Salvage of a complicated myelomeningocele using collagen (Duragen) and dermal (Alloderm) matrix substitutes. Case report and review of the literature.

We present a report of a boy born with a myelomeningocele who underwent several attempts at closure of the defect, each complicated by wound dehiscence and/or cerebrospinal fluid leak. Successful closure was ultimately achieved using a combination of collagen matrix (Duragen) and dermal matrix (Alloderm) substitutes as covering of the defect beneath the adjacent skin flaps. The literature on the use of collagen and dermal matrix substitutes for myelomeningocele is also reviewed. (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.