Outpatient reconstruction using integra* and subatmospheric pressure
Christopher A Park1, Anthony J Defranzo, Malcolm W Marks
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA. cpark@wfubmc.edu
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|January 23, 2009
Summary
Integra dermal template combined with subatmospheric pressure (V.A.C.) offers an easier, faster reconstructive surgery option. This outpatient approach shows high skin graft success rates, reducing recovery time and costs.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Plastic Surgery
- Wound Healing
Background:
- Integra (Integra Lifesciences Corporation) is a dermal regeneration template used in reconstructive surgery.
- Traditional application can be time-consuming and complex.
Observation:
- This study evaluated Integra in combination with subatmospheric pressure (V.A.C.) for outpatient reconstructive surgery.
- Ten patients underwent this combined procedure with skin grafting 7-10 days post-Integra placement.
Findings:
- Skin graft take ranged from 75% to 100%, with a mean of 91.5%.
- No patients required additional grafting or reconstructive procedures.
- The combined approach was easier, faster, and more consistent than standard Integra application.
Implications:
- Integra with V.A.C. therapy is effective for reconstructing challenging areas in an outpatient setting.
- This method facilitates expedited treatment, reduces patient morbidity, and lowers overall healthcare costs.
