Cultured keratinocytes in fibrin with decellularised dermis close porcine full-thickness wounds in a single step

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of combined keratinocyte and dermal scaffold transplantation performed in a single step for treatment of full-thickness wounds. Cultured autologous keratinocytes were suspended in fibrin and grafted together with decellularised human dermis (Alloderm®) in a porcine animal model, involving 10 animals over 4 weeks. Wound healing was evaluated by planimetry. Histology included morphological analysis as well as immunohistochemistry at regular intervals (1, 2 and 4 weeks). The results showed both successful histo-integration of the in vivo composite grafts and reduced wound contraction, compared with the control group (plain epithelial grafts). Histologically a neo-epithelium originated from the grafted cells on top of the decellularised dermis, as well as a reconstituted basement membrane. After 4 weeks cellular ingrowth into the dermal matrix could be observed. The successful combination of a keratinocyte–fibrin suspension and acellular dermis applied in a single step onto full-thickness wounds resulted in closure.