Microbial biofilms and breast tissue expanders.

We previously developed and validated a vortexing-sonication technique for detection of biofilm bacteria on the surface of explanted prosthetic joints. Herein, we evaluated this technique for diagnosis of infected breast tissue expanders and used it to assess colonization of breast tissue expanders. From April 2008 to December 2011, we studied 328 breast tissue expanders at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.

Long-term satisfaction of reduction mammaplasty for bilateral symptomatic macromastia in younger patients.

Purpose: There is controversy about performing reduction mammaplasty in younger patients. Although no studies show poor surgical outcomes, a paucity of data exists on long-term outcomes and satisfaction.

Methods: A single center mixed-mode mail and telephone surveyed 203 women who underwent reduction mammaplasty for symptomatic macromastia between 1985 and 2005, who were <21 years of age at surgery.

Gynecomastia: evolving paradigm of management and comparison of techniques.

Background: Since 1997, the authors have used a minimally invasive technique for the management of gynecomastia using ultrasound-assisted liposuction and the arthroscopic shaver to remove breast tissue through a remote incision. This technique has allowed for a consistent, refined, "unoperated" postoperative appearance in this patient population. This study analyzes the outcomes of this procedure and compares the procedure against established techniques.

Soft-tissue reconstruction of external hemipelvectomy defects.

Background: External hemipelvectomy is the ultimate salvage procedure for locally advanced pelvic tumors, infections, and failed revascularizations. It is associated with high wound morbidity requiring surgical management. In this study, the authors analyzed their experience with primary and secondary reconstruction of hemipelvectomy wounds.

Pilot study of association of bacteria on breast implants with capsular contracture.

Capsular contracture is the most common and frustrating complication in women who have undergone breast implantation. Its cause and, accordingly, treatment and prevention remain to be elucidated fully. The aim of this prospective observational pilot study was to test the hypothesis that the presence of bacteria on breast implants is associated with capsular contracture.

Outcomes of skin graft reconstructions with the use of Vacuum Assisted Closure (VAC(R)) dressing for irradiated extremity sarcoma defects.

Background: Flaps are currently the predominant method of reconstruction for irradiated wounds. The usefulness of split-thickness skin grafts (STSG) in this setting remains controversial. The purpose of this study is to examine the outcomes of STSGs in conjunction with VAC therapy used in the treatment of irradiated extremity wounds.

Predictors of complications and outcomes of external hemipelvectomy wounds: account of 160 consecutive cases.

Background: Hemipelvectomy has high wound complication rates. This study aimed to determine variables that may influence hemipelvectomy wound morbidity.

Methods: The records of 160 consecutive hemipelvectomy patients were reviewed with a focus on demographics, treatment, and surgical techniques.

Satisfaction after contralateral prophylactic mastectomy: the significance of mastectomy type, reconstructive complications, and body appearance.

Purpose: Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) is one option for reducing the risk of a second breast cancer in women with a personal and family history of breast cancer. Few data are available regarding satisfaction, psychological, and social function after CPM. The purpose of this research is to evaluate women's long-term satisfaction with CPM, factors influencing satisfaction, and psychological and social function after CPM.

A comparison of 99 consecutive vaginal reconstructions: an outcome study.

This study compares the outcome of Singapore flap, vertical rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap (VRAM), and gracilis musculocutaneous flap vaginal reconstruction. A retrospective review of 99 consecutive patients with complete vaginal defects was conducted at the Mayo Clinic from January 1988 to October 2001. All possible complications were determined for each of the 3 reconstructive techniques, along with the effects of radiation and smoking on the respective complication rates.

Reoperations after prophylactic mastectomy with or without implant reconstruction.

Background: The authors characterized the unanticipated reoperations after prophylactic mastectomy, with or without implant reconstruction.

Methods: The surgical cohort was comprised of 1417 women with a family history of breast carcinoma. The women received a prophylactic mastectomy with (bilateral, n = 593; contralateral, n = 506) or without reconstruction (n = 318) at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) between 1960 and 1993.