing applications, to improve rate and quality of healing while reducing the risk of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meckel's diverticulum (MD) occurs in 2% of the population and is often asymptomatic. It is an embryological remnant of the oomphalomesenteric duct and can be associated with another embryonic structure—the urachus. A 23-year-old male presented with generalized abdominal pain and fever on a background of chronic abdominal pain and recurrent urinary infections. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed an inflamed MD. Next day, the patient deteriorated and was taken to theatre. The MD was found to be both perforated and tethered to the umbilicus, which itself was directly related to an abnormal extra-peritoneal structure—shown to be a urachal remnant. Such cases pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Young males with chronic abdominal pain and recurrent urinary infections should be thoroughly investigated for such pathology. Laparoscopic approach to such cases should be undertaken with caution due to possible umbilical tethering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is a well-recognized and potentially catastrophic complication of abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR). The authors present a review of the literature surrounding SSI in AWR, exploring prevention and treatment strategies as well as risk factors. Methods: A comprehensive review of the current literature was undertaken. Evidence was reviewed and summarized with particular focus on prevention and treatment strategies available to hernia surgeons. Results: Patient risk factors for SSI are well described in the literature and include obesity, smoking, and other comorbidities. Contaminated hernias and cases involving enterocutaneous fistulae are also at higher risk of SSI. Surgical decisions such as type of mesh, plane of mesh placement, and fascial release may all contribute to SSI risk. To treat established mesh infection, conservative management with antibiotic agents and negative pressure therapy is a reasonable option in some cases. Removal of prosthesis appears to provide favorable results, however, repeat surgery can be problematic Conclusions: Surgical site infection remains an important pathology in the world of AWR. Surgeons have a wealth of tools in their arsenal to prevent and treat SSI and should be aware of the emerging evidence in the fast-moving specialty of hernia surgery. Complex cases should be handled by surgeons and centers with expertise in treating such patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgical repair is advocated for flexor tendon lacerations deeper than 70%. Repair can be undertaken with different suturing techniques and using different materials. Different materials used for tendon repair will have a different gliding resistance (GR) at the joint. Previous studies have compared strength of repair and gliding resistance for various braided suture materials and for 100% laceration of flexor tendons. We directly compare the GR of two monofilament sutures when used for a peripheral running suture repair of partially lacerated tendons., Methods: Sixteen flexor tendons and A2 pulleys were harvested from Turkey feet. They were prepared, partially lacerated to 50% depth, and then repaired with a core suture (modified Kessler technique with 4-0 Ethibond) as well as an additional superficial running suture of either 6-0 Prolene or Nylon (half randomised to each). Gliding resistance was measured for all tendons before and after repair, at different flexion angles (40 and 60 degrees) and for different loads (2N and 4N)., Results: After surgical repair, gliding resistance was increased for all tendons (P < 0.01). The tendons repaired with Prolene had a higher mean gliding resistance than those repaired with Nylon (P = 0.02). Increased flexion angle and load amplified the gliding resistance (both P < 0.01)., Conclusions: 6-0 Nylon was associated with a lower gliding resistance than 6-0 Prolene but the minor differences bare unknown clinical significance.