Fish Skin Acellular Dermal Matrix for Tissue Reinforcement and Surgical Site Healing in Deep Brain Stimulation Surgeries: A Case Series.

OBJECTIVE

In this case series, the authors aim to illustrate a technique for reinforcing tissue above deep-brain stimulator (DBS) surgical sites to prevent wound breakdown and decrease postoperative infectious risks.

METHODS

Twelve patients were implanted with DBS electrodes and an implantable pulse generator. Fish acellular dermal matrix was utilized following successful placement and tunneling of DBS leads to reinforce the surgical wound closure above the DBS cranial burr hole cover. This matrix was placed under the galea and above the pericranium in each patient before standard galea and skin closure techniques after the implants were placed.

RESULTS

Eleven of 12 patients had the implant placed during surgery. One patient was excluded due to an allergy to the graft material. No patients at any point during the follow-up period showed any clinically significant signs of wound breakdown or infection at the surgical site. There was one report of suture extrusion without any associated infection or wound breakdown.

CONCLUSION

In this case series, the authors demonstrate that the use of fish skin acellular dermal matrix is a safe and effective strategy that can be utilized during DBS placement to further bolster the skin above DBS burr hole covers to aid in wound healing and decrease postoperative surgical site infections.