Early experience on injectable micronized putty type human-derived acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in management of diabetic foot wounds in Singapore.

Diabetic foot wounds (DFW) are notoriously difficult to treat owing to poor vascularity, delayed healing and higher rates of infection. Human-derived acellular dermal matrices (ADM) have been used in DFW treatment, utilizing a matrix scaffold for new tissue generation. We investigate the efficacy of a micronized injectable human-derived ADM in the treatment of DFW.

Identifying barriers to early presentation in patients with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) in Northern Singapore: Qualitative study.

Introduction: Breast cancer is the leading cause of death in Singaporean women, with advanced stage rendering a poorer prognosis. This study aims to explore the barriers to early presentation, information needs and sources in patients with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC).

Materials & Methods: A convenience sample of patients who presented with locally advanced breast cancer to the Department of General Surgery in a teaching tertiary hospital were recruited for the study.

The chimeric medial sural artery perforator flap as the ideal for partial tongue reconstruction: A case series and technical refinements.

Background: The medial sural artery perforator free flap (MSAP) has gained increasing popularity in head and neck reconstruction. Its slightly bulkier nature than the radial forearm flap, combined with negligible donor site morbidity, makes it an ideal candidate for the reconstruction of partial glossectomy defects. The ability to harvest the MSAP as a chimeric flap with a portion of the medial gastrocnemius muscle gives it greater flexibility in soft tissue reconstruction.

A Head-to-Head Comparison of the Medial Sural Artery Perforator versus Radial Forearm Flap for Tongue Reconstruction.

Background:  For tongue reconstruction, the radial forearm flap (RFF) is commonly used. In the last decade, the medial sural artery perforator (MSAP) flap has been successfully used with reportedly superior donor-site outcomes. Our study is the first to compare the RFF and MSAP for reconstruction of partial glossectomy defects (<50% of tongue).

Assessing adequacy of informed consent for elective surgery by student-administered interview.

Background: Studies show that patients often sign consent documents without fully comprehending the risks, benefits and potential complications. There is currently no Asian study performed analysing adequacy of informed consent. This study aims to assess adequacy of informed consent by evaluating patient understanding and retention of key information and complications pertaining to surgery via medical student-administered interview.

Perioperative Vasopressor Use in Free Flap Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background:  The use of vasopressors in free flap surgery has traditionally been avoided due to the presumed risk of pedicle vasospasm leading to flap failure. However, there is a lack of strong clinical evidence to suggest that their administration during microvascular surgery is absolutely contraindicated. The aim of this study is to clarify the impact of perioperative vasopressor use on free flap outcomes.