Biodegradeable temporising matrix use in a traumatic chest wound

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Wound Healing

Background:

• The Welsh Centre for Burns and Plastic Surgery serves 10 million people.
• Complex chest wounds pose significant reconstruction challenges.
• Biodegradable temporising matrix (BTM) is a synthetic dermal substitute for soft tissue coverage.

Observation:

• A 23-year-old woman sustained a large traumatic chest wound after a farm accident.
• The full-thickness skin defect measured 30x30 cm, exposing bone, muscle, and breast tissue.
• The central chest's contours and risk of contracture complicate reconstruction.

Findings:

• Biodegradable temporising matrix (BTM) was utilized for soft tissue coverage.
• This represents the first reported use of BTM for breast reconstruction.
• Successful application of BTM achieved coverage of the extensive chest defect.

Implications:

• BTM demonstrates potential as an effective option for complex breast reconstruction.
• This case highlights BTM's versatility in managing large, full-thickness defects.
• Further research into BTM for reconstructive surgery is warranted.