title: Acellular dermal matrix for temporary coverage of exposed critical neurovascular structures in extremity wounds.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Large-volume soft-tissue defects often leave exposed neurovascular and vital structures not amenable to immediate flap coverage. We describe the use of AlloDerm, an acellular dermis allograft, in providing temporary coverage of these structures in multistage reconstruction of the extremity.
  
  
  METHODS
  A prospective study of 25 patients was performed using AlloDerm for temporary coverage of exposed vital structures secondary to trauma and oncologic ablation. A direct examination of neurovascular structures and the wound bed after allograft removal was performed as a monitor of outcome.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All allografts successfully covered the neurovascular structures at the time of removal with complete viability of neurovascular structures. Granulation tissue was appreciated in the wound bed with no clinical evidence of infection. The allograft was easily removed without damage to underlying structures.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  AlloDerm offers a safe and reliable alternative to cover critical neurovascular structures temporarily, before the definitive reconstruction of soft-tissue defects.
authors.affiliation: New York University Medical Center, New York, New York 10016, USA. BastiN01@med.nyu.edu
authors.forename: Nicholas
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Bastidas
authors.forename: Peter J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Ashjian
authors.forename: Sheel
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sharma