Our Summary

This study looked into the use of a new medical device, the acellular fish skin matrix, for helping wounds heal after certain types of cancer surgery. These surgeries often involve the need for skin grafts, which can leave behind wounds that take a long time to heal, are painful, and have a risk of infection. The researchers compared how patients healed with standard care versus using the fish skin matrix. They found that using the fish skin matrix cut healing time in half (from 68 days to 32 days on average), reduced pain, and reduced the rate of infection from 60% to 0%. While these results are promising, they note that the fish skin matrix is quite expensive, and suggest that more research is needed to figure out when it’s most cost-effective to use.

FAQs

  1. What is the acellular fish skin matrix and how does it help in wound healing after cancer surgery?
  2. How does the healing time, pain level and infection rate compare between standard care and using the fish skin matrix?
  3. What are some potential drawbacks to using the fish skin matrix in post-cancer surgery care?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing skin graft surgery to follow proper wound care instructions to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. This may include keeping the area clean and dry, changing dressings regularly, and avoiding activities that could cause trauma to the graft site. Additionally, the doctor may recommend avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy diet to support overall healing and recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended skin graft surgery include those with:

  1. Severe burns or injuries that have damaged a large area of the skin
  2. Chronic wounds that have not healed properly
  3. Skin conditions such as dermatitis or psoriasis that have caused significant damage
  4. Certain types of skin cancer that require surgical removal of tissue
  5. Birth defects or traumatic injuries that have caused significant loss of skin tissue
  6. Patients undergoing certain types of reconstructive or plastic surgery procedures.

Timeline

  • Before skin graft surgery:
  1. Patient consults with a healthcare provider to determine if skin graft surgery is necessary for their condition.
  2. Preoperative appointments and tests are conducted to assess the patient’s overall health and determine the best course of treatment.
  3. Patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting and avoiding certain medications.
  4. Skin graft surgery is scheduled and the patient is informed about what to expect during and after the procedure.
  • After skin graft surgery:
  1. Patient is monitored in a recovery room immediately following the surgery to ensure their safety.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the days following the surgery.
  3. Dressings are applied to the graft site to protect the new skin and promote healing.
  4. Patient is given instructions on how to care for the graft site, including changing dressings and keeping the area clean.
  5. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and determine if any further interventions are needed.
  6. Over time, the graft site heals and the patient may experience improved function and appearance in the affected area.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Can you explain the procedure to me in detail?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with skin graft surgery?
  3. How long will it take for the wound to heal after the surgery?
  4. What kind of aftercare will be required following the surgery?
  5. Will I experience any pain or discomfort during the healing process?
  6. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider?
  8. What is the success rate of skin graft surgeries for my specific condition?
  9. How will the use of the fish skin matrix impact my healing process compared to standard care?
  10. Are there any financial considerations or insurance coverage issues I should be aware of before proceeding with the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Badois N, Bauër P, Cheron M, Hoffmann C, Nicodeme M, Choussy O, Lesnik M, Poitrine FC, Fromantin I. Journal: J Wound Care. 2019 Sep 2;28(9):624-628. doi: 10.12968/jowc.2019.28.9.624. PMID: 31513492