SYNTHETIC SKIN FOR TEMPORARY WOUND CLOSUR E IN LID-SURGERY

Background Large uncovered defects of lid-skin which extend beyond the margin of the orbital rim frequently cause wound contracture and malp osition of the lid. Patients and methods Between April 1989 and Octobe r 1992 we have successfully used synthetic skin in severe cases of tra umatic skin ablation (n = 3) and in complicated tumor surgery of the l ids and of the medial canthal area (n = 14). Polyurethan foam material was used for temporary skin replacement (Epigard(R)) Results The synt hetic skin stimulated wound granulation and vascularization of the hos t area before final closure of the defect was achieved. No wound contr acture occurred. Conclusion Temporary bandage with synthetic skin is r ecommended if large skin defects can not be closed within 48 hours.