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Erschienen in:
27.09.2023 | Original Paper
The use of NovoSorb™ Biodegradable Temporising Matrix (BTM™) in the reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects — an oncological, aesthetic, and practical solution
Erschienen in: European Journal of Plastic Surgery | Ausgabe 6/2023
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Background
Biodegradable temporising matrix (BTM™) is a totally synthetic, polyurethane bilaminar dermal template. This case series details its use in the reconstruction of 24 complex soft tissue defects and their reported outcomes.
Methods
Data collected on patients over a 1-year period underwent soft tissue reconstruction using BTM™. This included patient demographics; co-morbidities; indication for use; anatomical area, depth and Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) of defect; time from application to skin graft; method of fixation and dressing as well as percentage success and any complications.
Results
Soft tissue defect TBSA ranged from <1 to 7% with a median of <1%. In several cases patients had significant co-morbidities, including heart disease (27%) and lung disease (18%). BTM was applied to a variety of composite defects including bone (n=4), tendon (n=3), and testicle (n=2). Twenty-three wounds had ≥90% successful graft take, 1 wound 70% graft take, 2 wounds complete graft loss with 1 wound not documented. Both graft failures were associated with pseudomonas positive wound swabs.
Conclusions
BTM™ is purely synthetic, allowing for it to be lifted up for an intervention and placed back down — a considerable advantage in the context of involved oncological margins, haematoma, or infection. It provides a robust, pliable, and aesthetic alternative to flap reconstruction in patients with significant comorbidities, limited donor sites or when a less-invasive approach is preferred. Further studies are required to evaluate this technique against its organic alternatives and more traditional reconstructive techniques with emphasis on resistance to infection, scar contracture, cost, and aesthetic outcome.
Level of evidence: Level IV, Therapeutic.