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The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a global crisis in health systems worldwide. Emergency care services have been overloaded, and there have been different changes in the patient's profile and the most frequent diagnoses. The aim of the study was to compare the number of emergency surgeries in the Hand and Microsurgery group of the quaternary hospital (IOT-FMUSP) from March 2020 to February 2022, the pandemic period, with the previous two years, March 2018 to February 2020. Two hundred and seventy-two patients were evaluated, with a mean age of 39.54 ± 17 years (range 1 to 90 years), 12.50% (n = 34) women and 87.50% (n = 238) men. Between March 2018 and February 2020, 142 (52.21%) emergency upper limb surgeries were performed; between March 2020 and February 2022, 130 surgeries were performed (47.79%). There was a reduction in upper limb surgeries in patients between 26-45 years and blunt injury surgeries. There was also an increase in surgeries in patients over 46, amputations, fractures, re-implantation procedures, and open fracture fixation. Level of evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

A pandemia por COVID-19 desencadeou uma crise global nos sistemas de saúde ao redor do mundo. Serviços de atendimento de urgência sofreram sobrecarga e diferentes mudanças no perfil do paciente atendido bem como dos diagnósticos mais frequentes. O objetivo do estudo foi comparar o número de cirurgias de urgência, no grupo de Mão e Microcirurgia, do hospital quaternário (IOT-FMUSP) ocorridos de março de 2020 a fevereiro de 2022, período pandêmico; com os dois anos anteriores, de março de 2018 a fevereiro de 2020. No total foram avaliados 272 pacientes com idade média de 39,54 ± 17 anos (variação 1 a 90 anos), sendo 12,50% (n = 34) de mulheres e 87,50 % (n = 238) de homens. Entre março de 2018 a fevereiro de 2020 foram realizadas 142 (52,21%) cirurgias de urgência em membro superior e de março de 2020 a fevereiro de 2022, 130 cirurgias foram realizadas (47,79%). Identificou-se redução do número de cirurgias em membro superior em pacientes entre 26-45 anos e do número de cirurgias por ferimentos corto contusos. Além do aumento no número de cirurgias em pacientes acima de 46 anos, número de casos de amputações, fraturas, procedimentos de reimplante e fixação por fraturas expostas. Nível de evidência III, Estudo restrospectivo comparativo.

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OBJETIVE: This article presents a retrospective cohort study analyzing patients from IOT-FMUSP who underwent replantation or revision amputation procedures for traumatic thumb amputation between 2013 and 2020. METHODS: The study included 40 patients in the replanted group and 41 patients in the amputed group. The patients were divided according to the level of amputation and their medical records were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 81 patients with digital amputation were analyzed, consisting of 79 males and 2 females, with mean ages of 43 and 49 for the amputed and replanted groups, respectively. According to the Biemer classification, 28.4% had proximal amputation, while 71.6% had distal amputation. The most common occupation was bricklayer (19.75%), and 80.24% were manual workers. Of the patients, 65% returned to their previous work, with 77.77% of them having amputation on their non-dominant hand, mostly caused by circular saw accidents (77.77%). The replantation success rate was 78%, with an average ischemia time of 9 hours and door-to-room time of 2 hours. CONCLUSION: the study findings revealed that traumatic thumb amputation predominantly affects working-age males with a low education level and the success rate of replantation was high in this ischemia time and door-to-room conditions. Level of Evidence II, Retrospective study.

OBJETIVO: Este artigo consiste em um corte retrospectivo que analisou vítimas de amputação traumática do polegar submetidas a reimplante ou procedimentos de regularização da amputação no Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medica da Universidade de São Paulo (IOT-FMUSP). Métodos: Foram analisados 40 pacientes reimplantados e 41 pacientes regularizados, que foram separados conforme o nível da amputação e, após, tiveram seus prontuários médicos analisados. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 81 pacientes com amputação digital (79 homens e 2 mulheres), com idade média de 43 anos e 49 anos (Grupo Amputado e Grupo Reimplante, respectivamente) e 28,4% deles tinham amputação proximal, de acordo com a classificação de Biemer, enquanto 71,6% tinham amputação distal. A ocupação mais comum foi a de pedreiro (19,75%), mas 80,24% eram trabalhadores manuais. 65% dos pacientes retornaram ao trabalho anterior. 77,77% dos pacientes afetaram a mão não dominante, e a serra circular causou 77,77% das amputações. A taxa de sucesso para reimplantes foi de 78%. O tempo de isquemia foi de 9 horas e o tempo de porta-quarto foi de 2 horas. Conclusão: O estudo revelou que as taxas de reimplante foram altas nas condições de isquemia e tempo porta-sala, e a maioria dos pacientes vítimas de amputação traumática do polegar são homens em idade de trabalho e com baixa escolaridade. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo retrospectivo.

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BACKGROUND: There is an increased tissue expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) on Dupuytren contracture (DC). Genetic polymorphisms (single nucleotide polymorphism [SNPs]) in genes of these enzymes may individually influence these transcriptions. Haplotype analysis, which is the observation of a group of alleles, could be more useful to identify the association between SNPs and DC. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of MMP-1 g.-1607 G>GG (rs1799750), MMP-8 g.-799 C>T (rs11225395), and MMP-13 g.-77 A>G (rs2252070) SNPs individually and in haplotype on DC. METHODS: A total of 60 patients with a clinical diagnosis of DC were evaluated and matched, according to age and gender, with the control group of 100 patients without this clinical diagnosis. Genomic DNA was extracted from saliva samples, and genotypes were obtained by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Statistical analysis of the results included Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-squared test, and PHASE and R software, with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: The 3 SNPs studied showed significant differences in allele and genotype frequencies between the groups: 2G in MMP-1 (P = .018; odds ratio [OR] 1.80 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13-2.88)), T in MMP-8 (P = .015; OR 0.53 (95% CI, 0.33-0.88)), and A in MMP-13 (rs2252070) SNPs (P = .040, OR 0.54 (95% CI, 0.33-0.90)) are risk alleles. The global haplotype analysis indicated a significant difference between both groups. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, MMP-1 g.-1607 G>GG (rs1799750), MMP-8 g.-799 C>T (rs11225395), and MMP-13 g.-77 A>G (rs2252070) SNPs, individually and in haplotype, are a risk factor for DC, indicating that these SNPs may be a potential diagnostic and prognostic factor for DC.

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ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a global crisis in health systems worldwide. Emergency care services have been overloaded, and there have been different changes in the patient's profile and the most frequent diagnoses. The aim of the study was to compare the number of emergency surgeries in the Hand and Microsurgery group of the quaternary hospital (IOT-FMUSP) from March 2020 to February 2022, the pandemic period, with the previous two years, March 2018 to February 2020. Two hundred and seventy-two patients were evaluated, with a mean age of 39.54 ± 17 years (range 1 to 90 years), 12.50% (n = 34) women and 87.50% (n = 238) men. Between March 2018 and February 2020, 142 (52.21%) emergency upper limb surgeries were performed; between March 2020 and February 2022, 130 surgeries were performed (47.79%). There was a reduction in upper limb surgeries in patients between 26-45 years and blunt injury surgeries. There was also an increase in surgeries in patients over 46, amputations, fractures, re-implantation procedures, and open fracture fixation. Level of evidence III, Retrospective Comparative Study.

RESUMO A pandemia por COVID-19 desencadeou uma crise global nos sistemas de saúde ao redor do mundo. Serviços de atendimento de urgência sofreram sobrecarga e diferentes mudanças no perfil do paciente atendido bem como dos diagnósticos mais frequentes. O objetivo do estudo foi comparar o número de cirurgias de urgência, no grupo de Mão e Microcirurgia, do hospital quaternário (IOT-FMUSP) ocorridos de março de 2020 a fevereiro de 2022, período pandêmico; com os dois anos anteriores, de março de 2018 a fevereiro de 2020. No total foram avaliados 272 pacientes com idade média de 39,54 ± 17 anos (variação 1 a 90 anos), sendo 12,50% (n = 34) de mulheres e 87,50 % (n = 238) de homens. Entre março de 2018 a fevereiro de 2020 foram realizadas 142 (52,21%) cirurgias de urgência em membro superior e de março de 2020 a fevereiro de 2022, 130 cirurgias foram realizadas (47,79%). Identificou-se redução do número de cirurgias em membro superior em pacientes entre 26-45 anos e do número de cirurgias por ferimentos corto contusos. Além do aumento no número de cirurgias em pacientes acima de 46 anos, número de casos de amputações, fraturas, procedimentos de reimplante e fixação por fraturas expostas. Nível de evidência III, Estudo restrospectivo comparativo.

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ABSTRACT Objetive: This article presents a retrospective cohort study analyzing patients from IOT-FMUSP who underwent replantation or revision amputation procedures for traumatic thumb amputation between 2013 and 2020. Methods: The study included 40 patients in the replanted group and 41 patients in the amputed group. The patients were divided according to the level of amputation and their medical records were analyzed. Results: A total of 81 patients with digital amputation were analyzed, consisting of 79 males and 2 females, with mean ages of 43 and 49 for the amputed and replanted groups, respectively. According to the Biemer classification, 28.4% had proximal amputation, while 71.6% had distal amputation. The most common occupation was bricklayer (19.75%), and 80.24% were manual workers. Of the patients, 65% returned to their previous work, with 77.77% of them having amputation on their non-dominant hand, mostly caused by circular saw accidents (77.77%). The replantation success rate was 78%, with an average ischemia time of 9 hours and door-to-room time of 2 hours. Conclusion: the study findings revealed that traumatic thumb amputation predominantly affects working-age males with a low education level and the success rate of replantation was high in this ischemia time and door-to-room conditions. Level of Evidence II, Retrospective study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este artigo consiste em um corte retrospectivo que analisou vítimas de amputação traumática do polegar submetidas a reimplante ou procedimentos de regularização da amputação no Instituto de Ortopedia e Traumatologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medica da Universidade de São Paulo (IOT-FMUSP). Métodos: Foram analisados 40 pacientes reimplantados e 41 pacientes regularizados, que foram separados conforme o nível da amputação e, após, tiveram seus prontuários médicos analisados. Resultados: Foram analisados 81 pacientes com amputação digital (79 homens e 2 mulheres), com idade média de 43 anos e 49 anos (Grupo Amputado e Grupo Reimplante, respectivamente) e 28,4% deles tinham amputação proximal, de acordo com a classificação de Biemer, enquanto 71,6% tinham amputação distal. A ocupação mais comum foi a de pedreiro (19,75%), mas 80,24% eram trabalhadores manuais. 65% dos pacientes retornaram ao trabalho anterior. 77,77% dos pacientes afetaram a mão não dominante, e a serra circular causou 77,77% das amputações. A taxa de sucesso para reimplantes foi de 78%. O tempo de isquemia foi de 9 horas e o tempo de porta-quarto foi de 2 horas. Conclusão: O estudo revelou que as taxas de reimplante foram altas nas condições de isquemia e tempo porta-sala, e a maioria dos pacientes vítimas de amputação traumática do polegar são homens em idade de trabalho e com baixa escolaridade. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo retrospectivo.

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Considering the importance of defining the minimum number of axons between recipient and donor branches, that is, the definition of histological compatibility in distal neurotizations for the success of the procedure and the surgeon's freedom to choose individualized strategies for each patient, this systematic review was conducted to find out the most recent studies on the subject. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the importance of the number of axons and the relationship between axon counts in the donor and recipient nerves in the success of nerve transfer. A literature review was performed on five international databases: Web of Science, Scopus, Wiley (Cochrane Database), Embase, and PubMed. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed (2020 version), a guide designed to guide the elaboration of systematic literature reviews. One hundred and fifty-seven studies were found, and 23 were selected based on the eligibility criteria. The articles presented were conclusive in determining the importance of the number of axons in the success of nerve transfer. Still, the relationship between the number of axons in the donor and recipient nerves seems more relevant in the success of transfers and is not always explored by the authors. The review of the articles has provided compelling evidence that the number of axons is a critical determinant of the success of nerve transfer procedures. However, the relationship between the number of axons in the donor nerve and that in the recipient nerve appears to be even more crucial for successful transfers, a factor that is not always adequately explored by authors in the existing literature. Level of evidence : Level IV, therapeutic study.

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Objective Advances in reconstructive microsurgery in orthopedic surgery provided better functional and aesthetic results and avoided many indications for amputation. In high-volume trauma and orthopedic hospitals, microsurgical reconstruction is essential to reduce costs and complications for these complex orthopedic defects. We describe a microsurgical approach to traumatic wounds, tumor resection, bone defects, and free muscle transfer, performed by an orthopedic microsurgery unit. The objective of the present study was to evaluate predictor factors for outcomes of microsurgical flaps for limb reconstruction, and to provide a descriptive analysis of microsurgical flaps for orthopedic indications. Methods Cross-sectional prospective study that included all consecutive cases of microsurgical flaps for orthopedic indications from 2014 to 2020. Data were collected from personal medical history, intraoperative microsurgical procedure, and laboratory blood tests. Complications and free-flap outcomes were studied in a descriptive and statistical analysis. Results We evaluated 171 flaps in 168 patients; the indications were traumatic in 66% of the patients. Type III complications of the Clavien-Dindo Classification were observed in 51 flaps. The overall success rate of the microsurgical flaps was 88.3%. In the multivariate analysis, the risk factors for complications were ischemia time ≥ 2 hours ( p = 0.032) and obesity ( p = 0.007). Partial flap loss was more common in patients with thrombocytosis in the preoperative platelet count ( p = 0.001). Conclusion The independent risk factors for complications of microsurgical flaps for limb reconstruction are obesity and flap ischemia time ≥ 2 hours, and presence of thrombocytosis is a risk factor for partial flap loss.

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Objective The objective of the present study was to prospectively compare the sural and propeller flaps for soft-tissues coverage of the lower extremity. The following variables were evaluated: incidence of complete or partial flap loss and donor area morbidity (primary closure versus skin graft). Methods Prospective and randomized analysis of data collected from all patients presenting with soft tissue defects of the lower third of the leg and heel treated with reverse sural or propeller flaps. Results Twenty-four patients aged between 4 and 60 years old were evaluated between 2011 and 2017. Complete coverage was obtained in 22 of the 24 patients (91.6%). Two flaps failed (8.4%). The sural flap, being the most popular option, continues to represent a safe and versatile alternative for skin defects of the lower third of the leg and heel region. Likewise, the propeller flap was a comparable option to treat these challenging defects. Conclusion Sural and propeller flaps are good options for soft tissues coverage of the lower extremity, with low complication rates (partial or total flap loss).

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Abstract Objective Advances in reconstructive microsurgery in orthopedic surgery provided better functional and aesthetic results and avoided many indications for amputation. In high-volume trauma and orthopedic hospitals, microsurgical reconstruction is essential to reduce costs and complications for these complex orthopedic defects. We describe a microsurgical approach to traumatic wounds, tumor resection, bone defects, and free muscle transfer, performed by an orthopedic microsurgery unit. The objective of the present study was to evaluate predictor factors for outcomes of microsurgical flaps for limb reconstruction, and to provide a descriptive analysis of microsurgical flaps for orthopedic indications. Methods Cross-sectional prospective study that included all consecutive cases of microsurgical flaps for orthopedic indications from 2014 to 2020. Data were collected from personal medical history, intraoperative microsurgical procedure, and laboratory blood tests. Complications and free-flap outcomes were studied in a descriptive and statistical analysis. Results We evaluated 171 flaps in 168 patients; the indications were traumatic in 66% of the patients. Type III complications of the Clavien-Dindo Classification were observed in 51 flaps. The overall success rate of the microsurgical flaps was 88.3%. In the multivariate analysis, the risk factors for complications were ischemia time ≥ 2 hours (p= 0.032) and obesity (p= 0.007). Partial flap loss was more common in patients with thrombocytosis in the preoperative platelet count (p= 0.001). Conclusion The independent risk factors for complications of microsurgical flaps for limb reconstruction are obesity and flap ischemia time ≥ 2 hours, and presence of thrombocytosis is a risk factor for partial flap loss.

Resumo Objetivo Os avanços da microcirurgia reconstrutiva na cirurgia ortopédica proporcionaram melhores resultados funcionais e estéticos, evitando as muitas indicações de amputação. Nos hospitais de ortopedia e traumatologia com um grande volume de atendimento, a reconstrução microcirúrgica é essencial, a fim de reduzir os custos e as complicações destes complexos defeitos ortopédicos. Descrevemos uma abordagem microcirúrgica para feridas traumáticas, ressecção tumoral, defeitos ósseos e transferência muscular livre realizada por uma unidade ortopédica especializada em microcirurgia. O objetivo do presente estudo é avaliar os fatores preditivos de resultados dos retalhos microcirúrgicos na reconstrução dos membros, fornecendo uma análise descritiva dos retalhos microcirúrgicos para as indicações ortopédicas. Métodos Estudo prospectivo transversal, que incluiu todos os casos consecutivos de retalhos microcirúrgicos com indicação ortopédica de 2014 a 2020. Foram coletados os dados do histórico clínico pessoal, procedimentos microcirúrgicos intraoperatórios e exames laboratoriais. As complicações e os desfechos de retalho livre foram estudados mediante uma análise descritiva e estatística. Resultados Avaliamos 171 retalhos em 168 pacientes. A indicação mais frequente para a realização de um retalho microcirúrgico foi a traumática, em 66% dos pacientes. Foram observadas complicações cirúrgicas em 51 retalhos, conforme a classificação de Clavien-Dindo do tipo III. A taxa de êxito global dos retalhos microcirúrgicos foi de 88,3%. Na análise multivariada, foram identificados como fatores de risco para complicações tempo de isquemia ≥ 2 horas (p= 0,032) e obesidade (p= 0,007). A perda parcial do retalho foi mais comum em pacientes com trombocitose, com contagem de plaquetas pré-operatória (p= 0,001). Conclusão Os fatores de risco independentes para complicações de retalhos microcirúrgicos para a reconstrução de membro são obesidade e tempo de isquemia do retalho ≥ 2 horas, e a presença de trombocitose como fator de risco para perda parcial do retalho.

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Abstract Objective The objective of the present study was to prospectively compare the sural and propeller flaps for soft-tissues coverage of the lower extremity. The following variables were evaluated: incidence of complete or partial flap loss and donor area morbidity (primary closure versus skin graft). Methods Prospective and randomized analysis of data collected from all patients presenting with soft tissue defects of the lower third of the leg and heel treated with reverse sural or propeller flaps. Results Twenty-four patients aged between 4 and 60 years old were evaluated between 2011 and 2017. Complete coverage was obtained in 22 of the 24 patients (91.6%). Two flaps failed (8.4%). The sural flap, being the most popular option, continues to represent a safe and versatile alternative for skin defects of the lower third of the leg and heel region. Likewise, the propeller flap was a comparable option to treat these challenging defects. Conclusion Sural and propeller flaps are good options for soft tissues coverage of the lower extremity, with low complication rates (partial or total flap loss).

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar prospectivamente os retalhos sural e propeller para cobertura de partes moles da extremidade inferior. Foram avaliadas as seguintes variáveis: incidência de perda total ou parcial do retalho e morbidade da área doadora (fechamento primário versus enxerto de pele). Métodos Análise prospectiva e randomizada de dados coletados de todos os pacientes apresentando defeitos em tecidos moles da extremidade distal da perna e do retropé submetidos aos retalhos em questão. Resultados Foram avaliados 24 pacientes com idades entre 4 e 60 anos, entre 2011 e 2017. Cobertura completa foi obtida em 22 dos 24 pacientes (91,6%) e observamos falha em 2 retalhos (8,4%). O retalho sural, sendo a opção mais popular, continua a representar uma alternativa segura e versátil para defeitos cutâneos do terço distal da perna e da região do calcanhar. O retalho propeller, da mesma maneira, mostrou-se uma opção comparável para o tratamento destas lesões desafiadoras. Conclusão Os retalhos sural e propeller são boas opções para a cobertura de partes moles da extremidade inferior, demostrando baixas taxas de complicações como perda parcial ou total do retalho.

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Free flaps in the pediatric population are less common and when indicated the expectations to avoid amputation are high. The objective of this study is to describe indications and results of free flaps for limb reconstruction. Patients undergoing microsurgical free flaps in an orthopedic hospital were consecutively included in this cross-sectional study, from 2014 to 2020. Data regarding personal medical history, intraoperative microsurgical procedure and laboratory tests were collected. Patients under 18 years of age were included. Complications and free flap outcomes were observed during follow-up. This study included 23 free flaps in 23 patients with orthoplastic reconstruction. The free flap was performed as a reconstructive elevator concept. The most common indications were skin or bone defects caused by trauma (nine patients), tumor (six patients) and congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (four patients). The most indicated flap was a vascularized fibular flap in 10 patients, followed by an anterolateral thigh flap in 5 patients. Complications were observed in five patients. In total 93% of patients with inferior limb reconstruction walked at the final evaluation. Among risk factors studied, cases had a higher incidence of complications (P = 0.03) when only the superficial venous system was used. Free flaps in children are well-tolerated and indications are restricted to precise indications to provide alternatives to amputations and improve patient's function. We observed an increase in the incidence of complications when only superficial veins were used for free flap outflow in children.

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OBJECTIVES: This study proposed a structured microsurgical training program and evaluated it with the assistance of a large sample of surgeons. METHODS: The practical course comprised 16 sessions of approximately 4 hours each. This included two sessions for suturing rubber gloves and two sessions for suturing arteries, veins, and nerves in chicken thighs. The other sessions were performed on the femoral vessels of rats: 5 sessions for end-to-end arterial anastomosis, 5 for end-to-end venous anastomosis, 1 for arterial grafting, and 1 for end-to-side anastomosis. We conducted a structured assessment of the microsurgical skills in each training session. RESULTS: In this study, 89 surgeons were evaluated. The mean scores for the different procedures were as follows: glove suturing, 33.3±0.59; chicken nerve end-to-end anastomosis, 40.3±0.49; chicken artery suturing, 40.9±0.36; chicken vein suturing, 42.3±0.36; graft interposition, 44.8±0.7; and end-to-side anastomosis, 43.7±0.63 (p<0.05 for all). The chicken thigh suturing scores were significantly higher than the rubber gloves suturing scores (p<0.01). There were no differences between scores of the rat artery and chicken thigh suturing procedures (p=0.24). The rat venous anastomosis scores were higher than the rat arterial anastomosis scores (p=0.02), as were graft interposition scores when compared with end-to-end venous anastomosis scores. The end-to-side anastomosis scores did not differ significantly from the grafting scores (p=0.85). The most common errors were inadequate knotting technique and suture rupture due to inadequate technique (both n=88 [98.9%]). CONCLUSION: We propose a 16-step, progressive microsurgical training program to learn the basic microsurgical techniques comprehensively and reliably. The program was evaluated in a large sample of trainees, and it demonstrated the adequacy of the training sequence and results.

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BACKGROUND: Microsurgical flaps are widely used to treat complex traumatic wounds of upper and lower limbs. Few studies have evaluated whether the vascular changes in preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) influence the selection of recipient vessel and type of anastomosis and the microsurgical flaps outcomes including complications. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate if preoperative CTA reduces the occurrence of major complications (revision of the anastomosis, partial or total flap failure, and amputation) of the flaps in upper and lower limb trauma, and to describe and analyze the vascular lesions of the group with CTA and its relationship with complications. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was undertaken with all 121 consecutive patients submitted to microsurgical flaps for traumatic lower and upper limb, from 2014 to 2020. Patients were divided into two groups: patients with preoperative CTA (CTA+) and patients not submitted to CTA (CTA-). The presence of postoperative complications was assessed and, within CTA+, we also analyzed the number of patent arteries on CTA and described the arterial lesions. RESULTS: Of the 121 flaps evaluated (84 in the lower limb and 37 in the upper limb), 64 patients underwent preoperative CTA. In the CTA+ group, 56% of patients with free flaps for lower limb had complete occlusion of one artery. CTA+ patients had a higher rate of complications (p = 0.031), which may represent a selection bias as the most complex limb injuries and may have CTA indicated more frequently. The highest rate of complications was observed in chronic cases (p = 0.034). There was no statistically significant difference in complications in patients with preoperative vascular injury or the number of patent arteries. CONCLUSIONS: CTA should not be performed routinely, however, CTA may help in surgical planning, especially in complex cases of high-energy and chronic cases, since it provides information on the best recipient artery and the adequate level to perform the microanastomosis, outside the lesion area.

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INTRODUCTION: The traumatic lesions of the brachial plexus in adults are devastating injuries causing continuous severe functional impairment for both work and daily living activities. The restoration of elbow flexion is one of the most important movements for patient recovery to previous activities. Free gracilis muscle transfer has good outcomes for cases with late presentation or as a rescue surgery to regain elbow flexion, however, bad results are present in all cohorts with insufficient recovery of muscle strength for elbow flexion. A number of hypotheses can be postulate to explain the fair results observed in some cases of free gracilis muscle transfer for elbow flexion. Most studies in the current literature compare the choice of the donor nerve used in neurotization and nerve grafts. The aim of this study is to evaluate if technical components of microvascular anastomosis could influence the functional outcome of free functional muscle transfer for elbow flexion in adult patients with traumatic brachial plexus injury. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Included all adult patients with traumatic brachial plexus injury submitted to free functional gracilis muscle transfer for elbow flexion. The complications and functional results according to British Medical Research Council (BMRC) score were recorded. RESULTS: We assessed 26 patients with mean age of 32.8 years. The most common donor nerve for gracilis muscle was the accessory nerve in 18 patients. Eighteen patients presented with good result (M3/M4). The mean ischemia time was higher for patients with bad results (132 minutes) comparing with patients with good results (122 minutes). Patients with only one venous anastomosis had 41% of poor functional outcome compared with 22% of cases with two venous anastomoses. No statistically significant difference in the ischemia time of the cases with good or poor functional outcome was observed (p=0.657), as for the number of venous anastomoses (p=0.418). CONCLUSION: Our study observes that patients with only one venous anastomoses for drainage of free gracilis and those with longer intraoperative ischemia time had higher incidence of poor functional outcome of free gracilis muscle transfer for elbow flexion, but not statistically significant. LEVEL OF PROOF: II; prospective cross-sectional study.

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OBJECTIVES: This study proposed a structured microsurgical training program and evaluated it with the assistance of a large sample of surgeons. METHODS: The practical course comprised 16 sessions of approximately 4 hours each. This included two sessions for suturing rubber gloves and two sessions for suturing arteries, veins, and nerves in chicken thighs. The other sessions were performed on the femoral vessels of rats: 5 sessions for end-to-end arterial anastomosis, 5 for end-to-end venous anastomosis, 1 for arterial grafting, and 1 for end-to-side anastomosis. We conducted a structured assessment of the microsurgical skills in each training session. RESULTS: In this study, 89 surgeons were evaluated. The mean scores for the different procedures were as follows: glove suturing, 33.3±0.59; chicken nerve end-to-end anastomosis, 40.3±0.49; chicken artery suturing, 40.9±0.36; chicken vein suturing, 42.3±0.36; graft interposition, 44.8±0.7; and end-to-side anastomosis, 43.7±0.63 (p<0.05 for all). The chicken thigh suturing scores were significantly higher than the rubber gloves suturing scores (p<0.01). There were no differences between scores of the rat artery and chicken thigh suturing procedures (p=0.24). The rat venous anastomosis scores were higher than the rat arterial anastomosis scores (p=0.02), as were graft interposition scores when compared with end-to-end venous anastomosis scores. The end-to-side anastomosis scores did not differ significantly from the grafting scores (p=0.85). The most common errors were inadequate knotting technique and suture rupture due to inadequate technique (both n=88 [98.9%]). CONCLUSION: We propose a 16-step, progressive microsurgical training program to learn the basic microsurgical techniques comprehensively and reliably. The program was evaluated in a large sample of trainees, and it demonstrated the adequacy of the training sequence and results.

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OBJECTIVE: Brachial plexus injury can lead to significant functional deficit for the patient. Elbow flexion restoration is a priority in surgical treatment. Free functional muscle transfer is an option for early or late treatment failure. This study evaluated patient characteristics and elbow flexion muscle strength after gracilis functioning muscle transfer. METHODS: Medical records of 95 patients operated from 2003 to 2019 were analyzed and the following variables recorded: age, gender, nerve transfer used to motorize the gracilis muscle, time between trauma and surgery, age at surgery and elbow flexion strength after a minimum of 12 months following functioning muscle transfer. RESULTS: 87 patients were included, averaging 30 years of age (17 to 57 years). Fifty-five achieved elbow flexion muscle strength ≥ M3 (55/87, 65%), with a mean follow-up of 37 months. The nerves used for activation of the transferred gracilis were: 45 spinal accessory, 10 intercostal, 8 median n. fascicles, 22 ulnar n. fascicles and 2 phrenic nerves. CONCLUSION: Functional muscle transfer is a viable surgical procedure for elbow flexion in chronic traumatic brachial plexus injuries in adults. Level of Evidence II, Retrospective study.

OBJETIVO: A lesão do plexo braquial pode determinar sequelas para o paciente. A restituição da flexão do cotovelo é prioridade no tratamento cirúrgico. A transferência muscular funcional livre é opção na falha do tratamento precoce ou tardio. Este estudo avaliou características dos pacientes e força muscular de flexão do cotovelo após transferência muscular funcional livre. MÉTODOS: Prontuários de 95 pacientes, operados de 2003 a 2019, foram analisados e as seguintes variáveis registradas: idade, sexo, transferência nervosa utilizada para motorizar o músculo grácil, tempo entre o trauma e a cirurgia, idade na cirurgia, força de flexão do cotovelo após prazo mínimo de 12 meses da transferência muscular livre. RESULTADOS: 87 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo, com idade média de 30 anos (17 a 57 anos). Cinquenta e cinco pacientes obtiveram força muscular de flexão de cotovelo ≥ M3 (55/87, 65%), com tempo de seguimento médio pós-operatório de 37 meses. Os nervos utilizados para ativação do músculo grácil foram: 45 espinhais acessórios, 10 intercostais, oito fascículos do n. mediano, 22 fascículos do n. ulnar e dois frênicos. CONCLUSÃO: A transferência muscular funcional livre é um procedimento cirúrgico viável para flexão do cotovelo nas lesões traumáticas crônicas do plexo braquial no adulto. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo retrospectivo .

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if the levels of serum total protein and serum albumin are risk factors for surgical complications of free flap limb reconstruction. METHODS: Consecutive inclusion of all patients undergoing microsurgical flaps for limb reconstruction of complex injuries. We recorded epidemiological and laboratory data, including total proteins and fractions, for descriptive and analytical statistics. RESULTS: Our study analyzed one microsurgical flap from 35 patients that underwent complex injuries of the limbs. In total, 23 patients were men, and mean age of all patients was 35 years. After statistical analysis, no influence of pre or postoperative hypoalbuminemia was observed on the incidence of complications. Patients with hypoalbuminemia had a higher length of stay than those with normal albumin levels (p = 0.008). CONCLUSION: We observed that 71% of patients had hypoalbuminemia in early postoperative period and we suggest a nutritional support for patients requiring complex traumatic limb reconstruction. Hypoalbuminemia in patients subjected to microsurgical flaps for the treatment of complex traumatic limb injuries did not influence the complications that required surgical reintervention; However, it was associated with prolonged hospital stay. Level of Evidence II, Retrospective study.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a influência dos níveis totais de proteína sérica e albumina como fator de risco para complicações de retalhos microcirúrgicos para reconstrução de membros. MÉTODOS: Inclusão consecutiva de todos os pacientes submetidos a retalhos microcirúrgicos para reconstrução de membros de lesões complexas. Foram registrados dados epidemiológicos e laboratoriais, incluindo proteínas e frações totais, para fins estatísticos descritivos e analíticos. RESULTADOS: 35 retalhos microcirúrgicos foram estudados em 35 pacientes com lesões complexas dos membros. A idade média dos pacientes foi de 35 anos, e 23 pacientes eram do sexo masculino. Após análise estatística, não foi observada influência da hipoalbuminemia pré ou pós-operatória na incidência de complicações. Pacientes com hipoalbuminemia permaneceram mais tempo hospitalizados do que aqueles com níveis normais de albumina (p = 0,008). CONCLUSÃO: Observamos 71% dos pacientes com hipoalbuminemia no início do período pós-operatório e sugerimos fornecer suporte nutricional para pacientes que necessitam de reconstrução traumática complexa dos membros. A presença de hipoalbuminemia em pacientes submetidos a retalhos microcirúrgicos para o tratamento de lesões traumáticas complexas nos membros não influenciou a presença de complicações que exigiam reintervenção cirúrgica, mas foi associada ao tempo de hospitalização prolongado. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo retrospectivo .

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: Dupuytren's disease is a genetic disorder related to the proliferation of myofibroblasts. The pluripotent property of stem cells present in adipose tissue inhibits myofibroblast proliferation. Our study sought to evaluate the effect of stem cell-rich fat grafts in patients that underwent limited fasciotomy. METHODS: We studied 45 patients, in a single-blind, prospective, randomized clinical trial. All patients underwent limited fasciotomy. In one group, fat graft was injected. RESULTS: The total passive extension deficit results did not exhibit a significant difference. Fat group exhibited worse functional score at 6 months and 1 year postoperatively, such as higher complication rates (43%), when compared with control group (8%), and more pain at 6 weeks follow-up. CONCLUSION: Fat grafting associated with limited fasciotomy promotes worse functional results compared to conventional limited fasciotomy in the short term. However, long-term results and recurrence rates should be further assessed. Level of Evidence II, Prospective comparative study.

OBJETIVO: A moléstia de Dupuytren (MD) está associada a um distúrbio genético relacionado à proliferação de miofibroblastos. Acredita-se que a propriedade totipotente das células-tronco, presentes no tecido adiposo, seria capaz de inibir a formação dos miofibroblastos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do enxerto de gordura, rico em células-tronco, nos pacientes com MD, submetidos à fasciectomia parcial. MÉTODOS: Estudamos 45 pacientes, em um ensaio clínico prospectivo, randomizado e cego. No grupo-controle, era realizada apenas a fasciectomia parcial. No grupo com gordura, era realizada a fasciectomia parcial e injetado o enxerto de gordura. Os desfechos foram avaliados pelo Déficit de Extensão Passiva Total (DEPT) e escore funcional Brief Michigan Hand Questionnaire (BMHQ). RESULTADOS: Os resultados do déficit de extensão passiva total não apresentaram diferença significativa. O grupo com gordura apresentou pior escore funcional após 6 meses e 1 ano, como maiores taxas de complicações (43%) em comparação ao grupo controle (8%) e mais dor com 6 semanas de seguimento. CONCLUSÃO: O uso de enxerto de gordura associado à fasciectomia parcial promove piores resultados funcionais em comparação com a fasciectomia parcial convencional, a curto prazo. No entanto, a recidiva e os resultados a longo prazo devem ser avaliados. Nível de Evidência II, Estudo prospectivo comparativo.