Abstract
The development of Integra, a permanent dermal replacement matrix, provides an important alternative to the traditional reconstructive choices. The efficacy of Integra has been clinically evaluated upon its application in 2 cases presenting with extensive burns and 13 cases presenting with deep wounds exposing bones or tendons. In all cases presenting with extensive burns and in 13 cases presenting with deep wounds exposing bones or tendons, the neodermis became biointegrated with vascular ingrowth from the wound bed 2 - 3 weeks after treatment with Integra, and the graft take was excellent. Postoperative contracture of the grafted skin was minimal and the texture was excellent in the thin split thickness skin graft cases. In conclusion, Integra proved very safe and useful for achieving good derma-like tissue in cases of extensive burns and deep wounds exposing bone or tendons.
