Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
15
Summary: biomaterials for treating skin loss
D. P. ORGILL
Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA
C. BLANCO
Joseph M. Still Research Foundation, USA
Abstract:
Much progress has been made in the development of biomaterials
to treat skin loss over the last 30 years. Looking towards the future, we
envision a new generation of skin substitutes that will produce a better
functional and aesthetic skin that will allow regeneration with minimal
scarring.
Key words:
biomaterials, skin substitutes, development, market.
15.1
Technological advances
During the time that current skin substitutes were conceived, there have been many
technological and biological advances that should be considered as a new genera-
tion of skin substitutes is developed (
Table 15.1)
. The focus now must shift from
patient survival to quality of life issues such as function, scar reduction and
improved aesthetics. For example, despite our best efforts in reconstructive
surgery, many facial and hand burn patients have appearances that are grossly
different from the norm, making integration back into society very difficult. As we
look at the future we should apply the advances made in all fields of science to
patients with burns and complex wounds. There have been major innovations in
biomaterials that allow us to design lightweight prostheses that can be servo-
controlled with direct input from the nervous system. Each year there are significant
improvements in microprocessor design and fabrication with recent advances in
nanotechnology. Advances in basic biology include composite tissue allografts,
genomics, proteinomics, cell signaling and cell culture systems. Advances in
surgery include critical care medicine, reconstructive surgery, wound care prod-
ucts and a better understanding of inflammation and scarring.
15.2
Changes in the market for skin substitutes
Burn prevention has had a major impact on reducing the number of large burns in
the USA and other developed countries. Smoke detectors are nearly universal in
our homes, hot water control mechanisms are common and better occupational
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