Dermodress: a temporary skin substitute for coverage of exposed vital structures in the hand.

A chemically treated bovine skin, Dermodress, is presented as a new type of biological dressing for exposed tendons, bones, and nerves following extensive thermal or severe soft-tissue injuries to the hand. Its use enables the surgeon to postpone closure of defects with grafts or flaps until the presence of healthy, viable tissue is secured. The vital structures underneath the covering are kept moist, thus preventing necrosis and desiccation. Because of its adherence properties, Dermodress use also allows early mobilization and bathing, thereby accelerating rapid return of function.