Near-infrared spectroscopy in head and neck surgery.

Near-infrared spectroscopy is commonly used during carotid endarterectomy but its use in salvage oncological carotid resection has not previously been described. In comparison to other methods of determining the adequacy of contralateral cerebral circulation, near-infrared spectroscopy is simple, reliable, non-invasive and inexpensive.

Retrograde Type A Aortic Dissection Treated with Continuous Perfusion "Branch-First" Aortic Arch Replacement Technique.

The development of thoracic endovascular aortic repair in recent years has revolutionised the way aortic disease is treated. However, there are potential complications associated with this which can be life threatening and pose a difficult challenge to manage. We present a case of retrograde ascending aortic dissection complicating thoracic endovascular aortic repair, and its repair using a technique of continuous perfusion "branch-first" aortic arch replacement.

Occlusive wrap dressing reduces infection rate in saphenous vein harvest site.

Background: Infection in the saphenous vein harvest site is a common problem. We developed an occlusive circumferential wrap dressing technique that reduces skin edge tension, eliminates dead space, and prevents external contamination. We compared the surgical site infection rate using the wrap dressing technique with that of standard longitudinal dressings.