Aseptically Processed Meshed Human Reticular Dermal Allografts Provide the Scaffold to Support Human Fibroblast Growth and Granulation Activities Which Can Facilitate Surgical Wound Closure

Background: Advances in pre-operative care and surgical techniques minimize complexities due to surgery, but surgical wounds still occur. Aseptically processed human reticular acellular dermal matrices (HR-ADMs) can provide an open architecture with preserved extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that support cell infiltration to facilitate wound closure. Meshing HR-ADMs offers clinical benefits, such as providing an inherently conformable allograft that is compatible with negative wound pressure therapy. A ready-to-use pre-meshed HR-ADM also saves valuable time in the OR. 

Purpose: The goal of this study was to investigate fibroblast behavior (normal/diabetic) on aseptically processed meshed HR-ADMs.

Methods: The meshing ratio was 3:1, which is commonly used in skin grafts for treating burns and other large traumatic wounds. Fibroblasts were seeded on expanded allografts and cultured. Histological and immunofluorescent imaging was performed to examine the rate of fill-in and bridging of the meshed areas.

Results: Results revealed that fibroblasts secreted ECM proteins which linked the meshed areas over time. In conclusion, aseptically processed meshed HR-ADMs provide the scaffold and preserved components that support fibroblast cell attachment, new matrix secretion, and bridging activities.

Conclusions: These remodeling activities aid towards wound closure even when the graft is fully expanded.