Thirty-two patients with major burns over the back of trunk and limbs were treated on the Air fluidized support system (Clinitron) and the results were compared with a control groups of patients treated on conventional beds. It was found that in the group treated on Clinitron bed, mortality was lower, graft take was better, pressure sores did not develop and the patients were more comfortable. The results have been compared to similar studies. Though the initial investment and maintenance cost is very high, the device offers immense benefits, especially wase in nursing care.

Cranial defects are commonly a result of high velocity trauma. Bone loss may also occur as a consequence of infection or following surgical excision for tumour. Reconstruction of these defects has been attempted with both alloplastic and autogenic materials. This paper outlines the use of the calvarium, as a source of autogenic graft, for such defects in 12 patients. Two techniques for safely harvesting calvarial bone grafts, selection of appropriate procedure, fixation and results are discussed along with relevant literature.

A retrospective study of 11 gynaecomastia patients was done to evaluate the efficacy of liposuction in its treatment. Seven patients had pseudogynaecomastia, where liposuction alone gave satisfactory results. Two patients were of mixed gynaecomastia type and in them excision of glandular tissue was required in addition to liposuction. One patient had true gynaecomastia in which excision of glandular tissue was done due to failed liposuction.

Exposure of a cardiac pacemaker implanted subcutaneously in the infraclavicular region is a difficult problem facing the plastic surgeon. The principles of treatment for salvage are control of sepsis, extensive debridement and tension free closure with locoregional flaps. Management in children is complicated by the fact that the pacing unit is of the same size as in the adult and there is little laxity of tissue in this age group. We have treated 7 children and have utilised the latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap for salvage in 4 patients. Local skin flaps were employed in 2 children while a primary closure was possible in 1 child. Six patients have remained healed over a follow up period ranging from 6 months to 60 months. In one case we have had to explain the unit at 3 months due to persisting sepsis. Salvage of pacemakers should be attempted in all patients with pacemaker exposure. The latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap that we have employed is a useful option when faced with this problem in children.