The efficacy of combined herbal extracts gel in reducing scar development at a split-thickness skin graft donor site.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of combined herbal extracts in a gel preparation (Cybele(®) Scagel) in reducing scar development at a split-thickness skin graft donor site.

Methods: A prospective, randomized, double-blind control study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of Scagel in 15 patients who underwent a split-thickness skin graft operation. Both Scagel and placebo were applied equally to the donor site within 1 month after complete epithelialization.

Surgery for gastrointestinal malignant melanoma: experience from surgical training center.

Aim: To characterize clinical features, surgery, outcome, and survival of malignant melanoma (MM) of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in a surgical training center in Bangkok, Thailand.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed for all patients with MM of the GI tract treated at our institution between 1997 and 2007.

Results: Fourteen patients had GI involvement either in a metastatic form or as a primary melanoma.