Use of Integra in a paediatric upper extremity degloving injury

Dermal substitutes such as Integra have been used in surgery since 1981. This product was developed to cover large skin burns but it may have a role in reconstructive upper limb surgery. In upper extremity avulsion, the choice of skin cover depends on many variables. Dermal substitute is an alternative when split-thickness skin grafting is appropriate. We present a case of severe upper limb avulsion, or 'degloving', in a child of 9 years old which was treated successfully with Integra. Integra is particulary useful in growing children to cover large skin losses.