The use of collagen-glycosaminoglycan copolymer (Integra) for the repair of hypertrophic scars and keloids

Integra dermal matrix (Integra Life Sciences Corp., Plainsboro, NJ) was introduced in 1981, and its use in acute surgical burns is well established. However, Integra also has been found to be useful in the surgical treatment of scars. The Integra neodermis is placed at the time of scar excision and then overgrafted several weeks later with a very thin (6/1000-inch) skin graft. The stabilized matrix appears to resist recurrence better than traditional skin grafts, which have a reported recurrence rate of 59%. Many surgeons have had anecdotal success using Integra for both hypertrophic and keloidal scars. This case series presents several patients who underwent reconstructive surgery with the use of Integra to treat their debilitating scar formation. None of the patients developed significant scar morbidity at the donor site when the skin was harvested for grafting during the second stage of the procedure. All patients had documented success with improved appearance, range of motion, and skin quality.