[Forum on tissue expansion. Fast continuous expansion. A 3-years evaluation of its use from a retrospective study of 78 cases].

The authors report their experience of cutaneous expansion in a retrospective study of 78 cases. They compare the two methods usually applied: discontinuous slow expansion in two thirds of cases versus rapid continuous expansion in one third of cases. Both methods, as they are defined in the department, are described. Statistical analysis revealed two important facts: the complication rate was considerably lower in continuous expansion. Length of hospital stay was similar for both techniques. The results, not yet studied in a strictly scientific way, do not appear to argue against continuous expansion. Rapid cutaneous expansion may be considered to be a valuable technique in the future, but it must be chosen for certain people only and must be adapted to each patient.