Acellular dermal equivalents provide a temporary three-dimensional scaffold for cell migration and proliferation, therefore promoting the wound healing process. Currently, two of the most widely used substitutes are represented by a native non-cross-linked collagen matrix supplemented by an elastin hydrolysate (MatriDerm®) and a bilayer matrix consisting of a porous dermal replacement layer composed of collagen and glycosaminoglycan and a temporary outer polysiloxane layer (Integra®). However, only few studies comparing the two have been published so far. The aim of our study was to compare these two matrices and assess their ability to restore skin physiological architecture. We enrolled ten consecutive patients undergoing two-step dermatological surgical procedures for oncological purposes at our center. After skin tumor removal, both MatriDerm and Integra were applied side by side in the wound bed during the first surgical intervention. Wound closure with split thickness skin graft was scheduled after approximately 3 weeks. During the second surgical procedure 4-mm punch biopsies of the neodermis were taken from the wound bed. Conventional histology and immunostains for Stro1, CD90, CD31 and a-SMA were performed on skin samples, as well as ELISA tests for collagen and fibronectin. Patients underwent clinical evaluation at 3 months after surgery and clinical outcomes were assessed through the Vancouver Scar Scale. No significant differences between the two dermal templates were found in terms of vascularization, fibrosis, local inflammatory reaction and collagen or fibronectin content. Long-term clinical outcomes were comparable. In conclusion, both MatriDerm and Integra appear to be valuable tools for skin regeneration in two-step surgical procedures in the setting of oncological dermatologic surgery.

ESDR619 - Acellular Dermal Matrices in Cutaneous Wound Healing: a Longitudinal Comparative Study

The scientific meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR) is held yearly, usually in September. With an international attendance of more than 1000 skin scientists from around the globe, the four-day event includes short oral presentations from peer-reviewed abstracts, keynote lectures from international experts, sponsored symposia, satellite programs, educational events as well as an important focus on posters, networking and building collaborations amongst scientists. For more information about this year’s meeting visit our website.