NEET MDS Lessons
General Surgery
Zygomatic Bone Reduction
When performing a reduction of the zygomatic bone, particularly in the context of maxillary arch fractures, several key checkpoints are used to assess the success of the procedure. Here’s a detailed overview of the important checkpoints for both zygomatic bone and zygomatic arch reduction.
Zygomatic Bone Reduction
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Alignment at the Sphenozygomatic Suture:
- While this is considered the best checkpoint for assessing the reduction of the zygomatic bone, it may not always be the most practical or available option in certain clinical scenarios.
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Symmetry of the Zygomatic Arch:
- Importance: This is the second-best checkpoint and
serves multiple purposes:
- Maintains Interzygomatic Distance: Ensures that the distance between the zygomatic bones is preserved, which is crucial for facial symmetry.
- Maintains Facial Symmetry and Aesthetic Balance: A symmetrical zygomatic arch contributes to the overall aesthetic appearance of the face.
- Preserves the Dome Effect: The prominence of the zygomatic arch creates a natural contour that is important for facial aesthetics.
- Importance: This is the second-best checkpoint and
serves multiple purposes:
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Continuity of the Infraorbital Rim:
- A critical checkpoint indicating that the reduction is complete. The infraorbital rim should show no step-off, indicating proper alignment and continuity.
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Continuity at the Frontozygomatic Suture:
- Ensures that the junction between the frontal bone and the zygomatic bone is intact and properly aligned.
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Continuity at the Zygomatic Buttress Region:
- The zygomatic buttress is an important structural component that provides support and stability to the zygomatic bone.
Zygomatic Arch Reduction
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Click Sound:
- The presence of a click sound during manipulation can indicate proper alignment and reduction of the zygomatic arch.
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Symmetry of the Arches:
- Assessing the symmetry of the zygomatic arches on both sides of the face is crucial for ensuring that the reduction has been successful and that the facial aesthetics are preserved.
Sinus
It is a tubular track lined by granulation tissue and open at one end which is at the surface,
eg. Tuberculous Sinus
Fistula
A tubular track lined by granulation tissue and open at both ends.at least one of which communicates with a hollow viscus. it can be internal or external.
Causes
1. Inadequate drainage
- Abscess bursting at the non dependent part
- Incision at the non-dependent part.
- Narrow outer opening leading to collection of exudates in the cavity.
2. Presence of foreign body like sequestrum or slough.
3. Persistence of infection.
4. When the track is lined by epithelium
5. Specific causes, TB., Syphilis, etc.
6. Marked fibrosis of the wall with obliteration of blood vessels.
7. Poor general condition causing delayed healing.
Treatment
1. control of specific infection,
2. Thorough excision of track to open up the cavity. Removal of foreign body and scraping of the epithelium
3. Through Scrapping of the wall to expose healthy tissue
4. Wound laid open and allowed to heal from the bottom leaving no pocket,
Inflammation is the respone of the body to an irritant.
Stages of Inflammation
1. General: Temperature Raised. In severe cases bacteremia or septicemia ,rigors may occur.
2. Local: classical signs of inflammation are due to hyperemia and inflammation exudate
i) Heat: inflammed area feels warmer than the surrounding tissues.
ii) Redness
iii) Tenderness: Due to pressure of exudate on the surrounding nerves If the exudate is under tension, e.g. a furuncle (boil) of the ear, pain is severe.
iv) swelling
v) Loss of function.
The termination of Inflammation
This may be by:1. Resolution 2. Suppuration 3. Ulceration 4. Ganangren s. Fibrosis
Management
i. Increase the patients resistance., Rest, Relief of pain by analgesics, Diet: High protein and high calorie diet with vitamins, Antibiotics, Prevent further contamination of wound.
Surgical measures
1. Excision: If possible as in appendicectomy.
2. Incision and drainage: If an abscess forms.
An ulcer is a break in the continuity of the skin or the mucous membrane.
Mode of onset: Traumatic ulcers heal when the traumatic agent is removed., If it persists it becomes chronic as in the case of dental ulcer of the tongue. Ulcers may develop spontaneously as in the case of gumma (syphilitic ulcer). It may develop with varicose veins called varicose ulcer, which develops in the lower third of the leg.
Sometimes a malignant ulcer develops in a scar called Marjolin’s ulcer. Special features are:
No pain - as there are no nerves. It does not spread - as there is scar tissue. No metastases - as there are no lymphatics Treatment:- Wide excision.
Classification of Ulcer
A) Pathologically
I. Non-specific ulcers:
a. Due to infected wound after trauma, that is physical or chemical agents.
b. Due to local infection example dental ulcer, pressure sore
Specific ulcers: Caused by specific infection
a. Syphilitic ulcers (Hunterian chancre)
b. Tubercular ulcers, actinomycosis
Trophic ulcer:- Caused by two factors:
Diminished nutrition due to inadequate blood supply to the tissues
Eg. Ulcers in Buerger’s Disease, Artherosclerosis
b. Diminished or absence of sensation of the skin leading to perforating ulcer of the foot
iv. Malignant ulcer: Due to squamous cell carcinoma, rodent ulcers and melanoma.
B) Clinical classification of ulcers
1. Acute Ulcer: The edge is inflamed oedematous and painful with slough in the floor and n o granulation tissue. Profuse purulent Discgarge seen
2. Healing ulcers: edge sloping with bluish margin The floor is covered with a red, healthy granulation tissue.
3. Chronic or callous ulcer (non- healing) There is no tendency to heal by itself, the base is jndurated unhealthy granulation tissue is present in the floor The edge is rounded and thickened.
Chronic ulcer occur due to:
Chronic infection , Defective circulation , Foreign body, Persistent local oedema , Malignancy , Diabetes , Malnutrition (loss of proteins), Gout
Specific Ulcers
Tubeculous Ulcer
Edge Undermined, floor contains granulation tissue a watery discharge is present. Caseous material is found in the floor of the ulcer. It usually occurs in tubercular lymphadenitis in the neck, axilla or groin.
Syphilitic Ulcer
a) Huntarian Chancre or primary sore or hard chancre: usuaIly occurs over the genitalia especially on penis. Occurs in the primary stage of syphilis Ulcer is round or oval, it is hard,indurated, elevated and painless It feels like a button, discharges serum containing spirochetes (cork screw) which is highly infective.
b) In the Secondary stage mucous patches and condylomata occurs The ulcers are shallow white patches, of sodden thickness which occur in the mouth and tongue. Condyloma are hypertrophied epithelium with serous discharge occurring in mucocutaneous junction around the anus. The regional lymphnod (inguinal transverse chain) are enlarged.
c) In tertiary stage of syphilis gummatous ulcers occur They have a punched out edge and wash Ieather floor. They occur on the subcutaneous bones like sternum and tibia. They are painless and refuse to heal.
Soft Sore (chanchroid)
They are painful muitiple ulcers, with copious discharge. They are caused by Bacillus Ducrey lncubation time is 3 to 4 days. located on glans penis and prepuce is due to venereal infection. They are associated with enlarged called bilateral inguinal lymphnodes
Tropical ulcer:
a) Oriental Sore - due to L. Tropica (lieshmaniasis)
b) Ulcers and sinuses are due to guinea worm abscess
c) Histoplasmosis with multiple ulcers on the tibia.
d) Chronic ulcers due to yaws
e) Amoebic ulcers occur in colon_and rectum , flask shaped ulcers , undermined edge , caused by Entamoeba Histolytica
Varicose Ulcer:
Associated with varicose veins. Occurs on the inner aspect of the lower third of leg , chronic ulcer The surrounding area is pigmented and eczema is present. The sore is longitudinally oval It does not penetrate the deep fascia and is painless The base is adherent to the periosteum of the tibia
Rodent ulcer
Usually Occurs on the face above a line joining the lobule of the ear to the angle of the mouth. Usually occurs at the inner canthous of the eye . Edge is raised and rolled, Erodes the deeper structures and the bone, the lyrnph nodes are not involved.
Treatment: If small wide excision is done with skin grafting, If large, radiotherapy is given.
Malignant Ulcer
Occurs due to chronic irritation as in the case of malignant ulcer of the tongue. The edge is everted. The floor is covered with slough and tumor tissue The regional lymph nodes are hard.
Initially mobile later becomes hard
Treatment: Wide excision is done.
Marjolin ulcer: Malignant Ulcer occurring on scar of Burns
Walsham’s Forceps
Walsham’s forceps are specialized surgical instruments used primarily in the manipulation and reduction of fractured nasal fragments. They are particularly useful in the management of nasal fractures, allowing for precise adjustment and stabilization of the bone fragments during the reduction process.
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Design:
- Curved Blades: Walsham’s forceps feature two curved blades—one padded and one unpadded. The curvature of the blades allows for better access and manipulation of the nasal structures.
- Padded Blade: The padded blade is designed to provide a gentle grip on the external surface of the nasal bone and surrounding tissues, minimizing trauma during manipulation.
- Unpadded Blade: The unpadded blade is inserted into the nostril and is used to secure the internal aspect of the nasal bone and associated fragments.
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Usage:
- Insertion: The unpadded blade is carefully passed up the nostril to reach the fractured nasal bone and the associated fragment of the frontal process of the maxilla.
- Securing Fragments: Once in position, the nasal bone and the associated fragment are secured between the padded blade externally and the unpadded blade internally.
- Manipulation: The surgeon can then manipulate the fragments into their correct anatomical position, ensuring proper alignment and stabilization.
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Indications:
- Walsham’s forceps are indicated for use in cases of nasal fractures, particularly when there is displacement of the nasal bones or associated structures. They are commonly used in both emergency and elective settings for nasal fracture management.
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Advantages:
- Precision: The design of the forceps allows for precise manipulation of the nasal fragments, which is crucial for achieving optimal alignment and aesthetic outcomes.
- Minimized Trauma: The padded blade helps to reduce trauma to the surrounding soft tissues, which can be a concern during the reduction of nasal fractures.
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Postoperative Considerations:
- After manipulation and reduction of the nasal fragments, appropriate postoperative care is essential to monitor for complications such as swelling, infection, or malunion. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess healing and ensure that the nasal structure remains stable.
Excision of Lesions Involving the Jaw Bone
When excising lesions involving the jaw bone, various terminologies are used to describe the specific techniques and outcomes of the procedures.
1. Enucleation
- Enucleation refers to the separation of a lesion from the bone while preserving bone continuity. This is achieved by removing the lesion along an apparent tissue or cleavage plane, which is often defined by an encapsulating or circumscribing connective tissue envelope derived from the lesion or surrounding bone.
- Key Characteristics:
- The lesion is contained within a defined envelope.
- Bone continuity is maintained post-excision.
2. Curettage
- Curettage involves the removal of a lesion from the bone by scraping, particularly when the lesion is friable or lacks an intact encapsulating tissue envelope. This technique may result in the removal of some surrounding bone.
- Key Characteristics:
- Indicates the inability to separate the lesion along a distinct tissue plane.
- May involve an inexact or immeasurable thickness of surrounding bone.
- If a measurable margin of bone is removed, it is termed "resection without continuity defect."
3. Marsupialization
- Marsupialization is a surgical procedure that involves the exteriorization of a lesion by removing overlying tissue to expose its internal surface. This is done by excising a portion of the lesion bordering the oral cavity or another body cavity.
- Key Characteristics:
- Multicompartmented lesions are rendered unicompartmental.
- The lesion is clinically cystic, and the excised tissue may include bone and/or overlying mucosa.
4. Resection Without Continuity Defect
- This term describes the excision of a lesion along with a measurable perimeter of investing bone, without interrupting bone continuity. The anatomical relationship allows for the removal of the lesion while preserving the integrity of the bone.
- Key Characteristics:
- Bone continuity is maintained.
- Adjacent soft tissue may be included in the resection.
5. Resection With Continuity Defect
- This involves the excision of a lesion that results in a defect in the continuity of the bone. This is often associated with more extensive resections.
- Key Characteristics:
- Bone continuity is interrupted.
- May require reconstruction or other interventions to restore function.
6. Disarticulation
- Disarticulation is a special form of resection that involves the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and results in a continuity defect.
- Key Characteristics:
- Involves the removal of the joint and associated structures.
- Results in loss of continuity in the jaw structure.
7. Recontouring
- Recontouring refers to the surgical reduction of the size and/or shape of the surface of a bony lesion or bone part. The goal is to reshape the bone to conform to the adjacent normal bone surface or to achieve an aesthetic result.
- Key Characteristics:
- May involve lesions such as bone hyperplasia, torus, or exostosis.
- Can be performed with or without complete eradication of the lesion (e.g., fibrous dysplasia).
TMJ Ankylosis
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a condition characterized by the abnormal fusion of the mandibular condyle to the temporal bone, leading to restricted jaw movement. This condition can significantly impact a patient's ability to open their mouth and perform normal functions such as eating and speaking.
Causes and Mechanisms of TMJ Ankylosis
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Condylar Injuries:
- Most cases of TMJ ankylosis result from condylar injuries sustained before the age of 10. The unique anatomy and physiology of the condyle in children contribute to the development of ankylosis.
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Unique Pattern of Condylar Fractures in Children:
- In children, the condylar cortical bone is thinner, and the condylar neck is broader. This anatomical configuration, combined with a rich subarticular vascular plexus, predisposes children to specific types of fractures.
- Intracapsular Fractures: These fractures can lead to comminution (fragmentation) and hemarthrosis (bleeding into the joint) of the condylar head. A specific type of intracapsular fracture known as a "mushroom fracture" occurs, characterized by the comminution of the condylar head.
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Formation of Fibrous Mass:
- The presence of a highly osteogenic environment (one that promotes bone formation) following a fracture can lead to the organization of a fibrous mass. This mass can undergo ossification (the process of bone formation) and consolidation, ultimately resulting in ankylosis.
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Trauma from Forceps Delivery:
- TMJ ankylosis can also occur due to trauma sustained during forceps delivery, which may cause injury to the condylar region.
Etiology and Risk Factors
Laskin (1978) outlined several factors that may contribute to the etiology of TMJ ankylosis following trauma:
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Age of Patient:
- Younger patients have a significantly higher osteogenic potential and a more rapid healing response. The articular capsule in younger individuals is not as well developed, allowing for easier displacement of the condyle out of the fossa, which can damage the articular disk. Additionally, children may exhibit a greater tendency for prolonged self-imposed immobilization of the mandible after trauma.
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Type of Fracture:
- The condyle in children has a thinner cortex and a thicker neck, which predisposes them to a higher proportion of intracapsular comminuted fractures. In contrast, adults typically have a thinner condylar neck, which usually fractures at the neck, sparing the head of the condyle within the capsule.
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Damage to the Articular Disk:
- Direct contact between a comminuted condyle and the glenoid fossa, either due to a displaced or torn meniscus (articular disk), is a key factor in the development of ankylosis. This contact can lead to inflammation and subsequent bony fusion.
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Period of Immobilization:
- Prolonged mechanical immobilization or muscle splinting can promote orthogenesis (the formation of bone) and consolidation in an injured condyle. Total immobility between articular surfaces after a condylar injury can lead to a bony type of fusion, while some movement may result in a fibrous type of union.