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J Reconstr Microsurg 2009; 25(7): 405-410
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1223848
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Evaluation of Artificial Dermis Neovascularization in an Avascular Wound

Richard C. Baynosa1 , Leslie K. Browder1 , Seth R. Jones1 , Jill A. Oliver1 , Carol A. Van Der Harten2 , Linda L. Stephenson1 , Wei Z. Wang1 , Kayvan T. Khiabani1 , William A. Zamboni1
  • 1Division of Plastic Surgery, Microsurgery and Hyperbaric Laboratory, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, Nevada
  • 2Quest Diagnostics, Las Vegas, Nevada
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Publication History

Publication Date:
19 May 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Soft tissue coverage for avascular wounds is necessary in reconstructive surgery. Several authors have demonstrated successful treatment of problem wounds using artificial dermis. This study evaluates in an animal model the potential for neovascularization of artificial dermis in devascularized and avascular wound beds. Forty rats were assigned to four groups: (1) control, full-thickness skin graft was replaced on the vascular wound bed; (2) Integra, Integra placed over the full-thickness wound; (3) fascia, the spinotrapezius fascia exposed and Integra placed over the wound; and (4) fascia/Parafilm, a Parafilm layer placed under the raised fascia with Integra over the fascia. Laser Doppler readings were taken at baseline over the intact skin and then over the created wound beds. Biopsies of the full-thickness skin graft and the neodermis were obtained on postoperative day 14 and histologically evaluated for neovascularization. The laser Doppler readings confirmed the nature of the surgically created, poorly vascularized and avascular wound beds. Subsequent biopsies of the artificial dermis in these wound beds, however, demonstrated active neovascularization. This study demonstrates that Integra artificial dermis can serve as an effective dermal substitute in avascular wounds. Lateral ingrowth of capillaries into the dermal substitute may explain the successful integration of this artificial dermis.

KEYWORDS

Avascular wound - Integra - Doppler - neovascularization

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William A ZamboniM.D. 

Professor and Chairman, Department of Surgery, University of Nevada School of Medicine

2040 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 301, Las Vegas, NV 89102-2227

Email: wzamboni@medicine.nevada.edu

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