A simple preoperative method of screening for alcoholism.

The patient with an alcohol problem represents a higher risk to the aesthetic surgeon. Problems may develop intraoperatively, or in the immediate postoperative period due to lack of compliance, ultimately a higher risk of patient dissatisfaction. Identification of this group of patients is helpful preoperatively. We propose a screening method consisting of two well-conceived questions and confirmation by appropriate laboratory data.     

Predictability of the computer imaging system in primary rhinoplasty

One hundred consecutive cases of primary rhinoplasty were planned with a computer imaging system. All the preoperative and one-year postoperative profile pictures were discussed with the patients. Not one patient complained that the planned result was not achieved, and all patients considered the postoperative picture identical to the planned preoperative screen picture. To analyze the results better, a comparison between computer screen and postoperative profile lines was made. Two orthographic negatives were made: one of the picture from the computer screen, the other from the slide one year after rhinoplasty. The negatives are of the same proportions, i.e., the distance between eye and mouth is the same. The negatives were converted into line drawings using a photographic process called solarization. The two resulting lines were superimposed to produce the final picture. The differences in position of other features of the face are due to different positions of mouth, head, hair, and expression or slide changes in the camera angle. Using a computer to plan rhinoplasty allows the surgeon to eliminate patients with unrealistic expectations, to analyze the patients' wishes better, and to plan the operation more accurately.     

A simple and inexpensive device for microvascular training

A simple and inexpensive device is described that is easy to assemble and provides an excellent model for developing sound microvascular technique.     

A simple and inexpensive splint for phalangeal fractures

This article describes the fabrication and application of a simple and inexpensive splint for treating phalangeal fractures.     

A simple and inexpensive restraining cage for rats

A simple cage which limits the activity of rats is described. The cage can accommodate animals of different sizes. Restraint is easily accomplished and has been continued for as long as 30 days, maintaining the restrained rats in good condition. Access to various areas of the animal is easy to obtain. The cage is well suited for long-term experiment in which rats must be kept immobilized.     

A simple and inexpensive external fixator

A simple and inexpensive external fixator has been designed. It is constructed of galvanized iron pipe and mild steel bolts and nuts. It can easily be manufactured in a hospital workshop with a minimum of tools.     

A simple inexpensive urodynamic catheter

Described herein is an easily constructed and inexpensive triple lumen urodynamic catheter. The catheter permits accurate and reproducible simultaneous measurements of urethral and bladder pressure.     

Ultraphotomacrography of whole histological sections. A simple inexpensive method.

A short and simple inexpensive method for black-and-white reproduction is described, utilising an accurate electronic time device, a well-designed condenser enlarger with a good lens and an intense point-source lighting system for even better results. For good colour reproduction, however, expensive photomacrographic equipment is still the only satisfactory method.     

Splinting of penis following microvascular reconstruction-A simple inexpensive method

We present a simple method of splintage following microvascular reconstruction of penis. The splint is made by removing the bases of two thermocol glasses and joining them with paper adhesive tapes to form a hollow cylinder to protect and support the penis and keep it vertical. The splint is slid over the catheter and the reconstructed penis and fixed to the lower abdominal wall and the thighs with paper tapes for stability. A window at the base of the splint is made for the purpose of observation, while the tip is monitored from the open end at the top.     

A simple, inexpensive method of heart retraction during coronary artery bypass surgery

A method of heart retraction for coronary artery bypass surgery is described. The technique improves coronary artery exposure during grafting and in addition is simple, safe, and inexpensive.