Optimization of application of artificial recombined skin for preventing conversion of deep dermal to full thickness burns

We introduced cultivation of human keratinocytes for treatment of burns in collaboratio between the IMG AS CR and the Prague Burn Centre. Later, a recombined artificial skin was developed. It consisted of human keratinocytes cultured on processed pig xenodermis. The application of the artificial skin with keratinocytes facing the wound resulted in nearly ideal bio-dressing stimulating healing of burns and donor areas and simultaneously reducint the risk of hypertrophic scarring. Using the bio-dressing with special wound managment achieved by gentle elimination of necrotic tissue a new approach to prevention of spontaneous conversion of deep 2nd degree into 3rd degree burns was established. The importance of the new treatmentis stressed by difficult diagnosis of deep dermal burns and need of autotransplation for healing the 3rd degree burns. For further clinical application the preparation of xenodermis, regularity of cultivation, and wound managment have to be optimized.