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Updated: Jun 4, 2026
14:14
Quantification of Strain in a Porcine Model of Skin Expansion Using Multi-View Stereo and Isogeometric Kinematics
Published on: April 16, 2017
Osmotic expanders in children: no filling--no control--no problem?
S Böttcher-Haberzeth1, S Kapoor, M Meuli
1Department of Surgery, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Pediatric Burn Center, Zurich, Switzerland. clemens.schiestl@kispi.uzh.ch
Summary
Self-filling osmotic tissue expanders are safe and effective for pediatric plastic surgery, offering sufficient skin for reconstruction with minimal complications. This method benefits young patients by avoiding painful filling sessions.
Area of Science:
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Osmotic tissue expanders, a type of self-filling hydrogel device, have a proven track record in adult reconstructive surgery.
- Their application in pediatric plastic and reconstructive surgery remained largely unexplored prior to this study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of self-filling, hydrogel-based osmotic tissue expanders in pediatric patients.
- To assess the suitability of these devices for various plastic and reconstructive procedures in children and adolescents.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 30 children and adolescents underwent implantation of 53 osmotic tissue expanders between November 2004 and September 2009.
- Procedures followed standard surgical principles for conditions including burn scars, congenital nevi, alopecia, and foot deformities.
Main Results:
- Expanders achieved predicted volumes within 6 weeks, with 96.2% yielding sufficient skin for defect coverage.
- A low rate of serious complications (3.8% infection) and minor issues (11.4%) was observed, with most managed effectively.
- Long-term follow-up (mean 21 months) showed excellent or good outcomes in 81% of cases.
Conclusions:
- Self-filling osmotic tissue expanders represent a safe and effective option for pediatric plastic, reconstructive, and orthopedic procedures.
- The technique significantly benefits pediatric patients by eliminating the need for repeated, distressing filling sessions.
- This approach offers advantages in terms of patient comfort, reduced infection risk, and potential cost savings.
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