Measurement of combined flap thickness for reconstruction of decubitus ulcer using computed tomography

BACKGROUND Various reconstruction options have been introduced to treat decubitus ulcers.A combined flap that takes advantage of the fasciocutaneous and muscle flaps has been proven to be effective in reconstructing decubitus ulcers in previous studies.However,no studies have measured combined flap thickness.This is the first study to demonstrate the superiority of the combined flap by measuring its thickness using enhanced abdominopelvic computed tomography(APCT).AIM To evaluate combined flap modality as a useful reconstruction option for decubitus ulcers using measurements obtained through APCT.METHODS Fifteen patients with paraplegia who underwent combined flap surgery for reconstruction of decubitus ulcers between March 2020 and December 2021 were included.The defects in the skin and muscle components were reconstructed separately.The inner gluteus muscle flap was split and manipulated to obliterate dead space.The outer fasciocutaneous flap was transposed to cover the muscle flap and opening of the decubitus ulcer.Subsequently,we performed enhanced APCT at 3 wk and 6 mo postoperatively to measure the flap thickness.RESULTS The mean flap thickness was 32.85±8.89 mm at 3 wk postoperatively and 29.27±8.22 mm at 6 mo postoperatively.The flap thickness was maintained without any major complications such as contour deformities or recurrence.CONCLUSION Although there was a significant decrease in flap thickness as measured by APCT,the combined flap provided sufficient padding and maintained its thickness even at 6 mo after reconstruction,suggesting that the combined flap modality may be a useful reconstruction option for patients with paraplegic decubitus ulcers.

Effectiveness of out-fracture of the inferior turbinate with reduction nasal bone fracture

BACKGROUND The nasal bone,being the most protruding bone in the center of the facial bones,is particularly susceptible to damage.Nasal bone fractures can often result in secondary deformation and dysfunction of the nose,including septal fractures.Studies on functional or intra-nasal complications have been rarely reported after nasal bone fracture reduction.AIM To evaluate the severity of nasal obstruction and its improvement following nasal bone fracture reduction using inferior turbinoplasty.METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of data from 50 patients with symptomatic nasal obstruction between January to December 2010.All patients underwent preoperative Computed tomography evaluation,and symptom changes and nasal cavity volume were analyzed using a visual analog scale and acoustic rhinometry before and after surgery.Closed reduction and out-fracture of both inferior turbinates performed by the same surgeon.Treatment outcomes were assessed by comparing changes in the nasal airway volume measured using acoustic rhinometry before and after surgery.The minimal cross-sectional area(MCA)was also analyzed based on the Stranc classification.RESULTS Before reduction,the mean MCA for all cases was 0.59±0.06 cm^(2),which represented an 11%decrease compared to the average size of a Korean adult(0.65±0.03 cm^(2)).The MCA for frontal impact was 0.60±0.02 cm^(2) and for lateral impact,it was 0.58±0.03 cm^(2).After reduction via inferior turbinoplasty,the MCA improved to 0.64±0.04 cm^(2).CONCLUSION This study suggests that turbinoplasty is helpful in addressing nasal obstruction.Out-fracture of the inferior turbinate is an effective and durable technique that can be easily performed to enlarge the nasal airway with minimal morbidity.