AlloDerm and DermaMatrix implants for parotidectomy reconstruction: a histologic study in the rat model.

BACKGROUND

We analyzed tissue incorporation, immune response, and neovascularization of AlloDerm and DermaMatrix in a rat model of postparotidectomy reconstruction.

METHODS

In 8 male Sprague-Dawley rats, 3-dimensionally folded AlloDerm implants were placed in the left postparotidectomy bed and 3 in the anterior dorsum as controls. The same was done for DermaMatrix on the right side and posterior dorsum. Two animals were euthanized at 4, 8, and 12 days. A blinded pathologist assessed the degree of fibroblast proliferation, neovascularization, and inflammation.

RESULTS

When compared with the dorsum, DermaMatrix implants in the parotid bed had significantly higher numbers of inflammatory cells at 8 and 12 days (p = .049 and .0046). AlloDerm acted more consistently between the postparotidectomy bed and dorsum.

CONCLUSIONS

AlloDerm reacts similarly when comparing the postparotidectomy bed to the dorsum. DermaMatrix induces a more marked inflammatory reaction in the postparotidectomy bed when compared with the dorsum.