Reconstruction of full-thickness calvarial defect: a role for artificial dermis

Ann Plast Surg. 2009 Jun;62(6):656-9. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0b013e318180c913.

Abstract

The reconstruction of scalp defects presents a clinical challenge. Free tissue transfer has played an increasingly important role in the reconstruction of complex scalp defects. In many cases, patient medical comorbidities along with the length of the operative procedures incurs significant patient risk. Artificial dermis, used extensively in burn reconstruction, has emerged as a reconstructive option for the coverage of many complex posttraumatic and postoncologic defects; however, none have described its use for the reconstruction of full-thickness calvarial defects with exposed dura.We report a clinical case of an elderly, medically compromised patient with a full-thickness scalp defect, who underwent successful reconstruction with artificial dermis.The use of artificial dermis and subsequent skin grafting, as was performed in this case, provides a less invasive, less intensive, and satisfactory means of soft tissue reconstruction for full-thickness calvarial defects.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Biocompatible Materials*
  • Bone Diseases / etiology
  • Bone Diseases / surgery
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Osteoradionecrosis / etiology
  • Osteoradionecrosis / surgery
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Scalp / surgery
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Skin Neoplasms / therapy
  • Skin Transplantation / methods
  • Skin, Artificial*
  • Skull / surgery*
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Wound Healing
  • Wounds and Injuries / surgery

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials