• Archives of Plastic Surgery
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• v.34 no.3
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• pp.279-284
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• 2007

Purpose: The vein graft was considered as a useful conduit for nerve defect. But the problem is that it might be collapsed in long vein graft state. A new experimental model using vein graft filled with hyaluronic acid was considered. Methods: Thirty rats were used for the experimental animal. In group I, one side of the femoral nerve was exposed and a segment was removed about 15mm. The neural gap was connected with nerve graft. In group II, the nerve gap was connected with vein graft only. In group III, the nerve gap was connected with vein graft filled with hyaluronic acid. A walking track analysis was made periodically for 2 months and NCV(nerve conduction velocity) was executed at the end of the experiment. And morphologic studies were also done for all groups Results: In a walking track analysis, the toe-spread was widen and the foot-length was lengthened. The recovery of the toe-spread and foot length was checked 2 weeks interval, periodically for two months. The SFI (sciatic function index) was $-52.5{\pm}8.2$ in group I, $-68.1{\pm}4$ in group II, $-55.3{\pm}7.9$ in group III. In electrophysiological study, NCV(nerve conduction velocity) was $26.71{\pm}3.11m/s$ in group I, $17.94{\pm}4.35m/s$ in group II, $25.69{\pm}2.81m/s$ in group III. The functional recovery in group I and III was superior to that the group II statistically(p < 0.05) Under electromicroscopic study, the number of the myelinated axons were $1419.1{\pm}240$ in group I, $921.7{\pm}176.8$ in group II, $1322.2{\pm}318$ in group III. The number of the myelinated axons were much more in group I and III than group II statistically (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study suggested that the vein graft filled with hyaluronic acid is more effective than vein graft only for the conduit of the nerve gap. It was thought that the technique could be used in clinical cases with nerve defects as an alternative method to classical nerve grafts.

• Journal of Physiology & Pathology in Korean Medicine
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• v.25 no.5
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• pp.807-815
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• 2011

This study was designed to investigate the effects of Mokhyangjoki-san extract (MJS) on the improvement in cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in cerebral ischemic rats, and further to determine cytokines production (IL-1${\beta}$, TNF-${\alpha}$, IL-10, TGF-${\beta}$) of MJS. The results in cerebral ischemic rats were as follows ; The rCBF was significantly and stably increased by MJS (10 mg/kg, i.p.) during the period of cerebral reperfusion, which contrasted with the findings of rapid and marked increase in control group. In cytokine production in serum from femoral arterial blood 1 hr after middle cerebral arterial occlusion, MJS significantly decreased IL-1${\beta}$ and TNF-${\alpha}$ production, and increased IL-10 production compared with control group. In cytokine production in serum from femoral arterial blood 1 hr after reperfusion, MJS significantly decreased IL-1${\beta}$ and TNF-${\alpha}$ production compared with control group. IL-10 and TGF-${\beta}$1 production in MJS group were significantly increased compared with control group. These results suggested that MJS significantly and stably increased rCBF by inhibiting the production IL-1${\beta}$ and TNF-${\alpha}$, and accelerating that of IL-10 and TGF-${\beta}$. The result in nerve cells was as follows ; MJS significantly inhibited lactate dehydrogenase activity in vitro in a dose-dependent manner. This result suggested that MJS prevented the neuronal death.

• The Korean Journal of Pain
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• v.37 no.2
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• pp.132-140
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• 2024

Background: This study aimed to identify exact anatomical landmarks and ideal injection volumes for safe adductor canal blocks (ACB). Methods: Fifty thighs from 25 embalmed adult Korean cadavers were used. The measurement baseline was the line connecting the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) to the midpoint of the patellar base. All target points were measured perpendicular to the baseline. The relevant cadaveric structures were observed using ultrasound (US) and confirmed in living individuals. US-guided dye injection was performed to determine the ideal volume. Results: The apex of the femoral triangle was 25.3 ± 2.2 cm distal to the ASIS on the baseline and 5.3 ± 1.0 cm perpendicular to that point. The midpoint of the superior border of the vasto-adductor membrane (VAM) was 27.4 ± 2.0 cm distal to the ASIS on the baseline and 5.0 ± 1.1 cm perpendicular to that point. The VAM had a trapezoidal shape and was connected as an aponeurosis between the medial edge of the vastus medialis muscle and lateral edge of the adductor magnus muscle. The nerve to the vastus medialis penetrated the muscle proximal to the superior border of the VAM in 70% of specimens. The VAM appeared on US as a hyperechoic area connecting the vastus medialis and adductor magnus muscles between the sartorius muscle and femoral artery. Conclusions: Confirming the crucial landmark, the VAM, is beneficial when performing ACB. It is advisable to insert the needle obliquely below the superior VAM border, and a 5 mL injection is considered sufficient.

• Journal of Pharmacopuncture
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• v.12 no.2
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• pp.21-29
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• 2009

Objective : This study was carried to identify the anatomical component of FTMM(Foot Taeyang Meridian Muscle) in human lower limb, and further to help the accurate application to real acupuncture. Methods : FTM at the surface of the lower limb was labelled with latex. And cadaver was stripped off to demonstrate muscles, nerves and the others and to display the internal structures of FTMM, being divided into outer, middle, and inner layer. Results : FTMM in human lower limb is composed of muscles, nerves, ligaments etc. The internal composition of the FTMM in human lower limb are as follows : 1) Muscle : Gluteus maximus. biceps femoris, semitendinosus, gastrocnemius, triceps calf, fibularis brevis tendon, superior peroneal retinacula, calcaneofibular ligament, inferior extensor retinaculum, abductor digiti minimi, sheath of flexor tendon at outer layer, biceps femoris, semimembranosus, plantaris, soleus, posterior tibialis, fibularis brevis, extensor digitorum brevis, flexor digiti minimi at middle layer, and for the last time semimembranosus, adductor magnus, plantaris, popliteus, posterior tibialis, flexor hallucis longus, dorsal calcaneocuboidal ligament at inner layer. 2) Nerve : Inferior cluneal nerve, posterior femoral cutaneous n., sural cutaneous n., proper plantar branch of lateral plantar n. at outer layer, sciatic nerve, common peroneal n., medial sural cutaneous n., tibial n. at middle layer, and for the last time tibial nerve, flexor hallucis longus branch of tibial n. at inner layer. Conclusions : This study proves comparative differences from already established studies from the viewpoint of constituent elements of FTMM in the lower limb, and also in the aspect of substantial assay method. We can guess that there are conceptional differences between terms (that is, nerves which control muscles of FTMM and those which pass near by FTMM) in human anatomy.

• Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
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• v.61 no.4
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• pp.509-515
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• 2018

Objective : In Asians, kneeling and squatting are the postures that are most often induce common peroneal neuropathy. However, we could not identify a compatible compression site of the common peroneal nerve (CPN) during hyper-flexion of knees. To evaluate the course of the CPN at the popliteal area related with compressive neuropathy using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of healthy Koreans. Methods : 1.5-Tesla knee MRI scans were obtained from enrolled patients and were retrospectively reviewed. The normal populations were divided into two groups according to the anatomical course of the CPN. Type I included subjects with the CPN situated superficial to the lateral gastocnemius muscle (LGCM). Type II included subjects with the CPN between the short head of biceps femoris muscle (SHBFM) and the LGCM. We calculated the thickness of the SHBFM and posterior elongation of this muscle, and the LGCM at the level of femoral condyles. In type II, the length of popliteal tunnel where the CPN passes was measured. Results : The 93 normal subjects were included in this study. The CPN passed through the "popliteal tunnel" formed between the SHBFM and the LGCM in 36 subjects (38.7% type II). The thicknesses of SHBFM and posterior portions of this muscle were statistically significantly increased in type II subjects. The LGCM thickness was comparable in both groups. In 78.8% of the "popliteal tunnel", a length of 21 mm to <40 mm was measured. Conclusion : In Korean population, the course of the CPN through the "popliteal tunnel" was about 40%, which is higher than the Western results. This anatomical characteristic may be helpful for understanding the mechanism of the CPNe by posture.

• Journal of Acupuncture Research
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• v.22 no.1
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• pp.109-115
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• 2005

Objective : The purpose of this case is to report the improvement after treatment about a patient with meralgia paresthetica. Methods : We treated the patient with acupuncture therapy and Herbal medication from 11th October 2004 to 15th October 2004 by evaluating femoral function with VAS score and R.O.M of femur joint. Results : After 5 times of treatment, this patient achieved excellent outcome following the technique, showing that clinical symptom as like heating sense, edema and pain was disappeared, VAS changed from 10 to 1 and there was no limitation of ROM of femur. Conclusions : Meralgia paresthetica is a symptom complex that includes numbness, paresthesias, and pain in the anterolateral thigh, which may result from either an entrapment neuropathy or a neuroma of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve(LFCN). Oriental medical treatment for meralgia paresthetica resulted in satisfactory results by diminishing the symptoms progressively during the five days of treatment. Differential diagnosis was based on careful physical examination. More research of meralgia paresthetica is needed.

• Investigative Magnetic Resonance Imaging
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• v.21 no.3
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• pp.177-182
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• 2017

Schwannomas are benign nerve sheath tumors that are typically located in soft tissue. Occasionally, schwannomas involve osseous structures. These intraosseous schwannomas are generally benign neoplasms that account for less than 0.2% of primary bone tumors. Schwannomas are very rarely observed in long bones. We present a case of a schwannoma affecting the proximal femur with a coincident subchondral fracture of the femoral head. A 38-year-old-male presented with left hip pain without deteriorating locomotor function. Plain film radiographs displayed a lobulating contoured lesion within the intertrochanteric portion of the femur. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed a tumor occupying the intertrochanteric region. Diffuse bone marrow edema, especially in the subchondral and head portions of the femur that was possibly due to the subchondral insufficiency fracture was also noted. The lesion was surgically excised and bone grafting was performed. Histologically, there was diffuse infiltrative growth of the elongated, wavy, and tapered cells with collagen fibers, which are findings that are characteristic of intraosseous schwannoma. Although very rare, intraosseous schwannoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of radiographically benign-appearing, non-aggressive lesions arising in the femur. The concomitant subchondral fracture of the femoral head confounded the correct diagnosis of intraosseous schwannoma in this case.

• Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
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• v.51 no.6
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• pp.363-366
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• 2012

Objective : Meralgia paresthetica (MP) is a syndrome of pain and/or dysesthesia in the anterolateral thigh that is caused by an entrapment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) at its pelvic exit. Despite early accounts of MP, there is still no consensus concerning the effectiveness of neurolysis or transaction treatments in the long-term relief for medically refractory patients with MP. We retrospectively analyzed available long-term results of LFCN neurolysis for medically refractory MP in an effort to clarify this issue. Methods : During the last 7 years, 11 patients who had neurolysis for MP were enrolled in this study. Nerve entrapment was confirmed preoperatively by electrophysiological studies or a positive response to local anesthetic injection. Decompression of the LFCN was performed at the level of the iliac fascia, inguinal ligament, and fascia of the thigh distally. The outcome of surgery was assessed 8 weeks after the procedure followed at regular intervals if symptoms persisted. Results : Twelve decompression procedures were performed in 11 patients over a 7-year period. The average duration of symptoms was 8.5 months (range, 4-15 months). The average follow-up period was 33 months (range, 12-60 months). Complete and partial symptom improvement were noted in nine (81.8%) and two (18.2%) cases, respectively. No recurrence was reported. Conclusion : Neurolysis of the LFCN can provide adequate pain relief with minimal complications for medically refractory MP. To achieve a good outcome in neurolysis for MP, an accurate diagnosis with careful examination and repeated blocks of the LFCN, along with electrodiagnosis seems to be essential. Possible variation in the course of the LFCN and thorough decompression along the course of the LFCN should be kept in mind in planning decompression surgery for MP.

• The Journal of Korean Medicine
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• v.32 no.3
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• pp.1-9
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• 2011

Objectives: This study was carried out to observe the foot gworeum meridian muscle from a viewpoint of human anatomy on the assumption that the meridian muscle system is basically matched to the meridian vessel system as a part of the meridian system, and further to support the accurate application of acupuncture in clinical practice. Methods: Meridian points corresponding to the foot gworeum meridian muscle at the body surface were labeled with latex, being based on Korean standard acupuncture point locations. In order to expose components related to the foot gworeum meridian muscle, the cadaver was then dissected, being respectively divided into superficial, middle, and deep layers while entering more deeply. Results: Anatomical components related to the foot gworeum meridian muscle in human are composed of muscles, fascia, ligament, nerves, etc. The anatomical components of the foot gworeum meridian muscle in cadaver are as follows: 1. Muscle: Dorsal pedis fascia, crural fascia, flexor digitorum (digit.) longus muscle (m.), soleus m., sartorius m., adductor longus m., and external abdominal oblique m. aponeurosis at the superficial layer, dorsal interosseous m. tendon (tend.), extensor (ext.) hallucis brevis m. tend., ext. hallucis longus m. tend., tibialis anterior m. tend., flexor digit. longus m., and internal abdominal oblique m. at the middle layer, and finally posterior tibialis m., gracilis m. tend., semitendinosus m. tend., semimembranosus m. tend., gastrocnemius m., adductor magnus m. tend., vastus medialis m., adductor brevis m., and intercostal m. at the deep layer. 2. Nerve: Dorsal digital branch (br.) of the deep peroneal nerve (n.), dorsal br. of the proper plantar digital n., medial br. of the deep peroneal n., saphenous n., infrapatellar br. of the saphenous n., cutaneous (cut.) br. of the obturator n., femoral br. of the genitofemoral n., anterior (ant.) cut. br. of the femoral n., ant. cut. br. of the iliohypogastric n., lateral cut. br. of the intercostal n. (T11), and lateral cut. br. of the intercostal n. (T6) at the superficial layer, saphenous n., ant. division of the obturator n., post. division of the obturator n., obturator n., ant. cut. br. of the intercostal n. (T11), and ant. cut. br. of the intercostal n. (T6) at the middle layer, and finally tibialis n. and articular br. of tibial n. at the deep layer. Conclusion: The meridian muscle system seemed to be closely matched to the meridian vessel system as a part of the meridian system. This study shows comparative differences from established studies on anatomical components related to the foot gworeum meridian muscle, and also from the methodical aspect of the analytic process. In addition, the human foot gworeum meridian muscle is composed of the proper muscles, and also may include the relevant nerves, but it is as questionable as ever, and we can guess that there are somewhat conceptual differences between terms (that is, nerves which control muscles in the foot gworeum meridian muscle and those which pass nearby) in human anatomy.

• Archives of Reconstructive Microsurgery
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• v.6 no.1
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• pp.73-79
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• 1997

Complete denervation after severe brachial plexus injury make significant muscle atrophy with loss of proper function. It is much helpful to reconstruct the essential function of the elbow flexion movement in patient with total loss of elbow flexion motion after brachial plexus lesion which was not recovered with nerve surgery or long term conservative treatment from onset. In whole arm type brachial plexus injury, if there were no response to neurotization or neglected from injury, the volume of the denervated muscle is significantely reduced month by month. About 18 months most of the muscle fibers change to fibrous tissues and markedly atrophied irreversibly, further waiting is no more meaningful from that period. Authors performed 14 cases of functioning gracilis muscle transfer from 1981 to 1995 with microneurovascular technique, neuromusculocutaneous free flaps were performed for reconstruction of lost elbow flexion function. Average follow-up period was 5 years and 6 months. We used couple of intercostal nerves as a recipient nerve which were anastomosed to muscular nerve from obturator nerve in all cases. Recipient vessels were three deep brachial artery and eleven brachial artery which were anastomosed to medial femoral circumflex artery with end to end or end to side fashion. Average resting length of the transplanted gracilis were 24 cm. We can get average 54 degree flexion range of elbow with fair muscle power from flail elbow. There were one case of muscle necrosis with lately developed thrombosis of microvascular anastomosed site which comes from insufficient recipient arterial condition, 3 cases of partial marginal necrosis of distal skin of the transplanted part which were not significant problem with spontaneously solved with time goes by gracilis muscle has constant neurovascular pattern with relatively easy harvesting donor with minimal donor morbidity. Especially it has similar length and shape with biceps brachii muscle of upper arm and longer nerve pedicle which can neurorrhaphy with intercostal nerve without nerve graft if sufficient mobilization of the nerves from both sides of gracilis and intercostal region. Authors can propose gracilis muscle transplantation with intercostal nerves neurotization is helpful method with minimal donor morbidity for neglected brachial plexus palsy patients.