Use of artificial dermis (INTEGRA®) in repair of extensive traumatic scalp injuries

Abstract

Aim: To present 4 clinical cases in which the use of artificial dermis (Integra®) turned out to be a safe and reliable solution for scalp defects.

Materials and Method: review of clinical records of patients admitted to the Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns of the Hospital of the Worker of Santiago with a diagnosis of extensive traumatic injury of the scalp between the years 2005-2013 that were resolved with use of Integra ®.

Results: 4 female patients with traumatic injury that compromised between 70-95% of the surface of scalp, average time between application of integra and dermoepidermal graft was 18 days with 100% coverage; there were only minor complications (chronic vertex ulceration and neuropathic pain). The average time of high labor was 368 days, using capillary orthosis.

Discussion: The immediate coverage of the tissue is essential for the successful reconstruction of the scalp. Apart from autologous tissue, the artificial dermis is an alternative for rapid reconstruction of the scalp with excellent results.

Conclusions: Integra is a safe and reliable solution to reconstruct complex defects of the scalp.