Use of vacuum-assisted closure and a dermal regeneration template as an alternative to flap reconstruction in pediatric grade IIIB open lower-extremity injuries

Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 2009 Jun;38(6):301-5.

Abstract

Severe degloving injuries to the pediatric lower extremity are difficult to treat, traditionally requiring local or free flaps for coverage. Combining vacuum-assisted closure techniques with a dermal regeneration template is proposed as a means for covering these difficult wounds. We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 7 consecutive patients (age range, 2-12 years) who underwent this treatment. All extremities healed without flap reconstruction or amputation. Mean follow-up was 24.4 months, and mean wound size was 196 cm2. There were 2 superficial graft complications, 1 nonunion successfully treated with bone grafting, 2 patients with subsequent bony deformity, and 1 patient who underwent subsequent soft-tissue procedures for equinus contracture. Use of vacuum-assisted closure and a dermal regeneration template has shown good results as a means of successfully managing grade IIIB injuries without performing complicated flap reconstructions.

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Chondroitin Sulfates*
  • Collagen*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Fracture Healing
  • Fractures, Open / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy / methods*
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Skin Transplantation / instrumentation
  • Skin Transplantation / methods
  • Skin, Artificial*
  • Soft Tissue Injuries / surgery*
  • Surgical Flaps
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • integra artificial skin
  • Chondroitin Sulfates
  • Collagen