The Use of Acellular Dermal Matrix for the Closure of Skin Defects

Background & Objectives: Skin substitutes are a diverse set of biologics, synthetics, and biosynthetic materials that can replace open skin wounds temporarily or permanently. Skin substitutes are designed to mimic the qualities of natural skin. One must select an option that accomplishes an excellent wound healing and closure. This study aimed to assess the reliability and effectiveness of ?acellular dermal matrix for potentially more pliable coverage of the wound and for better ?functional and aesthetic appearance of the skin defects. Methods: A prospective cohort study performed on 20 patients with full-thickness skin defects who underwent surgery using acellular dermal substitute and skin grafting in Erbil Governorate from January 2017 to December 2019. Functional and aesthetic outcome has been evaluated in this study. Results: The study included 20 patients with mean age of 18.8 ± 6.2 years, female to male ratio was 1.5:1, and the majority of the cases presented with burn (90%). The Vancouver Scar Scale score was significantly reduced after 1 month of follow-up in which it reduced by 4.12 mm (57.6% reduce from baseline), Mean healing score was 93.5%, and Re-epithelialization after 1 month Was 95.55%, Overall the complication rate is low with 5% had hematoma, 5% had infection and 5% had loss of graft. Conclusion: The use of acellular dermal matrix in conjunction with split thickness skin graft result in substantial improvement in the quality of wound healing and tissue reconstruction.