Positive Clinical Outcomes Using a Portable NPWT on Single-Stage Biomatrix and Skin Graft: Evaluation of 10 Consecutive Cases

Aim: This study highlights the efficacy of using a single-patient, portable NPWT device over an advanced biomatrix and split-thickness skin graft (STSG) in a single stage. NPWT is a clinically proven therapy to assist in the healing of a STSG or a bi-layer biomatrix. The biomatrix (collagen-glycosaminoglycan/polysiloxane) adds dermal thickness and provides a scaffold for dermal cells under the STSG and has become a standard in complex wounds/burns. STSG or biomatrix is normally placed on a wound in separate stages; however, this study elucidates the efficacy of using NPWT over both biological layers in a single stage over a large surgical wound.

Method: Biomatrix, STSG, and NPWT (-125 mmHg) and interface layer were used to reconstruct large radial forearm flap donor sites. Wound and graft size, STSG/biomatrix take, therapy duration, hospital length of stay (LOS), and infection rate were assessed on a series of 10 consecutive patients.

Results/Discussion: Average wound size was 150 cm². STSGS/biomatrix take range of 90–100%, with a mean of 98%. Hospital LOS was five days, there were zero infections, and therapy duration range was 10–14, mean 12 days.

Conclusion: Portable NPWT positively affects the take of single-stage STSG and biomatrix. The success of this technique provides strong evidence that it can become a powerful tool for reconstructive surgery for complex, acute wounds for radial forearm donor sites. Additional benefits include: shortening LOS, decreased costs, improved clinical outcomes, and patient satisfaction.