Reconstructive surgery using an artificial dermis (Integra): results with 39 grafts

Integra was initially developed for the primary coverage of acute burns. It acts as a network for dermal reconstruction. An epidermal graft overlay is necessary after 3 weeks to achieve the in vivo reconstruction of a full-thickness skin equivalent. The quality of the functional and aesthetic results achieved led us to evaluate the potential of Integra in the treatment of burn scars and for general reconstructive surgery. We present a series of 31 patients who underwent Integra rafting for reconstructive surgery at a total of 39 operational sites. The average area grafted per procedure was 267 cm(2). Complications (silicone detachment, failure of the graft, haematoma) were observed in nine cases. The length of follow-up ranged from 0.5 year to 4 years. Two patients (two sites) were lost to follow-up; the final results in the remaining patients were considered to be good in 28 cases, average in six cases and poor in three cases. The disadvantages of using Integra in reconstructive surgery are the necessity of two operations, the risks of infection under the silicone layer, of the silicone becoming detached and of recurrence of contraction. On the other hand, Integra has many advantages including its immediate availability, the availability of large quantities, the simplicity and reliability of the technique, and the pliability and the cosmetic appearance of the resulting cover. In the light of these preliminary results, Integra appears as a new alternative to full-thickness skin grafting, skin expansion and even skin flaps for reconstructive surgery. (C) 2001 The British Association of Plastic Surgeons.