Surface analytical studies of maxillofacial implants: influence of the preoperational treatment and the human body on the surface properties of retrieved implants.

In the present work, surface analytical investigation of unimplanted as well as retrieved pyrolytic carbon-covered carbon/carbon composite implants and Ti osteosynthesis plates is reported. The Ti plates were covered by a 200-nm-thick, anodically and thermally formed TiO2 layer. Our results suggest that although the oxide layer on the Ti miniplates remained stable during the time spent in the human body, there is still material transport between the implant and the human body.

SEM and EDS investigation of a pyrolytic carbon covered C/C composite maxillofacial implant retrieved from the human body after 8 years.

The long term effect of the human body on a pyrolytic carbon covered C/C composite maxillofacial implant (CarBulat(Tm)) was investigated by comparing the structure, the surface morphology and composition of an implant retrieved after 8 years to a sterilized, but not implanted one. Although the thickness of the carbon fibres constituting the implants did not change during the 8 year period, the surface of the implant retrieved was covered with a thin surface layer not present on the unimplanted implant. The composition of this layer is identical to the composition of the underlying carbon fibres.

Esophageal leiomyomatosis in a woman with a history of vulvar leiomyoma and Barrett's esophagus: a case report and review of the literature.

Background: The diagnosis and treatment of esophageal pathology remains a challenge despite advances in preoperative endoscopy, radiographic staging, and perioperative care.

Case Report: In this article, we present an interesting case of esophageal leiomyomatosis in a woman with a history of vulvar leiomyoma and Barrett's esophagus. This paper represents the first reported simultaneous occurrence of these three pathologic entities in the English literature.

Results of gastric interposition for reconstruction of the pharyngoesophagus.

Background: Free jejunal transfer has become the standard technique for reconstruction of the proximal pharynx and hypopharynx. Gastric tube interposition is an effective alternative when resection extends below the thoracic inlet. This study was done to determine current indications, review morbidity and mortality rates, and to define clinical and pathologic determinants of survival associated with this procedure.