Scar changes over time after artificial dermis grafting for full-thickness temporal defects following skin cancer excision: A colorimetric and anthropometric study

Advances in biotechnology have introduced artificial dermis as an alternative to autologous tissue reconstruction. Our group has employed artificial dermis grafting for full-thickness temporal defects to overcome the limitations of traditional reconstructive methods, such as local flaps and skin grafts. This study evaluates the changes in colour matching and the degree of scar contraction following artificial dermis grafting and explores its potential for reconstructing such defects. This retrospective study included 25 patients who underwent artificial dermis grafting after skin cancer excision in the temporal region. Colour differences between the scar and surrounding skin were quantified using dE2000 scores. Scar contraction was assessed by measuring scar areas. These two parameters were evaluated intraoperatively, immediately after wound healing, and at 3, 6, and 12 months post-healing. The dE2000 scores immediately after healing and at 3, 6, and 12 months were 15.4 ± 7.4, 14.9 ± 6.8, 10.4 ± 4.6, and 6.3 ± 2.0, respectively (p < 0.01). According to reference values, the colour mismatch was rated as “fair” until 6 months post-healing and as “very good” at 12 months. The amounts of scar contraction immediately after healing and at 3, 6, and 12 months were 55.3 ± 10.5%, 65.6 ± 8.6%, 32.5 ± 15.9%, and 20.6 ± 14.8%, respectively (p < 0.01). These findings indicate that artificial dermis grafting for full-thickness temporal defects initially leads to significant colour mismatch and scar contraction. However, both parameters improve over time, achieving favourable outcomes within 12 months. Artificial dermis grafting may be a viable option for reconstructing skin and soft tissue defects in the temporal region.