Abscess formation and local necrosis after treatment with Zyderm or Zyplast Collagen Implant

Zyderm or Zyplast Collagen Implants are devices containing collagen, a fiber-like protein found in connective tissue, which are injected into the body to augment, or enhance tissue. These implants were used by 470,000 patients between 1981 and 1989. Recent reports have indicated that injection of these implants may be complicated by the formation of abscesses and local necrosis, or tissue death. The incidence, causes, and treatment of these complications are discussed. The incidence of abscess formation ranges from 0.01 to 0.07 percent. Abscesses may form as a result of hypersensitivity to collagen. The abscess should be drained of pus and the steroids, such as triamcinolone acetonide, injected within the abscess. Resulting scars can be removed by light dermabrasion (scraping away of surface dead tissue) or by surgery. The incidence of local necrosis is 0.09 percent, and may result from cessation of blood supply to the affected tissue. The blood flow may be blocked by collagen, or by injury or compression of the blood vessel. Obstruction of blood flow should be treated by discontinuing injections of collagen and gentle massage of the affected area. Wounds resulting from tissue necrosis should be carefully observed and treated; the scars can be removed by light dermabrasion or surgery. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)