Use of artificial dermis graft for covering the femoral vessels after groin dissection

An artificial dermis graft has been used to cover exposed femoral vessels after groin dissection in five patients. After the silicone membrane was dissected off with a scalpel, the artificial dermis was applied. The femoral vessels were successfully covered without either postoperative infection or allergic reaction in all patients. In two patients, full-thickness skin necrosis occurred. However, the femoral vessels were not exposed since they were covered by the artificial dermis, and subsequent skin grafting was performed. There was no postoperative contracture in any of the patients, and the grafted area was soft. It can thus be concluded that artificial dermis is an easy, less invasive, and useful option for covering the femoral vessels after groin dissection, especially in patients with a thin and fragile sartorius muscle. Received: 15 February 1999 / Accepted: 15 June 1999