[Experiences with Epigard, a synthetic skin substitute, in the treatment of skin defects].

Epigard, a reticulated polyurethane foam laminated to a microporous polypropylene film, has been developed as a substitute for homograft and heterograft skin. After preliminary studies in animals, its clinical advantages and limitations were evaluated in 134 hospitilized patients with burn injuries and other skin defects. Examples for its indications are demonstrated and discussed. It is concluded that Epigard provides a satisfactory substitute for skin grafts with major advantages for ready availability, sterility and reduced cost.