We thank ZHZ for the conception and design of the study. JW and YPZ performed and supervised the operation. YH, YBX, SL contributed to data analysis. JW and WJL prepared the draft of the video. All authors participated in the revision of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

All methods described here were approved by the Ethics Committee of Union Hospital Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology. We obtained the patient&#39;s consent to use his surgical footage as a video after the procedure.
1. Instruments for operation
<ol>
	<li>Ensure the availability of a surgical microscope system, microsurgical instrument, and microscopic bipolar electrocoagulation.</li>
</ol>
2. Preparation for operation
<ol>
	<li>Inclusion criteria
	<ol>
		<li>Include all patients diagnosed with azoospermia who agree to undergo surgery. Have all female partners of the patients undergo gynecologic fertility testing 
		NOTE: In the presented study, patients underwent surgery at the hospital between June 2013 and July 2020. All female patients&#39; partners&#39; gynecologic fertility test results were normal.</li>
		<li>Ensure normal serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and testosterone in all patients.</li>
		<li>Ensure that there are no genital malformations, hypertension, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, heart disease, pelvic trauma, abnormal psychological or mental disorders, or other serious preexisting diseases or conditions.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Exclusion criteria
	<ol>
		<li>Exclude patients with genital malformations, abnormal psychological or mental disorders, acute urinary tract infection or urinary tuberculosis, severe abdominal trauma or surgery, severe coagulation disorders, or other contraindications to anesthesia or laparoscopy.</li>
	</ol>
	</li>
	<li>Perform an anesthesia risk assessment on patients prior to the surgery. Ask patients who have been taking aspirin to discontinue it.</li>
	<li>Mark the skin 15 cm around the perineum with a skin preparation knife to prepare for the surgery.</li>
	<li>Administer antibiotics to the patient via intravenous drip 30 min prior to surgery. Ideally, use cefoperazone sodium (2.0 g) together with 100 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride solution.</li>
	<li>Make sure that the patient is under general or intraspinal anesthesia.</li>
</ol>
3. Procedure
<ol>
	<li>Place the patient under general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation. Then, perform standard disinfection with 1% iodophor while the patient is in the supine position.</li>
	<li>Make a 3 cm incision along the mid-scrotal fold. Then, pinch one testicle and incise the flesh membrane to expose the testicular sheath and spermatic cord.</li>
	<li>Dissect the fascia between the vas deferens and the spermatic cord vessels. Separate along the space between the vas deferens vasculature and the vasculature of the spermatic cord with a vascular clamp. Secure the vas deferens with tissue forceps and prepare it for vesicocentesis.</li>
	<li>Insert a 24 G cannula needle obliquely 15&#176; downward along the long axis of the vas deferens. Pull out the needle core after the obvious tactile breakthrough, and slide the soft trocar to the lumen.</li>
	<li>Inject 2 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride solution into the vas deferens using a 5 mL syringe connected to the 24 G cannula. If resistance is high, this confirms that there is an obstruction in the vas deferens.</li>
	<li>Take a sample of fluid from the syringe and give it to an examiner to examine it under the microscope for sperm.</li>
	<li>Advance the 3-0 polypropylene suture through the trocar. If there is resistance, it indicates obstruction. Measure the length of the suture to determine the site of obstruction.</li>
</ol>
4. Postoperative care
<ol>
	<li>Make the patient stay in the ICU for ~1-2 h postoperatively, until he fully regains consciousness.</li>
	<li>Send the patient back to the ward when he fully wakes up.</li>
	<li>Implant a catheter for 6-24 h.</li>
	<li>Lift the scrotum with underwear for 1 week.</li>
</ol>

<ol>
	<li>Chen, X. F., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Clinical+features+and+therapeutic+strategies+of+obstructive+azoospermia+in+patients+treated+by+bilateral+inguinal+hernia+repair+in+childhood.">Clinical features and therapeutic strategies of obstructive azoospermia in patients treated by bilateral inguinal hernia repair in childhood.</a> Asian Journal of Andrology. 16 (5), 745-748 (2014).</li><li>Sparkman, R. S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Bilateral+exploration+in+inguinal+hernia+in+juvenile+patients.+Review+and+appraisal.">Bilateral exploration in inguinal hernia in juvenile patients. Review and appraisal.</a> Surgery. 51, 393-406 (1962).</li><li>Pollak, R., Nyhus, L. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Complications+of+groin+hernia+repair.">Complications of groin hernia repair.</a> The Surgical Clinics of North America. 63 (6), 1363-1371 (1983).</li><li>Sheynkin, Y. R., Hendin, B. N., Schlegel, P. N., Goldstein, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Microsurgical+repair+of+iatrogenic+injury+to+the+vas+deferens.">Microsurgical repair of iatrogenic injury to the vas deferens.</a> The Journal of Urology. 159 (1), 139-141 (1998).</li><li>Wang, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Treatment+for+Vas+Deferens+Obstruction+Following+Childhood+Herniorrhaphy.">Treatment for Vas Deferens Obstruction Following Childhood Herniorrhaphy.</a> Urology. 112 (1), 80-84 (2018).</li><li>Smith, R. P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+significance+of+sperm+heads+and+tails+within+the+vasal+fluid+during+vasectomy+reversal.">The significance of sperm heads and tails within the vasal fluid during vasectomy reversal.</a> Indian Journal of Urology. 30 (2), 164-168 (2014).</li><li>Jungwirth, A., Diemer, T., Kopa, Z., Krausz, C., Tournaye, H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=European+Association+of+Urology+guidelines+on+male+infertility.+2017+edition.">European Association of Urology guidelines on male infertility. 2017 edition.</a> , 23-24 (2017).</li><li>Bromage, S. J., Falconer, D. A., Lieberman, B. A., Sangar, V., Payne, S. R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Sperm+retrieval+rates+in+subgroups+of+primary+azoospermic+males.">Sperm retrieval rates in subgroups of primary azoospermic males.</a> European Urology. 51 (2), 539-540 (2007).</li><li>Du, J., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Differential+diagnosis+of+azoospermia+and+etiologic+classification+of+obstructive+azoospermia:+role+of+scrotal+and+transrectal+US.">Differential diagnosis of azoospermia and etiologic classification of obstructive azoospermia: role of scrotal and transrectal US.</a> Radiology. 256 (2), 493-503 (2010).</li><li>Pasqualotto, F. F., Pasqualotto, E. B., Agarwal, A., Thomas Jr, A. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Results+of+microsurgical+anastomosis+in+men+with+seminal+tract+obstruction+due+to+inguinal+herniorrhaphy.">Results of microsurgical anastomosis in men with seminal tract obstruction due to inguinal herniorrhaphy.</a> Revista do Hospital das Clinicas. 58 (6), 305-309 (2003).</li><li>Shaeer, O. K. Z., Shaeer, K. Z. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Laparoscopy-assisted+pelvi-scrotal+vasovasostomy.">Laparoscopy-assisted pelvi-scrotal vasovasostomy.</a> Andrologia. 36 (5), 311-314 (2004).</li></ol>

The authors have no conflict of interest and nothing to disclose.

As mentioned before, the location of the vas deferens stump cannot be determined at the inguinal incision, which requires exploration of the original inguinal incision. In this study, we can use this simple operation to determine the site of obstruction and make surgical decisions. If the site of obstruction is in the original incision, MVV can be considered. If the vas deferens injury is not found in the inguinal canal, we can use lapa-VV or SV.
When pasty fluid without sperm was found and th...

Microsurgical vasovasostomy (MVV) is a common treatment for vas deferens obstruction after herniorrhaphy in childhood1,2. The site of obstruction cannot be identified preoperatively, and it is not clear whether sperm are present in the vas deferens or not. This may lead to difficulty in selecting the incision and injury to the vas deferens during semi-open exploration, which decreases the success rate of anastomosis, prolongs the operation time, and increases the risk of abdominal exploration3,4. 
Injury to the vas deferens in the inguinal canal is likely an after-effect of inguinal hernia surgery in childhood, which can usually be caused by ligation, incision, or overstretching1. The rate of azoospermia after herniorrhaphy in childhood is approximately 0.8%-2.0% in pediatric patients. However, in the infertile population, the rate of iatrogenic obstruction is significantly increased, with a history of vas deferens injury in 7.2% of andrological procedures2,3. Surgical exploration of the inguinal region is usually performed to look for vas deferens remnants for anastomosis4. In previous cases, the ruptured end of the vas deferens is usually not found during inguinal exploration, which leads to the termination of the operation and increases surgical trauma to the patient. Therefore, it is very important to use a simple method to determine the location of the obstruction to clarify the following surgical procedures. 
In this study, a 24 G cannula was used to puncture the vas deferens to confirm the presence of sperm in it, and a 3-0 polypropylene suture was passed through the cannula to determine the location of the obstructed site. Based on this simple operation, we can determine the next surgical procedure. After practicing and summarizing the clinical operations, our specific surgical method is presented below.

<table border="1" fo:keep-together.within-page="1" fo:keep-with-next.within-page="always">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>0.9% sodium chloride solution</td>
			<td>Guangdong Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. LTD</td>
			<td>&#160;21M1204&#160;</td>
			<td>Inject into the vas deferens</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1% iodophor</td>
			<td>Guangzhou Qingfeng Disinfection Products Co., LTD&#160;</td>
			<td>Q/QFXD2</td>
			<td>Skin disinfection</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>24G cannula needle</td>
			<td>Suzhou Linhua Medical Instrument Co., LTD</td>
			<td>20193141896</td>
			<td>Size:24G, Type:Pen type, with wings, with injection port, Y type</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3-0 monofilament polypropylene</td>
			<td>Covidien Medical Equipment international trading (Shanghai) Co., LTD</td>
			<td>DOL2861y</td>
			<td>Taper Point, Size 3-0, Blue, 36&#34;, Needle V-20, 1/2 Circle</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5 mL syringe</td>
			<td>&#160;Kindly Medical, Shanghai</td>
			<td>&#160;K20210826</td>
			<td>Inject 0.9% sodium chloride solution into the vas deferens</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>F16 Catheter</td>
			<td>&#160;Guangzhou Weili Co., Ltd&#160;</td>
			<td>20190612</td>
			<td>Drainage of urine</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>micro haemostatic forceps</td>
			<td>Shanghai Medical Instrument (Group) Co., LTD.</td>
			<td>W40350</td>
			<td>Used in surgical procedures</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>micro scissors</td>
			<td>Shanghai Medical Instrument (Group) Co., LTD.</td>
			<td>WA1010</td>
			<td>Used in surgical procedures</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>micro tweezers</td>
			<td>Shanghai Medical Instrument (Group) Co., LTD.</td>
			<td>WA1020</td>
			<td>Used in surgical procedures</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Olympus microscope</td>
			<td>Olympus Corporation</td>
			<td>Scipu001158</td>
			<td>4&#215;N.A.0.10 W.D.22.0mm&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; 10&#215;N.A.0.25 W.D.10.5mm&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; 40&#215;N.A.0.65 W.D.0.56mm&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; 100&#215;N.A.1.25 W.D.0.13mm&#160;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Operating microscope system</td>
			<td>&#160;Carl Zeiss Co., Ltd&#160;</td>
			<td>OPMI VARIO 700</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

clinical application of 24 g cannula needle and 3-0 polypropylene suture in vas deferens exploration

The goal of this article is to present the application of a 24 G cannula and 3-0 polypropylene suture as a simple method for the exploration of the vas deferens. During the exploration of the vas deferens, a 24 G cannula needle was used to puncture it. The fluid in the smear confirmed the presence of sperm, to determine whether or not there was concomitant obstruction at the junction of the epididymis and the vas deferens. Then, a 3-0 polypropylene suture (this suture specification has the advantages of a smooth surface, robust quality, and can be passed through a 24 G cannula needle) was passed through the cannula needle to probe the location of the obstructed site. With this technique, exploration of the vas deferens could be more targeted and accurate.

There were 67 patients enrolled in the study. As shown in Table 1, the mean age of the patients was 28.8 &#177; 3.7 years (range: 23-45 years). The time since herniorrhaphy was 24.5 &#177; 3.2 years (range: 21-43 years). The female partners were 25.2 &#177; 3.2 years (range: 23-42 years) years old. A total of 11 (16.4%) patients had pain in the scrotum. Four patients (6.0%) were underweight (BMI &#60; 18.5 kg/m2), 53 (79.1%) had normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2), eight (11.9%) wer...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Clinical Application of 24 G Cannula Needle and 3-0 Polypropylene Suture in Vas Deferens Exploration at JoVE.com

Clinical Application of 24 G Cannula Needle and 3-0 Polypropylene Suture in Vas Deferens Exploration

This protocol presents the clinical application of a 24 G cannula and 3-0 polypropylene suture as a simple and effective method for the exploration of the vas deferens.

The goal of this article is to present the application of a 24 G cannula and 3-0 polypropylene suture as a simple method for the exploration of the vas ...

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2.5K Views.  Huazhong University of Science and Technology. This protocol presents the clinical application of a 24 G cannula and 3-0 polypropylene suture as a simple and effective method for the exploration of the vas deferens.

Video: Clinical Application of 24 G Cannula Needle and 3-0 Polypropylene Suture in Vas Deferens Exploration

The Use of Pharmacological-challenge fMRI in Pre-clinical Research: Application to the 5-HT System

Pharmacological MRI (phMRI) is a new and promising method to study the effects of substances on brain function that can ultimately be used to unravel underlying neurobiological mechanisms behind drug action and neurotransmitter-related disorders, such as depression and ADHD. Like most of the imaging methods (PET, SPECT, CT) it represents a progress in the investigation of brain disorders and the related function of neurotransmitter pathways in a non-invasive way with respect of the overall neuronal connectivity. Moreover it also provides the ideal tool for translation to clinical investigations. MRI, while still behind in molecular imaging strategies compared to PET and SPECT, has the great advantage to have a high spatial resolution and no need for the injection of a contrast-agent or radio-labeled molecules, thereby avoiding the repetitive exposure to ionizing radiations. Functional MRI (fMRI) is extensively used in research and clinical setting, where it is generally combined with a psycho-motor task. phMRI is an adaptation of fMRI enabling the investigation of a specific neurotransmitter system, such as serotonin (5-HT), under physiological or pathological conditions following activation via administration of a specific challenging drug.
The aim of the method described here is to assess brain 5-HT function in free-breathing animals. By challenging the 5-HT system while simultaneously acquiring functional MR images over time, the response of the brain to this challenge can be visualized. Several studies in animals have already demonstrated that drug-induced increases in extracellular levels of e.g. 5-HT (releasing agents, selective re-uptake blockers, etc) evoke region-specific changes in blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) MRI signals (signal due to a change of the oxygenated/deoxygenated hemoglobin levels occurring during brain activation through an increase of the blood supply to supply the oxygen and glucose to the demanding neurons) providing an index of neurotransmitter function. It has also been shown that these effects can be reversed by treatments that decrease 5-HT availability16,13,18,7. In adult rats, BOLD signal changes following acute SSRI administration have been described in several 5-HT related brain regions, i.e. cortical areas, hippocampus, hypothalamus and thalamus9,16,15. Stimulation of the 5-HT system and its response to this challenge can be thus used as a measure of its function in both animals and humans2,11.

The goal of this technique is to assess serotonin (5-HT) neurotransmitter function in the live and free-breathing animal with pharmacological magnetic resonance imaging (phMRI) and an intravenous challenge with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), fluoxetine.

Pharmacological MRI (phMRI) is a new and promising method to study the effects of substances on brain function that can ultimately be used to unravel ...

In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is the optical equivalent of ultrasound imaging, based on the backscattering of near infrared light. OCT provides real time images with a 15 &#181;m axial resolution at an effective tissue penetration of 2-3 mm. Within the OCT images the loss of signal intensity per millimeter of tissue penetration, the attenuation coefficient, is calculated. The attenuation coefficient is a tissue specific property, providing a quantitative parameter for tissue differentiation. 
Until now, renal mass treatment decisions have been made primarily on the basis of MRI and CT imaging characteristics, age and comorbidity. However these parameters and diagnostic methods lack the finesse to truly detect the malignant potential of a renal mass. A successful core biopsy or fine needle aspiration provides objective tumor differentiation with both sensitivity and specificity in the range of 95-100%. However, a non-diagnostic rate of 10-20% overall, and even up to 30% in SRMs, is to be expected, delaying the diagnostic process due to the frequent necessity for additional biopsy procedures. 
We aim to develop OCT into an optical biopsy, providing real-time imaging combined with on-the-spot tumor differentiation. This publication provides a detailed step-by-step approach for percutaneous, needle based, OCT of renal masses.

In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a high resolution imaging technique that allows analysis of tissue specific optical properties providing the means for tissue differentiation. We developed needle based OCT, providing real-time imaging combined with on-the-spot tumor differentiation. This publication describes a method for percutaneous, needle based OCT of renal masses.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is the optical equivalent of ultrasound imaging, based on the backscattering of near infrared light. OCT provides real ...

Autonomic Function Following Concussion in Youth Athletes: An Exploration of Heart Rate Variability Using 24-hour Recording Methodology

Participation in organized sports makes a significant contribution to youth development, but places youth at a higher risk for sustaining a concussion. To date, return-to-activity decision-making has been anchored in the monitoring of self-reported concussion symptoms and neurocognitive testing. However, multi-modal assessments that corroborate objective physiological measures with traditional subjective symptom reporting are needed and can be valuable. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a non-invasive physiological indicator of the autonomic nervous system, capturing the reciprocal interplay between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. There is a dearth of literature exploring the effect of concussion on HRV in youth athletes, and developmental differences preclude the application of adult findings to a pediatric population. Further, the current state of HRV methodology has primarily included short-term (5-15 min) recordings, by using resting state or short-term physical exertion testing to elucidate changes following concussion. The novelty in utilizing a 24 h&#160;recording methodology is that it has the potential to capture natural variation in autonomic function, directly related to the activities a youth athlete performs on a regular basis. Within a prospective, longitudinal research setting, this novel approach to quantifying autonomic function can provide important information regarding the recovery trajectory, alongside traditional self-report symptom measures. Our objectives regarding a 24 h recording methodology were to (1) evaluate the physiological effects of a concussion in youth athletes, and (2) describe the trajectory of physiological change, while considering the resolution of self-reported post-concussion symptoms. To achieve these objectives, non-invasive sensor technology was implemented. The raw beat-to-beat time intervals captured can be transformed to derive time domain and frequency domain measures, which reflect an individual&#39;s ability to adapt and be flexible to their ever-changing environment. By using non-invasive heart rate technology, autonomic function can be quantified outside of a traditional controlled research setting.

We demonstrate a 24 h heart rate recording methodology to evaluate the influence of concussion across the recovery trajectory in youth athletes, within an ecologically valid context.

Participation in organized sports makes a significant contribution to youth development, but places youth at a higher risk for sustaining a concussion. To ...

Proton Therapy Delivery and Its Clinical Application in Select Solid Tumor Malignancies

Radiation therapy is a frequently used modality for the treatment of solid cancers. Although the mechanisms of cell kill are similar for all forms of radiation, the in vivo properties of photon and proton beams differ greatly and maybe exploited to optimize clinical outcomes. In particular, proton particles lose energy in a predictable manner as they pass through the body. This property is used clinically to control the depth at which the proton beam is terminated, and to limit radiation dose beyond the target region. This strategy can allow for substantial reductions in radiation dose to normal tissues located just beyond a tumor target. However, the degradation of proton energy in the body remains highly sensitive to tissue density. As a consequence, any changes in tissue density during the course of treatment may significantly alter proton dosimetry. Such changes may occur through alterations in body weight, respiration, or bowel filling/gas, and may result in unfavorable dose deposition. In this manuscript, we provide a detailed method for the delivery of proton therapy using both passive scatter and pencil beam scanning techniques for prostate cancer. Although the described procedure directly pertains to prostate cancer patients, the method may be adapted and applied for the treatment of virtually all solid tumors. Our aim is to equip readers with a better understanding of proton therapy delivery and outcomes in order to facilitate the appropriate integration of this modality during cancer therapy.

The fundamentals of radiation planning and delivery for proton therapy using prostate cancer as a model are presented. The application of these principles to other selected disease sites highlights how proton radiotherapy may enhance clinical outcomes for cancer patients.

Radiation therapy is a frequently used modality for the treatment of solid cancers. Although the mechanisms of cell kill are similar for all forms of ...

Application of Lucilia sericata Larvae in Debridement of Pressure Wounds in Outpatient Settings

Biological therapy using Lucilia sericata larvae has numerous advocates worldwide, yet it is still fairly unknown and not commonly applied in daily practice because of the limited awareness and insufficient experience of medical and nursing personnel. There are case reports suggesting that maggot therapy can be applied and supported by lay caregivers, provided they are supervised and informed by physicians/nurses. The foregoing observation suggests that the method should be considered for implementation by a wider group of caregivers if accepted and meticulously supervised by trained and experienced medical staff. The concerns related to the therapeutic use of maggots in certain regions seem understandable, but are not supported by scientific facts. It should be noted that many therapeutic agents (including brood) used in medicine are of natural origin, and are associated with low production costs and high possibilities of implementation in the course of therapy. By analyzing the literature and using our own clinical and research experience, we have come to conclusions related to using larvae therapy, as a quick and safe method providing cleaning and revitalization in the process of treating wounds of various etiologies, especially pressure ulcers. In the current study, medical-grade Lucilia sericata maggots were applied to remove necrotic tissue from deep pressure sores. The treatment is mostly accepted by both caregivers and patients. In most cases, it is conducted by trained and experienced medical personnel in home and outpatient settings. Over the course of the conducted analyzes involving the collected specimens, there were no statistically significant relationships (p&gt; 0.05) confirmed between the wound surface successfully cleared by brood and variables, such as time from wound formation, location, surface size, and the depth of damage to the tissue structure. The lack of statistical dependence may result from the small size of the studied group. Based on the current findings, we have formulated the following conclusions: Maggot Debridement Therapy (MDT) is a fast and effective method enabling the preparation of the wound bed. The use of MDT in outpatient settings is safe and acceptable for patients and their caregivers.

Application of Lucilia sericata Larvae in Debridement of Pressure Wounds in Outpatient Settings

Maggots of Lucilia sericata were used in the debridement of deep pressure sores in outpatient settings for the treatment of pressure sores involving the complete skin thickness. The technique presented in the article does not pose risks for the patient.

Biological therapy using Lucilia sericata larvae has numerous advocates worldwide, yet it is still fairly unknown and not commonly applied in daily ...

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a Suture Material in Tendon Surgery

With the evolution of suture materials, there has been a change in paradigms in primary and secondary tendon repair. Improved mechanical properties allow more aggressive rehabilitation and earlier recovery. However, for the repair to hold against higher mechanical demands, more advanced suturing and knotting techniques must be assessed in combination with those materials. In this protocol, the use of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) as a suture material in combination with different repair techniques was investigated. In the first part of the protocol, both linear tension strength and elongation of knotted against not-knotted strands of three different materials used in flexor tendon repair were evaluated. The three different materials are polypropylene (PPL), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene with a braided jacket of polyester (UHMWPE), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In the next part (ex vivo experiments with cadaveric flexor tendons), the behavior of PTFE using different suture techniques was assessed and compared with PPL and UHMWPE.
This experiment is comprised of four steps: harvesting of the flexor tendons from fresh cadaveric hands, transection of the tendons in a standardized manner, tendon repair by four different techniques, mounting, and measurement of the tendon repairs on a standard linear dynamometer. The UHMWPE and PTFE showed comparable mechanical properties and were significantly superior to PPL in terms of linear traction strength. Repairs with four- and six-strand techniques proved stronger than two-strand techniques. Handling and knotting of PTFE are a challenge due to very low surface friction but fastening of the four- or six-strand repair is comparatively easy to achieve. Surgeons routinely use PTFE suture material in cardiovascular surgery and breast surgery. The PTFE strands are suitable for use in tendon surgery, providing a robust tendon repair so that early active motion regimens for rehabilitation can be applied.

Polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE as a Suture Material in Tendon Surgery

The present protocol illustrates a method for assessing the biophysical properties of tendon repairs ex vivo. A polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) suture material was evaluated by this method and compared to other materials under different conditions.

With the evolution of suture materials, there has been a change in paradigms in primary and secondary tendon repair. Improved mechanical properties allow ...

Clinical Application of Microscope-Assisted Minimally Invasive Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion

This study aims to investigate the technical aspects of microscope-assisted anterior decompression fusion and to introduce a spreader system suitable for minimally invasive anterior lumbar interbody fusion (Mini-ALIF). This article is a technical description of anterior lumbar spine surgery under a microscope. We retrospectively collected information on patients who underwent microscope-assisted Mini-ALIF surgery at our hospital between July 2020 and August 2022. A repeated-measures ANOVA was used to compare imaging indicators between periods. Forty-two patients were included in the study. The mean volume of intraoperative bleeding was 180 mL, and the mean operative time was 143 min. The mean follow-up time was 18 months. Apart from one case of peritoneal rupture, no other serious complications occurred. The postoperative foramen and disc height were both higher on average than before surgery. The spreader-assisted micro-Mini-ALIF is simple and easy to use. It can provide good intraoperative disc exposure, good discrimination of important structures, adequate spreading of the intervertebral space, and the restoration of the necessary intervertebral height, which is very helpful for less experienced surgeons.

The technique described in this article is well-suited to the Mini-ALIF procedure, allows for excellent exposure and decompression, and facilitates microscope-assisted manipulation.

This study aims to investigate the technical aspects of microscope-assisted anterior decompression fusion and to introduce a spreader system suitable for ...

Predicting Prognosis in Acute Heart Failure Using Phase Angle & BIVA Z-Scores

Clinical Application of Phase Angle and BIVA Z-Score Analyses in Patients Admitted to an Emergency Department with Acute Heart Failure

Acute heart failure is characterized by neurohormonal activation, which leads to sodium and water retention and causes alterations in body composition, such as increased body fluid congestion or systemic congestion. This condition is one of the most common reasons for hospital admission and has been associated with poor outcomes. The phase angle indirectly measures intracellular status, cellular integrity, vitality, and the distribution of spaces between intracellular and extracellular body water. This parameter has been found to be a predictor of health status and an indicator of survival and other clinical outcomes. In addition, phase angle values of &lt;4.8&#176; upon admission were associated with higher mortality in patients with acute heart failure. However, low phase angle values may be due to alterations-such as the shifting of fluids from an intracellular body water (ICW) compartment to an ECW (extracellular body water) compartment and a concurrent decrease in body-cell mass (which can reflect malnutrition)-that are present in heart failure. Thus, a low phase angle may be due to overhydration and/or malnutrition. BIVA provides additional information about the body-cell mass and congestion status with a graphical vector (R-Xc graph). In addition, a BIVA Z-score analysis (the number of standard deviations from the mean value of the reference group) that has the same pattern as that of the ellipses for the percentiles on the original R-Xc graph can be used to detect changes in soft-tissue mass or tissue hydration and can help researchers compare changes in different study populations. This protocol explains how to obtain and interpret phase angle values and BIVA Z-score analyses, their clinical applicability, and their usefulness as a predictive marker for the prognosis of a 90-day event in patients admitted to an emergency department with acute heart failure.

Author Spotlight: Unveiling Prognostic Indicators in Heart Failure - The Role of Phase Angle and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis 

In this protocol, we explain how to obtain and interpret phase angle values and bioelectrical impedance vectorial analysis (BIVA) Z-score obtained by bioelectrical impedance in patients with acute heart failure admitted to the Emergency Department and their clinical applicability as a predictive marker for the prognosis of a 90-day event.

Acute heart failure is characterized by neurohormonal activation, which leads to sodium and water retention and causes alterations in body composition, ...

Therapeutic Efficacy of Small Needle Knife Therapy in Treating Frozen Shoulder

Clinical Efficacy of Small Needle Knife Therapy on Stage I-II Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is a kind of aseptic inflammatory disease of the shoulder caused by strain, trauma, and other reasons, resulting in shoulder joint pain and limited function. The protocol presented here demonstrates the operation of a small needle knife in treating frozen shoulders, including patient management, material preparation, positioning, operation, and postoperative care. The purpose of this protocol is to relieve the pain and functional limitations and improve the living ability of patients with frozen shoulders. In our study, 76 stage I-II frozen shoulder patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into a control group and a treatment group (n=38). Patients in the control group received functional exercise, while the treatment group received small needle knife therapy with functional exercise. The visual analogue scores (VAS), the Constant and Murley scores (CMS), and the thickness of the coracohumeral ligament (CHL) under ultrasound were evaluated. After small needle knife therapy, the VAS score was significantly lower in the treatment group (5.11 &plusmn; 0.89) than in the control group (5.49 &plusmn; 0.65; t=-2.065, p&lt;0.05); the CMS score was significantly higher in the treatment group (64.72 &plusmn; 4.78) than in the control group (60.97 &plusmn; 6.00; t=2.947, p&lt;0.05); the CHL thickness was significantly decreased in the treatment group (2.38 &plusmn; 0.36) than in the control group (2.57 &plusmn; 0.42; t=-2.117, p&lt;0.05). These results indicate that the small needle knife significantly relieved the pain symptoms, improved the shoulder function, reduced the CHL thickness, and improved the quality of life and, therefore, had significant therapeutic efficacy in stage I-II frozen shoulder patients.

Author Spotlight: Treating Frozen Shoulder with Small Needle Knife Therapy 

The protocol presented here describes the detailed operation method and proves the effectiveness of a small needle knife in the treatment of frozen shoulders.

Frozen shoulder is a kind of aseptic inflammatory disease of the shoulder caused by strain, trauma, and other reasons, resulting in shoulder joint pain ...

Novel PLL-AF Suture Technique for Annulus Fibrosus Repair in Lumbar Endoscopy

A Suture Technique for Ruptured Annulus Fibrosus Following Decompression Under Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy

The suture technique for a ruptured annulus fibrosus (AF) under full-endoscopy remains challenging. Direct suturing of a ruptured annular tear after full decompression has been shown to decrease the recurrence rate of lumbar disc herniation during endoscopic surgery. Traditional suture operations under endoscopy involve only simple suturing of the ruptured AF. Due to the weak and poor quality of the AF tissue around the tear portal, using this area as needle insertion points during suturing may lead to insufficient tension and a low success rate of AF closure. Currently, there is no detailed technical illustration based on video for AF tear suturing under lumbar full-endoscopy. We innovatively propose a method of covering and suturing the AF tear by pulling up the posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) under lumbar endoscopy and using three stitches (PLL-AF suture technique). The patient who received the novel suture technique achieved satisfactory results. Six months after the operation, lumbar MRI showed no evidence of recurrence in the outpatient clinic.

Author Spotlight: Development and Application of a Novel Suture Technique for Annular Fibrosus Repair in Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy

This protocol describes an innovative suture technique for ruptured annular fibrosus during percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy.

The suture technique for a ruptured annulus fibrosus (AF) under full-endoscopy remains challenging. Direct suturing of a ruptured annular tear after full ...