Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex soft-tissue patch) in facial augmentation.

BACKGROUND: Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (EPTFE) (Gore-Tex soft-tissue patch) has received favorable clinical reports for use in facial augmentation procedures. We evaluated the EPTFE soft-tissue patch in short-term (3-week), intermediate-term (6-month), and long-term (12-month) animal models.

METHODS: Nine pathogen-free male and female New Zealand white rabbits weighing 2 to 4 kg were used. After implantation of the EPTFE soft-tissue patch, the animals were carefully observed on a daily basis for signs of wound infection, seroma, or hematoma formation. The stability of the implant was evaluated and graded after the animals were killed. Tissue specimens, including skin, implant, and underlying bone, were removed en bloc. These blocks were sectioned and stained for histologic evaluation. A portion of these blocks were used for scanning electron microscopy.

RESULTS: The material increased in stability over time and showed minimal inflammatory cell response and only a delicate fibrous capsule, even in long-term implants. Ultrastructural analysis demonstrated close apposition of the material to tissue, suggesting good interface bioactivity.

CONCLUSIONS: The EPTFE soft-tissue patch appears to be safe and reliable material for augmentation, demonstrating high biocompatibility, low tissue reactivity, and increasing stability over time.