Invited Commentary: External tissue expansion and tension relief systems for improved utilisation of the viscoelastic properties of the skin in wound closure

467 Immediate, primary suture closure of wounds is often the optimal solution for soft tissue defect closure because of its simplicity and satisfactory outcome, yet it may be impeded by high tension closure. The customary application of skin grafts, flaps, free tissue transfer or tissue expansion is often associated with relatively more complex surgical reconstructive procedures, significant morbidity, and extended hospitalisation and prolong recovery periods. The concept of tissue expansion is an important method of wound closure based on the utilisation of the viscoelastic properties of the skin by mechanical creep. It provides excellent quality and matching skin texture and color for coverage of soft tissue loss, mainly in the head and neck area.[1,2]