Acellular fish skin grafts in the treatment of diabetic wounds: Advantages and clinical translation.

Diabetic wounds cannot undergo normal wound healing due to changes in the concentration of hyperglycemia in the body and soon evolve into chronic wounds causing amputation or even death of patients. Diabetic wounds directly affect the quality of patients and social medical management; thus researchers started to focus on skin transplantation technology. The acellular fish skin grafts (AFSGs) are derived from wild fish, which avoids the influence of human immune function and the spread of the virus through low-cost decellularization. AFSGs contain a large amount of collagen and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and they have an amazing effect on wound regeneration. However, after our search in major databases, we found that there were few research trials in this field, and only one was clinically approved. Therefore, we summarized the advantages of AFSGs and listed the problems faced in clinical use. The purpose of this paper is to enable researchers to better carry out original experiments at various stages.

Urethral carcinoma after skin substitution urethral reconstruction.

Urethral cancer after urethral reconstruction is an under-recognized, uncommon disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The survival rates of patients with carcinoma of the bulbar urethra are as low as 20%-30%. Stricture recurrence and unrecognized malignant changes present prior to reconstruction are major risk factors for urethral cancer. Skin substitution urethroplasty is subjected to higher rates of recurrence, which lends to the potential for carcinogenesis. We present a case of a 59-year-old male who underwent multi-stage skin substitution urethroplasty who developed urethral carcinoma 20 years later.

Comparison of Ba-Hao burn ointment gauze and petrolatum gauze in split graft donor site healing: A randomized, prospective, and self-control study.

Background and Aims: To assess patient comfort, wound healing, and scarring at the 6-month follow-up of split-skin graft donor sites treated with Ba-Hao burn ointment (BHBO) gauze, a compound preparation of traditional Chinese medicine since 1970s, compared with petrolatum gauze. Methods: Thirty patients admitted to the Department of Burns of the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University between September 2021 and September 2022 participated in this randomized, prospective, self-control clinical study. After harvesting the split skin, donor sites were divided into two parts along the midline. BHBO gauze was applied to half of the donor wounds, and petrolatum gauze was applied to the other half. The wound healing time, pain scores on the postoperative Days 3, 6, and 9, and Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) score at the 6-month follow-up were assessed. Results: The wound healing time was significantly shorter in the BHBO group than in the control group (10.07 ± 1.48 days vs. 11.50 ± 1.74 days, p < 0.001). On postoperative Days 3 and 6, the pain scores quantified by visual analog scores were significantly lower in the BHBO group than in the control group (5.33 ± 1.54 and 4.17 ± 1.51, respectively vs. 7.57 ± 1.41 and 5.20 ± 1.47, respectively). The difference in the visual analog scale score on postoperative Day 9 between the groups was not significant (p > 0.05). Microbiological assessment revealed the absence of bacterial contamination in both groups. At the 6-month follow up, the VSS score was significantly lower in the BHBO group (6.67 ± 1.92) than in the control group (9.57 ± 1.55). Conclusion: BHBO resulted in faster donor-site healing, reduced postoperative pain, and improved scar quality at the 6-month follow-up than petrolatum gauze alone.

Decision Making in Nasal Reconstruction: When to Use the Forehead Flap?

In this review, the paramedian forehead flap indications and uses are reviewed, specifically examining clinical situations where patient selection is important. In these settings, a preoperative discussion with a patient regarding surgical expectations and goals in the setting of their defect is paramount. The authors review the literature regarding the psychosocial aspects of major nasal reconstruction and review preoperative discussion points that are key to a well-informed patient and improved patient satisfaction through the nasal reconstructive process.

Use of Integra® on avascular tissue.

Integra® (Integra LifeSciences) is a well-known dermal regeneration template used in partial and full-thickness wound reconstruction. It can be applied directly on to vascular tissue to create a bed for a skin graft, which is often placed in a second surgery. We present our experience of its novel use in oral and maxillofacial surgery patients, using it directly on bone and cartilage (avascular tissue) without further skin grafting. Patients who required full-thickness excision of lesions down to bone or cartilage and who were treated using Integra® were included. After scalp or ear lesion resection, the collagenous dermal layer of Integra® was placed directly on to bone or cartilage and, along with its outer silicone epidermal layer, secured to the defect with absorbable sutures and a bolster dressing. The wounds were kept dry for 14 days, at which point the dressing and silicone were removed and patients continued regular wound care. Seventeen patients were included, 15 of whom had squamous cell carcinoma. One was lost to follow up. The rest achieved complete healing of the defect. Histology showed epidermis developing on the Integra® surface and at one year, the appearance of normal scarred skin. This novel approach could redefine the uses of Integra®, avoiding the need for free-flap surgery or skin grafting when reconstructing large defects. Further resection of close margins or recurrence is easier after reconstruction using dermal regeneration material than after reconstruction with a local or free flap.

The Role of Fish Skin Xenografts in Healing Complex Wounds: A Brief Case Report.

Non-healing wounds profoundly impact patient quality of life and present a significant financial burden. The Kerecis™ fish skin xenograft is a decellularized skin matrix that has been introduced to treat complicated wounds. The objective of this presentation is to highlight the use of fish skin xenograft in the treatment of a complex right flank wound with stool contamination, necrotizing soft tissue infection due to perforated colon cancer, and sepsis. This presentation follows the wound healing for 28 days following the operation and demonstrates the efficacy of fish skin xenografts in improved wound healing. A 61-year-old female with a past medical history of colon cancer and recent chemotherapy treatment presented with colon perforation causing right flank cellulitis and sepsis with necrotic abdominal wall tissue extending into the hip joint. She was taken for an emergent exploratory laparotomy, drainage of abdominal and retroperitoneal abscesses, open right hemicolectomy, diverting ileostomy, abdominal washout, intra-abdominal omental patch, placement of Strattice mesh, and debridement of necrotizing soft tissue infection of the right flank. After extensive debridement of her 15x10cmx5cm deep wound and placement of a Kerecis™ fish skin xenograft, the wound had completely healed with excellent granulation tissue, and the patient was scheduled for placement of a skin graft 28 days following the initial procedure. The results after xenograft application were outstanding, supporting the use of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) based xenografts in wound treatment due to their anti-inflammatory and angiogenic properties. This is definitely an option that needs to be considered in expediting the healing process for complex wounds.

An approach to achieve tension-free closure and mitigate recurrence in the management of recurrent cervical keloids.

Keloid is a burdensome condition that negatively affects patient's quality of life. It is influenced by a spectrum of risk factors, including tension. We propose an approach to address the tension-free closure and optimize surgical outcomes in neck keloid. A retrospective review of neck keloid patients who underwent surgical treatment between 2014 and 2022 was performed. Five patients underwent surgical interventions. Two patients had sufficient and three had insufficient tissue redundancy. The former underwent keloid excision with tension-free closure. The latter underwent keloid excision with full thickness skin graft for tension-free closure. One patient required re-excision with free flap coverage. All patients received postoperative low dose radiation. All patients were satisfied with the results and there were no signs of keloid recurrence during the follow-up period. Tension during closure following keloid excision is a modifiable risk factor. An appropriate algorithm providing tension-free closure can minimize the recurrence.

Specificities of the Management of perineal burns.

There is a paucity of articles addressing the management strategy for perineal burns. Pelvic floor burns present a multitude of problems. These relate to the management of stool, urine, areas of maceration, significant strain, and the risk of infection. The objective of this study was to analyze a consecutive series of perineal burns by studying their characteristics, treatment, and the management of urine and feces. This was a retrospective study including 100 patients between January 2018 and December 2022. The patients had all been hospitalized after suffering burns to the perineum. In 28% of the patients, the perineal burn was complicated by infection. In 61% of cases, a cutaneous infection, in 32% of cases, a urinary tract infection, in 25% of cases, a respiratory tract infection, and in 7% of cases, an infection of the digestive tract. Superinfection is associated with an increased risk of poor engraftment. 100% of the patients with poor or average engraftment had an infection in the aftermath of the burn, compared with 20% of the patients with excellent engraftment and 61% of the patients with good engraftment. In our series, the analysis revealed that, in 95% of cases, no specific procedures were implemented for stool management. Perianal involvement was associated with a risk of sub-excellent engraftment. The results were statistically significant, with p=0.005 and an OR=8.72 after multivariate analysis. We favor the least invasive approach to stool management. Indications for a rectal catheter arise in patients with the following characteristics: the patient must be sedated, the burns must be deep and close to the anal opening, and the stools must be watery and abundant. In 95% of cases, we do not install a stool management device. Colostomies should remain exceptional.

An integrative approach for management of post-traumatic dorsal foot wounds - A case report.

Crush injuries to the foot have become increasingly prevalent in contemporary settings, primarily arising from incidents such as the impact of large objects falling onto the foot or involvement in traffic accidents. The complexity of treating these injuries is compounded by the intricate anatomy of the foot. In specific scenarios, the implementation of an integrated management approach could prove advantageous. In this report, we depict the case of a 23-year-old male who visited the Shalya OPD with a wound on his left foot caused by trauma. The wound covered the medial portion of the foot, involving the dorsal area, and measured roughly 20 cm by 9 cm and was unable to walk. We successfully managed the case by adopting an integrative approach. The Ayurvedic treatment included Panchavalkala kashaya for wound irrigation, as well as oral administration of Amalaki rasayana, Triphala guggulu, Shatavari churna and Ashwagandha churna. Jatyadi taila was topically applied. For the first seven days, in addition to these ayurvedic medications, we also employed analgesics and antibiotics to treat infection and pain. To accomplish early closure, we employed a split-thickness skin graft after sufficient granulation tissue had appeared. The wound was completely healed within three months and the patient was able to walk freely without any support. The combined approach yielded a promising result in this case.

Eyelid Skin Grafting in Young Patients with Facial Nerve Palsy.

Background: The aim of this study is to report outcomes of eyelid full-thickness skin grafting augmentation in facial nerve palsy (FNP) patients younger than 50 years of age. Methods: In a retrospective, consecutive case series, nine eyelid skin grafts performed on eight FNP patients with skin contraction (five females; median age 42 years [range, 17-47]) are presented. In most cases, upper eyelid skin grafting was combined with levator recession and anterior lamellar repositioning. Lower eyelid skin grafting was combined with lower retractors recession in all cases. Functional and cosmetic outcomes were measured preoperatively and at early (1-3 months), intermediate (3-6 months), and late (≥12 months) follow-up. Results: The corneal score improved at early follow-up (p = 0.03) and remained improved at late follow-up (p = 0.042). The gentle closure lagophthalmos was improved at late follow-up (p = 0.042). (p = 0.048). The grades of graft color, edge/skin interface, and size improved at 3-6 months post-grafting and remained improved at late follow-up (p < 0.05). Over the follow-up, four patients (50%) were recommended to have further surgical procedures. Conclusions: The preliminary results from this small cohort suggest that eyelid skin grafting is a viable option for young patients prioritizing cosmesis. This technique warrants consideration for its functional benefits.

Lower Extremity Trauma: A Multidimensional Reconstructive Approach with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

Background: Distal lower extremity reconstruction is challenging. This study aims to propose a protocol for the treatment of traumatic soft tissue defects. The key concept is to combine the surgical armamentarium of the reconstructive surgeon with the advantages provided by hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data of 57 patients affected with unilateral or bilateral lower extremity trauma distal to the knee and involving soft tissues with no indication of immediate reconstruction between 2010 and 2021. Before the reconstructive procedure, all the patients underwent a stick swab procedure for the collection of microbiological samples and debridement. Patients were divided into two treatment groups and only one group underwent a combined therapeutic procedure with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) was employed only if deemed necessary according to the defect's depth and wound exudate. Surgical techniques, outcomes, and complications were discussed. Results: All patients achieved a complete recovery with no major complications and only minor complications observed. The study group treated with HBOT had a lower complication rate and lower percentages of minimal and partial graft loss compared with the same complications observed in the control group. No patients experienced HBOT-related complications. Significant reductions in the time to complete healing and the time from reconstruction to healing were found (p = 0.002 and p < 0.00001, respectively). Conclusions: A lower complication rate was observed in the group treated with HBOT. The administration of HBOT prior to soft tissue reconstruction significantly reduced the time to complete healing and the time interval from skin grafting to healing. However, prospective studies and randomized trials with larger cohorts should be designed to investigate the efficacy of HBOT for the treatment of lower extremity injuries with extensive soft tissue defects.

Integra® Dermal Regeneration Template in Complex Scalp Reconstruction.

Background/Objectives: The need for surgical reconstruction of scalp defects following the excision of cutaneous skin cancers is an increasingly common procedure. Particular challenges arise when considering options for reconstruction of large defects not amenable to local skin flap coverage. The use of skin grafts poses the risk of donor site morbidity. This paper investigates the emerging use of Integra®, a synthetic acellular dermal regeneration template, as an alternative or adjunct to skin grafting in scalp reconstruction. Methods: The study presents a retrospective analysis of 101 patients who underwent Integra®-based reconstruction of scalp defects. Demographics, procedure details, complications, need for further surgery, and time to healing were evaluated. Results: The overall success rate of the one-stage Integra®-only procedure was 95%, with a minor complication rate of 30.7%. Anticoagulation medication was identified as an independent risk factor for post-operative infection, while previous head and neck radiotherapy and increased defect depth were associated with the requirement for a second-stage skin graft. Conclusions: These findings support the consideration of Integra® as a safe and viable alternative for both partial and full thickness scalp defects in a select cohort of complex highly co-morbid patients, reducing complications and the need for additional procedures.

Surgical treatment and outcomes of acute and chronic ulcers on the penis following injection of foreign substances.

In this paper, we present our experience with acute and chronic penile ulcers resulting from injection of an exogenous substance and their surgical treatment.

Use of Suprapubic Panniculus for Split-Thickness Skin Graft in Buried Penis Repair.

Background: In the United States, acquired buried penis deformity is an increasingly more common condition. Management of the buried penis deformity is accomplished with removal of macerated skin and subcutaneous tissue from the panniculus and prepubic region, and replacement of denuded penile skin. If local tissue advancement is insufficient to cover the defect, a skin graft may be required. Though the anterior thigh is commonly used, this creates a second defect. Here we describe 2 cases of split-thickness skin grafts harvested from the panniculus to cover buried penis deformities. Methods: Two patients with a buried penis deformity were identified. The denuded suprapubic tissue was elevated. Using inferior traction, split-thickness skin grafts were harvested and placed onto the shaft of the penis. The remaining excess tissue was resected. Results: One patient had a fungal rash that resolved with topical treatment. The other patient had a hematoma requiring surgical evacuation. Neither patient had any other complications, and both had over 95% take of the split-thickness skin grafts. Conclusions: These cases demonstrate the successful use of pannicular skin grafts for buried penis deformity correction. This donor site avoids creation of a second defect. As demonstrated here, the grafts are a durable option, even in the setting of local infection and hematoma.

Utilization of Split-Thickness Skin Graft as a Treatment Option Following Mohs Micrographic Surgery.

Split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) is a frontline treatment for challenging surgical wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and post-surgical defects. This study explores the use of STSG employing the pinch graft technique for hard-to-heal surgical wounds following Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). An 83-year-old patient with a non-improving post-MMS defect on the left lower leg underwent STSG from the right inner thigh using the pinch graft technique. The grafts were secured with a mesh dressing, adhesive strips, and compression bandaging. The patient experienced complete re-epithelialization and reduced pain within five weeks, emphasizing the efficacy of STSG for challenging cases. This case underscores the importance of considering STSG, especially in challenging locations, as a rapid and efficient treatment with improved quality of life. The pinch graft technique is presented as a useful option following MMS. This study encourages Mohs surgeons to consider STSG for reconstruction in challenging locations, especially on the lower leg.

A Comparative Analysis of the Outcomes of Various Graft Types in Burn Reconstruction Over the Past 24 Years: A Systematic Review.

Burn injuries, a major global health concern, result in an estimated 180,000 fatalities annually. Despite tremendous progress in treatment methods over the years, the morbidity and mortality associated with burns remain significant. Autologous skin grafting, particularly split-thickness skin grafting (STSG), has been a cornerstone in burn reconstruction, and it has facilitated survival and functional recovery for total body surface area (TBSA) significantly. However, the requirement for primary closure at the donor site due to the constraints of full-thickness donor harvesting continues to pose challenges. The introduction of dermal regenerative templates (DRT) in the late 1970s marked a substantial step forward in tissue engineering, addressing the inadequacy of dermal replacement with STSGs. This systematic review aimed to compare the outcomes of different graft types - bioengineered, autografts, allografts, and xenografts - in burn reconstruction over the last 24 years. The review focused on the pros and cons of each graft type, offering clinical insights grounded in experience and evidence. The approach involved a systematic review of studies published in English from January 2000 to January 2024, covering randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, case-control studies, and case series. The participants comprised individuals of all ages who underwent burn reconstruction with skin grafts, specifically split-thickness grafts, full-thickness grafts, composite grafts, and epidermal grafts (autografts, allografts, and xenografts) and bioengineered grafts. The primary outcomes were functional and cosmetic results, patient satisfaction, graft survival, and complications. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials version 2 (RoB 2), the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for non-randomized studies, and the Canada Institute for Health Economics (IHE) quality appraisal tool for case series. Our initial search yielded a total of 1,995 articles, out of which 10 studies were selected for final analysis. Among the four clinical trials assessed, 75% showed a high risk of bias. The studies reviewed involved various graft types, with six studies (60%) concentrating on allografts, three (30%) on autografts, and one (10%) on bioengineered skin grafts. The outcomes were varied, underlining the intricate nature of burn wound management. Our evaluation revealed promising results for autologous-engineered skin substitutes and allografts but also highlighted methodological disparities among the studies included. The dominance of observational studies and the diversity of outcome measures present obstacles to direct comparisons. Future research should address these limitations, employing well-structured RCTs, standardized outcome measures, and exploring long-term outcomes and patient-specific factors. The rapidly evolving field of regenerative medicine offers great potential for novel grafting methods. This systematic review provides valuable insights into the diverse outcomes of burn reconstruction using different graft types. Autologous-engineered skin substitutes and allografts seem to hold significant promise, suggesting a possible shift in grafting techniques. However, methodological inconsistencies and the lack of high-quality evidence underscore the necessity for further research to fine-tune burn care approaches.

Translational frontiers: insight from lymphatics in skin regeneration.

The remarkable regenerative ability of the skin, governed by complex molecular mechanisms, offers profound insights into the skin repair processes and the pathogenesis of various dermatological conditions. This understanding, derived from studies in human skin and various model systems, has not only deepened our knowledge of skin regeneration but also facilitated the development of skin substitutes in clinical practice. Recent research highlights the crucial role of lymphatic vessels in skin regeneration. Traditionally associated with fluid dynamics and immune modulation, these vessels are now recognized for interacting with skin stem cells and coordinating regeneration. This Mini Review provides an overview of recent advancements in basic and translational research related to skin regeneration, focusing on the dynamic interplay between lymphatic vessels and skin biology. Key highlights include the critical role of stem cell-lymphatic vessel crosstalk in orchestrating skin regeneration, emerging translational approaches, and their implications for skin diseases. Additionally, the review identifies research gaps and proposes potential future directions, underscoring the significance of this rapidly evolving research arena.

Tumescent technique for split-thickness skin graft donor sites: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) is widely used for reconstructive wound management. This review aimed to use level I evidence to determine if tumescent techniques were safe and effective compared to other interventions for STSG donor sites. It was hypothesized that tumescent techniques were safe and effective for STSG donor sites. METHODS: Five databases (MEDLINE via PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus) were searched to identify studies concerning the use of tumescent solutions for STSG. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) and Cochrane's guidelines were strictly followed. RESULTS: Nine randomized controlled trials met the criteria. Included studies were published from 2001 to 2021, with results from 40 of 121 possible queried outcomes and complications. Outcomes included patient demographics, formulations of tumescent solutions, tumescent technique, hemodynamics, pain, perfusion, graft take, healing time, and postoperative complications. The tumescent technique reduced estimated blood loss (standard mean differences [SMD]: -2.68, 95%CI: -3.41 to -1.94; participants = 72; studies = 2; I2 = 96%; p < 0.001), and postoperative analgesic use within 24 hours (SMD: -1.75, 95%CI: -2.09 to -1.41; participants = 202; studies = 2; I2 = 96%; p < 0.001), without increasing graft loss/take (SMD: 0.29, 95%CI: -0.02 to 0.61; participants = 158; studies = 3; I2 = 41%; p = 0.07) and infection (risk ratios [RR]: 0.52, 95%CI: 0.08 to 3.54; participants = 87; studies = 3; I2 = 0%; p = 0.58) complications compared to other interventions. CONCLUSIONS: Level I evidence demonstrated tumescent techniques were safe and effective for STSG donor sites. Tumescent techniques reduced blood loss and postoperative analgesic use within 24 hours without increasing graft loss/take and infection complications compared to other interventions. Inconsistencies between studies limit conclusions and emphasize the need for standardized protocols regarding tumescent solution formulations, techniques, and reported outcomes.