• Ketan M Patel and Parag Bhanot.
• Department of Plastic Surgery, Georgetown University, 3800 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
• Plast. Reconstr. Surg. 2012 Nov 1;130(5 Suppl 2):216S-24S.

BackgroundAcellular dermal matrices have been increasingly used in abdominal wall reconstruction. Unique characteristics of these grafts have allowed surgeons to reconstruct increasingly complex abdominal wall defects. This has resulted in a myriad of complications related to the acellular dermal matrix with unique management strategies as compared with synthetic mesh.MethodsA review of the literature was performed to identify studies evaluating the use and efficacy of acellular dermal matrices in abdominal wall reconstruction. Complication profiles were identified and are compared. Differences between porcine and human derivatives were identified.ResultsHernia recurrence, infection, skin necrosis, and fluid collections were among the most common complications following abdominal wall reconstruction identified in the literature. Differences among various acellular dermal matrix products make certain types more suitable for abdominal wall reconstruction.ConclusionsComplications are frequent in abdominal wall reconstruction. Many acellular dermal matrices have properties that allow for conservative management and maintenance of reconstruction when complications occur. With traditional synthetic mesh reconstruction, complications likely result in mesh explantation and prolonged morbidity. With acellular dermal matrix reconstruction, however, more conservative treatment strategies will allow for mesh salvage.

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