Reconstruction of Full Thickness Defects on the Scalp With Artificial Dermal Regeneration Template: Analysis of Long-Term Results in 68 Cases

BACKGROUNDArtificial skin substitute templates have been shown to be a reliable solution for the reconstruction of large scalp defects with exposed skull bone, but there is a lack of long-term data. OBJECTIVEThe aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the long-term outcome of the procedure in a large cohort of 68 cases. MATERIALS AND METHODSIn total, 58 patients with 68 full thickness scalp defects with exposed skull bone, were included. Mean follow-up time was 24 (±19) months. RESULTSThe mean size of the defects was 63 (±54) cm. During the follow-up period, no local recurrences occurred. Complications were observed in 13% of the cases including template necrosis (4%), infections (4%), ulcerations (3%), and autograft necrosis (2%). During the final follow-up, 26 patients had died due to internal diseases not associated with the surgery. Cosmetic results were rated good by the patients and an independent observer. CONCLUSIONThe use of a dermal regeneration template for the reconstruction of large, full thickness defects of the scalp with exposed skull bone is a reliable method regarding the complication rate, safety of the procedure, and cosmetic outcome. Limitations of this study are the retrospective and single center design.