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The role of tissue expansion in pediatric plastic surgery

B S Bauer1, F A Vicari, M E Richard

  • 1Division of Plastic Surgery, Children's Memorial Hospital, Chicago, Illinois.

Insights

Controlled soft tissue expansion (TE) is increasingly used in clinical practice. This review offers guidelines for pediatric TE and addresses growth concerns in infants and children.

Area of Science:

  • Plastic Surgery
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Regenerative Medicine

Background:

  • Soft tissue expansion (TE) is a technique to increase local tissue availability.
  • Its clinical application has grown significantly.
  • Concerns exist regarding its impact on pediatric growth.

Observation:

  • This article reviews general guidelines for using TE in children.
  • It specifically addresses concerns about TE's effects on infant and child growth.

Findings:

  • The review synthesizes current knowledge on pediatric TE.
  • It aims to provide practical guidance for clinicians.
  • Potential growth effects are discussed in detail.

Implications:

  • Provides evidence-based guidelines for pediatric soft tissue expansion.
  • Addresses and potentially alleviates concerns regarding growth inhibition.
  • Supports the safe and effective use of TE in pediatric populations.

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