Gastric Ectopic Pancreas With Pseudocyst Formation Causing Gastric Outlet Obstruction.

Ectopic pancreas is a rare entity referring to the presence of pancreatic tissue at an anatomic location distinct from the pancreas. Ectopic pancreatic lesions in the stomach present a diagnostic challenge because the lack of distinguishing imaging and endoscopic features make them difficult to differentiate from other types of submucosal lesions. We report a case of ectopic pancreas presenting as a gastric antral mass with a unique combination of rare complications: chronic pancreatitis and pseudocyst formation causing gastric outlet obstruction.

Novel Investigation of the Deep Band of the Lateral Plantar Aponeurosis and Its Relationship With the Lateral Plantar Nerve.

Background: We describe a thick fascial band arising from the medial aspect of the lateral plantar aponeurosis diving deep into the forefoot crossing over a branch of the lateral plantar nerve. Because a review of current literature resulted in limited and outdated sources, we sought to first determine the frequency of this fascial band and the location where it crosses the lateral plantar nerve and, second, discuss the clinical applications these anatomical findings could have.

Methods: 50 pairs of cadaveric feet (n = 100) were dissected to investigate for presence of the fascial band and its interaction with the lateral plantar nerve.

Characterization of neuromas in peripheral nerves and their effects on heterotopic bone formation.

The formation of neuromas involves expansion of the cellular components of peripheral nerves. The onset of these disorganized tumors involves activation of sensory nerves and neuroinflammation. Particularly problematic in neuroma is arborization of axons leading to extreme, neuropathic pain.

Cell-Based Gene Therapy System for Delivering BMPs.

The use of an adenoviral vector to transduce cells allows for certain secreted proteins or growth factors to be generated in vivo in eukaryotic cells with accurate posttranslational processing. The use of transduced cells eliminates viral toxicity, allows for targeted expression of the secreted factor at a specific site, and ensures that the therapy will be turned off when the cells are cleared by the organism. Here we describe the delivery system which utilizes cells transduced with a non-replicating adenovirus containing bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) in the E1 region of the cassette.

Characterization of Brown Adipose-Like Tissue in Trauma-Induced Heterotopic Ossification in Humans.

Heterotopic ossification (HO), the abnormal formation of bone within soft tissues, is a major complication after severe trauma or amputation. Transient brown adipocytes have been shown to be a critical regulator of this process in a mouse model of HO. In this study, we evaluated the presence of brown fat within human HO lesions.