Clinical Experience With Tissue Expansion

In 1988, Nordström, Pietilä, and Rintala reported on their clinical experience with tissue expansion in 255 patients for reconstructive purposes, including the correction of alopecias and other defects. The scalp, with 89 patients undergoing expansion, was highlighted as an ideal site due to its tolerance for higher pressures. Complications such as capsule rigidity and infections were managed with capsulotomy and antibiotics, respectively. The authors noted the necessity of careful planning for expander placement and reported satisfactory hair density post-expansion. They also discussed the technique's application in other body areas, emphasizing the matching of skin texture and color and sensation preservation. A new technique to accelerate expansion was mentioned, which increased the expanded volume per session by an average of 59% without adverse effects, although further studies were called for. High expander pressure was identified as a potential issue. The paper concluded that tissue expansion is a valuable reconstructive tool with satisfactory outcomes and the potential for future improvements.