Xenograf vs. Alloderm

[Strike3]

Is there a difference in the way the Xenograft (pig skin) and the Alloderm (from human cadavers) behaves when used in reconstruction? Are they interchangeable? I ask because I had  breast reconstruction recently and was told beforehand that the surgeon would use Alloderm to reinforce the abdomen following a DIEP reconstruction. Operative report indicates that pig skin was used instead. You answered a previous query regarding Xenograft that the human body will absorb it. Does this mean it's no longer reinforcing the abdomen? Thanks for your time.

[Archibald S Miller III, MD,FACS]

You likely have an infected suture at the site where the alloderm was placed. Removal of that stitch, and oral antibiotics are the only answer here.

                          arch s miller ms md facs

[lorisue77]

  I had alloderm put in my lip to chin folds 7 years ago. I woke up one morning with a bump in the area. About 6 months later one on the other side, both are still there. They seep green fluid that at first had a burning sensation. They have been there for several months now and look terrible. I have been to 2 dr.s and they tell me it can't be the alloderm because it  is absorbed into the skin after awhile. I could still feel the alloderm under my skin  before the lumps appeared and now have a hole in my face where 1 Dr. tried to lance the area and something is trying to come out there at the site. I only go out when I have. The dermatalogst said I need to see plastic surgeon. I can't afford much. Please help.
                                       Lori P

[Archibald S Miller III, MD,FACS]

The body absorbs it, but also replaces it with scar. This is why it works in reconstruction. It is an excellent method and works well.

                    arch miller ms md facs