Use of gamma-irradiated amniotic membrane for the healing of split skin graft donor site

Abstract

The management of split skin graft donor site is targeted towards promoting the healing process, while minimizing adverse effects and complications. The aim was to study the efficacy of gamma-irradiated amniotic membrane dressing for the healing of split skin graft donor site. Amniotic membranes isolated from the placenta were processed and sterilized by gamma radiation. Thirty patients with split skin graft donor site were included in the study. The average age of the patients was 33.33±16.45 years in study group and 38.93±18.52 years in control group. The average ulcer size was 92.8±66.2 cm2 in study group and 82.5±56.0 cm2 in control group. Processed amniotic membranes were applied just after taking split skin graft. Split skin graft donor site was assessed on day 8 and 12 for epithelialization, pain during change of dressing, discharge from donor site, status of healing and any adverse reactions. Significant (p 0.05). Significant (p < 0.001) enhancement in the healing of donor site was observed with amniotic membrane dressing as compared to the paraffin gauze dressing. The patients with processed gamma-irradiated amniotic membrane experienced no pain during change of dressing and improved epithelialization.