Acellular dermal matrix-assisted tissue expansion for giant congenital melanocytic nevi of the extremities and trunk in pediatric patients

Background: Tissue expansion for treating giant congenital melanocytic nevi (GCMN) is a commonly employed surgical method. However, the procedure’s efficacy is often hindered by anatomical and histological characteristics as well as blood supply, particularly in the extremities and trunk. Enhancing expansion efficiency while reducing complications is thus a topic to be investigated, especially for pediatric patients undergoing rapid physical and psychological development with higher risks of non-compliance to medical instructions. Object: To explore the effectiveness of expansion in extremities and trunk by immobilizing the acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in the gravitational force zone of inflating expanders. Methods: All patients involved in this research underwent ADM-assisted tissue expansion in either the extremities or trunk. ADM was fully flattened, securely fixed to the lower pole of the expander, and subsequently attached to the inner surface of the expanding flap. Results: From 2021 to 2023, a total of nine pediatric patients with GCMN underwent the ADM-assisted tissue expansion. All patients achieved the desired expanding volume without experiencing petechiae, ecchymosis, or skin ulceration in the ADM-covered area. The process was well tolerated by all patients, with no reports of itching, pain, allergic reaction, or fever. During the flap transfer, the ADM was observed to be firmly adhered to the expanding flap with discernible capillary network. Conclusion: ADM-assisted tissue expansion demonstrates promise in augmenting expansion efficiency and reducing the time needed for surgical intervention in the extremities and trunk, thereby presenting significant clinical value for pediatric patients afflicted with GCMN.