It was initially used to safely cover large areas of burned tissue where skin needed to be regrown.
However, Integra is now used far more widely as part of skin grafts in reconstructive surgery.
Integra is sometimes referred to as a dermal matrix or dermal scaffold.
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It was later approved for the treatment of burn scars anddiabetic foot ulcersthat are resistant to treatment.
In addition to those FDA approved uses, Integra is widely used for other purposes.
These include covering wounds in areas where a skin graft is not likely to work.
In addition, Integra can be used to cover wounds on the extremities where tendons are exposed.
For example, it is sometimes used to improve the appearance of the scar from a radial forearmphalloplasty.
It can also be used in reconstruction after the removal ofcongenital nevi, particularly giant nevi.
This is the layer on which Integra is placed.
The middle layer of the skin is the dermis.
This is the layer that the Integra skin graft matrix is designed to help rebuild.
Finally, the top layer is the epidermis.
This is the layer that contains skin pigments and what people think of when they talk about skin.
Like the skin, the Integra skin graft matrix is also made up of several layers.
The main layer functions as a scaffold.
When placed on an appropriate wound, blood vessels and other cells start to migrate into the matrix.
Then they start to build a new layer of dermis inside the matrix.
At the same time, new blood vessels grow into the matrix to supply the growing dermis.
However, until then, the new dermis needs an alternative source of protection.
This takes the form of the second layer of Integraa silicone sheet.
This sheet protects the wound and the growing skin.
It reduces the risk of infection and keeps everything moist and safe.
A common complication of Integra use ishematomaorseromaformation.
Both of these involve the collection of fluid (either blood or serum).
If this happens, the fluid will need to be removed by a healthcare provider.
Infection is another potential risk, and this can lead to the Integra not taking properly.
If the matrix does not stick appropriately to the wound it may need to be removed and replaced.
Finally, in some cases, the silicone sheet will start to separate early.
There are some cases where Integra is used for both aesthetic reasons as much as for potential functional benefits.
Is Integra Right for You?
One potentially significant downside is cost.
Insurance companies will often only cover Integra and similar products under very specific circumstances.
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