Annals of plastic surgery
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Annals of plastic surgery · Sep 2004
Case ReportsComposite plate and wire fixation for complicated sternal closure.
Many techniques have been described to achieve closure of complicated median sternotomy wounds. The standard method of closure uses stainless steel wiring of the sternal halves; however, in complicated sternal closures, sternal cut-through and wire failure can occur. Recent literature advocates the use of fixation plates that achieve bony union, with plating across the median sternal osteotomy site as a singular method. ⋯ Successful wound closure without complication was achieved in all cases. The technique and the clinical series with an illustrative example are presented. The use of plate and wire fixation represents an alternate method to conventional techniques to achieve sternal closure, stability, and uncomplicated wound healing in these difficult-to-manage cases.
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Annals of plastic surgery · Sep 2004
Case ReportsThe use of subcutaneous pedicle rhomboid flap in the treatment of postburn scar contractures.
To investigate the efficacy and versatility of subcutaneous pedicle rhomboid flap in the treatment of linear or wide postburn scar contractures located in various parts of the body. ⋯ Clinical results indicated that subcutaneous pedicle rhomboid flap is a simple, efficient, and versatile technique in release of any postburn scar contracture. As no undermining is carried out, the flaps are more reliable than commonly used Z-plasty. Again contrary to Z-plasty, displacement of anatomic landmarks such as axillary hair and areola is rare with the technique.