Farrah Chang Liu

All Publications

• Craniofacial Assault Against Women: A National Evaluation Defining At-risk Populations and Outcomes. The Journal of craniofacial surgery Johnstone, T., Singh, D., Liu, F., Silverstein, M., Shah, J., Darrach, H., Staudenmayer, K., Sheckter, C., Nazerali, R. 2024

  Abstract

  Few studies have analyzed epidemiologic factor associated with female patients presenting to the emergency department from facial fractures because of assault. Clearly understanding these factors may assist in developing effective strategies to decrease the incidence and sequelae of these injuries.To determine the epidemiology of facial fractures because of assault in the female population.All female facial fracture visits were queried in the 2019 Nationwide Emergency Department (ED) Sample database. The likelihood of a facial fracture encounter resulting from assault was modeled using logistic regression adjusting for demographics, insurance status, geographic region, location of patient residence, and income. Secondary outcomes analyzed hospitalization costs and adverse events.Of all facial fractures 12.4% of female encounters were due to assault were due to assault. Of assaulted females, 72.8% were between the ages of 20 and 40, and Black women experienced a disproportionate share of assault encounters (odds ratio [OR]=2.55; CI, 2.29-2.84). A large portion (46.4%) of encounters occurred in patients living in the lowest quartile of median household income, and 22.8% of patients were uninsured (OR=1.34; CI, 1.09-1.66). Assaulted patients were more likely to have fractures in nasal bone (58.1% vs. 42.5%), orbit (16.8% vs. 10.9%), zygoma (4.1% vs 3.6%), and mandible (8.7% vs. 4.8%) compared with their nonassaulted counterparts.Facial fractures were especially common in lower income, uninsured, urban, and Black populations. Examining the patterns of injury and presentation are critical to improve prevention strategies and screening tools, identifying critical patients, and develop a more efficient and effective system to treat and support female patients suffering facial fractures secondary to assault.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SCS.0000000000010234

  View details for PubMedID 38785427

• Associations between prior COVID-19 infection and venous thromboembolism following common plastic surgery operations. Journal of plastic, reconstructive & aesthetic surgery : JPRAS Silverstein, M. L., Shah, J. K., Cevallos, P., Liu, F., Sheckter, C., Nazerali, R. 2024; 94: 198-209

  Abstract

  SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection has been described as a cause of systemic hypercoagulability and a risk factor for the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Whereas some multispecialty studies have proposed a link between COVID-19 and postoperative thrombosis, other single-specialty studies have found no such association. We utilized a large national database to determine whether prior COVID-19 infection was associated with the incidence of VTE following common plastic surgery operations.The Merative™ MarketScan® Research Databases were used to identify female patients who underwent index abdominal panniculectomy, breast reduction, autologous breast reconstruction, or implant-based breast reconstruction procedures between 2020 and 2021. International Classification of Disease, tenth edition (ICD-10) codes were used to identify patients diagnosed with COVID-19 preoperatively and those who experienced a VTE in the 90 days postoperatively. Propensity score matching and multivariable logistic regression were used to determine any independent association between COVID-19 and postoperative VTE.Twenty-four thousand two hundred and twenty-eight patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age at time of surgery was 44 years. Six percent carried a preoperative COVID-19 diagnosis, and postoperative VTE occurred in 1.3%. In a propensity-score-matched analysis of 2754 patients, COVID-19 did not significantly correlate with incidence of postoperative VTE (P = 0.463). Compared with a matched prepandemic cohort (14,151 patients), the incidence of VTE did not increase following any of the four studied procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic.This analysis of a national insurance claims database provides evidence against a link between resolved COVID-19 infection and VTE within 90 days of four common plastic surgery operations.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.04.013

  View details for PubMedID 38810360

• A national analysis of burn injuries among homeless persons presenting to emergency departments. Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries Shah, J. K., Liu, F., Cevallos, P., Amakiri, U. O., Johnstone, T., Nazerali, R., Sheckter, C. C. 2024

  Abstract

  Burn injuries among the homeless are increasing as record numbers of people are unsheltered and resort to unsafe heating practices. This study characterizes burns in homeless encounters presenting to US emergency departments (EDs).Burn encounters in the 2019 Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS) were queried. ICD-10 and CPT codes identified homelessness, injury regions, depths, total body surface area (TBSA %), and treatment plans. Demographics, comorbidities, and charges were analyzed. Discharge weights generated national estimates. Statistical analysis included univariate testing and multivariate modeling.Of 316,344 weighted ED visits meeting criteria, 1919 (0.6%) were homeless. Homeless encounters were older (mean age 44.83 vs. 32.39 years), male-predominant (71% vs. 52%), and had more comorbidities, and were more often White or Black race (p < 0.001). They more commonly presented to EDs in the West and were covered by Medicaid (51% vs. 33%) (p < 0.001). 12% and 5% of homeless burn injuries were related to self-harm and assault, respectively (p < 0.001). Homeless encounters experienced more third-degree burns (13% vs. 4%; p < 0.001), though TBSA % deciles were not significantly different (34% vs. 33% had TBSA % of ten or lower; p = 0.516). Homeless encounters were more often admitted (49% vs. 7%; p < 0.001), and homelessness increased odds of admission (OR 4.779; p < 0.001). Odds of transfer were significantly lower (OR 0.405; p = 0.021).Homeless burn ED encounters were more likely due to assault and self-inflicted injuries, and more severe. ED practitioners should be aware of these patients' unique presentation and triage to burn centers accordingly.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.burns.2024.02.030

  View details for PubMedID 38492979

• Bard Versus the 2022 American Society of Plastic Surgeons In-Service Examination: Performance on the Examination in Its Intern Year AESTHETIC SURGERY JOURNAL OPEN FORUM Najafali, D., Reiche, E., Araya, S., Camacho, J. M., Liu, F. C., Johnstone, T., Patel, S. A., Morrison, S. D., Dorafshar, A. H., Fox, P. M. 2024; 6: ojad066

  Abstract

  Bard is a conversational generative artificial intelligence (AI) platform released by Google (Mountain View, CA) to the public in May 2023.This study investigates the performance of Bard on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) In-Service Examination to compare it to residents' performance nationally. We hypothesized that Bard would perform best on the comprehensive and core surgical principles portions of the examination.Google's 2023 Bard was used to answer questions from the 2022 ASPS In-Service Examination. Each question was asked as written with the stem and multiple-choice options. The 2022 ASPS Norm Table was utilized to compare Bard's performance to that of subgroups of plastic surgery residents.A total of 231 questions were included. Bard answered 143 questions correctly corresponding to an accuracy of 62%. The highest-performing section was the comprehensive portion (73%). When compared with integrated residents nationally, Bard scored in the 74th percentile for post-graduate year (PGY)-1, 34th percentile for PGY-2, 20th percentile for PGY-3, 8th percentile for PGY-4, 1st percentile for PGY-5, and 2nd percentile for PGY-6.Bard outperformed more than half of the first-year integrated residents (74th percentile). Its best sections were the comprehensive and core surgical principle portions of the examination. Further analysis of the chatbot's incorrect questions might help improve the overall quality of the examination's questions.

  View details for DOI 10.1093/asjof/ojad066

  View details for Web of Science ID 001138526600001

  View details for PubMedID 38196964

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC10776237

• Fat-augmented omentum-based construct for breast reconstruction PLASTIC AND AESTHETIC RESEARCH Devisetti, N., Sarpong, C., Hu, A. C., Yesantharao, P. S., Liu, F. C., Carrion, K., Nguyen, D. H. 2024; 11

  View details for DOI 10.20517/2347-9264.2024.48

  View details for Web of Science ID 001257925400001

• Current Research on the Use of the Omental Flap in Breast Reconstruction and Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema: A Focus on Omental-Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer. Life (Basel, Switzerland) Liu, F. C., Thawanyarat, K., Navarro, Y., Nguyen, D. H. 2023; 13 (6)

  Abstract

  The novel use of the omental flap in breast reconstruction has been increasing in research popularity within the last few decades. This technique has its roots in the early 20th century as surgeons explored the use of the omentum for a variety of reconstructive purposes across various surgical subspecialties. The current literature shows evidence of the benefits of using the omentum in autologous breast reconstruction compared to the more traditional abdominal, flank, thigh, and gluteal donor flap reconstruction. This method introduces a viable option for patients that do not meet the criteria for the traditional autologous reconstruction techniques allowing for the restoration of more natural appearing breasts without the added complication of donor-site mortality. Additionally, the omentum, with its rich source of vascularized lymph nodes, has been studied as a potential source for lymph node transfer in the treatment of mastectomy-associated lymphedema. In this review, we highlight the most recent research on the current practices of omental-based breast reconstruction techniques and their use in postmastectomy lymphedema. We discuss the history and natural progression of the development of omental-based reconstruction as an autologous breast reconstruction technique, highlight the latest advances and challenges for the utility of the omental flap in current surgical procedures, and present future directions for the potential role of omental-based breast reconstruction in postmastectomy breast surgery.

  View details for DOI 10.3390/life13061380

  View details for PubMedID 37374162

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC10305136

• Targeting Vulnerability in the Homeless-A National Analysis of Burn Injuries Presenting to the Emergency Department Shah, J., Liu, F., Cevallos, P., Amakiri, U., Johnstone, T., Sheckter, C., Nazerali, R. OXFORD UNIV PRESS. 2023: S6

  View details for DOI 10.1093/jbcr/irad045.007

  View details for Web of Science ID 001196531200076

• Acetylsalicylic Acid is Not Associated With Improved Clinical Outcomes After Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction. The Journal of surgical research Liu, F. C., Miller, T. J., Henn, D., Nguyen, D., Momeni, A. 2023; 288: 172-177

  Abstract

  Microvascular thrombosis with resultant flap loss remains a devastating complication in autologous breast reconstruction. While acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for prevention of microvascular thrombosis is commonly administered postoperatively, clinical evidence supporting this practice remains insufficient. Here, we investigate the association of postoperative ASA administration with differences in clinical outcomes following microsurgical breast reconstruction.A prospectively maintained database was queried to identify patients who had undergone microsurgical breast reconstruction. Patients were categorized based on whether they had received postoperative ASA for 30 d (Group 1) or had not received ASA (Group 2). Patient demographics, reconstructive outcomes, complications, and transfusion requirements were retrieved.One hundred thirty six patients with a mean age of 49.5 y and a mean body mass index of 28.5 kg/m2 who had undergone a total of 216 microsurgical breast reconstructions were included. No significant differences were noted with regard to patient demographics with the exceptions of increased rates of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and delayed reconstruction in Group 1. There were no significant differences in the rates of postoperative complications including breast hematoma, mastectomy skin flap necrosis, partial flap necrosis, seroma, and deep venous thrombosis between patients who did or did not receive ASA postoperatively. Similarly, no difference was noted regarding postoperative blood transfusion rates (Group 1: 9.9% versus Group 2: 9.1%; P = 0.78). Finally, patients in Group 1 had significantly longer hospital stays (Q1 = 4, median = 4.5, Q3 = 5).Postoperative ASA administration is not associated with improved postoperative clinical outcomes. The use of ASA routinely after autologous breast reconstruction does not appear to be a necessity in practice.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jss.2023.02.027

  View details for PubMedID 36989833

• Concurrent management of lymphedema and breast reconstruction with single-stage omental vascularized lymph node transfer and autologous breast reconstruction: A case series. Microsurgery Crowley, J. S., Liu, F. C., Rizk, N. M., Nguyen, D. 2023

  Abstract

  The omentum has gained recent popularity in vascularized lymph node transfers (VLNT) as well as its novel use as a free flap for autologous breast reconstruction. The omentum has multiple unique advantages. It can be harvested laparoscopically or in an open fashion when utilized with abdominally-based free flaps. Additionally, it can be split into multiple flaps for simultaneous autologous breast reconstruction with VLNT or for multiple sites of VLNT. We present the safe and advantageous use of the omentum for VLNT with simultaneous autologous breast reconstruction in a series of patients.From the years 2019-2022, patients who underwent breast reconstruction with deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) or muscle sparing tram (MS-TRAM) flaps with concurrent omental VLNT through a mini-laparotomy or breast reconstruction with Omental Fat-Augmented Free Flap (O-FAFF) with concurrent laparoscopic harvesting of omental VLNT were studied. Patient demographics included age, gender, comorbidities, prior radiation or chemotherapy, body mass index, complications, hospital length of stay, and surgical outcomes.A total of seven patients underwent omental VLNT with breast reconstruction for a total of 12 breasts and eight limbs treated. Three of the patients underwent autologous breast reconstruction using omental free flap. The mean age was 52.3 (range 40-75) years and mean body mass index (BMI) was 29.3 (range 23-38) kg/m2 . The flap survival rate was 100%. All the patients had successful reduction of extremity circumference and improvement of symptoms. The range of follow-up was 5 to 19 months, with an average follow-up of 14.6 months. There was only one complication among our 7 patients: a patient with a BMI of 38 developed a post-surgical abdominal wound treated with local wound care. Otherwise, post-operative courses were uneventful, and no further complications were reported.We demonstrate here additional evidence to the growing body of literature of the versatility and safety of the omentum to be utilized as an independent tool for surgical treatment of lymphedema as well as its simultaneous use with autologous breast reconstruction.

  View details for DOI 10.1002/micr.31017

  View details for PubMedID 36756715

• Two Independent Capsules Surrounding a Single Textured Implant in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN Padmanabhan, J., Liu, F. C., Sivaraj, D., Henn, D., Chen, K., Simon, D. R., Barrera, J. A., Gunner, G. C. 2022; 10 (8): e4470

  Abstract

  Textured breast implants are associated with prolonged inflammation leading to increased risk for complications such as the development of anaplastic large cell lymphoma. The underlying molecular mechanisms that drive increased inflammation toward textured implants (compared with smooth implants) remain poorly understood. Here, we present the first known case of a patient with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) who developed two independent fibrotic capsules around a single textured silicone implant. The patient was found to have one internal capsule tightly adherent to the implant and a second external capsule that was attached to the surrounding tissue. We observed that the internal implant-adherent capsule was composed of a highly aligned and dense collagen network, completely atypical for EDS and indicative of a high mechanical stress environment. In contrast, the external nonadherent capsule, which primarily interacted with the smooth surface of the internal capsule, displayed disorganized collagen fibers with no discernible alignment, classic for EDS. Remarkably, we found that the internal capsule displayed high activation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, a mechanoresponsive inflammatory mediator that was not elevated in the disorganized external capsule. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that the tight adhesion between the textured implant surface and the internal capsule creates a high mechanical stress environment, which is responsible for the increased local inflammation observed in the internal capsule. This unique case demonstrates that mechanical stress is able to override genetic defects locally in collagen organization and directly connects the textured surface of implants to prolonged inflammation.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/GOX.0000000000004470

  View details for Web of Science ID 000843700600002

  View details for PubMedID 36032379

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC9410635

• Advances in Tissue Expander Technology Enable Early Targeted Intervention in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction. Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open Liu, F., Henn, D., Shrefren, K., Momeni, A. 2021; 9 (8): e3781

  Abstract

  Seroma and infection are among the most common complications after staged prepectoral implant-based reconstruction. Advances in tissue expander technology permit seroma aspiration via an integrated drain port, thus, holding promise for improving clinical outcomes.A prospectively maintained database of patients who had undergone immediate prepectoral breast reconstruction using the Sientra AlloX2 tissue expander was used to determine the rate of postoperative seroma formation, its volume and microbiological spectrum, as well as postoperative complications.49 patients (mean age: 49 years, mean body mass index: 24.5 kg/m2) underwent 79 prepectoral breast reconstructions. Seroma was clinically suspected in 26 reconstructions (32.9%) and was easily aspirated in all cases via the integrated drain port. Importantly, periprosthetic fluid was successfully aspirated in 45 reconstructions (57%) without any clinical evidence for seroma, with aspirated cumulative fluid volumes exceeding 10 cm3 in 12 reconstructions. Bacterial cultures from aspirated fluid were positive in six patients (12.2%), of whom two developed clinical signs of infection, at which point targeted antibiotic treatment was initiated.Our study demonstrates that routine office-based aspiration of periprosthetic fluid via the integrated drain port of the AlloX2 tissue expander not only permits successful aspiration of periprosthetic fluid but also allows aspirated fluid to be sent for culture, thus, providing a lead-time advantage for initiation of targeted antibiotic therapy in cases of postoperative surgical site infection. Furthermore, our observations indicate that positive bacterial cultures in the absence of clinical signs of infection do not mandate antibiotic therapy.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/GOX.0000000000003781

  View details for PubMedID 34667707

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC8517312

• Advances in Tissue Expander Technology Enable Early Targeted Intervention in Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN Liu, F., Henn, D., Shrefren, K., Momeni, A. 2021; 9 (8)

  View details for DOI 10.1097/GOX.0000000000003781

  View details for Web of Science ID 000695249500008

• The Impact of Coagulopathy on Clinical Outcomes following Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction. Plastic and reconstructive surgery Liu, F. C., Miller, T. J., Wan, D. C., Momeni, A. 2021

  Abstract

  SUMMARY: Autologous breast reconstruction has evolved considerably from pedicled muscle-based approaches to microsurgical perforator-based techniques. Patients with documented coagulopathy, however, remain a particularly challenging population. The authors present their experience in microsurgical breast reconstruction in patients with coagulopathy and discuss their treatment protocol. A prospectively maintained database was queried for patients with coagulopathy who underwent microsurgical breast reconstruction between 2016 and 2019. Information regarding patient demographics, type of coagulopathy, and anticoagulation regimen were retrieved, and clinical outcomes were investigated. Nineteen patients who underwent 34 microsurgical breast reconstructions with free abdominal flaps were included in the study. The most common coagulopathy was factor V Leiden [n = 7 (38.6 percent)]. Nine patients (47.4 percent) developed thrombotic complications (the majority occurring intraoperatively); notably, arterial and venous thrombosis in four (21.1 percent) and two patients (10.5 percent), respectively. Postoperative thrombotic complications included pulmonary embolism [n = 2 (10.5 percent)] and flap congestion secondary to venous thrombosis [two flaps (5.9 percent)]. Only one flap loss was observed secondary to delayed venous thrombosis on postoperative day 6 (2.9 percent). The anticoagulation regimen in the majority of patients consisted of intraoperative intravenous administration of heparin (2000 U [bolus]) followed by a 5-day heparin infusion at 500 U/hour [n = 10 (52.6 percent)]. The high rate of thrombotic complications in patients with coagulopathy who underwent microsurgical breast reconstruction is contrasted by a low flap loss rate. Although coagulopathy is a risk factor for thrombotic complications, successful microsurgical breast reconstruction is still possible in the majority of patients.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/PRS.0000000000008099

  View details for PubMedID 34003808

• Motor Vehicle Collision Injuries: An Analysis of Facial Fractures in the Urban Pediatric Population. The Journal of craniofacial surgery Le, T. T., Oleck, N. C., Liu, F. C., Halsey, J. N., Hoppe, I. C., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2020

  Abstract

  Motor vehicle collisions (MVC) are a leading cause of unintentional death and injury in the US pediatric population. Compliance with prevention measures such as seatbelts and child safety seats varies considerably with patient demographics. In this study, the authors examine facial fracture secondary to MVC in an urban pediatric population.A retrospective chart review was performed of all facial fractures as a result of MVC in the pediatric population in a level 1 trauma center in an urban environment (University Hospital in Newark, NJ). Patient demographics were collected, as well as location of fractures, concomitant injuries, and surgical management strategies.Seventy-five patients met inclusion criteria for the authors' study. Mean age was 14 years old. Common fracture sites included orbital, mandible, nasal bone, and frontal sinus. Patients were more likely to incur fracture of the zygoma, orbit, nasal bone, frontal sinus, and nasoorbitoethmoid (NOE) if involved in an MVC compared to all other etiologies. Common concomitant injuries included traumatic brain injury, intracranial hemorrhage, and skull and long bone fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation with titanium plates was the most common surgical procedure indicated.Motor vehicle collisions related injury has significant health implications in the urban pediatric population. Orbital, zygoma, and nasal facial fractures and TBI are injuries commonly associated with MVC. The facial fractures are likely due to lack of proper utilization of safety equipment and airbags. Development of effective prevention techniques relies heavily on analysis of injury patterns and management strategies.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SCS.0000000000006671

  View details for PubMedID 32649563

• Assessment of Panfacial Fractures in the Pediatric Population. Journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery : official journal of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Dalena, M. M., Liu, F. C., Halsey, J. N., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2020

  Abstract

  PURPOSE: Management of panfacial fractures is critical and often difficult in adults; however, there is little to no literature regarding these fractures in the pediatric population. In this study, we present our experience to provide insight and further investigation regarding prevention and management strategies within the pediatric population.PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective chart review of all panfacial fractures in the pediatric population between 2002 and 2014 treated at an urban, level 1 trauma center (University Hospital, Newark, NJ). Data including patient demographic characteristics, mechanisms of injury, locations of fractures, concomitant injuries, and surgical management strategies were collected.RESULTS: We identified 82 patients aged 18years or younger who had sustained a panfacial fracture. The mean age at the time of injury was 12.9years, with a male predominance of 64.9%. A total of 335 fractures were identified on radiologic imaging. The most common etiologies were motor vehicle accidents and pedestrians being struck. Orbital, frontal sinus, nasal, and zygoma fractures were the most common fractures. The mean score on the Glasgow Coma Scale on arrival was 12.0. A total of 29 patients were intubated on arrival-or before arrival-at the trauma bay. A surgical airway was required in 9 patients. The most common concomitant injuries were traumatic brain injury, intracranial hemorrhage, and skull fracture. Surgical repair was required in 38 patients. The cephalic-to-caudal approach was used most, followed by caudal to cephalic, medial to lateral, and lateral to medial. Within a year of the initial surgical procedure, 4 patients underwent reoperations for complications. Four patients died.CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric panfacial fractures are rare occurrences; however, the impact of these injuries can be devastating, with concomitant life-threatening injuries and complications. Given the lack of literature, as well as the preventable nature of these injuries, we hope this study can address primary prevention strategies and provide insight toward the management and characteristics of these fractures.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.joms.2020.03.001

  View details for PubMedID 32247625

• Pediatric Pedestrian Facial Fracture Patterns and Management Following Motor Vehicle Collisions. The Journal of craniofacial surgery Liu, F. C., Le, T. T., Oleck, N. C., Halsey, J. N., Hoppe, I. C., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2019; 31 (1): 265-268

  Abstract

  Pedestrian trauma due to motor vehicle crashes can be especially destructive to the pediatric population as the facial skeleton is immature and developing. Almost half of crashes resulting in pedestrian death involved alcohol consumption, and children are often victims of irresponsible driving. The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of facial fractures in this patient population in order to analyze management strategies that optimize functional recovery.A retrospective chart review was performed for all facial fractures resulting from motor vehicle collisions with pedestrians in the pediatric population at a level 1 trauma center in an urban environment (University Hospital in Newark, NJ). Patient demographics were collected, as well as location of fractures, concomitant injuries, and surgical management strategies.During the time period examined, 55 patients were identified as 18 years of age or younger and having sustained a facial fracture as the result of being struck by a motor vehicle. The mean age was 11.3 (range 1-18) years, with a male predominance of 69.0%. There were a total of 125 fractures identified on radiologic imaging via CT or X-ray. The most common fractures were those of the orbit (20.0%), mandible (19.2%), and nasal bone (10.4%). The mean Glasgow Coma Scale on arrival was 12.1 (range 4-15). Fifteen patients were intubated on, or prior to, arrival to the trauma bay. The most common concomitant injuries were intracranial hemorrhage, long bone fractures, and cervical spine fractures. The mean operative time was 216.9 (range 63-515) minutes. Surgery was required in 36 patients, with most undergoing open reduction and internal fixation with titanium plates and screws. Two patients required resorbable plates, and one required Medpor implants. The mean hospital length of stay was 9.9 (range 1-59) days. Two patients expired.There is currently a dearth of literature regarding the management and patterns of injury for pediatric pedestrian injuries due to motor vehicle collisions. The impact of these injuries can be devastating with concomitant life-threatening complications, and may influence the future development of the facial skeleton after healing of the bone and soft tissue. The authors hope this study can provide insight and further investigation regarding prevention and management.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SCS.0000000000006034

  View details for PubMedID 31821213

• Sports-Related Pediatric Facial Trauma: Analysis of Facial Fracture Pattern and Concomitant Injuries. Surgery journal (New York, N.Y.) Dobitsch, A. A., Oleck, N. C., Liu, F. C., Halsey, J. N., Hoppe, I. C., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2019; 5 (4): e146-e149

  Abstract

  Objective  Sports-related injuries, such as facial fractures, are potentially debilitating and may lead to long-term functional and aesthetic deficits in a pediatric patient. In this study, we analyze sports-related facial fractures in the urban pediatric population in an effort to characterize patterns of injury and improve management strategies and outcomes. Methods  Retrospective chart review was performed for all facial fractures resulting from sports injuries in the pediatric population at a level-1 trauma center (University Hospital, Newark, NJ). Results  Seventeen pediatric patients were identified as having sustained a fracture of the facial skeleton due to sports injury. Mean age was 13.9 years old. A total of 29 fractures were identified. Most common fracture sites included the orbit ( n  = 12), mandible ( n  = 5), nasal bone ( n  = 5), and zygomaticomaxillary complex ( n  = 3). The most common concomitant injuries included skull fracture ( n  = 3), intracranial hemorrhage ( n  = 4), and traumatic brain injury ( n  = 4). One patient was intubated upon arrival to the emergency department. Hospital admission was required in 13 patients, 4 of which were admitted to an intensive care setting. Nine patients required operative intervention. Mean length of hospital stay was 2.4 days. No patients were expired. Conclusions  Sports-related facial fractures are potentially debilitating injuries in the pediatric population. Analysis of fracture pattern and concomitant injuries is imperative to develop effective management strategies and prevention techniques.

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0039-1697627

  View details for PubMedID 31602397

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC6785318

• Complex Ventral Hernia Repair in the Class III Morbidly Obese Patient. Annals of plastic surgery Oleck, N. C., Liu, F. C., Conway, M., Kalish, E., Belgrade, J., Santoro, P., Zabel, D. 2019; 82 (4): 428-434

  Abstract

  Patients undergoing complex ventral hernia repair (VHR) often present with significant medical comorbidities, the most prevalent of which is obesity. Although recent advancements in abdominal wall reconstruction techniques have provided the general hernia patient population with markedly improved recurrence and postoperative complication rates, many patients have been precluded from these procedures owing to excessive body mass index (BMI). In this study, we investigate the viability of complex ventral hernia repair with epigastric artery perforator sparing skin incisions, component separation, and wide-spanning retrorectus mesh reinforcement for patients with BMI of greater than or equal to 40 kg/m(2) (class III obesity).A single surgeon retrospective review of our prospectively maintained database was performed. We restricted this data to class III morbidly obese patients undergoing open VHR with component muscle separation and wide-spanning mesh reinforcement.Between 2010 and 2017, 131 patients met the inclusion criteria for our study. The mean patient BMI was 46.7 kg/m(2). Operative wounds were categorized according to the National Healthcare Safety Network Wound Class Definitions. There was no statistically significant association between wound class and postoperative complication rates. After our implementation of epigastric artery perforator sparing skin incisions in 2013, significantly less wound breakdown was observed (26.3%) as opposed to before (49.0%) (P < 0.01). Furthermore, significantly less cases required return to the operating room after this technique was implemented (31.3%) as compared with before (60.8%) (P < 0.001). Postoperatively, 28 patients developed an infection requiring antibiotic treatment (21.4%), and the overall hernia recurrence rate was 5.3%. Three patients expired.Complex VHR with abdominal wall reconstruction may be a viable option for class III morbidly obese patients. Preliminary data suggest that implementation of epigastric artery perforator sparing skin incisions may reduce the risk of postoperative wound complications, and we have demonstrated hernia recurrence and wound complications comparable with those seen in the general population.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SAP.0000000000001656

  View details for PubMedID 30325837

• Traumatic Falls in the Pediatric Population: Facial Fracture Patterns Observed in a Leading Cause of Childhood Injury. Annals of plastic surgery Oleck, N. C., Dobitsch, A. A., Liu, F. C., Halsey, J. N., Le, T. T., Hoppe, I. C., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2019; 82 (4S Suppl 3): S195-S198

  Abstract

  Falls are a leading cause of nonfatal injury in the pediatric population, resulting in numerous hospitalizations. Children may not have fully developed reflexive and balancing abilities, rendering them more susceptible to traumatic falls. Here the authors present their findings regarding patterns of facial fracture and concomitant injury seen in the pediatric population secondary to falls.A retrospective chart review was performed of all facial fractures as a result of falls in the pediatric population in a level 1 trauma center in an urban environment (University Hospital in Newark, NJ). Patient demographics were collected, as well as location of fractures, concomitant injuries, and surgical management strategies.Fifty-five patients were identified as 18 years or younger and having sustained a facial fracture as the result of a fall. This cohort was compared with 418 pediatric patients with facial fractures due to nonfall etiologies. The mean age was 9.6 years (range, 0-18 years), with a male predominance of 67.3%. There were a total of 70 fractures identified on radiological imaging. The most frequently fractured bones were the orbit (n = 27), nasal bone (n = 15), and mandible (n = 11). Orbital and frontal sinus fractures each occurred more frequently due to falls compared with all other causes of injury. Patients with orbital fractures were significantly more likely to present with an additional facial fracture compared with those without (P < 0.01). The most common concomitant injuries were traumatic brain injury, skull fracture, and intracranial hemorrhage. Patients who suffered a facial fracture due to a fall were significantly more likely to sustain a concomitant skull fracture (P < 0.05) and intra-abdominal injury (P < 0.05) compared with all other etiologies. Fourteen patients required surgical intervention. One patient died.Pediatric facial fractures are a unique entity. The general plasticity of the pediatric anatomy can predispose patients to significant injury without obvious external signs. A high level of clinical suspicion is required to avoid misdiagnosis and delay of treatment. The authors hope this study can address a preventable issue in child safety, educate caregivers, and provide insight towards fracture management that fosters functional and aesthetic recovery.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SAP.0000000000001861

  View details for PubMedID 30730318

• Implications of Facial Fracture in Airway Management of the Adult Population: What Is the Most Effective Management Strategy? Annals of plastic surgery Le, T. T., Oleck, N. C., Khan, W., Halsey, J. N., Liu, F. C., Hoppe, I. C., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2019; 82 (4S Suppl 3): S179-S184

  Abstract

  Facial fractures are a harbinger when it comes to airway management. Facial fractures can cause airway obstruction or preclude the use of intubation. We aim to examine the etiologies, types of facial fractures, and the risk factors that may lead to requirement of an advance airway.A retrospective chart review was performed of all facial fractures in the adult population in a level 1 trauma center in an urban environment (University Hospital in Newark, NJ). Patient demographics were collected, as well as location of fractures, concomitant injuries, and course of hospital stay.During the period examined, 2626 patients were identified as 18 years or older and with facial fracture. Among these patients, 443 received airway management. Mean age was 34.21 years (range, 18-95 years), with a male predominance of 91.9%. One hundred nineteen patients were intubated on, or before, arrival to the trauma bay. One hundred three patients required surgical airways on arrival to the trauma bay, and 91 of these patients were also reported to have been intubated before arrival. There were a total of 741 fractures identified on radiologic imaging. The most common fractures observed were orbital fractures, frontal sinus fractures, and nasal fractures. Mean Glasgow Coma Scale score on arrival was 9.45 (range, 3-15). Gunshot wound was also the most common etiology among those who were intubated and those who received a surgical airway. The most common concomitant injuries were traumatic brain injury, intracranial hemorrhage, and skull fracture. Forty-one patients died, most of which were intubated during their hospital course.There is a dearth of literature detailing standardization of airway management for patients who present with facial fractures. The difference between intubation and surgical airway is often a subjective judgment call, but the authors believe that a more streamlined process can be elucidated after analyzing previous trends as well as variabilities in patient survival and prognosis.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SAP.0000000000001883

  View details for PubMedID 30855385

• Facial Fractures as a Result of Falls in the Elderly: Concomitant Injuries and Management Strategies. Craniomaxillofacial trauma & reconstruction Liu, F. C., Halsey, J. N., Oleck, N. C., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2019; 12 (1): 45-53

  Abstract

  Mechanical falls are a common cause of facial trauma in the elderly population. It has been shown that the likelihood of sustaining a facial fracture due to a fall or activities of daily life significantly increases with age. Craniomaxillofacial fractures are most common during the first three decades of life; however, elderly patients more frequently require lengthy hospital stays and surgical intervention, and have shown increased complication rates compared with younger patients. The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of facial fractures secondary to mechanical falls in the elderly population to analyze mechanism of injury, comorbidities, and fracture management. A retrospective review of all facial fractures as a result of falls in the elderly population in a level 1 trauma center in an urban environment was performed for the years 2002 to 2012. Patient demographics were collected, as well as location of fractures, concomitant injuries, and surgical management strategies. During the time period examined, 139 patients were identified as greater than 60 years of age and having sustained a fracture of the facial skeleton as the result of a fall. The average age was 75.7 (range, 60-103) years, with no gender predominance of 50.4% female and 49.6% male. There were a total of 205 fractures recorded. The most common fractures were those of the orbit (42.0%), nasal bone (23.4%), zygoma (13.2%), and zygomaticomaxillary complex (7.32%). The average Glasgow Coma Scale on arrival was 12.8 (range, 3-15). Uncontrolled hemorrhage was noted on presentation to the trauma bay in five patients. Twenty-one patients were intubated on, or prior to, arrival to the trauma bay, and 44 required a surgical airway. The most common concomitant injury was a long bone fracture (23.5%), followed by cervical spine fracture (18.5%), skull fracture (17.3%), intracerebral hemorrhage (17.3%), rib fracture (17.3%), ophthalmologic injuries (6.2%), short bone fracture (4.9%), pelvic fracture (2.9%), thoracic spine fracture (1.2%), and lumbar spine fracture (1.2%). Of the 114 patients admitted to the hospital, 53 were admitted to an intensive care setting. The average hospital length of stay was 8.97 days (range, 0-125). Sixteen patients expired. Surgical management of fractures in the operating room was required in 47 of the 139 patients. Of the patients treated, 36.2% required an open reduction and internal fixation procedure. Facial fractures as a result of falls in the geriatric population represent an increasing number of cases in clinical practice as life expectancy steadily rises. These patients require a specific standard of treatment since they are more susceptible to nosocomial infections, as well as have higher complication rates and longer recovery time. Concomitant injuries such as cervical spine and pelvic fractures can greatly increase risk of mortality. Surgical and soft tissue management must be approached with caution to optimize function and aesthetics while preventing secondary infection. The authors hope that this study can provide some insight and further investigation as there is a dearth of literature to the management of facial fractures in falls in elderly patients.

  View details for DOI 10.1055/s-0038-1642034

  View details for PubMedID 30815215

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC6391279

• Violence Against Women: Facial Fractures Secondary to Assault in the Urban Female Population. The American surgeon Oleck, N. C., Liu, F. C., Halsey, J. N., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2018; 84 (7): e254-e256

  View details for PubMedID 30401030

• A Single-Center Review of Facial Fractures as the Result of High-Speed Projectile Injuries. Eplasty Liu, F. C., Halsey, J. N., Hoppe, I. C., Ciminello, F. S., Lee, E. S., Granick, M. S. 2018; 18: e16

  Abstract

  Purpose: Gunshot injuries to the face that result in fractures of the underlying skeleton present a challenge in management. The goal of this study was to evaluate patterns of facial fractures as a result of gunshot injuries and strategies for management. Methods: A retrospective review of facial fractures resulting from gunshot injuries in a level 1 trauma center was performed for the years 2000 to 2012. Data were collected for patient demographics, fracture distribution, concomitant injuries, and surgical management strategies. Results: A total of 190 patients sustained facial fractures from a gunshot injury. The average age was 29.9 years, and 90% were male. Sixteen injuries were self-inflicted. The most common fractures were of the mandible and the orbit. Uncontrolled hemorrhage was noted on presentation in 68 patients; 100 patients were intubated on arrival. The average Glasgow Coma Scale score on arrival was 11.9. Concomitant injuries included skull fracture, intracranial hemorrhage, and intrathoracic injury. Surgical management was required in 89 patients. Nine patients required soft-tissue coverage. Thirty patients expired. Conclusion: Gunshot injuries to the face resulting in fractures of the underlying skeleton have high instances of morbidity and mortality. Life-threatening concomitant injuries can complicate management of facial fractures in this population.

  View details for PubMedID 29713397

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC5896170

• Peripheral Pruning: A Safe Approach to Thinning Extra-Large Anterolateral Thigh Flaps. Annals of plastic surgery Viviano, S. L., Liu, F. C., Therattil, P. J., Lee, E. S., Keith, J. D. 2018; 80 (4 Suppl 4): S164-S167

  Abstract

  Thinning of anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps has been described to achieve optimal contouring. Previous studies caution against thinning large flaps owing to the risk of vascular compromise leading to partial or total flap necrosis. This study aims to demonstrate a reliably safe method for thinning extra-large (>240 cm) flaps.A retrospective review of 53 consecutive ALT flaps performed at a single institution was completed. Of these flaps, 18 (34%) were thinned primarily by sharp excision of sub-Scarpa's fat along the periphery of the flap using loupe magnification. A central cuff of fat is left to surround and protect the perforator.There were 53 total flaps in our series. Eighteen of the flaps were thinned by peripheral pruning. Eleven (61%) of the flaps reconstructed defects of the lower extremity, whereas 4 (22%) reconstructed upper extremity defects and 3 (17%) reconstructed scalp defects (Table 1). The mean size of the thinned flap group was 35% larger than the nonthinned group (n = 18, 261 cm ± 109 cm vs n = 35, 192 cm ± 146 cm). Ten thinned flaps (55%) were extra large, with flap areas over 240 cm. The average amount of excised fat weighed 41 g ± 18 g. The average body mass index in the thinned flap group was 28.8 kg/m, which is classified as overweight. The average body mass index in the nonthinned flap group was 24.6 kg/m, which is classified as normal weight (Table 2). There were no cases of partial flap necrosis in the thinned flap group. A single case of total flap loss occurred in the thinned flap group secondary to hematoma formation during administration of therapeutic heparin for a mechanical heart valve. There were no other complications in the thinned flap group.This is the first study to demonstrate a reliable technique for primary thinning of extra-large ALT flaps in the Western population. No complications related to thinning were observed. Peripheral pruning of sub-Scarpa's fat is a safe and reliable method of thinning extra-large ALT flaps without increasing the risk of flap necrosis.

  View details for DOI 10.1097/SAP.0000000000001401

  View details for PubMedID 29553978

• Revisiting the Fasciocutaneous Perforator Cross-Leg Flap. Eplasty Reisler, T., Buziashvili, D., Liu, F. C., Datiashvili, R. O. 2016; 16: ic16

  View details for PubMedID 27213026

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC4855355