RESUMEN
We conducted this study to evaluate a novel device to create a consistent and reproducible deep partial thickness burn in a porcine model. A thermostatically controlled, heated aluminium disc device was fashioned by the Biomedical Department of our institution. Contact burns were made on the flank of two Great White pigs by applying the device heated to 92°C at intervals of 5, 10, 15 and 20 seconds to four separate test areas area of skin. Biopsies for histological analysis of burn depth were taken on day 0 at 10 minutes post burn and on day 8. Biopsies taken at day 0 revealed superficial to mid-dermal burns, with minimal dermal edema and necrosis. Those from day 8 showed mid to deep dermal edema and necrosis in all four test areas following a 20 second contact duration burn. The new contact burn device was able to create a consistent deep dermal burn after 20 seconds of contact. We anticipate that this new device could be used to investigate the development of hypertrophic scarring in a porcine model.
RESUMEN
PURPOSE: Ovarian tumours are often regarded as an indication for open oophorectomy, especially following torsion. We wish to report our results of laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy with ovarian preservation. METHODS: Retrospective review of clinical records of patients who where managed with laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy with ovarian preservation. RESULTS: Twelve records were identified over a 3-year period. The average age was 11.8 years (9-15). Presentation was of a mass in nine patients and torsion in three patients. Average size of the mass was 8.2 cm (5-18). Two patients had bilateral lesions. All patients were noted to have normal tumour markers. Successful cystectomy with ovarian preservation was accomplished in all cases using 3-port laparoscopy. The bilateral lesions were addressed at the same surgery with no increased length of stay or morbidity. In the three patients with acute torsion, an initial laparoscopic detorsion was performed with delayed laparoscopic cystectomy and ovarian preservation 7-10 days later. There was one complication of a minor umbilical port site infection. Histology was of a mature teratoma in ten cases and simple cyst in two. Six patients underwent routine ultrasonographic follow-up at 2-5 months at which time the involved ovary assumed a size and shape and blood flow comparable to the contra-lateral ovary in five patients. In one patient the affected side was smaller, 8.6 ml compared to 10 ml on the contra-lateral ovary. The remaining patients have been followed up clinically and remain asymptomatic. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic cystectomy with ovarian preservation can be successfully applied to benign ovarian tumours. Acute ovarian torsion is not a contraindication to this technique where a two stage procedure still enables us to offer ovarian preservation.