bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nerve transfers for treatment of isolated axillary nerve injuries
Authors: Wheelock Margie , Clark Tod A , Giuffre Jennifer L 
Published: March 2018

Background The most common neurological defect in traumatic anterior glenohumeral dislocation is isolated axillary nerve palsy. Most recover spontaneously; however, some have persistent axillary neuropathy. An intact rotator cuff may compensate for an isolated axillary nerve injury; however, given the high rate of rotator cuff pathology with advancing age, patients with an axillary nerve injury are at risk for complete shoulder disability. Objective To review reconstruction of the axillary nerve to alleviate shoulder pain, augment shoulder stability, abduction and external rotation to alleviate sole reliance on the rotator cuff to move and stabilize the shoulder. Method A retrospective review of 10 patients with an isolated axillary nerve injury and an intact rotator cuff who underwent a triceps nerve branch to axillary nerve transfer was performed. Patient demographics, surgical technique, deltoid strength, donor-site morbidity, complications and time to surgery were evaluated. Result Ten male patients, mean age 38.3 years (range 18 to 66 years), underwent a triceps to axillary nerve transfer for isolated axillary nerve injury 7.4 months (range five to 12 months) post-traumatic shoulder dislocation. Deltoid function was British Medical Research Council grade 0/5 in all patients preoperatively and ≥3/5 deltoid strength in eight patients at final follow-up (14.8 months [range 12 to 25 months]). There were no complications and no donor-site morbidity. Conclusion A triceps to axillary nerve transfer for isolated axillary neuropathy following traumatic shoulder dislocation improved shoulder pain, stability and deltoid strength, and potentially preserves shoulder function with advancing age by alleviating sole reliance on the rotator cuff for shoulder abduction and external rotation.
Selecting the best and brightest: A comparison of residency match processes in the United States and Canada
Authors: Krauss EM , Bezuhly M , Williams JG 
Published: March 2018

Background Selecting candidates for plastic surgery residency training remains a challenge. In the United States, academic measures (United States Medical Licensing Exam Step I scores, medical school class rank and publications) are used as primary criteria for candidate selection for residency. In contrast, Canadian medical education de-emphasizes academic measures by using a pass-fail grading system. As a result, choosing residents from many qualified applicants may pose a challenge for Canadian programs without objective measures of academic success. Methods A 25-question online survey was distributed to program directors of Canadian plastic surgery residency-training programs. Program directors commented on number of yearly residents and applicants; application sections (ranked in importance using a Likert scale); interview invitation and rank-order list determination; and their satisfaction with the selection process. Results Ten Canadian plastic surgery program directors responded (90.9% response rate). The most important application components determining invitation to interview were letters of reference from a plastic surgeon (mean importance of 5.0 on the Likert scale), clinical electives in plastic surgery (mean 4.6) and electives with their program (mean 4.5). Applicants invited for interview were assessed on the quality of their responses to questions, maturity and personality. The majority of program directors agreed that a clinical elective with their program was important for consideration on their rank-order list. Program directors were neutral on their satisfaction with the selection process. Conclusion Canadian plastic surgery residency programs emphasize clinical electives with their program and letters of reference from colleagues when selecting applicants for interviews. In contrast to their American counterparts, Canadian program directors rely on clinical interactions with prospective residents in the absence of objective academic measures.
Spreader graft placement in endonasal rhinoplasty: Technique and a review of 100 cases
Authors: Samaha M , Rassouli A 
Published: March 2018

Background Spreader grafts are widely considered to be the mainstay of treatment for insufficient internal nasal valve and are commonly placed preventively during rhinoplasty, after hump removal, to avoid middle vault collapse. Although the placement and suturing of spreader grafts in open rhinoplasty is fairly easy, their positioning and stabilization in endonasal rhinoplasty is associated with a learning curve. Methods A review of the technique with tips for the novice surgeon is presented, particularly as pertains to correct placement. The technique can be used to insert spreader grafts irrespective of whether the nasal dorsum is addressed. Suturing is usually unnecessary. A retrospective review of 100 patients in whom spreader grafts were placed was undertaken to evaluate complications such as poor placement, displacement or other complications. Results Although there is a learning curve to ensure the dorsal mucosal attachment is maintained while developing the pocket sufficiently dorsally for proper graft placement, the technique is easy to learn, effective, quick and technically simple to perform. Of 100 patients, three had a cartilaginous dorsal spur as the cephalic edge of the graft became visible. One patient developed an ecchymosis along the dorsum that caused a hump that resolved in two months. There were no other aesthetic or functional complications. Conclusion The endonasal placement technique provides for simple, safe and easy placement, as well as stabilization of spreader grafts during endonasal rhinoplasty, with few complications.
Use of the Derriford Appearance Scale 59 to assess patient-reported outcomes in secondary cleft surgery
Authors: Ricketts Sophie , Regev Eran , Antonyshyn Oleh M , Kiss Alex , Fialkov Jeffrey A 
Published: March 2018

Background Secondary rhinoplasty, one of the final procedures in addressing the stigma of the cleft lip and palate (CLP), has both functional and aesthetic objectives. The way in which physicians evaluate outcomes in surgery concerning aesthetics is changing. Well-designed patient-reported outcome measures to assess health-related quality of life improvements attributable to surgery are increasingly being used. The Derriford Appearance Scale 59 (DAS-59) is currently the only available validated patient-reported outcome measure that assesses concern about physical appearance. Methods Twenty patients with CLP presenting between May 2009 and May 2013 for secondary rhinoplasty to Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Toronto, Ontario) were recruited. DAS-59 measures were administered both preoperatively and at least six months after surgery. Pre- and postoperative measures were scored and compared. Item-by-item analysis of the measure was also performed. Results Total scores for this CLP group indicated greater concern about appearance than the general population. Across all subscales of the measure, there was a reduction in scores after secondary rhinoplasty suggesting less patient concern with appearance and a positive effect of surgery on patient quality of life. Item-by-item analysis suggested relatively few items in the measure were driving overall change in total scores. Conclusion Comparison of pre- and postoperative scores with the DAS-59 in secondary cleft rhinoplasty suggests there is less concern with appearance after surgery. However, a small number of items within this generic scale contributing to this difference may suggest the need for a more patient specific measure for assessment of surgical outcomes in the cleft population.
Shared medical appointments as a new model for carpal tunnel surgery consultation: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Wong Alison L , Martin Janet , Wong Michael J , Bezuhly Michael , Tang David 
Published: March 2018

Background In chronic disease management, shared medical appointments have been shown to improve clinic access, productivity and patient education. However, adoption of this model in surgical consultation is limited, and its effect on surgical patients' satisfaction, comfort and surgical risk recall is unknown. Objective To determine whether shared medical appointments could be applied to carpal tunnel surgery consultation while being equally effective as individual consultation for risk recall, patient comfort and satisfaction. Methods A prospective randomized trial involving 80 patients referred for carpal tunnel release consultation, in which patients were assigned to an educational discussion individually or as part of a shared appointment, was conducted. In a blinded fashion, patients were contacted preoperatively to assess their risk recall and postoperatively to rate their overall satisfaction, comfort and satisfaction with the surgeon. Results Patient demographics were equal. Surgical risk recall was equivalent between shared and individual consults (2.06±1.15 versus 1.64±1.04; P=0.11). More participants in the shared appointments condition remembered the specific risks of infection (61.1% versus 33.3%; P=0.020) and bleeding (30.6% versus 10.3%; P=0.028). There was no difference in overall satisfaction (8.70 versus 8.88; P=0.75), satisfaction with the surgeon (8.05 versus 8.13; P=0.92) or overall comfort (8.80 versus 8.31; P=0.46). Discussion Shared medical appointments for carpal tunnel surgery consultation were equivalent to individual consultation in terms of surgical risk recall, patient satisfaction and comfort. Conclusion These results support the use of shared appointments for large-volume, low-variation surgery.
The Role of Local Bupivacaine Irrigation in Postoperative Pain Control After Augmentation Mammoplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Qiu Shan Shan , Roque Marta , Chen Yi-Chieh 
Published: March 2018

Background: The objective of this study is to analyze the efficacy of local bupivacaine irrigation after augmentation mammoplasty for the control of postoperative pain. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted including all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the irrigation of bupivacaine (±ketorolac) versus normal saline or no irrigation for pain control after breast augmentation. The primary outcome was postoperative pain measured by visual analog scale. The study protocol was established a priori according to the recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration. A bibliographical search was conducted in September 2015 in the following Cochrane Library databases: CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scielo. The strategy used for the search was ((augmentation AND (“mammoplasty”[MeSH Terms] OR “mammoplasty”)) OR ((“breast”[MeSH Terms] OR “breast”) AND augmentation)) AND ((“pain, postoperative”[MeSH Terms])). Results: Four RCTs with a total of 264 participants were included. Two trials compared bupivacaine alone versus placebo (normal saline or no irrigation) and 3 trials compared bupivacaine plus ketorolac versus placebo. The combined irrigation of bupivacaine and ketorolac showed a clinically significant reduction of pain in the first postoperative hour and on postoperative day 5. The irrigation with bupivacaine compared with placebo significantly reduced pain assessed on postoperative day 4. Conclusion: The irrigation of bupivacaine with or without ketorolac was associated with a reduction of postoperative pain compared with control groups for the first 5 postoperative days. Due to the few number of trials included, these results should be correlated further clinically.
Intraoperative Nerve Stimulation During Brachial Plexus Surgery: Comparison Between a Totally Disposable Nerve Stimulator and Nerve Stimulator Normally Used for Nerve Blocks
Authors: Thallaj Ahmed , Alotaibi Wadha M. , AlZahrani Tariq , Abaalkhail Abdulaziz S. , El-Sayed Amel A. F. , Al-Qattan Mohammad M. 
Published: March 2018

Background: Intraoperative nerve stimulation is done routinely in brachial plexus and peripheral nerve surgery as well as in selective neurectomy in spastic patients. Objective: The current study compares the use of 2 different devices for nerve stimulation: a totally disposable nerve stimulator and a nerve stimulator used for nerve blocks by anesthetists. Methods: A retrospective study of 60 patients who underwent brachial plexus surgery: In 30 patients, we used the totally disposable nerve stimulator (group 1) and in another 30 patients, we used the anesthesia device (group 2). The cost of disposable materials used for nerve stimulation was calculated in each group. The same surgeon performed all operations, and he was asked to give his subjective opinion regarding the convenience and ease of use of the device in each group. Results: The main advantages of the totally disposable device are its placement totally within the sterile field, and it is operated by the surgeon without the need to communicate with the anesthetist. However, the totally disposable device had several major disadvantages when compared to the anesthesia device. Firstly, the disposable stimulator can only deliver 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mA stimuli, while the anesthesia device can deliver stimuli of 0.1 to 5 mA (in 0.1 mA increments). Secondly, the disposable stimulator frequently fails to operate during surgery, and this is not experienced with the anesthesia device. Finally, the cost of disposables is less using the anesthesia device. Conclusion: Our center has stopped using the disposable nerve stimulator in favour for the anesthesia device.
The Role of Dynamic Ultrasound in the Immediate Conservative Treatment of Volar Plate Injuries of the PIP Joint: A Series of 78 Patients
Authors: Leclère Franck Marie , Mathys Lukas , Juon Bettina , Vögelin Esther 
Published: March 2018

Introduction: The management of volar plate avulsion fractures in the context of a stable joint and a bony fragment of less than 30% has traditionally been conservative. This study was performed to assess volar plate healing with high-resolution ultrasound in order to provide early full mobilization. Material and Methods: Between January 2012 and December 2013, 78 patients with volar plate injuries of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints (42 distortions and 36 dislocations) were treated conservatively in our department for volar plate avulsion fracture associated with stable joint and bony fragment inferior to 30% of the intra-articular surface assessed both by radiography and ultrasound. Conservative treatment included extension stop splinting for the first 2 weeks and Coban bandage until 6 weeks postinjury. However, it may be possible to modify the duration of extension stop splinting based on clinical and ultrasound findings (with no additional X-ray) performed every 2 weeks for the first 3 months and then at 4 months postinjury. Only patients with residual contracture at the 4-month assessment had prolonged follow-up in order to ensure adequate dynamic splint therapy. Results: The amount of soft tissue oedema and the mobility of the volar plate were factors used to determine return to full mobilization. Mean extension-stop-splint wear was 16 ± 2 days. During the first 2 follow-up assessments, 4 patients were excluded from the study because of the instability of the PIP joint. One patient required refixation of a large fragment of 30%, 2 patients required superficial flexor tendon (FDS) tenodesis of the unstable volar plate in hyperextension and 1 other patient required arthrodesis of the PIP joint. In 51 patients, the postoperative follow-up was free of complications at 4 months. In 18 patients, flexion contracture of 20° (range 11°-40°) and oedema during follow-up required dynamic extension splints for 3 to 5 months. After this time, 5 patients had a residual contracture of 10° to 15°. Conclusion: Avulsion fractures of the volar plate at the PIP joint are common. In general, they have a good outcome using the conservative treatment with extension block splints. Flexion contracture is a common complication and may be reduced by immediate splints in full extension at night and Coban bandage during the day. High-resolution sonography is a convenient tool to evaluate palmar plate stability, to assess reduction of oedema, and thus to guide safe return to full range of movement.
A Qualitative Assessment of the Journey to Delayed Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Cheng Ho Man , McMillan Catherine , Lipa Joan E. , Snell Laura 
Published: March 2018

Background: Canada has low immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) rates compared to the United States and Europe. Breast cancer survivors live with mastectomy defects sometimes for years, and this represents an area for improvement in cancer care. Purpose: This study qualitatively assessed (1) information provided about breast reconstruction at the time of cancer diagnosis among women seeking delayed breast reconstruction (DBR) and (2) referral practices for plastic surgery consultation for DBR. Methods: Fifty-two consecutive patients seen in consultation for DBR at a single Canadian tertiary care centre completed questionnaires regarding their experience in seeking breast reconstruction. Seven semi-structured interviews were conducted to further explore themes identified through questionnaires. Questionnaire responses and interview transcripts were analyzed for recurring themes using standard qualitative techniques. Results: A significant portion of women (43%) was interested in reconstruction prior to mastectomy, yet IBR was infrequently discussed (14%) or discouraged by their oncologic surgeons (33%). Common patient reasons for not pursuing IBR were referring physician objection and not having adequate knowledge. Women expressed wanting to discuss reconstruction at the time of cancer diagnosis. Half of the patients had attended another consultation, but the initial plastic surgeon either did not offer procedures for which these women were candidates or had prohibitively long surgical wait times. Conclusion: Lack of information about reconstructive options at the time of cancer diagnosis and perceived access barriers to plastic surgeons may contribute to underutilization of IBR in Canada. Access to breast reconstruction can be improved by reducing inefficiencies in plastic surgery referrals.
Objective Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Temporalis Tendon Transfer for Prolonged Complete Facial Paralysis
Authors: Brichacek Michal , Sultan Babar , Boahene Kofi D. , Ishii Lisa , Byrne Patrick J. 
Published: March 2018

Objectives: We describe an approach to reanimation of complete, prolonged facial paralysis using minimally invasive temporalis tendon transfer (MIT3) by the melolabial or transoral approach. Objective outcome measures are evaluated based on symmetry, and grading of preoperative/post-operative results and the scar at the melolabial fold. Study Design: Retrospective cohort study. Methods: Twenty-five patients undergoing the MIT3 technique were studied. Photographic analysis was used to determine the percentage of difference between the 2 sides (symmetry). Using the Delphi method to achieve consensus, a panel of experts graded pre/post-operative photos using the Terzis’ Facial Grading System and a 1 to 10 Likert-type scale and the melolabial scar using the Beausang Scar Scale. Results: Percentage of difference (symmetry) with smiling improved from 18.6% ± 1.5% (mean ± standard error of the mean [SEM]) preoperatively to 5.0 ± 0.9% (mean ± SEM) post-operatively. Expert grading by the Terzis system showed improvement post-operatively (mean 3.7/5; median 3.6/5) versus preoperatively (mean 1.5/5; median 1.2/5). Perceived improvement was also largely favourable (mean 8.1/10; median 8.0/10). Melolabial scar grading was favourable in terms of colour (mean 1.53/4), surface character (mean 1.05/2), contour (mean 1.60/4), and distortion (mean 1.74/4). Conclusions: The MIT3 technique offers immediate, predictable, and symmetrical return of smile function. Objective symmetry analysis and favourable expert grading of both pre-/post-operative photographs and the scar at the melolabial fold demonstrate applicability for facial reanimation in patients where other procedures have failed, or when a direct return to function is desired. Both the melolabial approach and transoral approach were found to be acceptable and effective, although applicability varies.
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Protocol Enables Safe Same-Day Discharge After Alloplastic Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Dumestre Danielle O. , Redwood Jennifer , Webb Carmen E. , Temple-Oberle Claire 
Published: March 2018

Background: To compare enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) with traditional recovery after surgery (TRAS) for patients undergoing alloplastic breast reconstruction. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 2 patient groups (ERAS and TRAS) undergoing alloplastic breast reconstruction was performed. Data were collected from 2012 to 2013 (TRAS) and from 2013 to 2016 (ERAS). The ERAS protocol included day surgery, multimodal analgesia, and preoperative anti-emetic. The TRAS pathway involved overnight admission, narcotic-based analgesia, and no preoperative anti-emetic. Demographics, operative variables, and complications were compared between groups. Results: Seventy-eight ERAS patients and 78 TRAS patients were included. Length of stay was shorter for ERAS patients (0.38 nights ERAS and 1.45 nights TRAS; P < .001). The ERAS patients underwent significantly more bilateral surgery (80.8% ERAS and 55.1% TRAS; P < .001), immediate reconstruction (98.6% ERAS and 89.3% TRAS; P = .004), and had more implants versus expanders placed (66% [93/141] ERAS and 24.8% TRAS; P < .001). There were no differences in the number of post-operative emergency department visits (8% ERAS and 14% TRAS; P = .2) and readmissions (8% ERAS and 3.8% TRAS; P = .3) between the groups. There was no difference in the rate of hematoma (0.7% ERAS and 0% TRAS; P = .35), infection requiring explantation (1.4% ERAS and 0.8% TRAS; P = .65), infection requiring outpatient IV antibiotics (1.4% ERAS and 2.5% TRAS; P = .53), and infection requiring IV antibiotics and readmission (2.1% ERAS and 1.7% TRAS; P = .78) between the groups. There were no differences in the number of minor complications (22% ERAS and 23% TRAS; P = .82). Conclusion: The ERAS protocol for alloplastic breast reconstruction is safe, without increased readmission or complication rates compared to TRAS, and significantly decreased length of stay.
Providers’ Perceptions of Barriers to Optimal Communication With Patients During the Postcolonoscopy Experience
Authors: Hyams Travis , Curbow Barbara , Christie Juliette , Mueller Nora , King-Marshall Evelyn , Sultan Shahnaz , George Thomas J 
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Colonoscopy screening is an effective method of detecting and preventing colorectal cancer. Standard procedure for most colonoscopies (98%) is to use conscious sedation, which can cause short-term cognitive impairment postprocedure, including communication difficulties. In this study, we explored providers’ (gastroenterology doctors and nurses) perceptions of the barriers to optimal communication with patients immediately following colonoscopy. Methods: We conducted interviews with 61 providers across 5 clinical configurations. Interviews were transcribed and coded with NVivo version 11 software. Results: Themes emerged regarding barriers to optimal provider–patient communication postcolonoscopy: patient barriers (sedation and patient characteristics), caregiver barriers, and system characteristics. Conclusions: Providers’ perceived barriers to communication are an important topic to study. They endorsed, in particular, interventions that target the postcolonoscopy time frame when patients may still be sedated, but providers must convey important discharge and follow-up instructions.