Stromal vascular fraction in the treatment of myositis

Muscle regeneration is a physiological process that converts satellite cells into mature myotubes under the influence of an inflammatory environment progressively replaced by an anti-inflammatory environment, with precise crosstalk between immune and muscular cells. If the succession of these phases is disturbed, the immune system can sometimes become auto-reactive, leading to chronic muscular inflammatory diseases, such as myositis. The triggers of these autoimmune myopathies remain mostly unknown, but the main mechanisms of pathogenesis are partially understood. They involve chronic inflammation, which could be associated with an auto-reactive immune response, and gradually with a decrease in the regenerative capacities of the muscle, leading to its degeneration, fibrosis and vascular architecture deterioration. Immunosuppressive treatments can block the first part of the process, but sometimes muscle remains weakened, or even still deteriorates, due to the exhaustion of its capacities. For patients refractory to immunosuppressive therapies, mesenchymal stem cells have shown interesting effects but their use is limited by their availability. Stromal vascular fraction, which can easily be extracted from adipose tissue, has shown good tolerance and possible therapeutic benefits in several degenerative and autoimmune diseases. However, despite the increasing use of stromal vascular fraction, the therapeutically active components within this heterogeneous cellular product are ill-defined and the mechanisms by which this therapy might be active remain insufficiently understood. We review herein the current knowledge on the mechanisms of action of stromal vascular fraction and hypothesise on how it could potentially respond to some of the unmet treatment needs of refractory myositis.

Innervation of digital joints: an anatomical overview

INTRODUCTION

The innervation of the digital joints as well as the anatomical relationships of the articular branches is present in this anatomical work to determine the technical feasibility of a selective and efficient denervation of the digital joints.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A study of 40 distal interphalangeal (DIP), 40 proximal interphalangeal (PIP), 50 metacarpophalangeal (MCP), 10 interphalangeal (IP) of the thumb, and 10 trapezo-metacarpophalangeal (TMC) joints was performed on ten hands. Under magnification and a proper surgical approach, we collected the course, the source origin, the number of articular nerve branches, and their caliber.

RESULTS

In total, 118 nerve branches arising from the proper palmar digital nerves were found on 10 DIP of each dissected long finger (n = 40). A total of 226 nerve branches were found on 10 PIPs of each long finger (n = 40), of which 204 branches (90.3%) had a palmar origin. Dorsal innervation was found for the ring and little finger, originating from the dorso-ulnar digital nerve. 212 branches were found on 10 MCP of long fingers (n = 40), including 87 branches of palmar origin (41.1%), 107 branches of dorsal origin (50.4%), and 18 branches of the motor branch of the ulnar nerve (8.5%). 42 articular branches directed to the TMC joint (n = 10) were found. 13 branches (31%) originated from the anterior sensory branch of the radial nerve, 13 branches (31%) originated from the lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm, 5 branches (12%) originated from the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve, and 11 (26%) branches originated from the thenar branch of the median nerve. The involvement of the sensory anterior branch of the radial nerve was always present for the innervation of each TMC.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our research shows that finger joints receive their primary innervation from small branches of the digital nerves with the exception of the MCP joint and the TMC joint. To obtain an efficient and a selective digital denervation for articular pain relief, it is necessary to plan the best surgical approach and it is crucial to recognize the articular nervous branch localization and source.

Nostril Surgery: Indications, Surgical Procedures and Outcomes-A Systematic Review of Published Cases

INTRODUCTION

To achieve adequate nasal proportions, nostril surgery can be a complementary technique useful in facial surgery. To help surgeons with the decision to realize nostril surgery, we conducted a systematic review to summarize reported cases on surgical procedures with a specific interest on indications, surgical procedures and postoperative outcomes. A therapeutic algorithm is also proposed.

METHOD

We carried out this review in accordance with the PRISMA criteria. Twenty-two eligible studies were identified using Medical databases, including 1599 patients. A qualitative and quantitative analysis was carried out.

DISCUSSION

Excision techniques were realized on 728 patients (45.5%), followed by cinching sutures on 642 patients (40%) and combined techniques: excision techniques with flap advancement techniques in 189 cases (12%), excision techniques with flap advancement techniques and cinching suture in 40 patients (2.5%). When excessive alar flaring was present, alar wedge resection was preferred in the 92% of followed by alar and sill resection. Cinching sutures were realized when excessive alar flaring was associated with a vertical alar axis, in cases of wide alar base, of associated orthognathic surgery. When excessive alar flaring was associated with wide alar bases, indications changed basing on the associated deformities. In 795 patients, nostril surgery was conducted simultaneously with rhinoplasty.

CONCLUSION

Nostril surgery through excision techniques, cinching sutures or flaps advancement techniques, reveals good outcomes and can be complementary to rhinoplasty or orthognathic surgery. Through this systematic review, we tried to orient surgeons to find the best treatment for nostril base surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

[Dorsal skin defect: What solutions exist?]

Dorsal subcutaneous or cutaneous defects can be of multiple origin: tumor, congenital malformation, trauma, chronic radiodermitis ulceration, parting of sutures or spine surgery infection, pressure sore, etc. Wound healing of these defects can be really difficult to obtain with simple processes, such as direct sutures or skingrafts, and often implies skin flap surgery. The rarity of recipients vessels from the dorsal area makes free flaps surgery harduous. Various local or locoregional back cover solutions are available: muscular or musculocutaneous flaps (latissimus dorsi, trapezius muscle, spinal muscles, gluteus maximus), perforator flaps (DICAP, DLICAP, SCAP and IGAP…), random flaps. These flaps are really useful and must be mastered in order to propose the best-suited cover solution for each patient after a precise evaluation of their medical and clinical background. Our study, based on the Literature and some clinical cases, aims to draw up a complete table of local, locoregional and microsurgical coverage solutions by anatomical area for median and paramedian back wound defects and thus to produce a decisional algorithm facilitating our care.

Coverage losses of substance in the shoulder

Losses of substance of the shoulder are less common than elsewhere in the upper limb. They arise essentially from tumors (sarcomas), infectious diseases (hidradenitis) or traumatic events, (burns). The objectives of reconstruction depend on whether the losses of substance are located on the curve of the shoulder or in the axillary area. There exist numerous regional solutions, including perforator, propeller, pedicled and free flaps. The donor region may be the thorax (latissimus dorsi, serratus anterior), the back (trapezium, scapular or subscapular flaps, occipito-cervico-thoracic flap), the anterior surface of the thorax (pectoralis major or minor, supraclavicular, perforators of the acromiothoracic artery, delto-pectoral flap) or arm (brachial lateral or medial). Multitissular reconstructions are also possible in regional and pedicled form, as well as microanastomosed flaps in exceptional conditions.

Finger joint denervation in hand osteoarthritis: Indications, surgical techniques and outcomes. A systematic review of published cases

In cases of osteoarthritis with preserved motion, joint denervation can be an effective alternative to arthroplasty or arthrodesis to reduce joint-related pain. Although denervation is a standardized procedure for wrist osteoarthritis, it is used sparingly for finger joints. We conducted a systematic review to summarize reported cases of finger joint denervation in hand osteoarthritis with a specific focus on surgical procedures and postoperative outcomes. PubMed, Cochrane and Science Direct databases were searched from 1998 to 2019 and 13 relevant articles were selected. Three hundred and twenty-five denervations were conducted on 291 patients. Distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint denervation was performed through a dorsal approach; 83% of patients were satisfied with the surgery and complications occurred in 58%. Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint denervation was performed through a palmar approach; 90% of patients were satisfied with the surgery; complications were observed in 14%. Good results were observed in 95% of patients who underwent metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint denervation; complications were observed in 26%; denervation was carried out with dorsal and palmar approaches in all cases. Denervation of the trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint was achieved through the Wagner approach (61%), multiple incisions (26%), or dorsal approach (13%); satisfaction rate was 91%, with a 6% complication rate. Finger joint denervation in hand osteoarthritis is a simple and effective procedure, providing satisfactory pain relief. Good results are reported in all studies, especially for PIP and TMC joint denervation. Further investigations should be conducted on DIP and MCP joint denervation.

Vascularization of the superficial circumflex iliac perforator flap (SCIP flap): an anatomical study

INTRODUCTION

The superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap (SCIP) has gained widespread popularity as local or free flap to cover soft tissue defects. However, there are numerous anatomical variations in terms of size, location and reliability of its perforators This cadaveric study aimed to focus on the anatomical bases of this flap.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A bilateral dissection of seven cadavers was performed to harvest 14 flaps. Superficial circumflex iliac artery parameters, number, length and diameters of perforators were measured. Correspondent perforasomes were highlighted through semi-selective injections.

RESULTS

The major perforator of the superficial branch had a mean caliber of 2.0 mm, and a mean length of 1.8 mm. The major perforator of the deep branch had a mean caliber of 2.1 mm and a mean length of 1.43 mm. The mean area of the superficial pattern perforasome was 178.6 cm² and the mean measured surface of the deep pattern perforasome was 156.2 cm². The descending branches of the deep branch anastomosing with the ascending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery were found in three cases.

CONCLUSION

Several anatomical variations were observed in this anatomical study, but major perforators supplying large perforasomes were always found.

Use of adipose tissue and stromal vascular fraction in hand surgery

Adipose tissue is an abundant source of various cell types including not only adipocytes, but also progenitor and endothelial cells from thestroma. Interest in adipose tissue has surged since the identification in 2001 of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and of the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) obtained from adipose tissue by enzymatic digestion and centrifugation. SVF has been proven effective in ensuring tissue regeneration, thus improving tissue trophicityand vascularisation. These effects have generated strong interest among both physicians and surgeons, particularly in the field of hand surgery. Several applications have been developed and used, for instance to treat Dupuytren's contracture, systemic sclerosis-related hand lesions, and skin ageing at the hand. Other uses are being evaluated in clinical or animal studies. The objective of this article is to review the capabilities of adipose tissue and their current and potential applications in hand surgery.

Surgical exploration of hand wounds in the emergency room: Preliminary study of 80 personal injury claims

BACKGROUND

The SHAM Insurance Company in Lyon, France, estimated that inadequate hand wound exploration in the emergency room (ER) accounted for 10% of all ER-related personal injury claims in 2013. The objective of this study was to conduct a critical analysis of 80 claims that were related to hand wound management in the ER and led to compensation by SHAM.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eighty claims filed between 2007 and 2010 were anonymised then included into the study. To be eligible, claims had to be filed with SHAM, related to the ER management of a hand wound in an adult, and closed at the time of the study. Claims related to surgery were excluded. For each claim, we recorded 104 items (e.g., epidemiology, treatments offered, and impact on social and occupational activities) and analysed.

RESULTS

Of the 70 patients, 60% were manual workers. The advice of a surgeon was sought in 16% of cases. The most common wound sites were the thumb (33%) and index finger (17%). Among the missed lesions, most involved tendons (74%) or nerves (29%). Many patients had more than one reason for filing a claim. The main reasons were inadequate wound exploration (97%), stiffness (49%), and dysaesthesia (41%). One third of patients were unable to return to their previous job. Mean sick-leave duration was 148 days and mean time from discharge to best outcome was 4.19%. Most claims (79%) were settled directly with the insurance company, 16% after involvement of a public mediator, and 12% in court. The mean compensatory damages award was 4595Euros.

CONCLUSION

Inadequate surgical exploration of hand wounds is common in the ER, carries a risk of lasting and sometimes severe residual impairment, and generates considerable societal costs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

[Annular lipoatrophy of the ankles treated by fat grafting: Case report and review of the literature]

INTRODUCTION

Annular lipoatrophy of the ankles is a rare disease. Eleven cases are described in the literature.

CASE REPORT

We report the case of a 10-year-old girl having an annular lipoatrophy of the ankles. The clinical history begins with the appearance of inflammatory infiltrated nodules at the two legs, which have evolved in a few months to a circumferential lipoatrophy of the ankles. Laboratory studies showed a very high antistreptolysin O titer, concluding streptococcal origin of this hypodermitis. After two years of stable lesions, the patient received two sessions of fat injection.

RESULT/DISCUSSION

A satisfactory outcome of the adipocyte graft was observed with reconstitution of shapely legs, stable over time. Eleven cases described in the literature are found. It is a pediatric pathology seen predominantly in female children. The evolution towards lipoatrophy is systematic with or without treatment initiated at the inflammatory phase. We first discuss the management of aesthetic sequelae of this disease.

CONCLUSION

Fat grafting appears to be a good indication for the treatment of the cosmetic sequelae seen in annular lipoatrophy of the ankles.

Radiographic evaluation of a novel horizontal dorsal intercarpal capsulodesis as a treatment of pre-arthritic scapholunate dissociation: a cadaver study

Dorsal capsulodesis is an important part of the treatment of pre-arthritic scapholunate instability. We designed an experimental study using 14 fresh-frozen cadaver wrists to demonstrate the efficacy of a new horizontal dorsal intercarpal capsulodesis. We sectioned the scapholunate ligament to create a scapholunate dislocation. Several radiographic views, static and 'in stress', were recorded and we statistically compared the scapholunate interval before and after the section of the scapholunate ligament, and after the creation of the capsulodesis. The results showed a significant decrease of the scapholunate interval after the creation of the capsulodesis, especially in neutral and maximal ulnar deviation of the wrist. They also proved that our cadaveric model is reliable. This study demonstrated that this novel capsulodesis reduces the scapholunate interval in a cadaveric model.

[Alopecia reconstruction by expansion after a scalp burn injury caused by Taser(®): a case report]

BACKGROUND

Scarring alopecia resulting from burns may be difficult to treat and involves various plastic surgery techniques such as expanded scalp flaps.

OBSERVATION

Herein, we report the case of a 19-year-old male patient who suffered burning of the scalp with scarring alopecia following an attack with a Taser(®) electrical gun. Given the extent and site of alopecia, we decided to create a prosthesis by means of scalp expansion. The cosmetic result was satisfactory.

DISCUSSION

Several scalp reconstruction techniques have been described for scarring alopecia, with the most widely used being expansion, scalp flaps, repeated excision and hair implants.

CONCLUSION

The present case suggests that scalp expansion offers an effective method for the reconstruction of scarring alopecia following burns with a Taser(®) device.

[Abdominoplasty complications: particularities of the post-bariatric patients within a 238 patients series]

BACKGROUND

Obesity is one of the health issues that is recently worldwide increasing, as well as in France. Variety of procedures of bariatric surgery have been developed over the past decade and are performed for morbid obesity hence. The demand of plastic surgery increased for body contouring and reshaping after dramatic weight loss, in which the abdominoplasty is considered as one of the most common procedures. The purpose of this study is to clarify the differences between the post-bariatric patients and others, and their influence on the occurrence of complications following abdominoplasty.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective study involving a group of post-abdominoplasty patients collected from the same center between January 2000 and December 2010.

RESULTS

Among 238 reviewed patients' files; 114 of them are post-bariatric patients, and 124 are non-bariatric patients. Several differences were found between these two groups of patients including the maximum BMI, BMI at the time of surgery, the rates of cardiovascular risk factors, and a longer operative time in the post-bariatric group. The complication rate in these patients was significantly higher (55.3% against 26.6%) with mainly healing problems. Major maximum weight, obesity at the time of surgery, long operative time and postoperative drainage system are all considered as risk factors, which carry high rate of complications.

CONCLUSION

It appears that abdominoplasty in post-bariatric patients requires specific care because of particularities inherent in this population.

[Razemon's lateral digital rotation flap in severe Dupuytren contracture of the fifth finger]

In Dupuytren's disease, correction of severe contracture deformities and excision of dermal lesions are often responsible for palmar skin defects. This study aimed to assess the results of the lateral digital flap described by Razemon. Thirty-seven patients were analysed retrospectively for functional and trophic results. Twelve months of follow-up were at least required. The lack of extension was appreciated through Thomine's coefficient. Subjective patient's opinion was noted about function of fifth finger and hand. The flap trophicity was evaluated through softness, coverage quality and esthetic aspect. In the preoperative period, the average lack of extension was 105°; 89% of the patients were ranked as stages 3 or 4 of Tubiana's classification. At the 12th month, the average Thomine's coefficient was 0.74; 70% of the patients were very satisfied. Two patients exhibited some lack of suppleness and seven a dyschromic scars. The lateral digital rotation flap is a quite simple surgical procedure. It allows satisfactory results corresponding to functional and trophic coverage in severe Dupuytren's contracture involving the fifth finger.

Complications liées à l’exérèse du ganglion sentinelle dans le mélanome

INTRODUCTION

Side-effects occurring after sentinel lymph node excision in malignant melanoma patients have been poorly evaluated to date. The aim of the present study was to assess the side-effects of sentinel lymph node excision in this population.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All consecutive malignant melanoma patients undergoing sentinel lymph node excision between March 2000 and December 2002 were included in this retrospective study. Patients with a metastatic sentinel node subsequently undergoing lymph node dissection were excluded. Median follow-up of patients was 12.6 +/- 8.8 months. Complications were classified as "early" (i.e. occurring the month following surgery), or "late" (after this time).

RESULTS

Forty malignant melanoma patients (17 males, 23 females) with a normal histologic examination of their sentinel lymph node were included. They belonged to a series of sixty-one melanoma patients undergoing lymph node excision. Fourteen complications were observed in ten patients. Two early complications were seen: hematoma (n=1) and deep venous thrombosis with pulmonary embolism (n=1). Twelve late complications were observed: mild lymphoedema (n=5), hypertrophic scars (n=2), painful scars (n=4), and one chronic seroma (n=1). Many complications (33%) were observed after excision in the inguinal area.

DISCUSSION

The complications of sentinel lymph node excision must be considered in determining the benefit/risk ratio of this technique.

Influence de la taille et de la localisation des métastases dans les ganglions sentinelles de mélanome sur le résultat du curage, à propos de 35 cas

AIM

Thirty-five cases of lymphadenectomy carried out in the context of positive sentinel lymph node for malignant melanoma have been reviewed to assess the prognostic value of certain metastatic charachteristics. We have checked wether the type (macro or micrometastasis) and localisation (subcapsular or intraparenchymal) in the sentinel lymph node had predictive value for the lymphadenectomy outcome and evolution of the case.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The retrospective study relates to 35 cases (with an average 2 years history) taken from a total of 87 sentinel lymph node protocols; average age 46.5 years, Breslow 2.5 mm with an history of 25 months.

RESULTS

Among the 35 positive sentinel lymph nodes we have 19 cases (54.2%) of micrometastasis. Among the 35 lymphadenectomy 5 cases (14.28%) turned out positive, 3 of which concerned micrometastatic sentinel lymph nodes. In our cohort the micrometastatic nature of sentinel lymph nodes did not have statistically significant impact upon the lymphadenectomy result but showed more favourable short-term evolution with 68.42% metastatic free evolution as against 43.75% in case of initial macrometastasis. The subcapsular localisation of micrometastasis equally represents a factor of improved prognosis (69.2% of metastatic free evolution against of 30.8% in the case of intraparenchymal localistion).

CONCLUSION

Unfortunately, none of the studied criteria justifies a modification of our present clinical attitude whereby a systematic lymphadenectomy in cases of positive sentinel lymph nodes is performed, whatever the type or localisation of the relevant metastases.

Anatomical comparative study of two vascularized bone grafts for the wrist

Atrophic scaphoid non-union and lunate necrosis can be treated with vascularized bone grafting; through a posterior approach as described by Zaidemberg, based on a supraretinacular artery, or through an anterior approach, based on the volar carpal artery, according to Kuhlmann's procedure. The aim of our study was to determine the area covered by each of these two grafts and their respective future applications. Fifteen hands from eight adult human cadavers, free of any scar, were dissected after injection of colored fluid latex, through dorso-radial approach for Zaidemberg's graft and through volar approach for Kuhlmann's. We observed the morphological parameters of the pedicles and the arc of rotation of each flap. The volar vascularized graft had a constant origin and it could be transferred to the scaphoid, the lunate and the scapholunate joint. The posterior graft of Zaidemberg was technically more difficult to harvest because of the anatomical variations. It made it possible to reach the scaphoid, the trapezium and the scaphotrapeziotrapezoid joint line. Both these two vascularized bone grafts represent interesting procedures for treatment of scaphoid non-union or lunate necrosis, or intracarpal bones arthrodesis. They bring various possibilities of bone covering, related to specific area of mobilization and are not opposite procedures, but have different targeted indications. One must better define the respective places of the vascularized bone grafts, compared with the traditional free (non-vascularized) graft.

[The total thigh flap in reconstructive surgery]

Plastic surgeons have sometimes to face large pelvic tissue defects, particularly in paraplegic patients with recurrent pressure sores. This is frequently a reconstructive challenge and different locoregional flaps may be useful to manage those wounds when medical solutions were unsuccessful. However, in cases when other reconstructive options have been exhausted the total thigh flap represents the last acceptable solution to cover the defects by providing a large volume of healthy tissue. We remind here the operative technique and its interest in reconstructive surgery by reporting our experience in two patients for which this flap was successfully used.

[Recurrence of a basal cell carcinoma in a skin graft in spite of total excision. A case report]

The authors report an original case of a recurrence of basal cell carcinoma in a skin graft recipient site. The skin graft was used to resurface the defect following complete excision of basal cell carcinoma in the mandibular angle area. Three answers can be given to the question of the origin of that new carcinoma: recurrence of the primary carcinoma, metastasis to a lymph node or a transfer of a basal cell carcinoma located into the skin graft which grew further. This last hypothesis remains the most probable because the histology of the two carcinomas was different and that the patient presented many others locations of basal cell carcinomas. Skin grafted areas must be checked for recurrence of basal cell carcinoma in such patients because invisible basal cell carcinoma can be transferred within the graft where they can grow for their own.

[Hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP) in hand surgery: reminds and warn against a usually unrecognised disease]

Tomacula is a rare hereditary disease due to a deletion on chromosome 17. Clinical presentation varies but patients usually complain of recurrent paraesthesiaes and palsies related to compression or trauma of a peripheral nerve. Diagnosis is based on electrophysiological studies, nerve biopsies and genetic tests. Implications for the patient and family members are a genetic counselling and some simple preventive measures. Although there is no curative treatment for this neuropathy, surgery can be useful for decompression of nerves and neurolysis. However, the surgical act increases the risk of nerve damage. Knowing about the diagnosis can help the patient and the surgical team avoid causing lesions.

[Anterior radial nerve transposition in humerus midshaft fractures: anatomic and clinical study]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Plate fixation of midshaft humerus fractures raises the risk of radial nerve injury. Anterior transposition of the radial nerve has been proposed as a possible solution but few reports have been published. The purpose of the present study was to validate the effect of transposition on the transposed radial nerve and its branches.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted an anatomic study on 10 cadavers. The length of the radial nerve between 2 anatomic landmarks was determined before and after transposition and plate fixation. A clinical evaluation was performed four years after surgery in 6 patients with midshaft humerus fractures treated with plate fixation after radial nerve transposition.

RESULTS

The anatomic study demonstrated a mean gain of 11 mm in the length of the radial nerve with no problem for the transposed nerve or its branches. Clinically, osteosynthesis was facilitated and tension on the nerve was reduced.

DISCUSSION

These 2 complementary studies demonstrated the releasing effect of transposition on the radial nerve and the facilitated osteosynthesis reported by others. The benefit of transposition is particularly important when bone fixation is particularly difficult to achieve without risk of injuring the radial nerve. Transposition does however require an extensive dissection, and the patient must be informed.

CONCLUSION

The ideal indication for anterior transposition of the radial nerve is an oblique fracture of the mid-third to lower-third of the humeral shaft with radial palsy at onset. A certain degree of comminution facilitates the technique. Indications for this technique could however be widened to include cases of difficult osteosynthesis where the option to transpose the radial nerve is always a peroperative decision.

[Constitutional anomalies of the terminal branches of the brachial plexus in the axial and brachial regions. Results of 42 cases and review of the literature]

The authors report anatomical variations of the terminal brachial plexus branches in 42 cadaveric dissections. The results are compared with results reported in literature which revealed a new variation: ulnar nerve originating in posterior beam. This study demonstrates that there exist not one but several brachial plexes which could have potential clinical implications.

[Skin and muscle flaps to cover and fill chronic open osteitis of the tibia. Results with 10 cases]

Chronic osteomyelitis is a severe long-term bone infection which retains its mechanical qualities. The authors report 10 cases of osteomyelitis of the tibia treated by muscular and fascio-cutaneous flaps and reviewed at one year follow-up. Four cases concerned the third upper part of the tibia, 3 the middle and 3 the lower third. Two total failures at the third lower part and three complications which finally healed with delay were observed. The results of this small series compared with the reports in the literature suggest the value of large excision with coverage by a well vascularized flap and the need for antibiotics. The choice of flap is related to type and site of the bone defect. Another question should be raised concerning the surgical strategy in one--or two--stage management and the duration of antibiotic therapy.

[Latissimus dorsi free flap with "Y" anastomoses. Technical variant and use in leg reconstruction]

The authors report a new technique for harvesting and anastomosis of the latissimus dorsi free flap. The latissimus dorsi free flap is elevated with the subscapular and circumflex scapular vessels forming a "Y" pedicle. The recipient artery is sectioned and the arterial tree of the flap is anastomosed to the recipient vessel by two end-to-end anastomoses. This technique is particularly useful in leg reconstructive surgery when only one vessel remains: it simplifies transfer (end-to-end anastomosis), anastomoses are easier because more superficial.

[Recent palmar dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal joint]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Recent anterior dislocations of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint are uncommon injuries. Chronic and irreducible dislocations have been most often reported. This study aims to precise the anatomic and radiologic aspects of these lesions about three cases, and to compare these cases and their treatment with thirteen cases published in the literature between 1966 and 1994.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Three patients presented an anterior dislocation of the PIP joint after direct or twisting traumatism. One had an avulsion of the central slip of the extensor tendon and remained unstable after closed reduction needing pin fixation. Two had a longitudinal tear between central and lateral bands of the tendon with an entrapment of the condyle of the proximal phalanx, and the dislocations were irreducible. After open reduction, the joint was stable.

RESULTS

The first case showed a limited flexion after three months. In the two other cases without rupture, full range of motion was recovered after two months.

DISCUSSION

These cases have been compared with thirteen cases of recent papers from nine authors. Two types of anterior dislocations of the PIP joint may be described. TYPE I: Without rupture of the central slip fo the extensor tendon. One distal condyle of the proximal phalanx is entrapped between the central slip and a lateral band of the extensor tendon, that are separated by a longitudinal partial tear. The deformity is made by flexion, axial rotation and lateral displacement of the middle phalanx. Open reduction is required and may carry out good functional result.

TYPE II

With rupture of the central slip of the extensor tendon. These very unstable lesions need a fixation after closed or open procedure. The treatment is often lately carried out, and the results not so good as in type I.

CONCLUSION

Two different types of PIP joint anterior dislocations are described. Earlier diagnosis and surgical treatment can allow early rehabilitation and better final functional results.