How it Works
The process typically involves using acellular fish skin grafts, meaning the fish cells and DNA have been removed, leaving behind a structural matrix of collagen and other proteins. This matrix is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
When applied to a wound, the fish skin graft acts as a scaffold. The patient's own cells migrate into the graft's pores, effectively "colonizing" it and using the structure to regenerate new tissue. The graft is not rejected by the human body because the fish DNA has been removed, and the structure is similar to that of human skin. Over time, the fish skin is absorbed and replaced by new human skin.
Application in Necrosis
Necrosis is the death of body tissue, often due to a lack of blood flow or a severe infection. Before a fish skin graft can be applied, the necrotic tissue must be surgically removed in a process called debridement. The healthy tissue is left exposed, and the fish skin graft is then placed on the wound bed.
Fish skin grafts are particularly useful for necrosis and other complex wounds because they can:
Promote granulation: They help to stimulate the growth of new, healthy tissue.
Reduce inflammation: The Omega-3 fatty acids help to modulate the inflammatory response, which can accelerate the healing process.
Provide a protective barrier: The graft acts as a physical barrier to prevent further infection and protect the wound.
Ease pain: Patients often report reduced pain after the application of a fish skin graft.
Avoid complications: By providing an off-the-shelf alternative to traditional skin grafts (which require taking skin from another part of the patient's body), fish skin grafts reduce the risk of complications like donor site morbidity.
Common Sources
The most common types of fish used for these grafts are Atlantic cod and Nile tilapia, due to their specific biological properties and sustainability. These grafts are available commercially and are approved by regulatory bodies in some regions, such as the FDA in the United States'