British journal of plastic surgery
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Bilaminate bioartificial skin substitutes such as Integra have been described as a temporary substitute for autograft in acute burns. The aim of this study was to assess their role in the treatment of hypertrophic scarring and anterior neck contracture in the reconstructive phase of burns surgery. Five patients underwent Integra grafting over a 12-month period, with one patient having the procedure performed on two separate occasions. ⋯ Based on our initial experience bilaminate artificial skin substitutes offer an improved cosmetic result in cases of neck contracture and hypertrophic scarring, particularly in the bearded area of the neck. Recurrence of neck contracture remains a problem despite improved techniques of immobilisation. Long-term follow-up will be necessary to assess the applications of this technique fully.