Management of the complications of tissue expansion during a 5-year period (2005-2010).
Title | Management of the complications of tissue expansion during a 5-year period (2005-2010). |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2012 |
Authors | Karagergou, E., Papas A., Foroglou P., & Demiri E. |
Journal | J Plast Surg Hand Surg |
Volume | 46 |
Issue | 3-4 |
Pagination | 167-71 |
Date Published | 2012 Sep |
ISSN | 2000-6764 |
Keywords | Adolescent, Adult, Child, Female, Humans, Infection, Male, Middle Aged, Reconstructive Surgical Procedures, Seroma, Tissue Expansion, Tissue Expansion Devices, Young Adult |
Abstract | We report our experience of using tissue expansion where we deal particularly with complications and their management. Forty patients had tissue expanded during a 5-year period (2005-2010). Indications included reconstruction of a scar (after a burn, after injury, or postoperative), congenital naevi, microtia, and breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Of the 50 expanders inserted, complications occurred in 12 (10 patients). Exposure and perforation of the expander were the most common complications, followed by infection, seroma, and local pain. In all cases, complications were managed successfully either by conservative treatment or by a single procedure. The reconstructive plan ended in an acceptable aesthetic result in 9 of the 10 complicated areas. The insertion of multiple expanders over extensive scar tissue and particularly over the lower limb, is associated with high morbidity. Selection of patients, identification of high-risk sites, and suggestions for treatment are important. When complications occur, immediate management usually results in a successful outcome. |
DOI | 10.3109/2000656X.2012.697384 |
Alternate Journal | J Plast Surg Hand Surg |
PubMed ID | 22784228 |