Treatment of hydroxyapatite scaffolds with fibronectin and fetal calf serum increases osteoblast adhesion and proliferation in vitro.

Background: The use of hydroxyapatite in reconstructive surgery has been hampered by the fact that it is very slowly invaded by host tissues, a process that is critical to graft incorporation. Implant compatibility may be augmented by providing cellular binding sites and by seeding cells before implantation.

Methods: Bone-forming cells were seeded onto hydroxyapatite disks, and precoated with fibronectin and fetal calf serum or phosphate-buffered saline.

Management of salivary fistulas after microvascular head and neck reconstruction.

Unlabelled: Salivary fistulas after head and neck microvascular reconstruction are difficult problems whose treatment remains controversial. Although aggressive, early operative intervention has been suggested by some groups, we have found that many patients respond to conservative management with bedside debridement and aggressive local wound care. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to review our experience with the management of postoperative salivary fistulas.

Tolerance of tissue transfers to adjuvant radiation therapy in primary soft tissue sarcoma of the extremity.

Purpose: Treatment of extremity sarcomas occasionally requires tissue transfer in the form of pedicle flaps, free flaps, or skin grafts to repair surgical defects. These tissues are often subject to radiation (RT) and are therefore at risk for wound breakdown requiring reoperation. This study reviews a single center's experience with tissue transfer and postoperative RT.