Clinical application of a synthetic hybrid-scale fiber matrix in a pediatric trauma patient.

Abstract

Introduction: Large soft tissue defects resulting from trauma in the pediatric population are common. MLLs are a rare subset of these injuries with no standard treatment regimen. Thorough surgical debridement of these lesions is often warranted to remove necrotic tissue and contamination, which results in a large, open soft tissue defect. STSGs may be used to provide tissue coverage; however, they have limitations, including donor site morbidity and additional surgical time and cost.

Case report: A 12-year-old female with a cutaneous thermal contact burn and an MLL of the right lower medial thigh declined STSG to avoid additional operations. The wound was treated with an SHSFM that is engineered to mimic the structure and architecture of human extracellular matrix and supports cellular infiltration and proliferation with minimal inflammatory response. Over a 4-month period, the SHSFM was applied 6 times at 2- to 3-week intervals, resulting in complete regranulation and wound closure with no further surgical procedures required.

Conclusions: This case demonstrates the utility of the SHSFM in the management of pediatric surgical wounds and highlights the flexibility of the SHSFM in achieving the goals of both patient and physician alike.