Exteriorization of Buried Port to Salvage Infected Tissue Expander

Objective: Since removal of an infected tissue expander is very disappointing to both the surgeon and the patient, every effort is directed toward its salvage. This study evaluates a new method to salvage infected tissue expanders. Method: Of 66 tissue expanders applied at different sites in the body, 12 developed infection. Salvage was carried out by exteriorizing the buried port, followed by irrigation through the pocket of the tube that connects the port to the expander. Result: Salvage was successful in 9 of the infected tissue expanders and failed in 3 cases. The ports were not dependent in these 3 cases. Conclusion: Exteriorization of dependent ports allows adequate drainage, good access for irrigation, and completion of expansion.