The use of the Alexis(®) device in breast augmentation to improve outcomes: a comparative randomized case-control survey.

Background: We present our experience in using a disposable wound retractor commonly used in abdominal surgery named Alexis(®) (Applied Medical Resources Corporation, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, USA), during breast augmentation in order to improve outcomes, particularly final scar length.

Methods: Between January 2010 and November 2012, 40 patients undergoing breast augmentation with an inframammary approach were enrolled in the present study. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: group 1 underwent breast augmentation with the standard technique; group 2 underwent breast augmentation by using the Alexis(®) (Applied Medical Resources Corporation) device.

Otoplasty for prominent ears deformity.

Objective: Prominent ears are a common congenital deformity of the external ear, derived from a combination of defects in the antihelix and concha. The majority of cases are treated surgically, but one of major difficulties associated with otoplasty regards the achievement of lasting aesthetic results. With the present study we propose an effective combination of four surgical techniques of cartilage reshaping with the ultimate goal of creating a new stable antihelical fold.

Retention of polyurethane foam fragments during VAC therapy: a complication to be considered.

Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy is a closed-loop, non-invasive active system, characterised by a controlled and localised negative pressure applied on porous polyurethane absorbent foams. It promotes healing of acute and chronic wounds. Therapeutic effects of VAC therapy have been proved and demonstrated; however, this method can have some disadvantages.

Nasal reconstruction with the two stages vs three stages forehead flap. A three centres experience over ten years.

Introduction: In nasal reconstruction all anatomic layers as cover, lining, and support, have to be replaced to restore proper aesthetics. Forehead skin has been acknowledged as the best donor site to resurface the nose. Traditionally forehead flap reconstruction is performed in two stages, but Millard described an intermediate third stage between flap transfer and pedicle division.

Upper eyelid necrosis and reconstruction after spider byte: case report and review of the literature.

Spider bites are not very common, especially in the Mediterranean area, and those affecting the ocular-palpebral region involving reconstructive surgery are particularly rare. In May 2010, the case of a Caucasian 24-year-old female patient was brought to the attention of the Dermatology Department, University of Cagliari, Italy. The patient reported she woke up feeling an intense pain with itching and that also she had noticed a spider of an unknown species on her bed.

Cagliari University Hospital (CUH) protocol for immediate alloplastic breast reconstruction and unplanned radiotherapy. A preliminary report.

Introduction: Alloplastic breast reconstruction necessitating postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) is at increased risk for complications such as capsular contracture, infection, extrusion, and poor cosmetic results. However, often the indication for PMRT is not decided until a permanent histological examination with review of the permanent sections is carried out, and the expander has already been inserted. Techniques described to face this issue (delayed-immediate reconstruction and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center protocol) both have disadvantages.

Multiple melanoma arising on a burn scar and extensive sunburn: a case report and a review of the literature.

Melanoma arising in a burn scar is very uncommon. We report a recent case of a female patient in whom two different melanomas arose on a wide back burn scar at different times, focusing attention on three different potential risk factors for melanoma the patient had: sunburns, laser therapy on back and burn scar.