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Medicina
Special Issues
New Insights into Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
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New Insights into Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

A special issue of Medicina (ISSN 1648-9144). This special issue belongs to the section "Surgery".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 2874

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Francesco De Francesco

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery, AOU delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
Interests: plastic surgery; aesthetic surgery; reconstructive surgery; breast reconstruction; regenerative surgery; hand surgery
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Michele Riccio

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Department of Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery, AOU Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
2. Accademia del Lipofilling, Research and Training Center in Regenerative Surgery, Jesi, Ancona, Italy
Interests: plastic surgery; aesthetic surgery; reconstructive surgery; breast reconstruction; breast augmentation; oncoplastic surgery
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Background and History of the Topic:

Plastic and reconstructive surgery has a long and fascinating history, dating back thousands of years. The earliest evidence of reconstructive techniques is found in ancient Indian medical texts and Egyptian papyri, describing interventions for treating wounds and deformities. Over the centuries, this medical discipline has evolved significantly, especially during the 20th century, thanks to technological advancements, world wars, and a greater understanding of the anatomy and physiology of tissues. Today, plastic and reconstructive surgery not only deals with reconstructing damaged or missing body parts but also with aesthetic improvements, contributing to the quality of life of patients.

The Aim and Scope of the Special Issue:

This Special Issue aims to gather new insights, innovative methodologies, and recent advancements in plastic and reconstructive surgery. It seeks to provide a multidisciplinary platform for researchers, surgeons, and specialists in the field to share their experiences, discoveries, and challenges. We will cover a broad spectrum of topics, from advanced surgical techniques and the use of biomimetic materials to applications of digital and robotic technology, exploring how these innovations can be integrated into clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.

Cutting-Edge Research

We are excited to present cutting-edge research that explores new frontiers in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Among the research topics, we will include the following:

  • Advanced techniques in microsurgery and robotic
  • Innovations in tissue and organ
  • Developments in tissue engineering and regenerative
  • Psychological and social impacts of reconstructive and aesthetic
  • New methodologies for managing scars and
  • Use of 3D technologies and augmented reality in preoperative planning and
  • Comparative analyses of traditional and contemporary surgical

What Kind of Papers Are We Soliciting?

We invite original research contributions, systematic reviews, opinion articles, and clinical case reports on topics ranging from technical innovations to clinical applications in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Development and evaluation of new surgical
  • Clinical studies on the efficacy and safety of new
  • Translational research linking basic discoveries to clinical
  • Application of bioengineering and nanomedicine in tissue
  • Advances in pre- and post-operative patient
  • Psychological and social impacts of aesthetic and reconstructive
  • Use of data and artificial intelligence to enhance the personalization and outcomes of

With this collection of articles, we hope to stimulate fruitful discussions and promote the adoption of evidence-based practices that can transform plastic and reconstructive surgery, bringing tangible benefits to patients worldwide.

Dr. Francesco De Francesco
Dr. Michele Riccio
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Medicina is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • microsurgery
  • regenerative medicine
  • tissue engineering
  • robotic surgery
  • biomimetic materials
  • aesthetic surgery
  • wound healing
  • 3D printing
  • reconstructive techniques
  • psychological impacts

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

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  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (4 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 786 KiB  
Article
Early Postoperative Increase in Transforming Growth Factor Beta-1 Predicts Microvascular Flap Loss in Reconstructive Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study
by Rihards Peteris Rocans, Janis Zarins, Evita Bine, Insana Mahauri, Renars Deksnis, Margarita Citovica, Simona Donina, Sabine Gravelsina, Anda Vilmane, Santa Rasa-Dzelzkaleja, Olegs Sabelnikovs and Biruta Mamaja
Medicina 2025, 61(5), 863; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61050863 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 275
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Microvascular flap surgery is a widely used reconstructive technique for the repair of various defects. Biomarkers have become an essential tool for monitoring flap viability, early detection of complications, and prediction of surgical outcomes. Studies focusing on immunomodulatory cytokines in [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Microvascular flap surgery is a widely used reconstructive technique for the repair of various defects. Biomarkers have become an essential tool for monitoring flap viability, early detection of complications, and prediction of surgical outcomes. Studies focusing on immunomodulatory cytokines in the early prediction of microvascular flap complications are lacking. We aimed to investigate the predictive value of postoperative changes in transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) for microvascular flap complications. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study comprised 44 adults scheduled for elective microvascular flap surgery. Preoperative blood samples for analysis were obtained before surgery, prior to the administration of intravenous fluids. Postoperative blood draws were collected after surgery, before leaving the operating room. Preoperative and postoperative serum concentrations of TGF-β1, as well as preoperative plasma albumin, total protein, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, full blood count, albumin, interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, and fibrinogen, were determined. Results: Postoperative changes in TGF-β1 were higher in cases with flap loss compared to patients with healthy recovery or patients with minor flap complications (0.403 log10 of ng/mL [0.024–0.782] vs. 0.157 [0.029–0.285] vs. −0.089 [−0.233–0.056], p = 0.002). Increased postoperative TGF-β1 was positively linked to preoperative C-reactive protein (p = 0.021), fibrinogen (p = 0.020), hematocrit (p = 0.039), and hemoglobin (p = 0.009). Conclusions: The postoperative increase in circulating TGF-β1 was associated with microvascular flap complications. Assessment of the postoperative changes in circulating TGF-β1 may be valuable for the early postoperative prediction of true flap loss. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
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12 pages, 1447 KiB  
Article
Harnessing Polyethylene Glycol 3350 for Enhanced Peripheral Nerve Repair: A Path to Accelerated Recovery
by Erdinç Tunç, Ejder Saylav Bora and Oytun Erbaş
Medicina 2025, 61(4), 624; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61040624 - 28 Mar 2025
Viewed by 398
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Peripheral nerve injuries often result in significant functional impairment, and complete recovery remains challenging despite surgical interventions. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) has shown promise in nerve repair by facilitating axonal fusion and inhibiting Wallerian degeneration. This study investigates the biochemical, histopathological, [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Peripheral nerve injuries often result in significant functional impairment, and complete recovery remains challenging despite surgical interventions. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) has shown promise in nerve repair by facilitating axonal fusion and inhibiting Wallerian degeneration. This study investigates the biochemical, histopathological, and electrophysiological effects of PEG 3350 in a sciatic nerve injury model. Materials and Methods: Thirty adult male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: a control group, a surgery and saline group, and a surgery and PEG 3350 treatment group. Sciatic nerve transection was performed, and PEG 3350 was administered intraperitoneally for 12 weeks. Electromyography (EMG) and the inclined plane test assessed functional recovery. Sciatic nerve tissues were analyzed histologically and biochemically, including nerve growth factor (NGF), heat shock protein 70 (HSP-70), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Results: PEG 3350 significantly improved electrophysiological parameters, reducing compound muscle action potential (CMAP) latency and increasing CMAP amplitude compared to the saline group (p < 0.05). Functional recovery, assessed by the inclined plane test, showed a significant improvement in the PEG-treated group (p < 0.01). Biochemical analysis revealed increased NGF and HSP-70 levels, suggesting enhanced neuroprotection and regeneration. Histopathological analysis demonstrated reduced fibrosis and increased axonal density in the PEG group compared to controls. PEG 3350 enhances nerve regeneration by improving electrophysiological function, promoting axonal repair, and increasing neurotrophic factor expression. Conclusions: These findings suggest PEG as a potential adjunct therapy for peripheral nerve injuries. Future research should explore the optimal administration protocols and combined therapeutic strategies for maximizing recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
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11 pages, 4913 KiB  
Article
Stem Cells Within Three-Dimensional-Printed Scaffolds Facilitate Airway Mucosa and Bone Regeneration and Reconstruction of Maxillary Defects in Rabbits
by Mi Hyun Lim, Jung Ho Jeon, Sun Hwa Park, Byeong Gon Yun, Seok-Won Kim, Dong-Woo Cho, Jeong Hak Lee, Do Hyun Kim and Sung Won Kim
Medicina 2024, 60(12), 2111; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60122111 - 23 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1153
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Current craniofacial reconstruction surgical methods have limitations because they involve facial deformation. The craniofacial region includes many areas where the mucosa, exposed to air, is closely adjacent to bone, with the maxilla being a prominent example of this structure. [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Current craniofacial reconstruction surgical methods have limitations because they involve facial deformation. The craniofacial region includes many areas where the mucosa, exposed to air, is closely adjacent to bone, with the maxilla being a prominent example of this structure. Therefore, this study explored whether human neural-crest-derived stem cells (hNTSCs) aid bone and airway mucosal regeneration during craniofacial reconstruction using a rabbit model. Materials and Methods: hNTSCs were induced to differentiate into either mucosal epithelial or osteogenic cells in vitro. hNTSCs were seeded into polycaprolactone scaffold (three-dimensionally printed) that were implanted into rabbits with maxillary defects. Four weeks later, tissue regeneration was analyzed via histological evaluation and immunofluorescence staining. Results: In vitro, hNTSCs differentiated into both mucosal epithelial and osteogenic cells. hNTSC differentiation into respiratory epithelial cells was confirmed by Alcian Blue staining, cilia in SEM, and increased expression levels of FOXJ1 and E-cadherin through quantitative RT-PCR. hNTSC differentiation into bone was confirmed by Alizarin Red staining, increased mRNA expression levels of BMP2 (6.1-fold) and RUNX2 (2.3-fold) in the hNTSC group compared to the control. Four weeks post-transplantation, the rabbit maxilla was harvested, and H&E, SEM, and immunohistofluorescence staining were performed. H&E staining and SEM showed that new tissue and cilia around the maxillary defect were more prominent in the hNTSC group. Also, the hNTSCs group showed positive immunohistofluorescence staining for acetylated α-tubulin and cytokerin-5 compared to the control group. Conclusions: hNTSCs combined with PCL scaffold enhanced the regeneration of mucosal tissue and bone in vitro and promoted mucosal tissue regeneration in the in vivo rabbit model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
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Review

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10 pages, 1551 KiB  
Review
Neovaginal Perforation in Sigmoid Vaginoplasty: An Underrecognized Complication—A Literature Review
by Yen-Ning Huang, Jeng-Fu You and Ching-Hsuan Hu
Medicina 2025, 61(4), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61040691 - 9 Apr 2025
Viewed by 536
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Gender affirmation surgery significantly improves the quality of life and psychological well-being of transgender women. Among various techniques, sigmoid vaginoplasty is widely performed due to its ability to provide adequate vaginal depth and intrinsic lubrication. However, it carries risks, [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Gender affirmation surgery significantly improves the quality of life and psychological well-being of transgender women. Among various techniques, sigmoid vaginoplasty is widely performed due to its ability to provide adequate vaginal depth and intrinsic lubrication. However, it carries risks, with neovaginal perforation being a serious yet underreported complication. Materials and Methods: This review examines the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management of neovaginal perforation. A literature review was conducted to analyze reported cases and treatment strategies. Additionally, we present a case from our institution to highlight diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Results: Neovaginal perforation arises from mechanical trauma, ischemia, infection, or structural weaknesses in the sigmoid segment. Common risk factors include improper dilation, introital stenosis, and vascular compromise. Symptoms range from mild pelvic discomfort to peritonitis and sepsis. Computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for diagnosis. Conservative management is effective in mild cases, whereas severe cases require surgical repair. Conclusions: Neovaginal perforation is rare but potentially life-threatening. Future research should refine surgical techniques, dilation protocols, and tissue engineering solutions. Standardized guidelines and patient education are essential for prevention and improved outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
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