Wound Repair and Regeneration · 2014 · 198 citations · 38 references
MedicinePlastic SurgerySurgeryBurn SurgeryRegenerative MedicineTissue EngineeringBurn CareBurn ManagementBurn ReconstructionBurn Wound HealingSkin RegenerationSkin Tissue EngineeringAutologous Skin GraftsAutologous Skin SubstitutesBurn CoverageBurn Wound ReconstructionBurn Wound RepairRegenerative Medicine For BurnsSkin SubstitutesSkin Substitutes For Burns
Major burns pose a challenge for autologous skin coverage and can cause severe functional and cosmetic sequelae, but dermal substitutes—used both acutely and chronically—have been shown to improve long‑term outcomes and are increasingly considered essential in burn care. The review aims to strengthen the scientific evidence on dermal substitutes’ effects and to develop new technologies and products for burn care. The authors review the current status of dermal substitutes and novel strategies for their use in burn care.
Abstract Major burns represent a challenge in autologous skin coverage and may lead to severe functional and cosmetic sequelae. Dermal substitutes are increasingly becoming an essential part of burn care during the acute phase of treatment. In the long term dermal substitutes improve functional and cosmetic results and thus enhance quality of life. In the chronic wound setting, dermal substitutes are used to reconstruct and improve burn scars and defects. Despite the potential of dermal substitutes, further research is required to strengthen scientific evidence regarding their effects and also to develop new technologies and products. Furthermore, dermal substitutes have a pivotal role in future research strategies as they have the potential to provide adequate scaffold for stem cells, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine with conceivable application of obtaining long‐lasting and scarless artificial skin. This review discusses the status quo of dermal substitutes and novel strategies in the use of dermal substitutes with a focus on burn care.
38