Our Summary

This research paper is about the role of plastic surgeons in military settings, especially during conflicts. The researchers looked at studies published since September 1, 2001 regarding military plastic surgery. They found 55 studies, most of which were conducted in the United States between 2005 and 2019.

The studies showed that plastic surgeons often treat serious injuries to the arms and legs (40% of cases), perform general reconstructive surgery and wound care (36.4% of cases), and carry out surgery to repair injuries to the face and skull (16.4% of cases). About 40% of the studies focused on microsurgical reconstruction, a type of surgery that involves repairing small blood vessels and nerves under a microscope.

The care was usually provided at so-called “Role 3” facilities, which are small hospitals that provide care for patients who are not well enough to be moved to a larger hospital, or at “Roles 4/5” facilities, which are larger hospitals or medical centers.

The researchers concluded that plastic surgeons play a critical role in treating wounded service members, especially when it comes to complex reconstructive surgery, repair of facial injuries, and wound management. They recommend further research to figure out the best ways to maintain and improve these skills among military plastic surgeons.

FAQs

  1. What kind of injuries do plastic surgeons most commonly treat in military settings according to the reviewed studies?
  2. What are “Role 3” and “Roles 4/5” facilities in the context of military healthcare?
  3. What further recommendations did the researchers make about the role of plastic surgeons in military settings?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering craniofacial surgery that it is important to carefully follow post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include avoiding certain activities, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. Proper care and maintenance of the surgical site can help minimize the risk of complications and promote a successful outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended craniofacial surgery include those with congenital anomalies such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis, or craniofacial microsomia. Patients with traumatic injuries to the face and skull, such as fractures or soft tissue injuries, may also benefit from craniofacial surgery. Additionally, patients with tumors or other growths affecting the face or skull may be recommended for craniofacial surgery. Overall, craniofacial surgery is often recommended for patients who require reconstruction or repair of the structures of the face and skull for functional or aesthetic reasons.

Timeline

  • Before craniofacial surgery:
  1. Patient is referred to a plastic surgeon for evaluation and consultation.
  2. Plastic surgeon conducts a thorough examination and discusses treatment options with the patient.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  4. Plastic surgeon develops a personalized treatment plan for the patient.
  5. Patient receives pre-operative instructions and prepares for surgery, including quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications, and fasting before surgery.
  • After craniofacial surgery:
  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which may involve reshaping bones, correcting facial asymmetry, or repairing facial injuries.
  2. Patient is closely monitored in the recovery room and may stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery.
  3. Patient experiences swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  4. Patient follows post-operative instructions provided by the plastic surgeon, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding strenuous activities.
  5. Patient gradually sees improvement in their facial appearance and function as they heal from surgery.
  6. Patient may undergo additional procedures or therapies to optimize their results, such as scar management or physical therapy.
  7. Patient enjoys improved self-esteem and quality of life as a result of their craniofacial surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific experience do you have in performing craniofacial surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with craniofacial surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be for craniofacial surgery?
  4. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments following the surgery?
  5. What type of scarring can I expect from craniofacial surgery and how can it be minimized?
  6. How many craniofacial surgeries have you performed in the past, and what is your success rate?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before deciding on craniofacial surgery?
  8. What type of post-operative care and follow-up appointments will be necessary after the surgery?
  9. Can you provide me with any before and after photos of patients who have undergone craniofacial surgery?
  10. What are the long-term outcomes and expectations for patients who undergo craniofacial surgery?

Reference

Authors: Fox JP, Markov NP, Markov AM, O’Reilly E, Latham KP. Journal: Mil Med. 2021 Jan 30;186(3-4):e327-e335. doi: 10.1093/milmed/usaa361. PMID: 33206965