• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• 제44권4호
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• pp.283-292
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• 2017

Background Settlements between doctors and patients provide a solution to complicated disputes. However, some disputes may be renewed as a result of negligence by both parties. The purpose of this study was to review the legal issues that may potentially arise during the preparation of settlement agreements and to propose a list of requirements for ensuring the effectiveness of these settlement agreements. Methods Data from 287 civil cases concerning aesthetic surgery that took place between 2000 and 2015 were collected from a court database in South Korea. Factors that influenced the effectiveness of settlement agreements were analyzed. Results Among the 287 court precedents, there were 68 cases of covenant not to sue. Eighteen cases were dismissed because the settlement agreements were recognized as effective, and 50 cases were sent forward for judgment on their merits because the agreements were not recognized as effective. The types of surgery and types of complications were classified by frequency. We evaluated the geographical distribution of the precedents, the settlement timing, and the effectiveness and economic impact of the settlements. We found that there was no statistically significant relationship among these factors. Four major factors that made a settlement agreement legally effective were identified, and the data showed that fee-free reoperations were not considered by the court in determining the compensation amount. Conclusions When preparing a settlement agreement, it is advisable to review the contents of the agreement rather than to take the preparation of a settlement agreement per se to be legally meaningful.

• Archives of Reconstructive Microsurgery
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• 제22권2호
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• pp.63-68
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• 2013

Purpose: In case of the failed replantation, if the patients want to preserve the length of amputated stump, toe transfer is the ideal choice. However, reconstruction of these amputated stump with a free flap can be a useful method when the patients refuse sacrificing their toe. Our purpose of this study is to evaluate availability of functional results and patient satisfaction after this procedure. Materials and Methods: From March 2008 to February 2012, we reconstructed the amputated stump with free flap by patients demand. Eleven patients were included, medial plantar artery perforator flap in seven cases and great toe pulp flap in five cases. Follow-up range 12 to 24 months and we evaluate patient satisfaction by using a visual analogue scale (VAS; 1=unsatisfied, 5=excellent) and functional recovery by measuring the range of motion of remaining joint at 12 months after operation. Results: During follow-up period, all transferred free flaps survived and no major complications were noted. Range of motion of remaining joint appeared satisfactory result ($15^{\circ}$ to $100^{\circ}$). The VAS patient satisfaction score for aesthetic were five in six patients, four in four patients, and three in one patient. Conclusion: In case of the failed digital replantation, if patient refuse toe transfer, it could be useful method to reconstruction with the free flap to preserving maximal length of amputated stump.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• 제39권2호
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• pp.138-142
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• 2012

Background : Electrical burns are one of the most devastating types of injuries, and can be characterized by the conduction of electric current through the deeper soft tissue such as vessels, nerves, muscles, and bones. For that reason, the extent of an electric burn is very frequently underestimated on initial impression. Methods : From July 1999 to June 2006, we performed 15 cases of toe tissue transfer for the reconstruction of finger defects caused by electrical burns. We performed preoperative range of motion exercise, early excision, and coverage of the digital defect with toe tissue transfer. Results : We obtained satisfactory results in both functional and aesthetic aspects in all 15 cases without specific complications. Static two-point discrimination results in the transferred toe cases ranged from 8 to 11 mm, with an average of 9.5 mm. The mean range of motion of the transferred toe was $20^{\circ}$ to $36^{\circ}$ in the distal interphalangeal joint, $16^{\circ}$ to $45^{\circ}$ in the proximal interphalangeal joint, and $15^{\circ}$ to $35^{\circ}$ in the metacarpophalangeal joint. All of the patients were relatively satisfied with the function and appearance of their new digits. Conclusions : The strategic management of electrical injury to the hands can be both challenging and complex. Because the optimal surgical method is free tissue transfer, maintenance of vascular integrity among various physiological changes works as a determining factor for the postoperative outcome following the reconstruction.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• 제32권6호
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• pp.777-781
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• 2005

Syndactyly and polysyndactyly are one of the most common congenital anomalies of upper limb. Although there are many surgical approaches, most of them require skin graft for covering the raw surfaces. Therefore these methods involve many disadvantages such as grafted skin contracture, web recurrence, skin graft loss and long operation time, and the grafted hyperpigmented skin and donor site of skin graft, which lead to poor results aesthetically. The authors treated seven cases with a Hayashi's new method in four patients. In this method, tissue of interdigital space are regarded as forming 4 facets of a two piled cube. A dorsal rectangular flap on dorsum of interdigital web makes a new interdigital space. One side of divided digit is coverd with lateral based plantar flap and the other side of divided digit is covered with subcutaneous pedicled flap and remnant web skin. The authors could obtain natural deep interdigital space without web recurrence and scar contracture in 7 cases. Moreover this method does not require skin grafting, accordingly produces better aesthetic results without hyperpigmentation and donor site scaring. Therefore we report this operation technique, which might be used as one of the standard in surgical correction of syndactyly and polysyndactyly.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• 제35권4호
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• pp.483-486
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• 2008

Purpose: Fingertip injuries are the most common hand injuries and may lead to significant disability. Knowledge of fingertip anatomy is mandatory to treat these injuries effectively. All surgical techniques used for coverage of fingertip injuries must be based on the nature of the injury and the patient's age. Many authors have studied the method of fingertip reconstruction because goals of these treatments should include maintaining length, sensibility, motions, and appearance. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of digital artery perforator flap for fingertip reconstruction without aesthetic and functional problems. Methods: From November 2006 to March 2007, the authors performed fingertip reconstruction on 3 fingers of 3 patients, aged between 41 to 54 years (average age, 47 years) using digital artery perforator flap. Results: All fingers recovered successfully and there were no necrosis of the flap. We followed up 3 cases more than 5 months. Light touch and temperature sensation could be detected in all flaps and the static two-point discrimination test was 8 mm. Conclusion: This flap is an alternative choice for coverage of fingertip defects. This method also takes short time to procedure and to recovery. The digital artery perforator flap has never been reported in Korea, however it is considered as a useful method for treatment of fingertip injury.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• 제32권2호
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• pp.205-213
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• 2005

There are several characteristics of the nose of orientals. The dorsum of nose is flat and low, the skin is thick with severe tension, the nasal tip is bulbous, the nostril is wide, and the projection of the nose is limited due to a poorly developed alar cartilage with a short columella. In order to improve these untoward characteristics of the nose of Orientals aesthetically, plain augmentation of the dorsum and tip-plasty with conventional methods has been performed by many plastic surgeons. However these conventional rhinoplasty is not enough to obtain satisfactory results when transforming into a more beautiful and aesthetically charming appearance. In order to produce the optimal nasal shape and profile, it is extremely important to consider the aesthetic surgical factors, which are; the position of the nasion, the optimal nasolabial angle(95-100 degree in Orientals), the natural exposure of infra-tip lobule with and columella, the position of the tip defining point in harmony with the dorsal profile and the smooth and natural silhouette of the lateral nasal profile as it descends into the inferior portion of the nose. From April, 2003 to August, 2004, a total of 52 patients underwent open rhinoplasty, adhering to the strict aesthetic principles considered and described priorly. Surgical approach was done through a transcolumella incision and an alar rim incision. The nasal dorsum was augmented with a silicone implant and the shape of the columella and the nasolabial angle were finessed with a silicone strut implant which was placed in between the medial crurae in a manner of a non-visible graft. The nasal tip was corrected by alar cartilage suture technique and onlay graft of shield shaped Alloderm and Gore-Tex. Author obtained the optimal nasal shape and profile aesthetically, and the results, considered satisfactory in all patients without any complications, are as follows; 1. the average increase in nasal length was 2.5 mm, 2. the average decrease in nasal width was 2.1 mm, 3. the average increase in nasal tip projection was 3.2 mm, 4. the changes of nasolabial angles were from 85.5 degree to 94.7 degree, 5. the changes of the angle between the long axis of the external naris was from 101.3 degree to 89.5 degree. In conclusion, this surgical procedure is an effective, reliable and a valuable method in improving the nasal shape, tip projection, nasolabial angle and especially, the lateral facial profile of Orientals aesthetically.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• 제51권4호
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• pp.350-355
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• 2024

The clinical application of polydioxanone (PDO) threads, traditionally utilized for tissue lifting, is now being explored for its volumizing effects in midface rejuvenation. The novel approach involves employing PDO volumizing threads to achieve physical augmentation akin to a "solid filler." The study introduces a more convenient insertion method for these threads, prioritizing ease and efficacy. Clinical cases demonstrate the efficacy of volumizing threads in addressing midface concerns, such as nasolabial folds and midcheek grooves. Additionally, the integration of volumizing threads to provide support in sagging areas is examined for achieving natural-looking enhancements. While highlighting positive outcomes, potential side effects like thread protrusion are addressed, along with strategies for their mitigation. Volumizing threads are presented as a suitable procedure for patients wary of traditional fillers or seeking subtle enhancements, with the recommendation of combining them with cog threads for those desiring more pronounced changes in facial contour. In summary, volumizing thread offers a minimally invasive alternative with fewer side effects for midface rejuvenation.

• Medical Lasers
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• 제8권1호
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• pp.13-18
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• 2019

Background and Objectives High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) can produce small zones of thermal damage. A HIFU procedure is non-invasive and it can achieve rejuvenation of facial skin. Fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing delivers thermal damage to the pixilated columnar zone of the skin and so evoke collagen remodeling, the same as HIFU. In many cases, the patients who want rejuvenation with HIFU are also good candidates for cutaneous photorejuvenation such as can be accomplished via fractional CO₂ resurfacing. If patients are treated in a single session by remodeling both the superficial and deep compartments of skin by using both modalities, then improvement in rhytides and tightening of sagging skin will optimize the aesthetic result. Materials and Methods Between May 2014 and January 2018, a total of 44 patients were treated with combination HIFU and fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing according to our protocol. First, the HIFU was applied to the entire face with an average of 300 treatment lines. Immediately after HIFU treatment, the ultrasound gel was washed off and then fractional CO₂ laser resurfacing was performed. We evaluated the patients using 4-point grading scales. The clinician examined the skin for evidence of complications after the completion of treatment. Results All the patients' skin quality showed improvement. Further. the clinical results after duel modality treatment were substantially better than that after the use of either modality alone. The recovery times and the incidence of adverse events when quickly and consecutively performing both treatments were similar as compared to those with employing stepwise treatment. We encountered no complications whatsoever. Conclusion When compared with stepwise therapy, combination therapy with HIFU and fractional CO₂ resurfacing offers better, safer and more effective clinical results. Thus, for targeting multiple layers of aging facial skin, this combination therapy can be safely performed in a single treatment session.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• 제41권6호
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• pp.679-685
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• 2014

Background Frontal sinus fractures, particularly anterior sinus fractures, are relatively common facial fractures. Many agree on the general principles of frontal fracture management; however, the optimal methods of reduction are still controversial. In this article, we suggest a simple reduction method using a subbrow incision as a treatment for isolated anterior sinus fractures. Methods Between March 2011 and March 2014, 13 patients with isolated frontal sinus fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation through a subbrow incision. The subbrow incision line was designed to be precisely at the lower margin of the brow in order to obtain an inconspicuous scar. A periosteal incision was made at 3 mm above the superior orbital rim. The fracture site of the frontal bone was reduced, and bone fixation was performed using an absorbable plate and screws. Results Contour deformities were completely restored in all patients, and all patients were satisfied with the results. Scars were barely visible in the long-term follow-up. No complications related to the procedure, such as infection, uncontrolled sinus bleeding, hematoma, paresthesia, mucocele, or posterior wall and brain injury were observed. Conclusions The subbrow approach allowed for an accurate reduction and internal fixation of the fractures in the anterior table of the frontal sinus by providing a direct visualization of the fracture. Considering the surgical success of the reduction and the rigid fixation, patient satisfaction, and aesthetic problems, this transcutaneous approach through a subbrow incision is concluded to be superior to the other reduction techniques used in the case of an anterior table frontal sinus fracture.

• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• 제43권1호
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• pp.19-25
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• 2016

Background The vermilion plays an important role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of facial anatomy. Due to its structural features, the complete excision of vascular anomalies on the vermilion is challenging, making it difficult to determine the appropriate treatment strategy. Thus, the authors analyzed the results of surgical treatment of vascular anomalies on the vermilion. Methods The medical records of 38 patients with vascular anomalies on the vermilion who underwent surgery from 1995 to 2013 were analyzed. Nine of the cases had an involuted hemangioma, and 29 cases had a vascular malformation; of the vascular malformations, 13, 11, one, and four cases involved were capillary malformations (CMs), venous malformations (VMs), lymphatic malformations (LMs), and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), respectively. We investigated the surgical methods used to treat these patients, the quantity of surgical procedures, complications and instances of recurrence, and self-assessed satisfaction scores. Results A total of 50 operations were carried out: 28 horizontal partial excisions, eight vertical partial excisions, and 14 operations using other surgical methods. All cases of AVM underwent complete excision. Six cases experienced minor complications and one case of recurrence was observed. The overall average satisfaction score was 4.1 out of 5, while the satisfaction scores associated with each lesion type were 4.2 for hemangiomas, 3.9 for CMs, 4.2 for VMs, 5.0 for LMs, and 4.0 for AVMs. Conclusions It is difficult to completely excise vascular anomalies that involve the vermilion. This study suggests that partial excision focused on correcting the overall contour of the lips is effective and leads to satisfactory results.