Background: The recent increase in popularity of acellular dermal matrix assistance in immediate expander/implant breast reconstruction has led to variety of viewpoints. Many studies are published indicating an increase in complications with the use of acellular dermal matrix, while others indicate there is no increase in complications. Methods: This meta-analysis utilizes information from available studies that directly compare one specific type of acellular dermal matrix with traditional methods of immediate expander/implant breast reconstruction. Eight studies were found through a meticulous literature search that met these criteria. Results: There was more than a 2-fold increase in the number of infections and explanations in the acellular dermal matrix group compared to the control. There was a 3-fold increase in seroma formation in the acellular dermal matrix group compared to the control. There was a significant difference of intraoperative fill volumes between the acellular dermal matrix group compared to the control. Conclusions: This study illustrates that after pooling all available date regarding the use of acellular dermal matrix in immediate expander/implant breast reconstruction there appears to be an increased rate of complications. However, the increased intraoperative fill volume may lead to ultimately greater patient satisfaction.

Patient education and understanding is a critical factor in planning for surgery; this is especially true of reconstructive craniofacial procedures. Craniofacial surgery is a diverse field, and its surgeons have correspondingly diverse practices. It is up to each individual surgeon to determine what is appropriate for his or her patients. Our results show that on-line educational material is at a level that is substantially higher than the national reading average. The ultimate impact of this fact will vary from practice to practice, but all surgeons should be aware of the possible conflicts between information distributed and the patient's ability to comprehend that information. This may assist surgeons in preoperative evaluations by discussing conditions with more level appropriate means.

Therapeutic, IV.

U.S. medical students are unaware of the true scope of plastic surgery. Early exposure to basic aspects of plastic surgery could serve as a means of increasing interest and knowledge in the field and help educate future generations of referring physicians.

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No significant difference in scores was noted between websites or procedures. Patients understood the majority of the information presented in the passage provided to them. It is unrealistic to expect a patient to answer all questions correctly, although 23% of participants did. Patients appear to understand the material and are able to subsequently apply this knowledge to an objective measure of comprehension.

Biologic dressings can be used safely to treat microsurgical wounds with exposed critical structures. This use of a biologic dressing greatly simplifies the management of these types of wounds, avoiding the need for complex surgical intervention.

No abstract