The use of urinary bladder matrix in the treatment of complicated open wounds.

Background: Management of complicated open wounds represents a challenge when reconstructive options are not applicable. Urinary bladder matrix (UBM) provides a biocompatible material that allows inductivetissue remodeling.

Methods: The use of urinary bladder matrix inthe treatment of 5 patients with complicated open wounds that failed toheal with conventional therapy is presented.

Results: A 3-year old male sustained a second-degree oil burn measuring 8 cm x 4 cm to his dorsal forearm; UBM was applied weekly and the wound epithelialized in 3 weeks. A 52-year old male sustained massive second and third degree burns to his leg after a fire; UBM was applied weekly and the wound epithelialized in 28 weeks. A 61-year old female sustained a severe crushing injury to her right knee. A gastrocnemius muscle transfer and rectus abdominus muscle free flap transfer both failed, then UBM and vacuum-assisted closure therapy were applied and the wound epithelialized in 24 weeks. A 54-year old female underwent a breast mastectomy and immediate reconstruction with pedicled transverse rectus abdominus flap. The patient developed partial necrosis and the wound was managed with UBM and vacuum-assisted closure therapy. The wound epithelialized in 12 weeks. A 36-year old female sustained severe degloving injuries to both hands with exposed metacarpals. Weekly application of UBM provided tissue remodeling over the bones, which allowed successful skin grafting and closure.

Conclusions: These experiences show UBM to be an effective method in management of complicated open wounds in select cases. Further studies need to be implemented to confirm this conclusion.