Annals of plastic surgery
-
Annals of plastic surgery · Dec 1984
Case ReportsUse of a new hemostatic scalpel in plastic surgery.
This assessment of a new hemostatic scalpel in plastic surgery is based on one surgeon's personal experience with this instrument in 348 cases representing a variety of procedures. With its improved hemostatic capabilities the hemostatic scalpel may offer the following advantages: better visualization of the surgical field, enhanced precision, and more delicate control. Considerable time and experience are necessary, however, before the scalpel can be used safely and competently.
-
Annals of plastic surgery · Jun 1984
Decrease in rate of wound contraction with the temporary skin substitute biobrane.
In burn patients normal wound healing contraction may lead to contracture deformity requiring secondary reconstruction. Full-thickness skin grafts are observed to inhibit both contraction and myofibroblasts by an unknown mechanism. The temporary synthetic skin substitute Biobrane has become an acceptable alternative to cadaver allografts for many burn and reconstruction wounds. ⋯ By comparing open and Biobrane closed wounds in 20 rats, we have demonstrated a significant (p less than 0.005) difference in wound size during the time that the Biobrane is adherent to the wound. Linear regression curves are used to express the rate of contraction and demonstrate a threefold decrease. Alternative mechanisms for this inhibition are postulated, including mechanical stenting versus direct inhibition of contractile myofibroblasts.
-
Annals of plastic surgery · Jul 1983
Prevention of ectropion by horizontal shortening of the lower lid during blepharoplasty.
Vertical wedge excision of the lower lid is advocated in selected patients undergoing blepharoplasty to prevent postoperative ectropion. Candidates for "V" excision include patients with a predisposition for senile ectropion. Diagnosis and surgical technique are described.
-
Injuries resulting from wringer washers are still fairly common around the world. Manufacturers' data regarding wringer washers are reported. ⋯ Skeletal, nerve, and tendon injuries were encountered. The recommended management stresses the importance of elevation and close observation with no emphasis on compression dressing.