| Abstract [eng] |
Artificial skin is a multifunctional group of synthetic materials first used in the late 20th century, developed with the aim of discovering safer and more effective wound care than the standard methods used at the time. Some of the types of artificial skin that can be used in the treatment of burns are „Biobrane“, „TransCyte“, „Integra“ and „Matriderm“. „Biobrane“ is applied to the dermal layer of the damaged skin and temporarily acts as a replacement for the lost epidermis, and is therefore more suitable for the treatment of Grade I or II burns. „TransCyte“, composed of nylon mesh and human fibroblasts, is suitable for both short-term and long-term skin coverage. For deeper burns, „Integra“ or „Matriderm“, both with a bovine component, may be applied. Although artificial skin is readily available and has minimal storage requirements, it can be difficult to learn to use. Treatment with synthetic skin analogues results in faster and less painful wound healing and shorter hospital stays, and the resulting scars are more elastic and aesthetically pleasing. They can also improve the patient's range of movement after a burn. However, the use of a synthetic skin analogue may not be successful in its application or retention on the wound surface. Although infection is usually less common than with other standard methods of treating burns, the risk of infection remains. Artificial skin often comes at a higher price, but the overall cost of treatment may be reduced, depending on the need for medicines or procedures. Animal components not only raise allergy risks, but also cultural or ethical issues. As different types of artificial skin have different advantages and disadvantages, it is important to choose the most appropriate treatment for each patient. |
