How is artificial skin used in treating patients?

Integra Dermal Regeneration Template (DRT) was first approved by the FDA for life-threatening third degree burns, and the medical community appreciates its role in regenerating the dermis without the need for a full-thickness skin graft. The product also has FDA approval for reconstructive surgery, where a patient has suffered severe loss of tissue. Another big application area is treating non-healing chronic wounds, such as leg and foot ulcers. Integra DRT, when placed on an open wound, regenerates dermis in about three weeks. Describe the material makeup of Integra DRT. The active component is a bovine collagen matrix—about 100 microns in porosity. This collagen matrix layer is bonded to an outer layer of silicone, which peels off as the patient recovers. The collagen matrix is processed to maintain a sufficient number of biochemical cues to persuade a fibroblast entering the matrix that it is encountering healthy dermis. The cells respond by dividing and laying down basal lamina. ...  more