Bovine Dermal Collagen Matrix for Early Graft Readiness in a Full-Thickness Posterior Neck Burn: A Case Report

Full-thickness burns over complex anatomical regions present significant challenges for achieving wound closure. In these cases, dermal substitutes are critical to support a dermal-like bed formation to optimize graft outcomes. Here, we present the case of a 63-year-old male patient with a full-thickness posterior neck burn treated with a bovine dermal collagen matrix (BDCM) engineered to support rapid vascularization. Following surgical excision and wound bed preparation, BDCM was applied with minimal stapling and covered with standard antimicrobial dressings. In this challenging wound, early matrix integration was evident by postoperative day 6, and the wound demonstrated graft readiness by approximately day 12. Definitive closure was achieved with split-thickness skin grafting on day 16, with complete epithelialization observed at day 11 post-grafting. The patient experienced full graft take, intact wound healing, and restoration of neck mobility without infection or early contracture, indicating a successful clinical outcome. This initial experience demonstrates rapid wound bed preparation with BDCM, stable graft take, and successful healing with minimal complications, showcasing BDCM's potential as a valuable dermal substitute for facilitating definitive closure in challenging full-thickness wounds.