Shashank Chauhan | All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi (original) (raw)

Papers by Shashank Chauhan

Infectious Diseases in the Intensive Care Unit, 2020

Critically ill burn patients usually carry a higher risk of infections. Infections and subsequent... more Critically ill burn patients usually carry a higher risk of infections. Infections and subsequent complications are the leading cause of death in burns after initial couple of days where the main causes are Hypovolemia and Hypoxia (in Inhalational Burns). Although advancements in burn management and critical care have decreased the mortality rate in severe burn injuries, infections continue to be a challenge. Management of burn patients in the ICU involves management of physiological derangements caused by burns, management of various catheters and tubes used for invasive monitoring, optimum nutrition along with local wound care.

Indian Journal of Surgery, 2021

We describe a pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous (LDMC) flap with a wing-shaped skin paddle t... more We describe a pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous (LDMC) flap with a wing-shaped skin paddle to cover large breast defects. It allows primary closure of the donor site with the added advantage of some flap projection. This is performed utilising the principles of M-plasty and the anatomy of thoracodorsal musculocutaneous perforators, which would not be possible with the conventional flap design. Analysis of a series of 23 patients who underwent breast reconstruction using wing shaped skin component LDMC technique between 2011 and 2019 in a breast unit of a Tertiary Care Hospital is presented here. Patient characteristics, technical details, and outcomes were analysed. Mean patient age was 41 (SD 10.9) years. The mean defect dimensions were 13.5 (SD 3.4) cm and 10.5 (SD 2.6) cm in length and width, respectively. The mean flap area was 147 (SD 67.2 cm2).The donor site defect was closed primarily in all the cases. The average length of inhospital stay was 4.9 (SD 1.5) days (range 3–9 days). One patient (4.3%) had marginal necrosis of the flap, three patients (13%) had donor site seroma, and two patients (8.7%) suffered donor site wound dehiscence. None of the complications entailed re-surgery or delay the onset of adjuvant therapy. At a mean follow-up of 37.5 (SD 33.9) months, none of the patients reported tumour recurrence or donor site morbidity. Wing-shaped skin component of latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap offers a simple and reliable pedicled flap to cover large breast defects with minimal donor site morbidity. It creates a mild breast mound and may avoid the use of implants and its associated complications in small-breasted patients. It can be conveniently performed in non-microsurgical setups.

Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery : Official Publication of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India, 2021

Background Many aspects of life have been changed, after the starting of the pandemic. Modificati... more Background Many aspects of life have been changed, after the starting of the pandemic. Modifications and improvisation in our day-to-day activities is now a new norm. During the pandemic period, continuation academic activities and conductance of examination is difficult but essential. We are sharing our experience of conductance of MCh examination during the pandemic and preparations made. This article also discussed the future of surgical assessment examination, use of technology in surgical assessment changing times. Methods Procedural flow of the examination, Logistics and arrangements were planned and checked. Reliability and validity of questions were maintained by providing a similar set of questions and stepwise objective assessment. Assessment and feedback by the examinees and examiners on the pattern and conductance of examination were assessed by a Likert scale. Results We found, 73% agreed examination patterns were able to test the knowledge fairly. While 80 % believed t...

International Microsurgery Journal, 2017

Pedicled anterolateral thigh flap is a versatile option for reconstruction of complex soft tissue... more Pedicled anterolateral thigh flap is a versatile option for reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects in varied anatomical regions. Its wide arc of rotation and less donor site morbidity are its added advantages.

Journal of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, 2021

Microsurgical skills are essential for plastic surgeons in the modern times. Chicken wing model f... more Microsurgical skills are essential for plastic surgeons in the modern times. Chicken wing model for microsurgery training offers an easy and cost-effective alternative to the traditional live rat model. A prospective study was conducted over a period of 6 months. Fifteen resident doctors in the department of plastic surgery were enrolled. Each of them underwent one session of microsurgery training on chicken wings (ulnar artery) every week for 15 weeks. The pre-training and post-training microvascular anastomosis were recorded and analyzed by two blinded investigators using a modification of the Structured Assessment of Microsurgery Skills (SAMS) tool. The pre- and post-training scores were compared. Twelve residents completed the requisite number of training sessions and were included in the final analysis. The mean diameter of the chicken wing ulnar artery was 1.04 mm (SD:0.11). All trainees demonstrated an improvement in the total scores. There was significant improvement in the mean scores (Pre-training: 33.46 vs. post-training: 41.42, p = 0.002). There was also a significant decrease in the total number of errors (Pre-training: 6.75 vs. post-training: 4.79, p = 0.012). However, there was no significant improvement in the average time taken to perform anastomosis (Pre-training: 58.03 mins vs. post-training: 52.51 mins, p = 0.182). We concluded that chicken wing is a useful training model for microsurgery. It helps in improving the overall microsurgical skill as well as reducing the average number of errors. This model is cost-effective, easily available, and easy to set-up. The wide assortment of vessels with varying diameters provides opportunities for training of microsurgeons of different skill levels.

Indian Journal of Surgery, 2021

Indian Journal of Surgery, 2020

Breast cancer is the most common cause of death due to malignancy among women worldwide. The goal... more Breast cancer is the most common cause of death due to malignancy among women worldwide. The goal of breast reconstruction post-mastectomy is to improve the quality of life whilst not increasing health risk. Reconstruction of a large-sized post-mastectomy defect with satisfactory outcome poses a challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. In advanced breast cancer, post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy rates are also increasing. In these patients, plastic surgeons are presented with the substantial challenge to cover an extensive skin and soft tissue defect after mastectomy with autologous tissue. Such extensive defects are difficult to reconstruct with available flaps. The decision regarding the most appropriate reconstruction technique and whether to perform an immediate or delayed reconstruction should take into consideration the patient’s preference, risk factors and physical characteristics. We present three cases of post-radical mastectomy with large chest wall defects, > 200 sq. cm in greatest dimensions, one of which had an exposed lung, where immediate reconstruction with microvascular free antero-lateral thigh flap was done. Recipient vessels were internal mammary vessels and cephalic vein in all the cases. Post-operatively, patients did well with limited donor-site morbidity. Hence, the antero-lateral thigh (ALT) flap can be considered as a good option for cases with large defects.

Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery, 2019

Introduction Reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects around the cervico-occipital and thora... more Introduction Reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects around the cervico-occipital and thoracic spine regions is a challenging task. We want to share our experience with trapezius flap for the reconstruction of these complex cases. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent reconstruction using trapezius flaps from January 2016 to June 2019 was performed. The indications, technique, complications, and outcomes were analyzed and presented. Results Six patients (three males and three females, >10 years of age) underwent seven reconstructions using trapezius flaps (one of the patients underwent reconstruction using a bilateral trapezius flap). Trapezius flap was used to resurface the parieto-occipital (n = 2), cervico-occipital (n = 2), cervicothoracic (n = 1), and thoracic (n = 1) regions. All flaps showed successful outcomes; one patient had wound dehiscence, and one patient had partial skin graft loss. Conclusion Trapezius flap is a reliable and...

Journal of Hand and Microsurgery, 2019

Purpose The purpose of the study was to share our indications, technique, outcome, and complicati... more Purpose The purpose of the study was to share our indications, technique, outcome, and complications associated with the pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap (LDMF) for reconstructing various upper limb and trunk soft tissue defects. Patients and Methods We reviewed the prospectively collected data of the patients who underwent reconstruction of upper limb/trunk soft tissue defects with pedicled LDMF between January 2016 and March 2019. By analyzing the clinical scenarios, the location of flap inset, the arc of rotation, reach of the flap, and associated complications, we put forward few significant findings from our experience. Results Thirty-four patients were included in the study: 13 of them underwent LDMF for coverage of upper limb defects, 12 of them for postradical mastectomy soft tissue defects, 8 for posterior trunk reconstruction, and 1 for sternal wound infection. LDMF was successfully used to cover the scapula, anterior and posterior arms, axilla, cubital fossa, m...

Annals of Plastic Surgery, 2019

Scalp avulsion injuries are usually attributed to entrapment of long hair or clothing in agricult... more Scalp avulsion injuries are usually attributed to entrapment of long hair or clothing in agricultural or industrial machinery or traffic accidents. Though rare, these injuries may be dangerous, and resulting cosmetic defect and alopecia lead to social stigma and poor self-esteem. Early intervention in the form of microvascular repair and replantation prevent morbidity and improve outcome. In this case series, we have discussed 3 cases of scalp replantation, 2 complete and 1 partial. Immediate microvascular reconstruction was planned in each case. Single surgical team approach was followed, vessels were identified and operated under an operative microscope. No vein grafts were used. Operative outcome was good, and scalp healed well. Cosmetic outcome was excellent, and there was no need for secondary revisions or use of tissue expanders. Immediate referral of such cases to institutes with facility for microvascular repair is recommended to reduce ischemia time. Superficial temporal artery is the first choice for microvascular repair in scalp replants, and a single artery anastomosis is sufficient to perfuse the entire scalp. Deep temporal artery is a viable alternative in cases where repair with superficial temporal vessels will require use of vein graft, cutting short operative time and associated complications.

Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery, 2018

Background: As the morbidity and mortality due to trauma are ever increasing, there is proportion... more Background: As the morbidity and mortality due to trauma are ever increasing, there is proportionally growing need of trauma care facilities across the country. In the context of expanding designated trauma care facilities, the role of plastic and reconstructive surgeon needs to be analysed and defined at least at a Level 1 trauma centre. Materials and Methods: We included the patients who were operated under the department of plastic, reconstructive & burns surgery at a Level 1 urban trauma centre between January 2016 and December 2017. We analysed the demographic data and categorised operative data according to anatomical areas and interacting specialties. Results: A total of 1539 procedures were performed under the division of plastic reconstructive and burn surgery. Amongst them, 81% were male, and 19% were female. Mean age was 27.3 years (range: 3–90 years). The anatomical locations treated were upper limb (49%), lower limb (35%), head and neck (8%) and trunk (8%). Interdepartm...

Chinese Journal of Traumatology, 2018

Pedicled flaps are still the workhorse flaps for reconstruction of upper limb soft tissue defects... more Pedicled flaps are still the workhorse flaps for reconstruction of upper limb soft tissue defects in many centers across the world. They are lifeboat options for coverage in vessel deplete wounds. In spite of their popularity existing algorithms are limited to a particular region of upper limb; a general algorithm involving entire upper limb which helps in clinical decision making is lacking. We attempt to propose one for the day to day clinical practice. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent pedicled flaps for coverage of posttraumatic upper extremity (arm, elbow, forearm, wrist & hand) soft tissue defects within the period of January 2016 to October 2017 was performed. Patients were divided into groups according to the anatomical location of the defects. The flaps performed for different anatomical regions were enlisted. Demographic data and complications were recorded. An algorithm was proposed based on our experience, with a particular emphasis made to approach to clinical decision making. Results: Two hundred and twelve patients were included in the study. Mean age was 27.3 years (range: 1e80 years), 180 were male, and 32 were female. Overall flap success rate was 98%, the following complications were noted marginal flap necrosis requiring no additional procedure other than local wound care in 32 patients (15%), partial flap necrosis requiring flap advancement or extra flap in 15 patients (7%), surgical site infection in 11 patients (5%), flap dehiscence requiring re-suturing in 5 patients (2.4%), total flap necrosis 4 patients (2%). Conclusion: The proposed algorithm allows a reliable and consistent method for addressing diverse soft tissue defects in the upper limb with high success rate.

Journal of hand and microsurgery, 2018

Microvascular reconstruction is the standard of care for salvage of soft tissue defects in comple... more Microvascular reconstruction is the standard of care for salvage of soft tissue defects in complex upper extremity due to their distinct advantages over the pedicled flaps. However, in the era of microsurgery, pedicled flaps have an acceptable significant role for reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects. The authors aim to demonstrate the versatility of pedicled thoracoumbilical flap (TUF) in selected clinical scenarios. Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent TUF for upper limb posttraumatic reconstruction was performed between January 2016 and October 2017. The demographic details, etiology, wound parameters, clinical circumstances, and complications were recorded. Ten patients were included in the retrospective case series. Out of them, nine of the patients had critical issues, which justified a pedicled TUF over free flap. The critical issues were severe comorbid illnesses ( = 3), the paucity of recipient vessels ( = 1), salvage of hand replant and revascularizati...

Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery : JPRAS, 2018

Scars have multiple cosmetic and functional sequelae, and revision surgeries are an attempt to am... more Scars have multiple cosmetic and functional sequelae, and revision surgeries are an attempt to ameliorate these effects. Reduction of spread of the revised scar is one of the main objectives of revision procedures. Provision of prolonged dermal support to wound can theoretically reduce spread of the scar. We carried out a randomized controlled trial and objectively evaluated the impact of two commonly used absorbable sutures, Polyglactin 910 and Polydioxanone, on scar spread and quality. Sixty patients with post-traumatic scars of 1 year in duration were enrolled in the study and randomly divided into two groups of 30 each. After recording the demographic data and baseline scar characteristics, revision of the scar was carried out by elliptical excision and primary suturing. In Group 1, Polyglactin 910 6-0 suture (Vicryl, Ethicon, Johnson and Johnson Ltd., India) was used for dermal suturing, whereas, in Group 2, Polydioxanone 6-0 suture (PDS II, Ethicon, Johnson and Johnson Ltd., I...

The Indian Journal of Pediatrics, 2016

Burns, 2014

High voltage electrical contact to hand result in injuries at multiple levels that may require mo... more High voltage electrical contact to hand result in injuries at multiple levels that may require more than a single flap for effective coverage. We present here a simple technique to utilise preputial flap as an adjunct to groin flap in cases where simultaneous coverage was required at more than one site in hands. In the past two years, 15 patients with unilateral involvement of hands due to electrical contact injury underwent this procedure. In addition to a comfortable position of the hand, stable and purposeful coverage at the wrist and various areas of hands was achieved in all the patients and none had flap failure. Minor complications related to penile erection were encountered that resulted in partial wound dehiscence that was managed with resuturing, pain relief and temporary suppression of erection. In our opinion, preputial flap is a good addition in our armamentarium to be used alongside groin flap for effective coverage of more than a single site requiring flap cover in electric injuries of the hand.

Infectious Diseases in the Intensive Care Unit, 2020

Critically ill burn patients usually carry a higher risk of infections. Infections and subsequent... more Critically ill burn patients usually carry a higher risk of infections. Infections and subsequent complications are the leading cause of death in burns after initial couple of days where the main causes are Hypovolemia and Hypoxia (in Inhalational Burns). Although advancements in burn management and critical care have decreased the mortality rate in severe burn injuries, infections continue to be a challenge. Management of burn patients in the ICU involves management of physiological derangements caused by burns, management of various catheters and tubes used for invasive monitoring, optimum nutrition along with local wound care.

Indian Journal of Surgery, 2021

We describe a pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous (LDMC) flap with a wing-shaped skin paddle t... more We describe a pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous (LDMC) flap with a wing-shaped skin paddle to cover large breast defects. It allows primary closure of the donor site with the added advantage of some flap projection. This is performed utilising the principles of M-plasty and the anatomy of thoracodorsal musculocutaneous perforators, which would not be possible with the conventional flap design. Analysis of a series of 23 patients who underwent breast reconstruction using wing shaped skin component LDMC technique between 2011 and 2019 in a breast unit of a Tertiary Care Hospital is presented here. Patient characteristics, technical details, and outcomes were analysed. Mean patient age was 41 (SD 10.9) years. The mean defect dimensions were 13.5 (SD 3.4) cm and 10.5 (SD 2.6) cm in length and width, respectively. The mean flap area was 147 (SD 67.2 cm2).The donor site defect was closed primarily in all the cases. The average length of inhospital stay was 4.9 (SD 1.5) days (range 3–9 days). One patient (4.3%) had marginal necrosis of the flap, three patients (13%) had donor site seroma, and two patients (8.7%) suffered donor site wound dehiscence. None of the complications entailed re-surgery or delay the onset of adjuvant therapy. At a mean follow-up of 37.5 (SD 33.9) months, none of the patients reported tumour recurrence or donor site morbidity. Wing-shaped skin component of latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap offers a simple and reliable pedicled flap to cover large breast defects with minimal donor site morbidity. It creates a mild breast mound and may avoid the use of implants and its associated complications in small-breasted patients. It can be conveniently performed in non-microsurgical setups.

Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery : Official Publication of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India, 2021

Background Many aspects of life have been changed, after the starting of the pandemic. Modificati... more Background Many aspects of life have been changed, after the starting of the pandemic. Modifications and improvisation in our day-to-day activities is now a new norm. During the pandemic period, continuation academic activities and conductance of examination is difficult but essential. We are sharing our experience of conductance of MCh examination during the pandemic and preparations made. This article also discussed the future of surgical assessment examination, use of technology in surgical assessment changing times. Methods Procedural flow of the examination, Logistics and arrangements were planned and checked. Reliability and validity of questions were maintained by providing a similar set of questions and stepwise objective assessment. Assessment and feedback by the examinees and examiners on the pattern and conductance of examination were assessed by a Likert scale. Results We found, 73% agreed examination patterns were able to test the knowledge fairly. While 80 % believed t...

International Microsurgery Journal, 2017

Pedicled anterolateral thigh flap is a versatile option for reconstruction of complex soft tissue... more Pedicled anterolateral thigh flap is a versatile option for reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects in varied anatomical regions. Its wide arc of rotation and less donor site morbidity are its added advantages.

Journal of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, 2021

Microsurgical skills are essential for plastic surgeons in the modern times. Chicken wing model f... more Microsurgical skills are essential for plastic surgeons in the modern times. Chicken wing model for microsurgery training offers an easy and cost-effective alternative to the traditional live rat model. A prospective study was conducted over a period of 6 months. Fifteen resident doctors in the department of plastic surgery were enrolled. Each of them underwent one session of microsurgery training on chicken wings (ulnar artery) every week for 15 weeks. The pre-training and post-training microvascular anastomosis were recorded and analyzed by two blinded investigators using a modification of the Structured Assessment of Microsurgery Skills (SAMS) tool. The pre- and post-training scores were compared. Twelve residents completed the requisite number of training sessions and were included in the final analysis. The mean diameter of the chicken wing ulnar artery was 1.04 mm (SD:0.11). All trainees demonstrated an improvement in the total scores. There was significant improvement in the mean scores (Pre-training: 33.46 vs. post-training: 41.42, p = 0.002). There was also a significant decrease in the total number of errors (Pre-training: 6.75 vs. post-training: 4.79, p = 0.012). However, there was no significant improvement in the average time taken to perform anastomosis (Pre-training: 58.03 mins vs. post-training: 52.51 mins, p = 0.182). We concluded that chicken wing is a useful training model for microsurgery. It helps in improving the overall microsurgical skill as well as reducing the average number of errors. This model is cost-effective, easily available, and easy to set-up. The wide assortment of vessels with varying diameters provides opportunities for training of microsurgeons of different skill levels.

Indian Journal of Surgery, 2021

Indian Journal of Surgery, 2020

Breast cancer is the most common cause of death due to malignancy among women worldwide. The goal... more Breast cancer is the most common cause of death due to malignancy among women worldwide. The goal of breast reconstruction post-mastectomy is to improve the quality of life whilst not increasing health risk. Reconstruction of a large-sized post-mastectomy defect with satisfactory outcome poses a challenge to the reconstructive surgeon. In advanced breast cancer, post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy rates are also increasing. In these patients, plastic surgeons are presented with the substantial challenge to cover an extensive skin and soft tissue defect after mastectomy with autologous tissue. Such extensive defects are difficult to reconstruct with available flaps. The decision regarding the most appropriate reconstruction technique and whether to perform an immediate or delayed reconstruction should take into consideration the patient’s preference, risk factors and physical characteristics. We present three cases of post-radical mastectomy with large chest wall defects, > 200 sq. cm in greatest dimensions, one of which had an exposed lung, where immediate reconstruction with microvascular free antero-lateral thigh flap was done. Recipient vessels were internal mammary vessels and cephalic vein in all the cases. Post-operatively, patients did well with limited donor-site morbidity. Hence, the antero-lateral thigh (ALT) flap can be considered as a good option for cases with large defects.

Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery, 2019

Introduction Reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects around the cervico-occipital and thora... more Introduction Reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects around the cervico-occipital and thoracic spine regions is a challenging task. We want to share our experience with trapezius flap for the reconstruction of these complex cases. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent reconstruction using trapezius flaps from January 2016 to June 2019 was performed. The indications, technique, complications, and outcomes were analyzed and presented. Results Six patients (three males and three females, >10 years of age) underwent seven reconstructions using trapezius flaps (one of the patients underwent reconstruction using a bilateral trapezius flap). Trapezius flap was used to resurface the parieto-occipital (n = 2), cervico-occipital (n = 2), cervicothoracic (n = 1), and thoracic (n = 1) regions. All flaps showed successful outcomes; one patient had wound dehiscence, and one patient had partial skin graft loss. Conclusion Trapezius flap is a reliable and...

Journal of Hand and Microsurgery, 2019

Purpose The purpose of the study was to share our indications, technique, outcome, and complicati... more Purpose The purpose of the study was to share our indications, technique, outcome, and complications associated with the pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap (LDMF) for reconstructing various upper limb and trunk soft tissue defects. Patients and Methods We reviewed the prospectively collected data of the patients who underwent reconstruction of upper limb/trunk soft tissue defects with pedicled LDMF between January 2016 and March 2019. By analyzing the clinical scenarios, the location of flap inset, the arc of rotation, reach of the flap, and associated complications, we put forward few significant findings from our experience. Results Thirty-four patients were included in the study: 13 of them underwent LDMF for coverage of upper limb defects, 12 of them for postradical mastectomy soft tissue defects, 8 for posterior trunk reconstruction, and 1 for sternal wound infection. LDMF was successfully used to cover the scapula, anterior and posterior arms, axilla, cubital fossa, m...

Annals of Plastic Surgery, 2019

Scalp avulsion injuries are usually attributed to entrapment of long hair or clothing in agricult... more Scalp avulsion injuries are usually attributed to entrapment of long hair or clothing in agricultural or industrial machinery or traffic accidents. Though rare, these injuries may be dangerous, and resulting cosmetic defect and alopecia lead to social stigma and poor self-esteem. Early intervention in the form of microvascular repair and replantation prevent morbidity and improve outcome. In this case series, we have discussed 3 cases of scalp replantation, 2 complete and 1 partial. Immediate microvascular reconstruction was planned in each case. Single surgical team approach was followed, vessels were identified and operated under an operative microscope. No vein grafts were used. Operative outcome was good, and scalp healed well. Cosmetic outcome was excellent, and there was no need for secondary revisions or use of tissue expanders. Immediate referral of such cases to institutes with facility for microvascular repair is recommended to reduce ischemia time. Superficial temporal artery is the first choice for microvascular repair in scalp replants, and a single artery anastomosis is sufficient to perfuse the entire scalp. Deep temporal artery is a viable alternative in cases where repair with superficial temporal vessels will require use of vein graft, cutting short operative time and associated complications.

Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery, 2018

Background: As the morbidity and mortality due to trauma are ever increasing, there is proportion... more Background: As the morbidity and mortality due to trauma are ever increasing, there is proportionally growing need of trauma care facilities across the country. In the context of expanding designated trauma care facilities, the role of plastic and reconstructive surgeon needs to be analysed and defined at least at a Level 1 trauma centre. Materials and Methods: We included the patients who were operated under the department of plastic, reconstructive & burns surgery at a Level 1 urban trauma centre between January 2016 and December 2017. We analysed the demographic data and categorised operative data according to anatomical areas and interacting specialties. Results: A total of 1539 procedures were performed under the division of plastic reconstructive and burn surgery. Amongst them, 81% were male, and 19% were female. Mean age was 27.3 years (range: 3–90 years). The anatomical locations treated were upper limb (49%), lower limb (35%), head and neck (8%) and trunk (8%). Interdepartm...

Chinese Journal of Traumatology, 2018

Pedicled flaps are still the workhorse flaps for reconstruction of upper limb soft tissue defects... more Pedicled flaps are still the workhorse flaps for reconstruction of upper limb soft tissue defects in many centers across the world. They are lifeboat options for coverage in vessel deplete wounds. In spite of their popularity existing algorithms are limited to a particular region of upper limb; a general algorithm involving entire upper limb which helps in clinical decision making is lacking. We attempt to propose one for the day to day clinical practice. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent pedicled flaps for coverage of posttraumatic upper extremity (arm, elbow, forearm, wrist & hand) soft tissue defects within the period of January 2016 to October 2017 was performed. Patients were divided into groups according to the anatomical location of the defects. The flaps performed for different anatomical regions were enlisted. Demographic data and complications were recorded. An algorithm was proposed based on our experience, with a particular emphasis made to approach to clinical decision making. Results: Two hundred and twelve patients were included in the study. Mean age was 27.3 years (range: 1e80 years), 180 were male, and 32 were female. Overall flap success rate was 98%, the following complications were noted marginal flap necrosis requiring no additional procedure other than local wound care in 32 patients (15%), partial flap necrosis requiring flap advancement or extra flap in 15 patients (7%), surgical site infection in 11 patients (5%), flap dehiscence requiring re-suturing in 5 patients (2.4%), total flap necrosis 4 patients (2%). Conclusion: The proposed algorithm allows a reliable and consistent method for addressing diverse soft tissue defects in the upper limb with high success rate.

Journal of hand and microsurgery, 2018

Microvascular reconstruction is the standard of care for salvage of soft tissue defects in comple... more Microvascular reconstruction is the standard of care for salvage of soft tissue defects in complex upper extremity due to their distinct advantages over the pedicled flaps. However, in the era of microsurgery, pedicled flaps have an acceptable significant role for reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects. The authors aim to demonstrate the versatility of pedicled thoracoumbilical flap (TUF) in selected clinical scenarios. Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent TUF for upper limb posttraumatic reconstruction was performed between January 2016 and October 2017. The demographic details, etiology, wound parameters, clinical circumstances, and complications were recorded. Ten patients were included in the retrospective case series. Out of them, nine of the patients had critical issues, which justified a pedicled TUF over free flap. The critical issues were severe comorbid illnesses ( = 3), the paucity of recipient vessels ( = 1), salvage of hand replant and revascularizati...

Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery : JPRAS, 2018

Scars have multiple cosmetic and functional sequelae, and revision surgeries are an attempt to am... more Scars have multiple cosmetic and functional sequelae, and revision surgeries are an attempt to ameliorate these effects. Reduction of spread of the revised scar is one of the main objectives of revision procedures. Provision of prolonged dermal support to wound can theoretically reduce spread of the scar. We carried out a randomized controlled trial and objectively evaluated the impact of two commonly used absorbable sutures, Polyglactin 910 and Polydioxanone, on scar spread and quality. Sixty patients with post-traumatic scars of 1 year in duration were enrolled in the study and randomly divided into two groups of 30 each. After recording the demographic data and baseline scar characteristics, revision of the scar was carried out by elliptical excision and primary suturing. In Group 1, Polyglactin 910 6-0 suture (Vicryl, Ethicon, Johnson and Johnson Ltd., India) was used for dermal suturing, whereas, in Group 2, Polydioxanone 6-0 suture (PDS II, Ethicon, Johnson and Johnson Ltd., I...

The Indian Journal of Pediatrics, 2016

Burns, 2014

High voltage electrical contact to hand result in injuries at multiple levels that may require mo... more High voltage electrical contact to hand result in injuries at multiple levels that may require more than a single flap for effective coverage. We present here a simple technique to utilise preputial flap as an adjunct to groin flap in cases where simultaneous coverage was required at more than one site in hands. In the past two years, 15 patients with unilateral involvement of hands due to electrical contact injury underwent this procedure. In addition to a comfortable position of the hand, stable and purposeful coverage at the wrist and various areas of hands was achieved in all the patients and none had flap failure. Minor complications related to penile erection were encountered that resulted in partial wound dehiscence that was managed with resuturing, pain relief and temporary suppression of erection. In our opinion, preputial flap is a good addition in our armamentarium to be used alongside groin flap for effective coverage of more than a single site requiring flap cover in electric injuries of the hand.