An in vitro epithelial model for the assessment of skin stripping caused by the removal of wound dressings

To determine the skin stripping effects of a test dressing against an in vitro epithelial cell model.

Epithelial cells were seeded in to 6-well plates at a 1 x 105 density and incubated until a confluency of 80% was reached. Cells were left to dry and dressings were applied and made to conform to the cell monolayer. Plates were left to incubate at room temperature over various time points to allow for dehydration effects of the dressings on the cell monolayer. Dressings were ‘stripped’ from the cells over 7 days. Crystal violet solution was added to the wells, aspirated, and washed. Once dry the cells were visualised using phase contrast microscopy in comparison to untreated cell and mechanical removal controls.

Non-adherent test wound dressings did not demonstrate significant stripping effects over the 7 days treatment. There was no damage to or removal of the cell monolayer compared to the untreated controls. Overall confluency of both treated and untreated cells had decreased by 4 days. Mechanical removal controls demonstrated significant disruption to the cells without causing significant damage to the adherent surface.

This model provides a rapid alternative in vitro solution to investigate skin stripping effects of wound dressings on an epithelial skin layer. The model is reproducible and does not require human or animal participants or a clinical study. It provides visualisation of the effects on epithelial cells over a 7 day test period.

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