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Biomedical subjects

G Germann

Publications and source records attributed to G Germann.

At least 55 records · Page 3Linked to original sources
PubMed2004

[Free microvascular fibula graft for skeletal reconstruction after tumor resections in the forearm -- experience with five cases].

Plastic-reconstructive surgery for upper extremity tumors not only follows the fundamental principles of oncologic surgery, but also requires attention to functional and aesthetic aspects. For soft tissue reconstruction, a variety of surgical options are available, whereas for the reconstruction of extensive bony defects only the free microvascular fibular transplant appears to be a reasonable method. Its advantages are its slim shape and variable length, the possibility of achieving a stable osteosynthesis suitable for early physiotherapy, and low donor site morbidity, even if the fibula is harvested as an osteoseptocutaneous flap. Between 1994 and 2000, five patients underwent a free fibula transplantation for radius reconstruction. In all cases, a two-stage reconstructive approach with initial tumor biopsy was chosen. The resected tumors were two osteosarcomas, one extraosseous Ewing sarcoma, one aneurysmatic bone cyst and one desmoplastic fibroma. Surgical and pathohistological tumor-free margins were achieved in all cases (R(0)). Two patients received an osteocutaneous graft. All grafts were revascularized to the radial artery and subcutaneous veins. The transplanted fibula grafts were between 10 cm and 17 cm in length. All proximal osteosyntheses were performed fibuloradially, the distal stabilizations were fibulo-scapho-lunate (2 x) and fibulo-radial (3 x), depending on the extent of resection. All microvascular transplants survived completely and showed a stable osseous integration, both clinically and radiologically. Depending on the postoperative course, an adapted intensive physiotherapy regimen yielded good or satisfactory function. In the follow-up of up to seven years in one case a tumor recurrence (osteosarcoma, 35 months post-operatively) required forearm amputation. The reconstruction of tumor-associated wide bony defects in the upper extremity with a free microvascular fibula graft allows for a successful therapy with respect to oncologic, functional and aesthetic considerations.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2003

[Role of a sensory innervated plantar fillet free flap for reconstruction of sacral pressure sores in paraplegic patients. Last resort for reconstruction of sacral pressure sores in paraplegics].

Sensory denervation is the key factor for the high rate of recurrent sacral pressure sores in paraplegic patients. This paper summarizes the results after reconstruction of recurrent sacral pressure sores using a sensory innervated plantar fillet free flap. Five plantar fillet free flaps were utilized for defect reconstruction of sacral pressure sores in five male patients during a 9-year period (1989-1998). Data were analyzed retrospectively. Patients'age ranged between 32 and 51 years. The level of spinal cord injury was between T10 and L1. The average defect size was 20 x 16 cm. All flaps were microsurgical free tissue transfers. The posterior tibial nerve was coapted to two intercostal nerves from above the spinal cord injury level. All patients developed sensation within 3-6 months. A stable sensate coverage was achieved in each case. The data show that the concept of a sensory innervated plantar fillet free flap may facilitate defect reconstruction in most complex or even seemingly hopeless cases.

Adult↗
PubMed2003

[Principles and possibilities of reconstruction with microsurgical flaps].

Microsurgical reconstructions are considered an integral art of modern reconstructive concepts, especially in the fields of trauma, tumor reconstruction, and correction of congenital deformities. Patient expectations regarding function and aesthetics of plastic surgical reconstructions are satisfied with permanently improved flap designs that also lead to a significant reduction in donor site morbidity. Together with steadily decreasing complication rates, these options have made microsurgical reconstructions a prime choice in plastic surgery, in contrast to the past, where they were considered the "last line of defense."

Adult↗
PubMed2003

[Conservative treatment of facial wrinkles in the hands of the plastic surgeon].

The conservative treatment of facial wrinkles is an integral part of the growing market for aesthetic surgery. Unfortunately, physicians of any specialty and even nonphysicians tried to occupy this lucrative field without providing serious information and knowledge about a holistic plastic surgical concept, which includes second- and third-step aesthetic surgical procedures when conservative treatment does not suffice. The following article outlines and critically evaluates the current state of knowledge.

Acrylic Resins↗
PubMed2003

[Metacarpal fractures: treatment indications and options. Results of a multicenter study].

This multicenter study analyzes data on metacarpal fractures in 1260 patients to determine optimal treatment concepts. Of the 740 patients followed up, 487 (66%) presented with fractures of a single metacarpal in one of the three most frequently observed locations (distal fractures of the 4th and 5th metacarpal, shaft fractures of the 2nd to 5th metacarpal, and fractures of the base of the first metacarpal). The overall clinical and radiological results were good to excellent. The "path" analysis used to identify baseline parameters and treatment options influencing outcome led to recommendations for metacarpal fracture treatment. Functional protocols are predominantly applied for postoperative/post-traumatic treatment. Pain and regional pain syndromes should be prevented whenever possible and early adequate treatment should be initiated due to their significant impact on outcome.

Bone Plates↗
PubMed2003

[Standardisation and validation of the German version 2.0 of the Disability of Arm, Shoulder,Hand (DASH) questionnaire].

The Disability of Arm, Shoulder, Hand (DASH) Version 2.0 questionnaire captures the subjective experience of patients regarding their own health. This 78-item instrument was developed by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), the Council of Musculoskeletal Specialty Societies and the Institute for Work and Health,Toronto and measures components of health-status relevant to upper-extremity conditions. We translated and validated DASH with the aim of producing a tool which could also be used in German-speaking countries. The paper reports the method of translation and cross-cultural adaptation which was carried out according to the AAOS guidelines. The result was a standardised German version of DASH. Psychometric testing of the translated questionnaire was carried out with 6 samples (n=342) who had undergone hand surgery for a variety of conditions. The study yielded good results across all groups with regard to the construct, criterion and content validity. We confirm that the German version is suitable for use in future studies.

Adult↗
PubMed2003

[The "Shoulder, Arms and Hand Disability Questionnaire" as a scale for identification of the diagnosis-specific activity profile].

Functional disabilities of the upper extremities have a considerable social and economic impact so that interest was aroused in developing a valid and reliable instrument suitable for international use. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire is a self-report measure recording functional limitations in the upper extremity. A German version is now available in German-speaking countries. Previous studies have been concerned with the evaluation of DASH scores. Based on the data of four diagnostic groups, this study explores DASH's ability to identify diagnosis-specific limitations at the item level. The data were pooled and examined with regard to significant differences within the groups. Diagnosis-specific limitations could be identified within all groups, indicating that DASH is capable of expressing diagnostic entities as well as summed scores. Consideration of the individual profiles opens the possibility of using DASH as a prognostic tool to anticipate functional problems arising during rehabilitation following surgical interventions.

Activities of Daily Living↗
PubMed2003

[Proximal row carpectomy: a motion-preserving procedure in the treatment of advanced carpal collapse].

Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) is a motion-sparing procedure for the treatment of advanced carpal collapse. The goal of the operation is the creation of a new joint between the capitate and the radius. The purpose of this retrospective study was the evaluation of the functional outcome after PRC. The evaluation included range of motion, grip strength, and pain reduction. The DASH questionnaire was used to estimate restrictions of the activities of daily living (ADL). Results were ranked with the Mayo and Krimmer wrist scores. Thirty-three patients with a mean age of 41.2 years were evaluated after 36 months. Flexion/extension was 70 degrees and radial and ulnar deviation was 33 degrees. The grip strength was 54% of the unaffected side. The results of Mayo and Krimmer wrist scores were 66 and 69 points. The mean DASH score was 27.8. Eighty-seven percent of the patients reported that pain was better than preoperatively. Resection of the proximal carpal row is technically an easy surgical procedure. It preserves good functional range of motion and provides good pain relief, but low grip strength.

Activities of Daily Living↗
PubMed2003

Dynamic splinting after extensor tendon repair in zones V to VII.

This retrospective study evaluates a dynamic active motion protocol for extensor tendon repairs in zones V to VII. Fifty-eight patients with 87 extensor tendon injuries were examined. Using Geldmacher's and Kleinert and Verdan's evaluation systems, the results were graded as "excellent" and "good" in more than 94%, and as "satisfactory" in the remainder. The need for secondary tenolysis was low (6%), and no other surgical complication occurred.

Hand Injuries↗
PubMed2003

Use of a free jejunal graft for oesophageal reconstruction following perforation after cervical spine surgery: case report and review of the literature.

STUDY DESIGN: : Single-subject (male, 16 years of age) case. OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate a suitable method for oesophageal repair after perforation as a complication of anterior spinal fusion in an individual with quadriplegia, and to review the literature on oesophageal perforation and repair. SETTING: University hospital, large trauma centre with departments for spinal injuries and reconstructive surgery in Germany. METHODS: A free jejunal graft used for oesophageal reconstruction in a post-traumatic situation after a complicated treatment course in a C6 quadriplegic patient. RESULTS: A protuberant loose screw of the titanium plate after anterior spinal fusion perforated the oesophagus. Imbricating sutures and a fascia lata patch were insufficient to repair the oesophageal leakage. An 8 cm long segment of the cervical oesophagus including a fistula had to be excised, and a free microsurgical jejunal flap was used for restitution of continuity. The jejunal vessels were connected to the superior thyroid artery and external jugular vein. At 1 week after the oesophageal repair, an enteral contrast study showed a small amount of contrast medium leaking at the oesophago-pharyngeal anastomosis. A percutaneous gastric tube was inserted, and oral feeding was limited to tea and still water for 4 weeks. The further course was uneventful. CONCLUSIONS: Oesophageal perforation is a rare but recognized complication after cervical spine surgery, which can mostly be managed using secondary suture techniques. The free jejunal flap is a reliable and innovative tool in the particularly complex situation of a segmental oesophageal loss. It should be considered in similar cases to reconstruct oesophageal continuity or to treat stricture and fistula formations.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2002

[Current perspectives of orthogonal polarization spectral imaging in plastic surgery].

The technology of Orthogonal Polarization Spectral Imaging (OPSI), patented in the United States in 1999, has been heralded as an alternative to conventional intravital microscopy for several reasons, including ease of application and ability to perform continued observations. In the following examples, OPSI was applied to reconstructive plastic surgery. Two experimental and one clinical model are presented. Currently, the image quality does not allow a qualitative analysis of the microvasculature. The data analysis of images remains inconclusive. However, a technically modified version with improved image resolution and software could become a valuable experimental as well as clinical tool in the field of reconstructive plastic surgery in the future.

Animals↗
PubMed2002

[The use of fillet flaps in upper extremity and shoulder reconstruction].

Extensive soft tissue defects of the upper extremities were reconstructed with major fillet flaps in nine patients over a 5-year period at two institutions. Etiologies included trauma and tumor resection. Defect locations were the shoulder ( n=3), combined defects of the shoulder plus neck, arm or chest wall ( n=4) as well as one upper arm and one forearm defect. Seven of nine flaps required microsurgical free tissue transfer. Fillet flaps harvested from amputated parts represent the "spare part" concept, providing coverage of defects without additional donor site morbidity. Unlike the classic "spare part" fillet flap concept, the partial or complete conversion of an anatomically intact arm was performed for the coverage of large defects, especially for tumor reconstruction, in this series. Fillets flaps facilitate reconstruction in difficult and complex cases. Major fillet flaps represent a valuable option for reconstruction in the upper extremities with either pedicled or free tissue transfers involving extensive tissue defects.

Adult↗
PubMed2002

[Dynamic radioulnar convergence after Darrach operation, soft tissue stabilizing operations of the distal ulna and ulnar head prosthesis implantation--an experimental biomechanical study].

The most common method of treating the arthrotic distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is resection of the entire ulnar head (Darrach procedure). Complications related to instability of the distal forearm resulting from loss of the ulnar head are usually manifested by pain and weak grip strength and have remained the drawbacks of this procedure. In an attempt to mechanically stabilize the distal forearm, an endoprosthesis was developed to replace the ulnar head after Darrach resection. The purpose of this study was to: 1) evaluate the dynamic effects of the Darrach procedure on radioulnar convergence; and 2) evaluate the mechanical efficacy of two soft tissue stabilizing techniques (Pronator quadratus advancement flap and ECU/FCU tenodesis) for the unstable distal ulnar stump and 3) the stability after the implantation of an ulnar head endoprosthesis following a Darrach resection on radioulnar convergence. With a dynamic PC-controled forearm simulator the rotation of 7 fresh-frozen cadaver upper extremities was actively and passively performed while loading relevant muscles. Resultant total forearm torque and the 3-dimensional kinematics of the ulna, radius and third metacarpal were recorded simultaneously. The implantation of the ulnar head endoprosthesis effectively restored the stability of the DRUJ. There were significantly better results after the implantation of the prosthesis compared with the Darrach and the soft tissue stabilization procedures. This study provides laboratory validity to the option of implanting an ulnar head endoprosthesis as an attempt to stabilize the distal forearm after Darrach resection in lieu of performing soft tissue stabilization techniques.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗
PubMed2002

[The hypothenar hammer syndrome].

The hypothenar hammer syndrome (HHS) is a rare form of secondary Raynaud's phenomenon in workers who frequently use the ulnar side of the palm as a hammer. Clinically the patient with HHS shows neurologic symptoms such as paresthesia, numbness and pain and signs of vascular insufficiency such as coldness, pallor, discoloration and blanching of the affected ulnar sided fingers. The diagnosis is verified by angiography, showing thrombosis or aneurysm of the distal ulnar artery. We report on the treatment and outcome of 5 patients with HHS. All patients were painfree after treatment. But with the ongoing working habit of using the hand as a hammer there is always the risk of a recurrence. Therefore the job environment has to be changed considerably and the most effort should go into prevention and prophylaxis. If the change of the working habit is not possible, the job is clearly at stake.

Accidents, Occupational↗
PubMed2002

[Functional bracing after operative treatment of metacarpal fractures].

Metacarpal fractures are frequently immobilized for several weeks in forearm plaster cast, even after operative stabilisation. The purpose of this study was to assess the results after early functional treatment using metacarpal braces. 87 patients with 105 metacarpal fractures were included in a prospective study from February 1997 until November 2000. The AO-classification of the fractures was assessed for all patients: n=33 A1,n=9 A2,n=3 A3, n=27 B1,n=6 B2,n=7 B3,n=10 C1,n=7 C2, n=3 C3.Exclusion criteria were tendon or nerve injuries,pathological fractures (tumor or metabolic),additional digital fractures of the same ray,and a patients age of less then 18 years. All fractures were treated operatively. 73 patients (84%) were recruited for follow up after an average period of nine months. Average grip strength reached 96% (Jamar II) for the power grip, 97% for the three finger and 98% for the pinch grip compared to the contra-lateral side in the group where the dominant hand was affected. It was 88% for the power grip, 91% for the three finger grip and 94% for the pinch grip after injury of the non-dominant hand. The mean postoperative pain score on the visual analog scale was 0.2 for resting conditions, 0.8 for motion and 2.2 under stress.A decreased total range of motion was observed in 15 of 73 patients (21%). The average DASH score reached 6.5 points. Physical therapy was required for an average of 6.7 weeks. Only 41% of the patients with early functional treatment required further physical therapy after removal of the brace. The metacarpal brace used in this series protects from direct trauma,and provides a high patients comfort.It has no disadvantages considering fracture retention compared to conventional plaster casts or splints. The need for physical therapy is reduced after functional fracture bracing.Thus, the metacarpal brace has proven to be a suitable tool for early functional treatment after operative stabilisation of metacarpal fractures.

Adolescent↗