The Use of an Adipose Allograft Matrix to Augment Tissue Deficits in Diabetic Patients: A Case Series

Introduction: Diabetic foot ulcers and their resultant skin defects are common and costly challenges for healthcare providers. Recent advances in tissue engineering have given rise to new promising treatment options to help with wound repair and tissue augmentation. Newly available adipose tissue grafts can have utility in treating diabetic patients suffering with chronic wounds, pre-ulcerative callus, post-traumatic injuries, and decreased tissue integrity.

Material and Methods: In this 3-patient case series the author evaluated the outcomes of soft tissue deficits in the feet of patients with diabetes treated with an allograft adipose matrix (AAM). The AAM is an off-the-shelf alternative to autologous fat grafts that has been engineered to act similarly without the need for harvest, thus decreasing the associated complications. The AAM was injected around areas of callus to help decrease friction and prevent reformation, to augment subcutaneous tissues around ulceration and to treat areas of skin adhesions and reverse volume loss in cases of diabetic foot ulcers in remission. Patients were followed weekly to track tissue healing and monitor for any adverse events.

Results: These three cases of common diabetic foot complications progressed well after the injection of the AAM. There was resolution of the skin deficits that could otherwise have led to increased patient morbidity. No adverse events were noted throughout this study and patient outcome satisfaction was high.

Discussion: The utility of AAMs is far reaching. As this case study illustrates, AAMs can be very effective when injected around ulcerative site and can lead to rapid wound healing. AAM products can be used to augment protective padding around areas of increased pressure typically prone to skin breakdown. This is an emerging area of interest with a great deal of potential.