Integra is a two-layer skin regeneration system. The outer layer is made of a thin silicone film that acts as your skin’s epidermis. It protects the wound from infection and controls both heat and moisture loss. The inner layer is constructed of a complex matrix of cross-linked fibers. This porous material acts as a scaffold for regenerating dermal skin cells, which enables the re-growth of a functional dermal layer of skin. Once dermal skin has regenerated, the silicone outer layer is removed and replaced with a thin epidermal skin graft.
Integra is also used for the reconstruction of soft tissue loss following trauma, cancer removal, and scar revision of all anatomical sites. The specificity of Integra is that it is perfectly integrated where it is placed, regenerating a tridimensional structure, known as neo-dermis, in which fibroblasts, lymphocytes, macrophages, and neovascularization are clearly detectable. This type of dermal regeneration template offers multiple advantages: it allows immediate closure of the wound, thus avoiding fluid loss and restoring the functional barrier of the skin. It also prepares the wound before the positioning of a split-thickness skin graft. It is applicable in anatomical regions in which a graft placement alone would not be preferred, such as on bone- and tendon-exposed areas, and improves the final outcome and feature of the scar. The positioning of the matrix is relatively simple with a reduction of operating time. It allows the reduction of hospitalization time and of surgical sequelae for the patient. However, Integra could also be susceptible to infection, needs a second procedure for the coverage of the matrix with a skin graft, and has a relatively high cost compared to autografts. The latter is probably the main reason for its limited use in the clinical practice.
Source: IG@medicalpedia
