Integra: An Alternative Option for Reconstruction of Extensive Finger Defects With Exposed Bones

Abstract

Extensive soft tissue injuries with exposed joints, bones, and tendons due to trauma of the hand -particularly fingers- necessitate soft tissue reconstruction and coverage. However, these injuries are challenging; therefore, various management options for traumatic skin loss over fingers are widely performed. These options comprise wound care permitting wound contracture without surgical intervention, full or split-thickness skin grafting, skeletal shortening and primary closure, and various types of flaps. We present a case of successfully placed Integra over the exposed phalangeal bones followed by split-thickness skin grafting a few weeks later, with a good outcome. We conclude that Integra is an alternative, safe and effective method for reconstructing severely traumatized fingers with exposed bone, tendon, or joint without sacrificing outcome.