Utilization of Piscine Xenografts for Incisional Reinforcement in Charcot Reconstruction: A Case Report.

Introduction: Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) foot reconstruction is a complex surgical procedure with complication rates as high as 36% overall, with high rates of infection. Appropriate tissue handling is critical to enhance healing and reduce complications. Piscine xenografts, derived from fish skin, have the potential to promote tissue regeneration. This case report explores the utilization of piscine xenografts for incisional reinforcement in a patient undergoing CN reconstruction.Methods:A 58 year-old male patient with severe CN and a history of poorly controlled diabetes underwent reconstructive surgery. To reinforce the surgical incisions, piscine xenografts were applied intraoperatively. The graft was secured subdermally at the incision site and monitored postoperatively for signs of integration, wound healing, and any adverse reactions. The patient was followed up at regular intervals for six months to assess the outcomes.Results:The piscine xenograft demonstrated excellent integration with the host tissue, with no signs of rejection or infection. By the third postoperative week, complete epithelialization was observed. The patient reported minimal pain and no complications such as wound dehiscence or seroma formation. By the six-month follow-up, the surgical site was completely healed with. The functional outcome was satisfactory, with the patient resuming normal activities without restrictions.Discussion: There are limited studies looking specifically at the role of delayed incision closure and the use of biologics for reinforcement in CN surgical reconstruction. The successful utilization of piscine xenografts in this case highlights their potential as an effective agent for incisional reinforcement in complex surgical reconstructions like CN surgery. The biocompatibility and regenerative properties of piscine xenografts may provide advantages. Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to confirm these findings and to establish standardized protocols for their use in orthopedic and reconstructive surgeries. This case report adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of innovative biological materials in improving surgical outcomes.References: