[Long-term coverage of defect-wounds using synthetic skin substitute].

According our experiences non-infected defect wounds can be covered with Epigard even for a long time without problems. Changing the skin substitute is not necessary. Thus the danger of bacterial contamination is reduced and a reliable prevention of infection results. Weeks or months later an ideal base for autodermic grafting is obtained. Our method is indicated particularly for treatment of open fractures with skin defects. Long-term cover of infected tissue cannot always be achieved; in this case another therapeutic way should be attempted.