A quantitative evaluation of gross versus histologic neuroma formation in a rabbit forelimb amputation model: potential implications for the operative treatment and study of neuromas.

Background: Surgical treatment of neuromas involves excision of neuromas proximally to the level of grossly "normal" fascicles; however, proximal changes at the axonal level may have both functional and therapeutic implications with regard to amputated nerves. In order to better understand the retrograde "zone of injury" that occurs after nerve transection, we investigated the gross and histologic changes in transected nerves using a rabbit forelimb amputation model.

Methods: Four New Zealand White rabbits underwent a forelimb amputation with transection and preservation of the median, radial, and ulnar nerves.

Oblique pedicled paraumbilical perforator-based flap for reconstruction of complex proximal and mid-forearm defects: a report of two cases.

Reconstruction of complex proximal and mid-forearm wounds can be challenging. Free tissue transfer might not be feasible in certain patients or at institutions lacking microsurgical expertise and equipment. Traditional pedicled flaps are either insufficient in length to reach more proximal forearm defects or are used sparingly due to donor site complications and extremity stiffness.

Homeostasis of the epidermal barrier layer: a theory of how occlusion reduces hypertrophic scarring.

The mechanism of hypertrophic scar reduction using silicone gel sheeting remains elusive. We hypothesize that the decrease in scar formation is due to occlusion and homeostasis of the barrier layer. Using an established model of hypertrophic scarring, rabbits were divided into four groups and scars were tape-stripped or occluded with Kelocote, Cavilon, or Indermil, with each rabbit serving as its own internal control.

Targeted reinnervation for transhumeral amputees: current surgical technique and update on results.

Background: Targeted reinnervation in upper extremity transhumeral amputees can improve control and dexterity of myoelectric prostheses. The operation as described previously required a long residual limb and the presence of a brachialis muscle.

Methods: Brachial plexus dissections were performed to confirm and better understand the branching pattern of the radial nerve in the upper arm.

Antisense inhibition of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) mRNA limits hypertrophic scarring without affecting wound healing in vivo.

Augmented expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is observed in healing wounds and in a variety of fibrotic disorders. It appears to enhance many of the effects of transforming growth factor-beta and has been shown to have independent fibrogenic functions. Despite these observations, its importance to dermal wound healing and the transition from wound to scar remains poorly defined.