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IFHNOS 2026
Cost-Effective Regenerative Reconstruction After Head and Neck Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Using a Synthetic Dermal Matrix
Verbal Presentation

Verbal Presentation

2:40 pm

28 August 2026

Mezzanine M4

Concurrent Session: Reconstruction and Restoring Function Abstracts

Themes

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Talk Description

Institution: Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust - Greater Manchester, United Kingdom (Great Britain)

Aims: To evaluate a regenerative reconstruction strategy using a fully synthetic dermal matrix for head and neck non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) defects (nose, cheek, ear), focusing on clinical outcomes, avoidance of skin grafting, and cost efficiency. Methodology: A retrospective analysis of 53 patients undergoing excision of head and neck NMSC reconstructed using a synthetic bilayer dermal matrix. Reconstruction was performed under local anaesthesia in a minor operating room, avoiding general anaesthesia and main theatre utilisation. Following tumour clearance, the matrix was secured into the defect. Patients were reviewed at one week to assess integration, with delamination at approximately three weeks. No skin grafts were used; wounds underwent secondary epithelialisation. Outcomes included healing, complications, Manchester Scar Scale (MSS), operative stages, postoperative visits, and cost. Results: Fifty-three patients were included (23 nasal, 11 cheek, 4 auricular, others scalp/head and neck). All wounds healed without secondary reconstruction or skin grafting. Mean MSS score was 9. One superficial infection resolved without matrix removal. The technique was effective across defect sizes, reducing staged flap procedures. Fewer operative stages and clinic visits were required, with no donor site morbidity. Smaller defects healed by secondary epithelialisation alone. Reconstruction under local anaesthesia cost ~£600 versus ~£3,000 under general anaesthesia, representing an approximate ten-fold cost reduction. Conclusion: Synthetic dermal matrix reconstruction enables reliable regenerative healing after head and neck NMSC excision while avoiding skin grafting and staged reconstruction. It reduces morbidity, operative stages, and healthcare utilisation, providing a cost-effective alternative to complex reconstruction.
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Dr Pratap Dutta - , Ms Bhavia Sarala - , Ms Venky Bodapati - , Mr Azzam Khalaf - , Mr Bilal Shaikh -