Pediatric Wound Closure by a Tension-Relief System
Dafna Shilo Yaacobi1, Moris Topaz2, Eyal Kalish1,3
1Department of Plastic Surgery & Burns, Rabin Medical Center - Beilinson Hospital, Petach Tikva, Israel, affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
Seminars in Plastic Surgery
|August 8, 2022
Summary
The TopClosure Tension-Relief System offers a modified, skin-sparing approach for secure primary wound closure in pediatric patients. This innovative technique successfully managed large defects, avoiding scars and improving outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Wound Healing
- Dermatology
Background:
- Pediatric surgical reconstruction presents unique challenges, often necessitating complex wound closure strategies.
- Primary wound closure is ideal but frequently difficult for large defects in children.
- The TopClosure Tension-Relief System is an innovative skin-stretching device for wound closure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the modified TopClosure Tension-Relief System for pediatric wound closure.
- To assess the safety, efficacy, and outcomes of this technique in a pediatric population.
- To report on the successful application of the system in managing challenging pediatric wounds.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 112 pediatric patients (7 days to 18 years) from 2010-2020.
- Modified TopClosure Tension-Relief System fixation to a protective dressing, avoiding direct skin attachment.
- Inclusion of diverse cases: congenital deformities, trauma, burns, and complex wounds with exposed hardware or deep tissue.
Main Results:
- Successful primary closure of large pediatric wound defects was achieved in all cases.
- The modified technique avoided staple scars and patient pain.
- The system reduced the need for multiple surgeries and complex reconstructive flaps.
- Low complication rates and satisfactory aesthetic and functional results were observed.
Conclusions:
- The modified TopClosure Tension-Relief System is a safe and effective method for pediatric wound closure.
- This technique offers a valuable alternative for managing challenging tension wounds in children and adolescents.
- Early or immediate wound closure was successfully achieved, improving patient outcomes.
