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Tissue expansion in the pediatric patient
T G Iconomou1, B J Michelow, R M Zuker
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Tissue expansion is a valuable reconstructive option for pediatric patients, despite a 26% complication rate. Complications rarely impacted final results, making it a useful technique when patients are carefully selected.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Tissue expansion offers advantages in reconstructive surgery.
- Potential complications associated with tissue expansion necessitate careful evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the outcomes and complications of tissue expansion in pediatric patients.
- To determine the efficacy of tissue expansion as a reconstructive method in infants and children.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 147 tissue expanders placed in 76 pediatric patients between 1985 and 1990.
- Analysis of patient demographics, complication rates, and final reconstructive outcomes.
Main Results:
- A total of 147 expanders were used in 76 patients aged 1 to 18 years (median 8 years).
- Complications occurred in 20 of 76 patients (26%), primarily near the end of expansion or involving single expanders.
- These complications did not compromise the overall final reconstructive result.
Conclusions:
- Tissue expansion is a highly valuable reconstructive technique in pediatric surgery.
- Careful patient selection is crucial for successful outcomes.
- Despite a notable complication rate, tissue expansion remains a viable and effective option for pediatric reconstruction.