Versatility of dermal regeneration templates in the treatment of burn sequelae

Abstract

Background

The management of burn sequelae is a major challenge for every plastic surgeon. The benefits of Integra® Dermal Regeneration Template in the management of burn injuries have been well documented but there is still a paucity of data regarding its use in reconstructive procedures. The aim of this study is to evaluate its effectiveness in the surgical treatment of post-burn scars.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of burn patients with major burn sequelae treated with Integra® at our hospital during 2016–2017 period. A modified Vancouver Scar Scale (mVSS) was used to provide a more objective measurement of burn scars. All patients were submitted to a two-stage procedure. The first one consisted in complete excision of the lesions and implantation of Integra and the second one in resurfacing the neodermis with a split thickness skin graft.

Results

The average wound size covered with Integra was 741.6 cm². Follow-up ranged from 9 to 16 months. There were no early complications. In all cases, we achieved satisfactory cosmetic results with significant improvements in functionality and quality of life. mVSS score post-op was significantly lower than pre-op in all patients.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that Integra is a very versatile tool for the treatment of burn sequelae. It yields good cosmetic and functional results in most cases with very little donor site morbidity. We believe that Integra should be viewed as one of the best current options for reconstructive procedures in burn patients.

Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.

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