Reconstruction of the radial forearm free flap donor site using integra artificial dermis.

Publication/Presentation Date

2-1-2011

Abstract

Autologous skin grafting to the donor site in patients who undergo radial forearm free flap reconstruction (RFFF) is associated with cosmetic and functional morbidity. Integra artificial dermis (Integra Lifesciences, Plainsboro, NJ) is a bovine collagen based dermal substitute that can be used as an alternative to primary autologous skin transplantation of the donor site. We describe a staged reconstruction using Integra followed by ultrathin skin grafting that results in highly aesthetic and functional outcomes for these defects. A retrospective review of 29 patients undergoing extirpative head and neck oncologic resection were examined. Integra graft placement was performed at the time of RFFF harvest followed by autologous split thickness skin grafting at 1 to 5 weeks postoperatively. Healing fully occurred within 4-6 weeks with negligible donor site complications, excellent cosmesis, and minimal scar contracture. Composite reconstruction with Integra artificial dermis offers advantages over traditional methods of coverage for select cases of radial forearm free flap donor site closures.

Volume

31

Issue

2

First Page

104

Last Page

108

ISSN

1098-2752

Disciplines

Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

PubMedID

20939003

Department(s)

Administration and Leadership

Document Type

Article

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