Treatment of a Series of Diabetic Foot Ulcers with Hydrated Shelf Stable Umbilical Cord Allograft

Background: Processing methods are integral to the success of any therapeutic tissue product and can alter the composition of key signaling molecules and maintenance of cells within the graft that are critical to the use of the product. While cryopreservation has been shown to maintain the innate biologic and structural integrity of natural tissue, the storage requirements of the product may present a barrier to use. A hydrated, shelf stable umbilical cord allograft (sUC) was recently introduced to the market with the goal of retaining the greater potency of umbilical cord allografts while allowing for controlled room temperature storage.

Methods: A series of 3 diabetic foot ulcers (~6 sq. cm., Wagner Grade 1 or 2) that were resistant to standard of care for four or more weeks were selected for treatment using sUC to evaluate its efficacy. The wounds were monitored weekly for 8 weeks and additional grafts were utilized as needed.

Results and Conclusion: At the conclusion of the follow-up period, all wounds were closed and the sUC product was determined to be a viable option in those facilities without access to refrigeration.