The use of dermal matrices in the reconstruction of defects following the resection of oral potentially malignant disorders: a scoping review

Introduction:
Dysplasia and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) of the oral cavity often require surgical resection to prevent malignant transformation. These lesions are frequently left to heal by secondary intention, exposing patients to discomfort and an increased risk of post-operative infection. Dermal matrices offer a promising reconstructive alternative, providing biocompatibility and favourable healing outcomes. However, their clinical use in this specific context has not yet been comprehensively reviewed. This scoping review aims to systematically map and critically appraise the current evidence on the use of dermal matrices in reconstructive surgery following resection of dysplastic lesions and OPMDs of the oral cavity, and to identify current evidence, innovation, and gaps in knowledge.

Methods:
A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The electronic databases PubMed, Scopus and Medline were searched without date restrictions. Grey literature was also explored via Google Scholar. Two reviewers independently screened the articles, with discrepancies resolved by a third reviewer. Data were extracted on factors such as study design, type of dermal matrix used, surgical outcomes and disease recurrence.

Results:
From an initial yield of 6229 titles, 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. These involved various dermal matrix types, including acellular human dermal matrices and bovine-derived collagen scaffolds. Most studies reported satisfactory integration and minimal complications. However, heterogeneity in study design, outcome measures, and follow-up limited direct comparisons. Few studies specifically addressed long-term recurrence or malignant transformation post-reconstruction.

Conclusion:
Dermal matrices may represent a viable and increasingly utilised option for reconstructing defects following the resection of dysplasia and OPMDs of the oral cavity. While this review highlights early successes, it also underscores key limitations in the existing literature and calls for targeted research to validate dermal matrices as a standard reconstructive strategy in oral oncology.