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DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1268208
The Use of Glycerol-Preserved Skin Allograft in Conjunction with Reconstructive and Flap Surgery: Seven Years of Experience
Publication History
Publication Date:
25 October 2010 (online)
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ABSTRACT
Major reconstructive surgery may be extensive and prolonged, and it may cause edema and compromise the flap pedicle if closed under tension. Glycerol-preserved skin allograft (GPA) can provide a means for tension-free closure and temporary cover of the wound. Seven years of analysis on GPA used in conjunction with major reconstruction was undertaken to highlight its indications, results, and outcomes. Forty-seven patients were included, aged between 9 and 73 years. Majority of patients had reconstruction following tumor resection and trauma. The main indication for use of GPA was temporary, loose cover of the wound in 44% of cases; flap pedicle protection in 31% of cases; donor site wound cover in 10%; flap monitoring in one case; and management of flap-related complications in 6% of cases. Free flap reconstruction was performed in 72% of cases. In conclusion, GPA is a useful adjunct in reconstructive surgery. It can be used temporarily to allow tension-free wound closure, as well as to protect the flap pedicle until edema subsides and the pedicle becomes stable. This latter approach allows secondary wound closure and good esthetic outcome.
KEYWORDS
Glycerol-preserved allograft - skin transplantation - free flap - reconstructive surgery
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Ahmad Sukari HalimF.C.C.P.
Reconstructive Sciences Department, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia
Health Campus, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
Email: ashalim@kb.usm.my