No abstract

Trauma to the genital region and perineum can leave behind lifelong sequelae and pose significant challenges to surgeons in the restoration of functional ability and aesthetic status. Effective methods and techniques are indispensable during the treatment period. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is a widely accepted technique that is becoming a commonplace treatment in many clinical settings. The purpose of this case report was to introduce the efficacy of the concurrent usage of NPWT and split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) in the reconstruction of genital injuries. A man suffered a traffic accident that caused necrosis of the scrotum and penis associated with a severe infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter cloacea. After debridement, we adopted NPWT during the postoperative dressing changes and the application of meshed STSG. The outcomes showed that combination of NPWT and split-thickness skin grafts is safe, well-tolerated and efficient in the reconstruction of penoscrotal defects. This could be a versatile tool for reconstruction after perineal and penoscrotal trauma.

Successful reconstruction of extensive anterior chest wall defect following major electrical burn represents a very challenging surgery. Herein we report the first case using pedicled full-thickness abdominal flap combined with skin grafting to treat this injury with severe infection and exposure of pericardium and ribs in a Chinese patient. Following the performance of chest debridement to remove necrotic and infected tissues and the injection of broad-spectrum antibiotics to reduce infection, a pedicled full-thickness abdominal flap was used to cover the exposed pericardium and ribs, and skin grafting from the right leg of the patient was done to cover the exposed vital tissues. The patient was followed up for a total of 3·5 years, and satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes were obtained without complications. This report provides an effective method for the surgeons who encounter similar cases where reconstruction of extensive anterior chest wall is required.

Literature on the complications of burns is abundant. However, there is a paucity of literature on Parsonage-Turner syndrome as a complication of contact burns. The authors described the case of a 27-year-old Chinese man who sustained contact burns on the left upper limb and the left side of the chest wall, presenting sharp intense pain and swelling of the left shoulder deriving from the diagnosis of Parsonage-Turner syndrome. On the basis of clinical findings, the authors selected conservative treatment both for the burns and brachial plexus injury. Approximately 10 days postinjury the patient was able to move his upper limb in the same range as the contralateral uninjured limb. The sensory function recovered and the numbness of the upper limb gradually disappeared. This case shows that Parsonage-Turner syndrome can occur even in second-degree burns with a small total body surface area. Therefore, careful physical examination, early recognition, and prompt treatment are essential for recovery of the injured limb.