Acellular dermal matrices in hand reconstruction.

BACKGROUND

The goal of this article is to review the current literature on the use of acellular dermal matrix in forearm, wrist, and hand reconstruction.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed using the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Web of Knowledge. Articles were categorized as acellular dermal matrix used in soft-tissue repair and in ligament reconstruction. Search terms included "acellular dermal matrix," "biologic dressing," "skin replacement," "dermal allograft," "AlloDerm," "FlexHD," "Permacol," and "Strattice." These were all cross-referenced with "forearm," "wrist," and "hand." Data extraction focused on indications, surgical techniques, clinical outcomes, and complications. Exclusion criteria included regeneration templates, neonatal foreskin, and review articles.

RESULTS

More than 100 articles published between 1994 and 2011 were identified. Upon final review, five prospective case-control studies, three retrospective case-control studies, four case reports, one cross-sectional cohort, one prospective consecutive series, and one study type unknown were evaluated. Matrix was most commonly used in burn reconstruction. It has also been used in ligament and joint reconstruction for first carpometacarpal arthritis. One article illustrated the use of porcine matrix in basal joint arthritis, a practice that was abruptly terminated because of a concern over increased infections.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical indications for acellular dermal matrix have increased throughout the last 15 years. Hand surgeons have been cautious but diligent in developing alternative treatment options in hand reconstruction, with a focused effort to reduce donor-site morbidity. Although acellular dermal matrices continue to find innovative uses to solve upper extremity surgical problems, more comparative prospective trials are needed.