Experimental animal model proving the benefit of primary defatting of full-thickness random-pattern skin flaps by suppressing "perfusion steal".

Background: The value of primary flap defatting remains unclear. This experimental animal study provides a novel theory on the problem of primary defatting, "steal of perfusion" to the skin by fat. This theory is based on the fact that the fat brings blood supply to the proximal flap portion but blood is sequestered in the fat of the distal flap portion, to the disadvantage of skin perfusion.

Treatment of proximal interphalangeal dorsal fracture-dislocation injuries with dynamic external fixation: a pins and rubber band system.

Purpose: Unstable, dorsal, intra-articular, fracture-dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint can be difficult to treat and often lead to long-term pain, stiffness, and functional deficit. We present the outcomes of patients sustaining such injuries that were treated by a novel dynamic external fixator. This fixator uses a system of K-wires and rubber bands that maintains a concentrically reduced PIP joint while allowing for early motion.