A Synthetic Biodegradable Temporising Matrix in Degloving Lower Extremity Trauma Reconstruction: A Case Report

Presented is the case of an obese, 72 year-old diabetic man with a dorsal foot de-gloving injury. Whilst the tendons of extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus to all digits, and extensor digitorum brevis to hallux and second toe were intact after surgical debridement, none had any covering paratenon. The joint between the medial cuneiform and first metatarsal was open. Reconstructive options were limited by his age and co-morbidities. A novel, completely synthetic dermal matrix (NovoSorb BTM) was applied, after which the patient was discharged home to attend for dressings and review of integration progress as an outpatient. He was allowed to mobilise without limitation. Because of the poor quality of the wound bed (and patient), the material integrated slowly over 9 weeks. Delamination of the matrix, and definitive closure by application of sheet split skin autograft, produced a robust, soft, mobile and excellent aesthetic result, over which he could wear footwear immediately. Clinically, the paratenon-denuded tendons glided under the neo-dermis without tethering to the overlying integrated matrix, allowing a full range of digital movement. This was confirmed on ultrasound examination, which also demonstrated no inflammation or oedema. Already proven in extensive burns, necrotising fasciitis and complex surgical wounds, BTM represents a useful addition to the reconstructive surgeon's toolbox.