Evaluating rhPDGF-BB-Enhanced Wound Matrix for Head and Neck Reconstruction

Description

This Phase II clinical trial will evaluate the potential efficacy of rhPDGF-BB-enhanced wound matrix versus wound matrix saturated with normal saline to augment the reconstruction of head and neck defects that cannot approximate and heal by primary intention following skin cancer excision. This prospective, double-blinded, single-site study will randomize participants into two arms – intervention and control – comparing the granulation rates of the wound bed, skin graft success, aesthetic outcomes, and quality of life. After recruiting, consenting, and screening, participants will be scheduled for the baseline procedure to place the wound matrix into the wound bed. Randomization will occur the day of the procedure, and both the investigator and participant will be blinded. To achieve balance in treatment allocation, randomization blocks of 4 (2 interventions : 2 controls) will be stratified by anatomical location, scalp versus face/neck, and greatest dimension, 3cm, of the surgical defect.

Following the baseline procedure, participants will return for their first follow-up visit on day six for a clinical examination, suture removal, and wound dressing change, and follow-up visits will occur weekly for 8 weeks thereafter. At each visit, participants will complete the VAS pain scale and discuss any adverse events, the wound will be photographed and examined, and the investigator will assess the percent granulation and readiness for a skin graft. Participants will also submit daily photos of the wound while performing dressing changes at home starting on day seven until the skin graft procedure is completed. These photographs will be taken using a wound imaging application capable of ensuring a quality image, measuring the area of the wound, and transfer of the images to password-protected, cloud-based storage. The images will be analyzed by blinded wound experts, retrospectively, to determine the precise day (rather than the week) that the wound bed achieved 95-100% granulation. Placement of the skin graft may occur anytime between the first follow-up visit 1 week after the baseline procedure through 8 weeks. After the skin graft is placed, participants will continue the weekly visits through 8 weeks following the baseline procedure to assess pain and graft take. Under routine care with a wound matrix (no rhPDGF-BB), the average time to readiness is 4-6 weeks in this patient population. Here, we aim to reduce the time to readiness by adding rhPDGF-BB.