MyMedR

Fulltext An extensive sinonasal osteosarcoma mimicking chondrosarcoma

Shahid H, Baharudin A, Halim AS, Biswal BM, Jihan WS

Med J Malaysia, 2007 Jun;62(2):171-2.

Osteosarcoma is a rare tumour in the sinonasal region. Early diagnosis is essential for adequate management and better prognosis and this requires a meticulous histopathological examination. Reported is a case of osteosarcoma misdiagnosed as chondrosarcoma and treated by surgery followed by radiotherapy. However, appropriate diagnosis and pre-operative chemotherapy would have been significant in the prognosis. The pitfall of accurate diagnosis and the subsequent treatment is discussed in order to find the ways to maximize five years survival which is not more than 25% in this type of lesions.

Cultured epidermal autografts in combination with MEEK Micrografting technique in the treatment of major burn injuries

Dorai AA, Lim CK, Fareha AC, Halim AS

Med J Malaysia, 2008 Jul;63 Suppl A:44.

PMID: 19024976

The treatment of major burn injuries are a formidable challenge to the burn surgeon. Early aggressive surgery for deep to full thickness burn injuries is vital in the prevention of infection. The ultimate goal in major burn injuries is to prevent the onset of multi-resistant organisms and achieve early wound cover. The field of tissue engineering can help to expedite the healing of these burn wounds. The development of keratinocyte culture delivery system can be used clinically to fasten the healing process and save many lives.

In vitro cytotoxicology model of oligo-chitosan and n, o-carboxymethyl chitosan using primary normal human epidermal keratinocyte cultures

Lim CK, Halim AS, Lau HY, Ujang Z, Hazri A

J Appl Biomater Biomech, 2007 May-Aug;5(2):82-7.

PMID: 20799177

Chitosan (beta-1, 4-D-glucosamine) is a deacetylated form of chitin with excellent biological properties in wound management. The natural properties of chitosan have the physical and chemical limitations to be widely used in biomedical fields. The improvement of the physical and chemical properties of chitosan with some additional chemicals will alter its biocompatibility. Therefore, the biological attribute of the modified chitosan must be evaluated. In this study, the cytotoxicity of oligo-chitosan (OC) and N, O- carboxymethyl-chitosan (NO-CMC) derivatives (O-C 1%, O-C 5%, NO-CMC 1% and NO-CMC 5%) was evaluated using primary normal human epidermal keratinocyte (pNHEK) cultures as an in vitro toxicology model at standardized cell passages (fourth passages). 3-[4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl]-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) was used as a cell viability assay. The O-C 1% is one of the most compatible chitosan derivatives because it steadily sustained >70% of viable cells until 72 hr post-treatment. This was followed by O-C 5%, NO-CMC 5% and NO-CMC 1%. Therefore, oligo-chitosan had the ideal properties of a biocompatible material compared to N, O- carboxymethyl-chitosan in this study.

Residual nonunion following vascularised fibular graft treatment for congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia: a report of two cases

Sulaiman AR, Nordin S, Faisham WI, Zulmi W, Halim AS

J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong), 2006 Apr;14(1):64-6.

PMID: 16598090

Resection and reconstruction using a vascularised fibular graft is a viable alternative treatment for congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia, although distal junctional nonunion and residual deformity are known complications that are difficult to treat. We illustrate 2 cases in which bony union was achieved following a technique using fibular grafting and intramedullary nailing, without additional bone grafting. This technique was feasible because of hypertrophy of the fibular graft.

Fulltext Fillet flap: a successful procedure to preserve the optimum length of below-the knee-amputation stump in congenital constriction band of the leg

Sulaiman AR, Sallehudin AY, Shahidan Y, Iskandar MA, Halim AS

Med J Malaysia, 2005 Jul;60 Suppl C:119-21.

PMID: 16381298

The use of 'spare part' tissue from an amputated segment to cover a stump with soft tissue deficiency is a viable option for augmenting the shape of the stump and preserving functional length of the stump without additional donor morbidity. The procedure requires no microsurgical skill if the tissues are used as pedicle fillet flaps transfer. This concept of fillet flap makes the amputation distal to an unfavourable definitive amputation site such as in congenital constriction band possible. We report herein a case of amputation distal to constriction ring to illustrate the application of fillet flap in reconstruction surgery.

Fulltext Wound bed preparation for chronic diabetic foot ulcers

Mat Saad AZ, Khoo TL, Halim AS

ISRN Endocrinol, 2013;2013:608313.

PMID: 23476800 DOI: 10.1155/2013/608313

The escalating incidence of diabetic mellitus has given rise to the increasing problems of chronic diabetic ulcers that confront the practice of medicine. Peripheral vascular disease, neuropathy, and infection contribute to the multifactorial pathogenesis of diabetic ulcers. Approaches to the management of diabetic ulcers should start with an assessment and optimization of the patient's general conditions, followed by considerations of the local and regional factors. This paper aims to address the management strategies for wound bed preparation in chronic diabetic foot ulcers and also emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and future directions. The "TIME" framework in wound bed preparation encompasses tissue management, inflammation and infection control, moisture balance, and epithelial (edge) advancement. Tissue management aims to remove the necrotic tissue burden via various methods of debridement. Infection and inflammation control restores bacterial balance with the reduction of bacterial biofilms. Achieving a moist wound healing environment without excessive wound moisture or dryness will result in moisture balance. Epithelial advancement is promoted via removing the physical and biochemical barriers for migration of epithelium from wound edges. These systematic and holistic approaches will potentiate the healing abilities of the chronic diabetic ulcers, including those that are recalcitrant.

Combination of vascularized outer-table calvarial bone graft based on the superficial temporal vessels and allomatrix for the repair of an orbito-frontal blow-out fracture in a child

Ali F, Halim AS, Najihah SZ, Ibrahim M, Abdullah J

J Craniomaxillofac Surg, 2005 Oct;33(5):326-30.

PMID: 16125400

A vascularized outer-table calvarial bone graft was used for repairing a Posnick type 2 traumatic orbito-frontal bone defect supported by the use of a calcium-based putty (Allomatrix) in a 7-year-old girl. Gaps between the donor and recipient sites were filled with Allomatrix containing demineralized bone matrix particles. Four years later there was a good cosmetic result using an artificial left eye.

Laminated pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap for single-stage reconstruction of a composite anterior neck and tracheal defect

Wu LY, Halim AS, Sain AH

J Otolaryngol, 2005 Feb;34(1):69-72.

PMID: 15966482

Fulltext Osteosarcoma: the outcome of limb salvage surgery

Faisham WI, Zulmi W, Halim AS, Biswal BM, Mutum SS

Med J Malaysia, 2004 Dec;59 Suppl F:24-34.

PMID: 15941157

We reviewed the surgical and oncological management 23 consecutive patients with osteosarcoma of the long bones to determine the outcome of limb salvage technique performed in our centre. All patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. There were 15 males and 8 females with a mean age at diagnosis of 19 years (9 to 36). The median follow-up was 30 months (10 to 60). Fifteen had lesion around the knee joint followed by three in the proximal humerus, two in distal humerus, two in the pelvis, and one in the distal tibia. Six patients presented with lung metastases at diagnosis. We performed limb salvage surgery to control local disease in 16 patients and amputation in 7. The resection margins of the primary lesion were adequate and free of tumour cells in all patients. Local recurrence developed in 1 patient of limb salvage group. The overall median survival was 22 months and actuarial survival was 52% at 3 years. Eleven patients died of pulmonary metastases within 2 years of follow-up. Median survival of the limb salvage surgery group was 30 months compared to 6 months in the amputation group. As per our experience, limb salvage technique is a feasible option in extremity osteosarcoma without compromising survival.

Fulltext Chitosan: A Promising Marine Polysaccharide for Biomedical Research

Periayah MH, Halim AS, Saad AZ

Pharmacogn Rev, 2016 Jan-Jun;10(19):39-42.

PMID: 27041872 DOI: 10.4103/0973-7847.176545

Biomaterials created 50 years ago are still receiving considerable attention for their potential to support development in the biomedical field. Diverse naturally obtained polysaccharides supply a broad range of resources applicable in the biomedical field. Lately, chitosan, a marine polysaccharide derived from chitins-which are extracted from the shells of arthropods such as crab, shrimp, and lobster-is becoming the most wanted biopolymer for use toward therapeutic interventions. This is a general short review of chitosan, highlighting the history, properties, chemical structure, processing method, and factors influencing the usage of chitosan derivatives in the biomedical field.

Burnout in physicians

Lee YY, Medford AR, Halim AS

J R Coll Physicians Edinb, 2015;45(2):104-7.

PMID: 26181523 DOI: 10.4997/JRCPE.2015.203

Increasing numbers of doctors are experiencing burnout now more than ever before and the worrying part is that what we see is just the tip of the iceberg. Burnout, a state of mental exhaustion caused by the doctor's professional life, is characterised by emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and a reduced sense of accomplishment or success. Burnout has been largely ignored or under-recognised previously. This paper provides a perspective on burnout among doctors, including an overview of symptoms, the scale of the problem, the implications and causes of burnout and, finally, a strategic framework to provide a basis for managing it. Most importantly, professional bodies are urged to start taking steps to help troubled doctors. Medical Colleges should provide essential assistance, support and guidance as well as ensuring fair management and promotion policies.

Impact of COVID-19 on Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Practice-Comparing Malaysia and Other Asian Countries: A Preliminary Study

Ramasenderan N, Mohd Hussain MSB, Halim AS

Asia Pac J Public Health, 2021 07;33(5):657-659.

PMID: 33998307 DOI: 10.1177/10105395211014972

Alopecia secondary to repaired occipital encephalocele - role of tissue expander in hair restoration

Ishak A, Mat Saad AZ, Azman WS, Halim AS

Med J Malaysia, 2018 06;73(3):172-174.

PMID: 29962502 MyJurnal

Partial scalp alopecia is a common problem that can lead to severe social and psychological problems. Tissue expansion, although an old concept, provides a surgical alternative to manage areas of alopecia. We describe a case of alopecia secondary to repaired occipital encephalocele that was successfully treated using tissue expansion technique.

An unusual cause of subacute airway obstruction in a hemodialysis patient with brachio-cephalic arteriovenous fistula: A rare presentation of central venous occlusion

Hamzan MI, Hamid AR, Halim AS, Mat Saad AZ

Hemodial Int, 2020 04;24(2):E33-E36.

PMID: 32141217 DOI: 10.1111/hdi.12832

A young lady with an arteriovenous (AV) fistula on hemodialysis was referred for surgical management following a failed endovascular approach to relieve central venous occlusion. She had an obstructed left brachiocephalic vein with a history of numerous central vein catheter placements. Alternative routes for new arteriovenous fistula creation had been exhausted due to previous contralateral upper limb fistula rupture and ligation. To the best of our knowledge, no similar cases of airway obstruction in central venous occlusion occurring in hemodialysis patients with AV fistula have been reported. The importance of identifying the possible emergency red flags in hemodialysis patients with central venous occlusion is important to prevent unwanted consequences.

Fulltext Prevention of firecracker injuries via the digital platform: A Malaysian experience

Mat Johar F, Halim AS, Wan Sulaiman WA, Muhamad H

Burns, 2021 11;47(7):1683-1687.

PMID: 33715940 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2021.02.007

INTRODUCTION: Health campaigns include physical campaigns in schools, community halls, or community malls. They can also be broadcast via television, newspaper, and radio. We launched a health campaign on social media platforms that have a powerful impact in this digital era.

METHODS: A three-dimensional short animation was developed for the Burn and Blast Injury Awareness campaign. It was launched during the fasting month and Eid 2020 when firecracker-related injuries are highly incident in Malaysia. The video was launched primarily on Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Wau Animation Sdn Bhd social media platforms. Each party shared the video on the top 3 social media platforms, which are Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. The numbers of viewers, reaches, and shares, and demographic data were captured at 1 month after the release.

RESULTS: We recorded 29,585 views, 60,920 reach, and 874 shares from the USM and Wau Animation platforms alone. The USM Facebook platform showed predominant female viewership (60%), whereas the Wau Facebook platform showed predominant male viewership (66%). In both platforms, the viewers were aged 18-34 years.

CONCLUSION: Health awareness campaigns on digital platforms are powerful because the message spreads faster, and it is also safe during the pandemic.

Mechanism Action of Platelets and Crucial Blood Coagulation Pathways in Hemostasis

Periayah MH, Halim AS, Mat Saad AZ

Int J Hematol Oncol Stem Cell Res, 2017 Oct 01;11(4):319-327.

PMID: 29340130

Blood is considered to be precious because it is the basic necessity for health; our body needs a steady provision of oxygen, supplied via blood, to reach billions of tissues and cells. Hematopoiesis is the process that generates blood cells of all lineages. However, platelets are the smallest blood component produced from the very large bone marrow cells called megakaryocytes and they play a fundamental role in thrombosis and hemostasis. Platelets contribute their hemostatic capacity via adhesion, activation and aggregation, which are triggered upon tissue injury, and these actions stimulate the coagulation factors and other mediators to achieve hemostasis. In addition, these coordinated series of events are the vital biological processes for wound healing phases. The aim of this review is to summarize and highlight the important pathways involved in achieving hemostasis that are ruled by platelets. In addition, this review also describes the mechanism action of platelets, including adhesion, activation, aggregation, and coagulation, as well as the factors that aid in hemostasis and wound healing.

The Effects of Passive Cigarette Smoke Exposure on the Survival of the Reverse Sural Fasciocutaneous Flap

Sadagatullah AN, Halim AS, Bathusha MS, Ramachandran AK

J Hand Microsurg, 2017 Dec;9(3):120-125.

PMID: 29302135 DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1605354

Background The possibility of a person who had undergone surgery to be exposed to the ill effects of cigarette smoke is high, more so if the person lives with a smoker. With increasing popularity of reverse sural fasciocutaneous flaps, a surgeon may have to manage a person who lives with a smoker or is exposed to cigarette smoke. A clear understanding of the effects of exposure to cigarette smoke on reverse sural fasciocutaneous flaps is necessary. This study was performed to establish a clearer understanding of the effects of smoking on reverse sural fasciocutaneous flaps and evidence for preoperative patient counseling about smoking and smoke exposure. Objective The study investigated effects of exposure to cigarette smoke on the survival of the reverse sural fasciocutaneous flap. Methods This was an experimental observational study conducted at the Laboratory for Animal Research Unit in the Health Campus of Universiti Sains Malaysia. Twelve adult White New Zealand rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus ) were divided into two groups of six. All 12 rabbits had a 2.5- × 2.5-cm reverse sural fasciocutaneous flap raised on both its hind limbs. The group exposed to cigarette smoke underwent 4 weeks of smoke exposure for 2 hours daily prior to surgery. This was then continued until analysis of the results. The control group had no intervention. All flaps were analyzed on the seventh postoperative day, after tracing on transparent plastic sheets with the necrotic area marked followed by 2D planimetry done on a grid paper. The flaps were assessed on the total flap area and survival area percentage. It was recorded as mean ± SD. The presence or absence of infection and hematoma was also noted. Results Twelve flaps were analyzed in each group. Total mean flap area and survival area percentage of the control group were 120.33 ± 31.03 mm 2 and 80.12 ± 15.75%, respectively, whereas in the cigarette smoke-exposed group, it was 121.83 ± 17.93 mm 2 and 62.04 ± 34.01%, respectively. The control group had two infections and one hematoma, and the smoking-exposed group had six infections and nine hematomas. The comparison between the groups was made in terms of total flap area, survival percentage, presence of infection, and hematoma for which the p values were 0.886, 0.115, 0.083, and 0.003, respectively. The differences between right and left hind limbs were also analyzed ( p = 0.414). Conclusion There was no statistical difference in the results from the right and left hind limbs. There was no statistical difference in the survival of reverse sural fasciocutaneous flap between the control and smoking-exposed groups.

Fulltext Reconstruction of severe patellar infera syndrome with free vascularised composite tensor fascia lata flap

Sulaiman AR, Halim AS, Azman WS, Eskandar H

Singapore Med J, 2008 Aug;49(8):e205-7.

PMID: 18756334

Post-traumatic severe patella infera and intra-articular adhesion may lead to a severe knee stiffness. We report a 29-year-old man, a muslim prayer leader, who had a previous knee injury. He presented with knee movement from ten degrees to 30 degrees, patellar infera with a length of patella to length of patellar tendon ratio of 2:5, and severe knee arthrofibrosis. He underwent incision of the patella ligament and open arthrofibrosis release, leaving a tendon gap and skin defect of 5 cm. Reconstruction was successfully done using a free vascularised composite tensor fascia lata flap. He regained full range of knee motion with normal strength quadriceps mechanism at five months after surgery, and remained in full function at 18 months follow-up.

Cross-Leg Free Flap: Crossing the Border Zone of Ischemic Limb-A Case Report of Limb Salvage Procedure following a Delayed Diagnosis of Popliteal Artery Injury

Lam HY, Sulaiman WAW, Ismail WFW, Halim AS

Arch Plast Surg, 2023 Mar;50(2):188-193.

PMID: 36999154 DOI: 10.1055/a-1962-6009

Vascular injury following traumatic knee injury quoted in the literature ranges from 3.3 to 65%, depending on the magnitude and pattern of the injury. Timely recognition is crucial to ensure the revascularization is done within 6 to 8 hours from the time of injury to avoid significant morbidity, amputation, and medicolegal ramifications. We present a case of an ischemic limb following delayed diagnosis of popliteal artery injury after knee dislocation. Even though we have successfully repaired the popliteal artery, the evolving ischemia over the distal limb poses a reconstruction challenge. Multiple surgical debridement procedures were performed to control the local tissue infection. Free tissue transfer with chimeric latissimus dorsi flap was done to resurface the defect. However, the forefoot became gangrenous despite a free muscle flap transfer. His limb appeared destined for amputation in the vicinity of tissue and recipient vessels, but we chose to use a cross-leg free flap as an option for limb salvage.

Fulltext Two novel genes TOX3 and COL21A1 in large extended Malay families with nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate

Mohamad Shah NS, Sulong S, Wan Sulaiman WA, Halim AS

Mol Genet Genomic Med, 2019 May;7(5):e635.

PMID: 30924295 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.635

BACKGROUND: Nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate is one of the most common human birth defects worldwide that affects the lip and/or palate. The incidence of clefts varies among populations through ethnic, race, or geographical differences. The focus on Malay nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCL/P) is because of a scarce report on genetic study in relation to this deformity in Malaysia. We are interested to discuss about the genes that are susceptible to cause orofacial cleft formation in the family.

METHODS: Genome-wide linkage analysis was carried out on eight large extended families of NSCL/P with the total of 91 individuals among Malay population using microarray platform. Based on linkage analyses findings, copy number variation (CNV) of LPHN2, SATB2, PVRL3, COL21A1, and TOX3 were identified in four large extended families that showed linkage evidence using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) as for a validation purpose. Copy number calculated (CNC) for each genes were determined with Applied Biosystems CopyCallerTM Software v2.0. Normal CNC of the target sequence expected was set at two.

RESULTS: Genome-wide linkage analysis had discovered several genes including TOX3 and COL21A1 in four different loci 4p15.2-p16.1, 6p11.2-p12.3, 14q13-q21, and 16q12.1. There was significant decreased, p

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