Scar Reduction Research Articles

Centellicum® improves scarring of traumatic wounds with irregular edges (lacerations).

Centellicum®, a standardized Centella Asiatica extract, has been used orally for fibrosis and scar prevention. The main aim of this 2-month registry pilot study was the reduction of visible, significant scars and keloids after suturing traumatic wounds with irregular edges (lacerations), using Centellicum®. The effects of oral Centellicum® (450 mg/day; 2 capsules) and a standard management (SM) on wound healing were compared with the effects of a control group that used only the standard management. Forty-eight otherwise healthy male subjects with lacerations requiring suturing were included in the study. 25 took Centellicum® in addition to the standard management and 24 followed the standard management only. No side effects were observed with the supplement. Centellicum® supplementation showed very good tolerability and compliance with 98% of the capsules correctly used. The two groups of otherwise healthy male subjects with lacerations were considered comparable at inclusion and there were no dropouts. No infections were observed. At 60 days, the scar dimensions were significantly smaller in the supplemented group (P<0.05). The elevation of the scar above the surrounding, non-affected skin, was also significantly reduced in the Centellicum® group compared to controls (P<0.05). Local pain levels were significantly lower (P<0.05) in the supplement group at 60 days. Additionally, the scar redness score was significantly lower in the supplement group compared to controls (P<0.05) by the end of the study. The incidence of initial keloid formation was significantly lower in the supplemented subjects at 60 days, as determined by finger-point pressure palpation and high-resolution ultrasound (P<0.05). Skin flux, as measured by laser Doppler flowmetry (indicating hypervascularization due to local inflammation) was lower (P<0.05) with Centellicum® at the end of the study. Inflammation, assessed via thermography (hot spots on the healing skin) was less visible and reduced in most areas in the supplement group (P<0.05) in comparison with the control group. Plasma oxidative stress was significantly lower in the Centellicum® group at the end of the study (P<0.05). Oral Centellicum® intake over 2 months improved healing of lacerations and reduced scarring, fibrosis and keloids at the level of the lesions. A larger study setup with more patients and with a prolonged study duration is needed to confirm these initial results.

Inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase 4 positive fibroblasts using zinc sulfide cellulose nanofiber scaffolds to achieve scarless healing

Wound regeneration with integral function and cutaneous appendages remains challenging in wound dressing applications. Cellulose nanofibers (CNF) exhibit remarkable characteristics in wound dressing applications; however, their utility in the wound healing process is limited by insufficient scar inhibition and regenerative healing. Herein, inspired by fibroblast heterogeneity mediating wound healing and skin regeneration, we developed a CNF scaffold designed to block Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 positive (DPP4+) fibroblasts for regenerative healing. CNF encapsulated sitagliptin (SITA) and zinc sulfide nanoparticles (NZnS), namely CNF@SITA@NZnS, to fabricate a novel biomaterial for scar reduction and regenerative healing. The scaffold promoted scarless healing and hair follicle regeneration in rats. In vivo experiments, the wounds in the scaffold showed less skin fibrosis, a better collagen ratio and more new hair follicles. In vitro experiments showed that the scaffold material promoted scarless healing, possibly by inhibiting the secretion of extracellular matrix and fibroblast-to-myofibroblast conversion. The promotion of hair follicle regeneration by the scaffold material may be due to promotion of the migration and proliferation of human hair follicle papilla cells. RNA sequencing is performed to explore the underlying mechanisms, which can activate ECM-receptor interaction pathway in favor of the wound healing process. The inhibiting effect of CNF@SITA@NZnS scaffold on DPP4+ fibroblasts can be a potential target to reduce scarring and promote skin regeneration.

Transformative Biomaterials in Burn Care: Utilizing Scaffolds, Hydrogels, and Chitosan for Optimized Healing and Scar Reduction

With over a million patients per year in the USA alone, burns are among the most common injuries in the world. In addition to preventing difficulties during burn injuries, the growing impact of scaffolds, hydrogels, cell scaffolds, and cell sheets with healing boosting elements expedite triggers and strengthens re-epithelialization and wound healing, which limits the creation of scars. While superficial partial-thickness and superficial burns typically heal without surgery, severe burns require special care, including topical antimicrobial surgery or bandages. Usually composed of polymeric biomaterials, scaffolds offer the structural support needed for cell adhesion and the subsequent formation of tissue. The term "tissue engineering triad" often refers to cells, scaffolds, and growth-stimulating signals. This may be accomplished in several ways by combining different polymers. Simple (planar) 3D structures may be produced using conventional and rapid prototyping techniques, but complicated structures have been successfully produced by carefully controlling the Molds and processing parameters. For biomedical and tissue engineering applications, chitosan has been widely employed (skin, bone, cartilage, and vascular grafts to substrates for mammalian cell culture). Additionally, it is renewable, biocompatible, biodegradable, nonantigenic, bioactive, and nontoxic.

Systematic Review: Keloid and Hypertrophic Scar Management Updates

Keloids and hypertrophic scars pose significant challenges in clinical management due to their propensity for recurrence and their impact on patient’s quality of life. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of various treatment modalities for these scars, with an emphasis on clinical outcomes, symptom alleviation, and recurrence rates. A comprehensive literature search identified studies published between 2014 and 2024, encompassing randomized controlled trials and observational studies. Results indicate that advanced therapies, such as botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), exhibit superior outcomes compared to traditional treatments, including triamcinolone acetonide (TAC), particularly concerning scar appearance and safety profiles. Furthermore, combination therapies, such as intralesional cryotherapy and CO2 fractional laser with intense pulsed light (IPL), demonstrated promising results in enhancing scar reduction and patient satisfaction. This review underscores the necessity of personalized treatment strategies tailored to individual patient requirements, taking into account factors such as scar characteristics and skin types. Future research should concentrate on optimizing treatment regimens to maximize efficacy while minimizing adverse effects, thereby ensuring long-term success in the management of keloids and hypertrophic scars.

Impact of CT attenuation correction on viable myocardium detection in combined SPECT and PET/CT: A retrospective cohort study.

The influence of computed tomography attenuation correction (CTAC) on the accuracy of diagnosing viable myocardium using Tc-99m-MIBI dedicated cardiac cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) combined with F-18-FDG Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) metabolic imaging, compared with conventional SPECT MPI, remains to be fully elucidated. To evaluate the impact of CTAC on the accuracy of diagnosing viable myocardium using Tc-99m-MIBI dedicated cardiac CZT SPECT MPI combined with F-18-FDG PET/CT, compared to conventional SPECT MPI. 193 patients underwent CZT SPECT and F-18-FDG PET/CT imaging, while 39 patients underwent conventional SPECT and F-18-FDG PET/CT imaging, with both groups utilizing CT for attenuation correction. The injured myocardium (hibernating and scarring) was quantified using the Q.PET software. After CTAC, both groups showed significant improvements in perfusion of the injured myocardial areas, particularly in the inferior wall (INF). The reduction in perfusion was more notable in the CZT SPECT group than that in the conventional group, particularly in the inferior and lateral walls. Among patients with large cardiac chambers, those undergoing MPI with CZT, with normal weights, or males, hibernating myocardium (HM) and scar post-CTAC reductions were particularly significant in the INF. If HM ≥ 10% is considered an indicator for recommended revascularization, among the 87 patients without prior cardiac bypass, 25 (28.7%) might not require revascularization treatment. Dedicated cardiac CZT SPECT and conventional SPECT MPI combined with F-18-FDG PET/CT significantly influenced the assessment of viable myocardium. The impact of CTAC was more profound in dedicated cardiac CZT SPECT, particularly in the INF region. CTAC significantly enhances the accuracy of viable myocardial assessment and may influence clinical decisions regarding revascularization therapy. Therefore, CTAC should be routinely used in dedicated cardiac CZT SPECT MPI combined with F-18-FDG PET/CT for myocardial viability diagnosis.

Three-dimensional bioprinted cell-adaptive hydrogel with anisotropic micropores for enhancing skin wound healing

Engineered matrices with aligned microarchitectures are pivotal in regulating the fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition, a critical process for wound healing and scar reduction. However, developing a three-dimensional (3D) aligned matrix capable of effectively controlling this transition remains challenging. Herein, we developed a cell-adaptive hydrogel with highly oriented microporous structures, fabricated through bioprinting of thermo/ion/photo-crosslinked gelatin methacrylate/sodium alginate (GelMA/SA) incorporating shear-oriented polyethylene oxide (PEO) filler. The synergistic interactions among GelMA, PEO, and SA yield a homogeneous mixture conducive to the printing of biomimetic 3D constructs with anisotropic micropores. These anisotropic micropores, along with the biochemical cues provided by the GelMA/PEO/SA scaffolds, enhance the oriented spreading and organization of fibroblasts. The resultant spread and aligned cellular morphologies promote the transition of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. By co-culturing human keratinocytes on the engineered dermal layer, we successfully create a bilayer skin construct, wherein the keratinocytes establish tight junctions accompanied by elevated expression of cytokeratin-14, while the fibroblasts display a highly spread morphology with increased fibronectin expression. The printed hydrogels accelerate full-thickness wound closure by establishing a bioactive microenvironment that mitigate inflammation and stimulate angiogenesis, myofibroblast transition, and extracellular matrix remodeling. This anisotropic hydrogel demonstrates substantial promise for applications in skin tissue engineering.

Microenvironments‐Modulated Biomaterials Enhance Spinal Cord Injury Therapy

AbstractSpinal cord injury (SCI) results from various causes, including sports‐related incidents, degenerative cervical myelopathy, traffic accidents, and falls. SCI typically leads to sensory and motor dysfunction and even paralysis. Current treatments for SCI include systemic administration of high‐dose steroids and surgical decompression and stabilization. However, excessive use of glucocorticoids may increase susceptibility to infections and systemic bleeding. The long‐term effect of surgery intervention remains unclear, with ongoing debates regarding its timing, efficacy, and safety. Therefore, innovative approaches are urgently needed to alleviate secondary injuries and promote spinal recovery. One emerging therapeutic approach for SCI is modulating the microenvironments to achieve neuroprotection and neurogenesis during recovery. Several biomaterials with favorable physicochemical properties have been developed to enhance therapeutic effects by regulating microenvironments. This Review first discusses the pathology of SCI microenvironments and then introduces biomaterials‐based regulatory strategies targeting various microenvironmental components, including anti‐inflammation, anti‐oxidation, reduction of excitotoxicity, revascularization, neurogenesis, and scar density reduction. Additionally, the research and clinical application prospects for microenvironment regulation are presented.

COMPARISON OF EFFICACY OF TOPICAL TAZAROTENE 0.1% CREAM VS ADEPALENE 0.3% AND BENZOYL PEROXIDE 2.5% IN TREATING ATROPHIC ACNE SCARS

Atrophic acne scars are a common dermatological concern that significantly impacts patients' self-esteem and quality of life. Topical treatments such as Tazarotene and combinations of Adapalene and Benzoyl Peroxide are often used to improve the appearance of these scars. However, their comparative effectiveness requires further evaluation. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of Tazarotene 0.1% cream versus a combination of Adapalene 0.3% and Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% in treating atrophic acne scars. Methods: This study was conducted in the Dermatology Department of PIMS, Islamabad, from January to June 2024, following approval from the hospital’s ethical committee. A total of 140 participants with atrophic acne scars were enrolled and divided into two groups. Group A received Tazarotene 0.1% cream, while Group B was treated with a combination of Adapalene 0.3% and Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5%, both applied once daily at night. The treatment duration was 12 weeks. The severity of acne scars was assessed using the Global Atrophic Acne Scar Scale (GAASS), and the impact on quality of life was measured using the Quality-of-Life Score. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 26, with significance set at p &lt; 0.05. Results: The mean age of participants was 40.40 ± 11.24 years. Before treatment, GAASS scores were comparable between Group A (3.70 ± 0.64) and Group B (3.80 ± 0.65, p = 0.36). After 12 weeks, Group A showed significantly greater improvement, with a mean GAASS score of 1.72 ± 0.63 compared to 2.17 ± 0.77 in Group B (p = 0.00). Patient satisfaction was also higher in Group A (7.4 ± 1.5) compared to Group B (6.8 ± 1.7, p = 0.00). The Quality-of-Life Score was slightly higher in Group A (85.3 ± 5.2) than in Group B (82.7 ± 6.1), although this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.14). Side effects were reported in 17.1% of Group A and 27.1% of Group B (p = 0.15). Conclusion: Tazarotene 0.1% cream was more effective than the combination of Adapalene 0.3% and Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% in treating atrophic acne scars. Despite no significant difference in quality-of-life improvements between the two treatments, tazarotene patients experienced more significant scar reduction, higher satisfaction, and fewer side effects.

Invasive wild boar affected feral hog skull evolution over 25 years in Brazilian Pantanal wetland

Abstract The morphological plasticity of the Sus scrofa wild–domestic species complex is evident in both free-ranging morphotypes and domestic breeds. The Brazilian Pantanal feral hog (“porco-monteiro”) evolved after a long-term feralization process and represents a significant proportion of the mammalian biomass in the region. Its coexistence with native fauna brings several ecological impacts, which are mitigated by the Brazilian Pantanal wetland vastness and resource availability. They are a local subsistence game resource but also impact crops and pastures. Around the 2000s to mid-2010s, numerous European wild boar were introduced in Brazil to fulfill a demand for gourmet meat. Wild boar was also introduced to the Brazilian Pantanal as a game species and to breed with porco-monteiro feral hogs in a commercial venture to produce an even more exotic meat. The craze for wild boar meat has since dwindled, but their populations remain widespread and uncontrolled. Moreover, the full impact of the wild boar introduction on feral hog populations is still unknown. This study analyzes the skulls of porco-monteiro feral hogs from the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s to assess possible morphological and functional variations along with skulls of wild boar and hybrids from Argentina, Uruguay, and Southern Brazil. The results indicate a trend of broadening of feral hog skulls at the coronal plane and a progressive reduction of the semispinalis capitis muscle scars over the decades. Biomechanical analysis denoted a decrease in head-elevation force that could affect the rooting performance of the latest feral hog morphotypes. Taken together, results show that wild boars likely influenced the evolution of the Pantanal feral hog skull. The magnitude of ecomorphological implications of these morphofunctional changes is unknown, as well as its effects in the Brazilian Pantanal wetland ecology.

Advanced Wound Healing and Scar Reduction Using an Innovative Anti-ROS Polysaccharide Hydrogel with Recombinant Human Collagen Type III.

Excessive fibrotic scar formation during skin defect repair poses a formidable challenge, impeding the simultaneous acceleration of wound healing and prevention of scar formation and hindering the restoration of skin integrity and functionality. Drawing inspiration from the structural, compositional, and biological attributes of skin, we developed a hydrogel containing modified recombinant human collagen type III and thiolated hyaluronic acid to address the challenges of regenerating skin appendages and improving the recovery of skin functions after injury by reducing fibrotic scarring. The hydrogel displayed favorable biocompatibility, antioxidant properties, angiogenic potential, and fibroblast migration stimulation in vitro. In a rat full-layer defect model, it reduced inflammation, promoted microvascular formation, and significantly enhanced the wound healing speed and effectiveness. Additionally, by upregulating fibrosis-associated genes, such as TGFB1, it facilitated collagen accumulation and a beneficial balance between type I and type III collagen, potentially expediting skin regeneration and functional recovery. In conclusion, the utilization of rhCol III-HS demonstrated considerable potential as a wound dressing, offering a highly effective strategy for the restoration and rejuvenation of complete skin defects.

Utilizing Amniotic Membrane Allograft as regenerative therapy for Treating Burns

Burn injuries are prevalent among all age groups and can result from thermal, scald, or electrical sources. Currently, various scaffolds are employed to enhance the healing process and minimize scar formation. Collagen serves as a scaffold, facilitating tissue regeneration and promoting the formation of new blood vessels. Additionally, scaffolds such as amniotic membrane aid in proper epithelialization and scar reduction, boasting unique anti-inflammatory and bacteriostatic properties. In our study, we utilized amniotic membrane allograft as a biological dressing for burn wounds on an adult patient's right thigh.

A Comparative Analysis of the Advances in Scar Reduction: Techniques, Technologies, and Efficacy in Plastic Surgery.

The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest methodologies and treatments aimed at improving scar management. Scar formation results from the replacement of normal skin with fibroblasts, leading to a structured unidirectional collagen bundle, as opposed to the collagen sheet matrix found in healthy skin. This review categorizes scars into hypertrophic scars and keloids, each with distinct pathophysiological characteristics. It highlights the importance of consistent scar assessment using scales such as the Vancouver Scar Scale and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, emphasizing the need for standardized evaluation methods. The study systematically reviews various scar management techniques, ranging from traditional surgical methods to innovative treatments. Conventional approaches such as pressure garments and silicone gel sheeting are explored, noting their roles in maintaining hydration and occlusion. The efficacy of intralesional corticosteroid injections and laser therapies is discussed, with particular attention given to their combined use for optimal outcomes. The review also covers advanced techniques such as microneedling, platelet-rich plasma therapy, and stem cell-based treatments, detailing their mechanisms and potential benefits in scar remodelling. Additionally, the study underscores the emerging role of botulinum toxin A in both preventive and corrective scar treatments, offering promising results in reducing movement-induced scar exaggeration. The systematic review includes a thorough examination of existing literature, clinical trials, and meta-analyses to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions. It concludes by calling for further research to refine these techniques and enhance their application in clinical practice, aiming to achieve better aesthetic and functional outcomes for patients with scars.

Abstract Mo040: Enhanced neovascularisation does not account for preservation of cardiac function by 11βHSD1 inhibition in a pig model of myocardial infarction

While acute post-myocardial infarction (MI) survival has improved thanks to early intervention, the myocardium still sustains damage that increases the risk of heart failure. Adrenal glucocorticoids (GCs) protect cardiomyocytes immediately after MI, but inhibition of GC regeneration within the heart by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11βHSD1) during infarct repair prevents subsequent deterioration of ventricular structure and function. In the 11βHSD1-knockout mouse this outcome is associated with enhancement of peri-infarct neovascularisation and prevention of infarct expansion. Here, we tested the hypothesis that pharmacological 11βHSD1 inhibition after MI can preserve function in a translational pig model and investigated the role of neovascularisation. MI was induced in female minipigs via temporary coronary occlusion. A standard clinical therapy (SCT, n =9) group received statin, anti-platelet, βadrenoreceptor antagonist and ACE inhibitor immediatley after MI, and a 11βHSD1i group (n=11) received SCT +11βHSD1 inhibitor (50mg/kg) from 48h after MI until the end of the study. Prior to 11βHSD1i treatment, short-axis cine and late gadolinium-enhanced MRI showed no difference in either infarct mass (4.2±0.4g SCT vs 4.0±0.6g 11βHSD1i) or ejection fraction (EF; 60.6±2.9% SCT vs 56.6±1.8% 11βHSD1i). However, by 28 days after MI, while EF was reduced in SCT pigs to 48±4%, it was maintained in pigs given additional 11βHSD1i treatment (57.9±1.8%, p &lt;0.05 vs SCT). Infarct mass did not differ between the two treatments, suggesting that inhibition of infarct expansion did not account for the improvement in function, this was confirmed by a similar area of infarct collagen in histological analysis. Angiogenesis, represented by an increase in CD31 +ve capillaries, was not enhanced in the infarct or the border zone (BZ) after 11βHSD1i treatment, relative to SCT. While vessel maturation (αSMA +ve vessels) was improved in the infarct compared to the remote myocardium, there was no difference between the two groups. Proteomic pathway analysis of the BZ indicated extracellular matrix organisation as the main pathway regulated by 11βHSD1i compared to SCT. In conclusion, 11βHSD1i after MI successfully preserves cardiac function and structure but the mechanism is independent of scar size reduction or enhanced neovascularisation. Instead, the beneficial effects of 11βHSD1i are likely to result from favourable regulation of collagen processing during scar formation.

Exosome-mediated Advancements in Plastic Surgery: Navigating Therapeutic Potential in Skin Rejuvenation and Wound Healing.

Exosomes, tiny extracellular vesicles derived from various cells such as adipose-derived stem cells, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells, exhibit considerable potential in wound healing due to their ability to facilitate cell communication and modulate inflammatory responses. These exosomes contribute positively to collagen synthesis and scar reduction, and have shown efficacy in documented clinical cases of wound improvement. Although research indicates their potential in reducing hypertrophic scars and suppressing keloid fibroblasts, further clinical investigations are warranted. In plastic surgery, exosome application postsurgery can enhance wound healing, particularly in cases prone to swelling or poor healing conditions. This study incorporates five case reports of individuals undergoing exosome treatment (EXOP; Sihler Inc., and Exodew; Hyundaimeditech, Inc.) for wound healing, providing practical insights into the application of this therapeutic approach. The five case reports presented in this study demonstrate the practical applications and efficacy of exosome therapy in promoting wound healing and reducing scarring. Exosomes emerge as a promising avenue within the field of plastic surgery, showcasing their potential to enhance wound healing, reduce scarring, and improve overall outcomes in clinical settings. The findings from this study underscore the importance of further exploration into the therapeutic benefits of exosomes in wound management, paving the way for their widespread adoption in clinical practice.

Applications of Plasma‐Rich Plasma, Exosomes, and Stem Cells in Aesthetics: A Narrative Review

ABSTRACTIntroductionPlasma‐rich plasma (PRP), exosomes, and stem cells represent promising new treatments for facial rejuvenation and to enhance other cosmetic procedures. Although these treatments are rapidly advancing, there are no universally accepted treatment protocols for their use. The goal of the following review is to describe some of the possible benefits of PRP, exosomes, and stem cells in aesthetic medicine.ResultsA review of available studies showed that potential uses of PRP include wound healing after facial surgery, facial rejuvenation, androgenetic alopecia, acne scars, striae distensae, and vitiligo. Exosomes may provide beneficial treatment for skin rejuvenation, scar reduction, hyperpigmentation, and hair growth. Stem cells show promise for androgenetic alopecia, scar improvement, and treatment of photoaged skin. These new technologies may be used alone, but are often combined with existing aesthetic treatments.ConclusionPRP, exosomes, and stem cells may play an important role in restoring youthful tissue structure and function. Interpretation of some study results is sometimes challenged by the lack of standardized treatment protocols, including routes of application and dosing. When combined with other devices and techniques, results are sometime unclear as to which treatment plays the greater role.

Investigating the Impact of Wound Edge Approximation with Skin Grafting on Hypertrophic Scar Reduction: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

In modern burn care, the focus extends beyond mere patient survival to encompass long-term functional and cosmetic outcomes. Research suggests that the technique and manner of suturing during skin grafting play a significant role in scar formation. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of wound edge approximation with skin grafting compared to the conventional approach, where the graft edge exclusively interacts with the wound edge, in reducing hypertrophic scar development. Seventy-four burn unit patients eligible for grafting were randomly allocated into two groups: those receiving grafts with overlapping edges (Group A) and those receiving grafts with edges tailored to the burn wound (Group B). Evaluation of graft sites occurred immediately post-surgery and at 1 and 6 months post-operatively using the standardized Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) administered by trained surgeons. The findings of this study revealed that there was no statistically significant difference between the two examined groups regarding the average duration of hospitalization and the mean thickness of wounds (P>0.05). Similarly, the mean scores for pain, vascular index, and pigmentation index immediately post-surgery, at 1 month, and 6 months later, as well as the scar height index and flexibility immediately and at 1 month post-surgery, and the Vancouver Scar Scale index at the study's conclusion, showed no significant variation between the two groups (P>0.05). However, at the 6-month follow-up, the mean scar height score (P=0.004) in the overlapping group and the mean flexibility score (P=0.017) in the non-overlapping group were significantly lower compared to the respective alternative group. This indicates a notable improvement in scar height and wound flexibility in the overlapping group over the non-overlapping group after 6 months.

Regenerative Cosmetics: Skin Tissue Engineering for Anti-Aging, Repair, and Hair Restoration

The quest for youthful, healthy skin and full, vibrant hair has long been a driving force in the dermocosmetics field. However, traditional approaches often struggle to address the underlying causes of aging, damage, and hair loss. Regenerative cosmetics powered by skin tissue engineering offer a transformative alternative. This review explores the emerging field of using engineered skin tissues for cosmetic purposes, focusing specifically on their potential for anti-aging, repair, and hair restoration applications. We discuss how these technologies aim to rejuvenate aging skin by promoting collagen production, reducing wrinkles, and improving overall skin function. Additionally, the use of engineered skin for wound healing and scar reduction is examined, highlighting their potential to improve the appearance and functionality of damaged skin. Finally, we advance the exciting prospects of utilizing skin tissue engineering techniques to regenerate hair follicles, potentially offering solutions for hair loss and promoting denser hair growth.

Vertical Scar Reduction Mammaplasty Using the Superomedial-Based Pedicle Technique in Gigantomastia.

Breast reduction surgery has witnessed significant advancements in recent years; however, it continues to pose challenges for both surgeons and patients when dealing with cases involving excessive breast volume and severe breast ptosis. This study aimed to assess the aesthetic outcomes and the impact on the quality of life, as measured by the BREAST-Q questionnaire, in patients with gigantomastia and severe breast ptosis who underwent reduction mammaplasty using the superomedial-based pedicle technique. We present a retrospective series comprising 84 patients who underwent reduction mammoplasty utilizing the superomedial pedicle technique. The surgical resections exceeded 1 kg per breast, with a mean resection weight of 1506.58 g (right breast) and 1500.32 g (left breast). The preoperative mean suprasternal notch to nipple distance measured 40.50 cm (right breast) and 40.38 cm (left breast). Postoperatively, the patients were followed up for a minimum of 6 months. Both preoperative and postoperative BREAST-Q surveys were administered to the participants, and scores were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Complications were observed in 3 patients (3.57%), characterized by partial loss of the areola, which resolved spontaneously over time. Additionally, 2 cases of hematoma and 2 instances of minor delayed wound healing were reported. All patients expressed satisfaction with their aesthetic outcomes, as they achieved a natural breast shape and minimal scarring, along with symptomatic relief. The superomedial pedicle reduction mammaplasty technique has demonstrated its ability to produce satisfactory aesthetic outcomes and long-term benefits in patients with excessively large breasts. Careful patient selection and postoperative management are vital for achieving optimal results. Further investigations involving larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are warranted to validate our findings. IV.

Bioorthogonal targeted cell membrane vesicles/cell-sheet composites reduce postoperative tumor recurrence and scar formation of melanoma

While surgical resection is the predominant clinical strategy in the treatment of melanoma, postoperative recurrence and undetectable metastasis are both pernicious drawbacks to this otherwise highly successful approach. Furthermore, the deep cavities result from tumor excision can leave long lasting wounds which are slow to heal and often leave visible scars. These unmet needs are addressed in the present work through the use of a multidimensional strategy, and also promotes wound healing and scar reduction. In the first phase, cell membrane-derived nanovesicles (NVs) are engineered to show PD-1 and dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO). These are capable of reactivating T cells by blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. In the second phase, azido (N3) labeled mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are cultured into cell sheets using tissue engineering, then apply directly to surgical wounds to enhance tissue repair. Owing to the complementary association between DBCO and N3 groups, PD-1 NVs were accumulated at the site of excision. This strategy can inhibit postoperative tumor recurrence and metastasis, whilst also promoting wound healing and reducing scar formation. The results of this study set a precedent for a new and innovative multidimensional therapeutic strategy in the postoperative treatment of melanoma.

Correlation Between General Satisfaction with the Breasts and Appearance of the Scars in Patients Undergoing Inverted T-Scar Reduction Mammaplasty: A Prospective PROMs-Based Study.

Inverted-T scar reduction mammaplasty is still the most chosen technique for breast reduction even if scars are relevant. Sometimes, surgical scars may be esthetically unpleasant and may cause severe pain, tenderness, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression in these patients. This study aimed to assess any possible correlation between general satisfaction with the breast and appearance of the scars in patients who underwent inverted T-scar reduction mammaplasty. Secondary aim was to evaluate average variations of BREAST-Q and SCAR-Q at different postoperative times. 121 patients who underwent breast reduction using Pitanguy technique with inferiorly based dermo-adipose flap according to Ribeiro were enrolled in this prospective cross-sectional study. All patients filled the BREAST-Q REDUCTION and SCAR-Q questionnaires in paper form at 1, 6 and 12 months after surgery. BREAST-Q REDUCTION "Satisfaction with breast" scale was also administered preoperatively. Values were exported in Prism 9 for the statistical analysis. Correlation index of Pearson between "Satisfaction with breast" and "Appearance of scar" was 0.09 at 1 month post-operative and - 0.07 and 0.21 at 6 and 12 months PO respectively. "Satisfaction with breast" mean value tends to rise over time. "Appearance of scar" mean value tends to decrease over time. No correlation at different postoperative times between the general satisfaction with the breast and appearance of the scars was found. Data showed that satisfaction with the breast and appearance of the scars in patients who underwent inverted T-scar reduction mammaplasty tend to improve over time. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .