Abstract: A collagen-glycosaminoglycan biodegradable matrix (Integra™ Bilayer Matrix Wound Dressing, Integra LifeSciences, Plainsboro, NJ) has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of full-thickness burns. Since its introduction, many centers have expanded its use to include chronic wounds. The economic impact of using collagen-glycosaminoglycan biodegradable matrix, however, has not been evaluated. The authors present a retrospective case-matched study designed to compare the economics of treating chronic wounds with collagen-glycosaminoglycan biodegradable matrix compared to the economics of treating chronic wounds with split-thickness skin grafts. Five different wound types were selected. One patient with each of the treatment modalities was selected for each type of wound, and the charges were compared. The authors found no significant difference in charges, time to heal, narcotic use, or antibiotic use between groups. The collagen-glycosaminoglycan bio

Abstract: Delayed wound healing often occurs in the elderly, imposing significant medical, financial, and social burdens upon the patient and society. Post-menopausal decline in estrogens may negatively impact wound healing in the geriatric population. This article presents an overview of animal and human data on androgens and estrogens and their potential role in wound healing in the elderly.

Abstract: The authors describe an atypical presentation of a malignant melanoma lesion identified as decubitus ulceration on the heel of a patient with diabetes mellitus complicated by peripheral neuropathy. The patient was treated at multiple institutions with routine debridement and conservative therapy with negligible improvement in wound appearance. The wound appeared viable, and a dermatological allograft procedure was attempted. Failure of the allograft prompted a soft tissue biopsy of the ulcerated area that revealed malignant melanoma. This is a rare yet solemn finding that may easily be overlooked in the neuropathic population.