Utilization of a New Tissue Expander in the Closure of a Large Mohs Surgical Defect

Background: Malignant proliferating trichilemmal tumor (MPTT) is a rare neoplasm originating in the outer sheath of a hair follicle that often presents as a slowly enlarging, painful, subcutaneous scalp nodule. The authors describe a case of malignant proliferating trichilemmal tumor (MPTT) in an elderly 65-year-old Asian male who presented with a 5.5 x 5.0 cm mass on the posterior scalp.

Methods: The authors present a unique dual approach to treatment of MPTT in both the excision and wound revision phases. First, Mohs micrographic surgery is utilized for more discrete removal of malignant tissue, as opposed to wide excision. Then, a novel device called DermaClose® RC is used in wound revision, a device that has proven to be more effective in promoting wound closure than traditional suturing.

Results: Mohs micrographic surgery was used to excise the tumor in three stages. The resulting irregular wound measured 6.3 x 5.6 cm, and was repaired with the device. Following the application of the device, the wound reduced in size to 1.5–1.0 cm. Postoperatively, the patient had no evidence of recurrent disease at seven months.

Conclusion: Use of the DermaClose RC tissue expander following a Mohs surgical procedure provides an effective functional and cosmetic alternative to a skin graft which creates a donor site wound and creates a more complicated, time consuming procedure. The dual approach discussed here–of Mohs micrographic surgery performed in tandem with wound revision via the tissue expanding device is one that may yield promising benefits but warrants further evaluation.