Biologic Dressings

Abstract

There is extensive literature regarding the use of biologic dressings in chronic wounds, such as venous leg ulcers and burns, but studies evaluating these dressings in acute surgical wounds and dermatologic surgery have been limited. There appear to be specific surgical settings in which such dressings may be of particular use, in addition to limitations of their use. Additional studies, particularly randomized and comparative trials, would be highly desirable.

Animal derived products may conflict with religious patients’ beliefs

“…The use of the use of biological dressings in the treatment of chronic and acute wounds including burns, was discussed in one previous article [26]. Split skin grafts from a donor and dressings derived from animals can be used instead of allo-transplanted skin.…”

“…The use of these alternative products avoids the donor-site problem on the patient, and animal derived dressings are easier to acquire. These products may be better in certain circumstances compared with synthetic alternatives [26,27]. Hydrocolloids act by autolysis, rehydrating the wound and thereby promote debridement [5,26].…”

“…These products may be better in certain circumstances compared with synthetic alternatives [26,27]. Hydrocolloids act by autolysis, rehydrating the wound and thereby promote debridement [5,26]. A study found that a majority of healthcare professionals in the UK did not know the origin of animal derived products in frequently used dressings [5].…”

Combination of Carbon Dioxide Laser Therapy and Artificial Dermis Application in Plantar Warts: Human Papillomavirus DNA Analysis after Treatment

“…The silicone membrane prevents infection and controls moisture flux and exudate 15,16 . Recently, Chern and colleagues reviewed biologic dressings, including an artificial dermis, available for use in acute and chronic wounds 17 . The artificial dermis promotes wound healing in mucosal and dermal defects occurring because of palatoplasty or burns, tissue defects after trauma, and excisional defects caused by tumor 15–20 .…”

“…Recently, Chern and colleagues reviewed biologic dressings, including an artificial dermis, available for use in acute and chronic wounds 17 . The artificial dermis promotes wound healing in mucosal and dermal defects occurring because of palatoplasty or burns, tissue defects after trauma, and excisional defects caused by tumor 15–20 . Overall, artificial dermis can play a role in preventing severe scars and decreasing the formation of contractures and hypertrophic scarring 6–8 .…”