This article provides a roadmap for plastic surgeons on how to successfully conceptualize, draft, and publish a paper. By publishing papers, authors will not only add to their professional standings but gain a deeper understanding of their topics and become artful at communicating their expertise to others. The processes of composition, submission, and revisions of manuscripts are an interlocking set of steps, and this essay describes the steps and their relationships to each other and final successful publications.

The use of "mesh" in implant-based reconstruction is widespread, with both acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) and extracellular matrices (ECMs) being used, especially in prepectoral device placement. This study compared Ovitex (ovine ECM) versus human cadaveric ADMs to determine safety profiles and cost-effectiveness.

Retention rates of lipotransfer remain variable, with the underlying cause associated with tissue oxygenation and blood supply barriers. One promising new method of improving tissue oxygenation is micro/nanobubbles (MNBs), which are small gas bubbles (<100 μm) generated within a saline solution. MNBs are stable and carry a significant amount of oxygen, and because of their negatively charged surface characteristics, they are an ideal oxygen-delivery solution. Thus, we hypothesize that washing/oxygenating lipoaspirate tissue prior to transplantation in a micro/nanobubble saline solution will improve graft survival and quality compared to a saline control.

The Plastic Surgery Common Application (PSCA) was introduced in the 2020-2021 integrated plastic surgery match cycle. We investigated the accuracy of medical student-reported quantitative metrics in the PSCA.

Flexor zone 2 is the area between the A1 pulley at the distal palmar crease to the insertion of the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon at A4 pulley. Termed "no man's land," primary repair at zone 2 had notoriously high rate of complications such as adhesions, contractures, and tendon rupture. Improved understanding of tendon healing, stronger suture materials, novel operative techniques, judicious pulley venting, and early active rehabilitation have helped improve outcomes. This review examines current methodologies and postoperative considerations for zone 2 flexor tendon repair.

Free flap surgery is a reliable and safe procedure for breast reconstruction. The survival of free flaps depends on their vascular pedicle initially, but neovascularization can sustain their blood supply after a while. Management of late pedicle occlusion in free flap breast reconstruction and potential implications of late pedicle occlusion on the transferred tissue are controversial.

Vascular embolism is a severe complication following hyaluronic acid (HA) filler injections, with hyaluronidase injection being the most effective treatment. The nasal region, including the nose and nasolabial fold, is the most common site of vascular embolism after facial HA injections. Currently, there is insufficient clinical evidence regarding the benefits of facial artery thrombolysis.

Zone 2 of the hand, which stretches from the region between the A1 pulley at the distal palmar crease to the insertion of the FDS tendon at the end of the A4 pulley, is notable for its high complication rate following surgery. Many of these complications, such as adhesions, contractures, and tendon rupture, can be avoided through adequate rehabilitation. We document the rehabilitation protocol at Vanderbilt University Medical center, which is characterized by 4 phases. An initial postoperative phase emphasizes shielding the flexor tendons with little motion, a second phase focuses on an orthosis to keep the metacarpophalangeal joints flexed at 45 degrees, a third phase focuses on strengthening exercises, and a fourth phase that focuses on transitioning to normal activities without restriction.

Radial longitudinal deficiency (RLD) is a multidimensional congenital hand difference encompassing skeletal, musculotendinous, and joint components. Managing RLD remains challenging, with numerous surgical procedures over the past century failing to achieve a stable, mobile, growing wrist without recurrence of the deformity. This review investigates new therapeutic approaches for RLD, delving into genetic, embryological, and histological aspects, including proximal muscle involvement and causes of recurrence.A notable association between RLD and preaxial polydactyly, linked to aberrations in the Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway, is highlighted, suggesting a common embryonic origin. Experimental evidence indicates that ectopic Sonic Hedgehog signaling can result in radial aplasia and preaxial polydactyly. Histopathological studies revealed significant muscle abnormalities in RLD, contributing to deformities and recurrences.Techniques such as preoperative soft tissue distraction show promise, but recurrence rates persist. Alternative surgical procedures, such as vascularized second metatarsophalangeal joint transfer and ulna cuff osteotomy, offer potential improvements by minimizing recurrence and optimizing limb length.Despite advancements, effective management of RLD requires further research into the interplay between genetic factors, muscle abnormalities, and surgical outcomes. This review underscores the importance of early detection, genetic counseling, and a multidisciplinary approach to enhance long-term functional and aesthetic results for RLD patients.

Distal radius fractures are common and vary based on their fracture pattern. Fractures distal to the watershed line are called rim fractures or marginal fractures. In addition to challenges already faced when treating distal radius fractures at other sites, rim fractures pose particular challenges in proper identification, reduction, and stabilization. This article reviews this specific subset of distal radius fractures and its management.

The insertion of large bore cannulas into the femoral vessels for venous-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) administration has been associated with significant acute and chronic wound complications in patients with significant medical and surgical comorbidities, including vessel exposure and lymphocele development. In this series, we report our experience using muscle flap reconstruction in the management of post-ECMO groin wounds, with particular emphasis on groin lymphocele.

Craniosynostosis is characterized by the premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures, which can lead to abnormal skull shape and restricted skull growth. Although most cases are present in isolation, some are associated with genetic syndromes, such as Pfeiffer, Muenke, Couzon, Apert, and others, which increases the complexity of care. Today, a spectrum of surgical options to treat craniosynostosis are available and range from traditional open cranial vault remodeling to newer and less invasive suturectomy-based techniques. Which procedure is offered to a patient depends on not only the specific synostosis pattern but also factors such as patient age, the need for additional procedures or interventions, and evidence of elevated intracranial pressure. Thorough consultations with families to discuss achievable goals for cosmesis and function are essential in providing optimal care to each impacted child.

Clavicular nonunion is an uncommon complication with a significant impact on quality of life and can be difficult to manage. In recalcitrant cases, or situations unfavorable for take of nonvascularized grafts, vascularized osseous reconstruction may be utilized. Several donor sites for such flaps have been described, with each associated with unique benefits and drawbacks.

Simulation training has been growing in popularity, as a means to help supplement the training of surgical residents. The Newcastle Surgical Training Centre K-wiring course, a 1-day course designed for early-years surgical trainees, aims to teach essential skills in K-wire fixation for hand fractures. The course integrates lectures and hands-on practice with both simulated and cadaveric specimens, supported by a high faculty-to-delegate ratio. Despite minor limitations, such as the quality of initial hand simulators and the potential need for more radiographer support, the course provides substantial educational value and practical experience. Overall, authors found the Newcastle Surgical Training Centre K-wiring course to be a well-resourced and effective training opportunity for surgical trainees.

Feminizing top surgery, or mammaplasty augmentation, has multiple variables that surgeons can adjust to work synergistically with patient anatomy including plane of implant placement, pocket size, and inframammary fold (IMF) location. In the gender diverse population receiving this procedure to reduce symptoms of gender dysphoria, surgeons should be aware of differing anatomy and surgical approaches for feminizing top surgery.

Grafts and flaps play significant roles in rhinoplasty procedures, while spreader grafts are commonly used. Spreader grafts are placed into submucosal pockets between the upper lateral cartilage and nasal septum. Occurrence of deviation can be seen on nondeviated noses after let-down or push-down methods are performed as the part of the upper septum that has been let-down may cause pressure on the lower septum and that results in deviation. In the present study, the author aimed to demonstrate the benefits of using a proximal intact spreader graft to support the nondeviated nasal septum or to correct the deviated septum in patients undergoing dorsal preservation rhinoplasty. In deviated noses, the upper septum is brought down to the opposite side of the deviation, and a proximal intact spreader graft is placed between the upper and lower septum to correct the deviation and make the dorsum nondeviated. This technique is suitable for patients with a slight to moderately deviated caudal part of the septum. It is unsuitable for patients with severe, cross, or S-shaped deviation. This technique aims to preserve the condition of the nondeviated nose and convert it into a nondeviated state in the let-down technique. The combination of proximal intact spreader graft and dorsal preservation rhinoplasty techniques effectively addresses dorsal hump and dorsal deviation deformities, enhances upper lateral cartilage concavity, prevents W-ASA segment collapse, and both prevents and improves internal nasal valve collapse. The data of patients who underwent dorsal hump reduction with the let-down technique were screened. According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, 95 patients were included in the study (68 females and 27 males). The ROE score before the operation was 51.5. After 12 months, it was found to be 91.5 points, and the change in the ROE median score was significant (P < 0.001). This new proximal intact spreader graft method presents a suitable approach for surgeons to prevent any let-down-induced deviation problems that may occur after the procedure and to correct the present deviation. It will also lead to better cosmetic and functional outcomes for patients who have hump deformity.

Among patients with critical limb ischemia and tissue loss, revascularization is an essential component for limb salvage. Local flaps of the foot and ankle remain a versatile tool in reconstructive limb salvage but is dependent on adequate arterial flow. In patients with arterial occlusive disease requiring revascularization, there is a lack of evidence in the current literature investigating on the necessity of direct arterial flow to the respective angiosome for local flaps reconstruction. Our study thereby compares the outcomes of direct (DR) and indirect (IR) revascularization for local flap success.

Hand form and function play a vital role in daily living, and even minor trauma can significantly impair quality of life. There is a current paucity of data regarding hand burn patient and injury characteristics, particularly in urban areas in the United States. As the field of hand surgery expands, a demographic understanding of patients with severe injury potentially requiring surgical management is imperative. The aim of this study was to define the epidemiological characteristics of burn injuries involving the hand that were admitted to a large New York City burn center.

Medicare reimbursement rates are essential knowledge for gender-affirming plastic surgeons. The goal of this project was to examine trends in Medicare reimbursement rates for gender-affirming plastic surgery procedures from 2007 to 2020.

Distal phalangeal and interphalangeal joint injuries are common, and confer a significant burden to the individual, healthcare system and society. Operative intervention (when required) may involve retrograde trans-articular Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation. Safe wire passage through the center of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) and associated phalanges is key in maintaining alignment and reducing complications. There is little evidence to guide optimal wire entry point and passage.