Rapid tissue expansion in the treatment of myelomeningocele

In 2 patients undergoing spinal fusion for correction of kyphoscoliosis secondary to myelomeningocele skin coverage was achieved with rapid tissue expansion. Tissue necrosis caused by overly rapid expansion in the first patient was prevented by rapid, but more controlled, expansion in the second patient. Rapid tissue expansion in the paraplegic in a carefully controlled setting is useful and can be done without unduly prolonging hospitalization. This technique has potential uses in other clinical situations as well.