Healing of refractory sinus tracts by dermal matrix injection with Cymetra.
BACKGROUND
Sinus tracts are difficult wounds where clinical evidence to direct management is lacking. Should medical therapy fail, surgical options focus on various flaps and tissue grafts. We report the successful use of a simple surgical procedure to promote healing in recalcitrant sinus tracts: the use of the dermal matrix substitute Cymetra (LifeCell Corp., The Woodlands, NJ).


METHODS
Two patients-one a woman with a chronic sacral decubitus and the other an older gentleman with pyoderma gangrenosum-each developed a sinus tract that was unresponsive to medical therapy. After use of Cymetra, both patients healed completely without adverse reaction. They remained ulcer free at 1-year follow-up.


CONCLUSIONS
Cymetra, micronized decellularized cadaveric dermis, may have utility in repairing soft tissue defects and promoting wound healing. It offers a safe and effective alternative in the management of recalcitrant sinus tracts.
Banta
Meggan Newland
MN
Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Veteran's Administration Medical Center, Miami, Florida, USA.
Eaglstein
William H
WH
Kirsner
Robert S
RS
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003094:Collagen / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000150:complications*; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000187:drug effects*
C471832:Cymetra; D003094:Collagen