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Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of Pelnac dermal regeneration template assisted by vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) and a split-thickness skin graft to cover the large skin and soft-tissue defects at foot and ankle. Methods: This study began from March 2013, up to February 2017. A total of 16 patients met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included. For every patient, 2 separate operations were performed, the first being thorough debridement of necrotic tissues immediate coverage of VSD at continuous negative pressure suction, and the second being the autologous split-thickness skin graft. At each follow-up, relevant data were documented. Results: The average follow-up was 16.5 months (range, 12 to 42 months). No infections, hematoma, or seroma were observed. 13 out of 16 patients had a complete skin graft “take” (100%). Patients’ satisfaction of esthetic appearance was 76.5 ± 5.2/100. The VSS value was 2.2 ± 2.1, representing a good result. Regarding the sensory recovery, the response “normal or near normal” could be obtained in 14/16 patients. Mean AROM for extension/flexion of the ankle was 48.5 ± 4.8° (range 35–62°), and 93.7% (15/16) of patient could obtain a satisfying functional result. Conclusions: Our report indicated Pelnac provided an effective method for management of complex wounds with underlying bone or tendons exposed.
Acknowledgments
We are grateful to L Wang and D Zhang of the Department of Orthopedics for their kind assistance. No organization sponsored the research.
DECLARATION OF INTEREST
All the authors declare that they have no conflict of interest with any organization that sponsored the research.