GUIDES

Introduction

This Masterclass Guide is a concise overview aimed at exploring the use of a synthetic dermal matrix and how to incorporate this into your practice.

Synthetic Dermal Matrix: NovoSorb® BTM

Keywords

■ Synthetic dermal matrix

■ Regenerative healing

■ NovoSorb® BTM

■ Biodegradable temporising matrix

What Is NovoSorb® BTM?

■ NovoSorb® BTM (biodegradable temporising matrix), is a fully synthetic, biodegradable, biocompatible device used for the reconstruction of full or deep partial thickness wounds. It is intended to temporise dermal injuries, where the dermis has been decimated or lost, and to facilitate dermal repair by providing temporary wound closure and a scaffold for the generation of a neodermis

■ NovoSorb® BTM has a bilayer polyurethane design made of a sealing membrane and a 2mm matrix below. The sealing membrane physiologically closes the wound, provides a barrier to bacteria and limits moisture loss1,2

■ The fenestrated membrane allows for free drainage of excess fluid

■ The 2mm open cell matrix allows cellular infiltration and provides a model for reconstruction of the dermis1

■ The matrix is made from a polyurethane polymer, so does not feed bacteria. The benefit of this is that it can often be retained if infection is present3

■ Wound repair

■ Complex wounds

■ Reconstruction

■ Dermal matrix

Adhesive

A temporary, nonbiodegradable layer closes the wound, limiting moisture loss, while also serving as a barrier to outside bacteria1,2,5

A 2mm bioabsorbable open cell matrix allows for the infiltration of cellular materials and serves as a matrix to aid in the reconstruction of the deeper layers (dermis) of the skin4,5

How NovoSorb® BTM Works: The Ten Point Guide

1 Select the appropriate patient

2 Remove the old dressing

3 Under sterile conditions, the wound must be debrided to a healthy wound bed

4 Measure the soft tissue defect, measure NovoSorb® BTM and trim to the required size and shape

5 Secure with skin staples or sutures

6 Dressing changes as per regime, depending on clinical indication scenario

7 As NovoSorb® BTM integrates with the wound, its appearance will change. This integration usually takes up to three weeks

8 Once fully integrated into the wound bed, the sealing membrane can be removed, revealing a newly revascularized dermal layer (figure 3c)

9 A method of definitive skin closure can then be used, at the clinician’s discretion. For example, a split-skin graft (SSG).

10 Over time the polymer degrades and gradually disappears at approximately 18 months (figure 3d)

Synthetic Dermal Matrix: NovoSorb® BTM

What Types of Wounds Are Suitable?

■ Full or deep partial thickness burns and wounds

■ Surgical and reconstructive wounds

■ Traumatic wounds

What Types of Wounds Are Not Suitable?

■ Overtly infected wounds

■ Wounds in which effective haemostasis has not been achieved

■ Undebrided wounds

BTM is applied to a wound once the unhealthy or dead tissue has been surgically removed. BTM temporarily closes the wound, which limits moisture loss2,5

Cellular migration into the matrix results in new blood vessel formation and collagen production throughout the matrix. This normally takes 2 to 3 weeks5

Once a clinician determines the tissue is fully integrated throughout the BTM, the sealing membrane can be removed, leaving a new vascularized dermal layer5

The method of closure will be chosen by the clinician depending on the wound (split-skin graft, moist wound healing dressings, etc). The matrix will retain its structure as it slowly deteriorates over time until fully absorbed at approximately 18 months5,6