Annals of plastic surgery
-
Annals of plastic surgery · Jul 2013
Single-Institution Financial Analysis of Biologic Versus Synthetic Mesh Hernia Repair: A Retrospective Analysis of Patients Readmitted for Hernia Repair.
The advent and proliferation of commercially available biologic mesh material has expanded the repertoire of hernia repair materials available to the surgeon. Given the higher initial cost of these mesh materials relative to synthetic materials such as polypropylene, there has been debate regarding the purported benefit of the use of biologic mesh. This study is a single-institution review of complex hernia repairs using both biologic and synthetic mesh materials. ⋯ The objective of this study was to evaluate the financial implications of mesh choice. Specific parameters reviewed included type of mesh used, total costs of hospitalization, direct cost associated with the hernia repair, total collections, and percentage of collections relative to total charges. Through such analysis, our aim was to determine whether there were any variances in revenue and costs associated with the application of either mesh material or the associated clinical scenarios.
-
Annals of plastic surgery · Jul 2013
Historical ArticleClassic citations in main plastic and reconstructive surgery journals.
The number of citations of an article in scientific journals reflects its impact on a biomedical specialty and its recognition in the scientific community. In this study, we identified and analyzed the 100 most highly cited articles published between 1971 and 2011 in journals pertaining to plastic and reconstructive surgery research. ⋯ This analysis of the top citation classics allows for the recognition of major advances and supplies a historic perspective on the progress of plastic and reconstructive surgery research.
-
Annals of plastic surgery · Jul 2013
Treatment of postblepharoplasty lower eyelid malposition by Aptos thread.
Lower eyelid malposition is the most common complication after lower eyelid blepharoplasty. Although the traditional techniques were effective for correcting lower eyelid malposition, they had potential disadvantages, including additional trauma, additional scar, and long recovery period. ⋯ Aptos thread technique is a safe, effective, and the least invasive method of managing mild and moderate postblepharoplasty lower eyelid malposition secondary to shortening anterior lamella.
-
Annals of plastic surgery · Jul 2013
Chest wall reconstruction for sternal dehiscence after open heart surgery.
Sternal dehiscence is a grave complication after open heart surgery. Sternal debridement and flap coverage are the mainstays of therapy, but no consensus exists regarding the appropriate level of debridement. More recently, the use of vacuum-assisted closure devices has been advocated as a bridge to definitive closure, but indications for use remain incompletely defined. ⋯ Radical sternectomy including the costal cartilages is associated with lower rates of surgical morbidity and reoperation, but not mortality.