Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
tissue expander
Inflatable medical device placed under the skin to gradually stretch tissue for reconstruction purposes.
Full Definition
A tissue expander is a balloon-like implant that is placed beneath the skin and gradually inflated with saline solution over several weeks or months to stretch the overlying tissue. This technique is commonly used in breast reconstruction following mastectomy, creating sufficient tissue to accommodate a permanent implant. Tissue expanders may be temporary (requiring later removal and replacement) or permanent (convertible to final implants). The expansion process requires multiple clinic visits for saline injections through a port system.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether expander is temporary or permanent/convertible type.
In Context
- "The tissue expander was inflated weekly until adequate volume was achieved for implant placement." — treatment timeline
- "Tissue expander complications may include infection, exposure, or deflation requiring revision surgery." — informed consent document
Also known as
skin expander
tissue expansion device
Don't confuse with
breast implant
tissue substitute