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Monday, April 22, 2024

Congenital Back Deformity: Meningomyelocele

 Meningomyelocele: Congenital Back Deformity

Meningomyelocele is a congenital condition characterized by the protrusion of both the meninges and the spinal cord through a defect in the spinal column. This condition typically presents as a sac-like protrusion containing the spinal cord, nerves, and cerebrospinal fluid.


Children born with such defects are prone to numerous problems starting from the day of their Birth.

Apart from the open spinal canal (bony defect) there may be exposed spinal nerves, spinal cord coverings (meninges) with CSF leak. There may or may not be skin present over the defect or the skin may be ulcerated with risk of impending exposure.


2 DAY OLD INFANT WITH IMPENDING EXPOSURE OF SPINAL CORD

Management : Team Work

Reconstructive surgeon (Plastic Surgeon)
Neurosurgeon
Orthopedician
Urologist
Pediatrician
Geneticist
Social worker

Treatment: Surgical closure of the defect and coverage with skin flaps

VY ADVANCEMENT FLAP AFTER DURAL COVER


AFTER SUTURE REMOVAL



There are numerous methods of closure of the skin defect and the choice has to be made according to the site of the lesion, the risk benefit ratio of various options available.


MYOCUTANEOUS FLAP COVERAGE OPTIONS


Surgery is not the endpoint of care. 

IT DOES IMPROVE THE 5 YEAR SURVIVAL FROM 10% IN UNTREATED INFANT TO 50% POST SURGERY.

DR. ASHISH GUPTA
DIRECTOR
DEPT OF PLASTIC, MICROVASCULAR & COSMETIC SURGERY,
DEEP HOSPITAL, LUDHIANA




Thursday, February 8, 2024

Kite String Injury: Chinese Dor A misnomer




Why These plastics kite strings don't break:

In some regions, "Chinese dor" or plastic kite string may be reinforced with metal constituents to enhance its durability and strength. These metal constituents can include:

1. Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for use in kite strings to provide additional strength without adding much weight.

2. Steel: Steel wire or strands may be incorporated into the kite string to improve its tensile strength and resistance to stretching.

3. Copper: Copper wire may be used in kite strings for its conductivity and durability.

4. Brass: Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, may be used in kite strings for its strength and corrosion resistance.

These metal constituents are typically woven or twisted into the plastic material of the kite string to provide reinforcement. The exact combination of metal constituents used can vary depending on the desired properties of the kite string and the manufacturer's specifications.

Monday, February 5, 2024

Alopecia Areata Treatment



Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition causing hair loss. Causes include genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and immune system dysfunction. The immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss in small, round patches. Treatment modalities vary and include corticosteroids to suppress immune response, topical immunotherapy to stimulate hair regrowth, and minoxidil to promote follicle activity. Other options encompass phototherapy, oral steroids, or immunosuppressive drugs for severe cases. Although treatments can manage symptoms, complete cure remains elusive. Emotional support and counseling are crucial for individuals coping with the psychological impact of hair loss.