APPLICATION OF ACELLULAR GRAFTS FOR EXTENSIVE SKIN DEFECTS – A REVIEW

Abstract

Skin healing in extensive skin defects includes stages of granulation and epithelialization, which are the main processes in wound healing in a secondary way. Epithelialization is possible only when the wound cavity is filled with granulation tissue to the level of the skin edges. The source of epithelial cells is the preserved epithelial structures from the skin edges themselves and the hair follicles. In wounds with a large surface due to a severe inflammatory reaction, burns or in wounds with tissue avulsion, epithelialization processes are complicated due to damage to the structures that are a source of epithelial elements. Wound healing is difficult and takes a long period of time, which causes secondary complications. The acceleration of this process can be directed by using an auto- allo and xenograft to shorten the healing period. Xenografts must meet several conditions such as biocompatibility, efficiency, accessibility, ease of application and low cost. In recent years, acellular grafts from the skin of certain fish species – tilapia and salmon – have been increasingly used. In conclusion, acellular fish skin grafts are making promising advances, offering a natural, biocompatitable and cost-effective solution to promote wound healing and tissue repair.