Abstract
Histologic appearance of cultured epithelial autograft (CEA) biopsies obtained up to 2100 days after application from patients with burn injuries differs from time-matched, meshed expanded autograft. The CEA interface with underlying bed remained flat for up to 3 years in three of four patients. CEA epidermal rete ridges, if formed subsequently, were fewer, thinner, and shorter, whereas expanded split-thickness skin grafts had well-defined rete ridges after 1 year. CEA basal layer remained separated from its bed up to 50 days after application, and late blister formation was seen on occasion for up to 3 years. The underlying bed was homogeneous up to 2 years; later some beds demonstrated differentiation with superficial, fine, filamentous collagen fibers and deeper, thick collagen fibers. Fine elastin filaments were initially identified in the superficial bed after 1 year in some specimens and in all after 3 years. Delay in rete ridge formation may explain poor adherence and poor stability.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
