A Novel Validated Breast Aesthetic Scale.

Background: Breast aesthetics impacts patients' quality of life after breast reconstruction, but patients and surgeons frequently disagree on the final aesthetic evaluation. The need for a comprehensive, validated tool to evaluate breast aesthetics independently from the patient motivated this study.

Methods: The 13-item Validated Breast Aesthetic Scale was developed after several internal meetings, and worded to be understood by a nonspecialist.

Direct quantitative detection of host cell residual DNA in recombinant Filgrastim by qPCR.

Host cell residual DNA is considered as an impurity in recombinant biopharmaceuticals. This study aimed to develop a direct qPCR method to quantify E. Coli residual DNA in recombinant Filgrastim.

The Anterolateral Thigh Flap as the Flap of Choice for Scalp Reconstruction.

Introduction: Large scalp soft tissue defects can present difficulties with reconstruction. The ideal flap for scalp reconstruction has yet to be described although the latissimus dorsi flap is frequently referred to as the first choice in this setting.

Patients And Methods: Following institutional review board approval, the authors reviewed their experience in scalp reconstruction for the past 4 years.

Predictors of Mastectomy Flap Necrosis in Patients Undergoing Immediate Breast Reconstruction: A Review of 718 Patients.

Background: Mastectomy flap necrosis (MFN) after mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction can compromise postsurgical recovery, lead to additional surgeries, and compromise aesthetic outcome. The objective of this study was to determine if there is a difference in the rate of MFN in patients undergoing immediate alloplastic versus immediate autologous breast reconstruction. The secondary objective was to identify additional patient and surgical factors that may influence the rate of MFN.

A survey of current practice patterns in prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism (VTE) and gastrointestinal (GI) ulceration among Canadian burn centers.

Prospective data on efficacy of routine thromboprophylaxis in burn population remains limited. We believe that this uncertainty has lead to diverse management practices across Canada. Similarly, despite data supporting effectiveness of early enteral nutrition (EEN) for gastrointestinal (GI) ulcer prophylaxis, we hypothesize that many burn centers continue to use additional medical prophylaxis.