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Semin Plast Surg 2003; 17(1): 107-118
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-39861
Copyright © 2003 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Skin Substitutes: Past, Present, and Future

Charles E. Butler
  • Department of Plastic Surgery, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
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Publication History

Publication Date:
16 June 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Enormous advances in the development of skin substitutes have occurred over the past 3 decades. There are numerous commercially available skin substitutes, some of which can provide permanent dermis or epidermis. Unfortunately, no product available can permanently replace both dermis and epidermis in a single-stage application procedure. Several investigators have reported promising strategies for permanent skin replacement using a wide variety of components and culturing techniques. Obstacles to overcome in the quest for an ideal skin substitute include epidermal antigenicity, scarring, contraction, pigmentation, and loss of adnexal structures. The development, indications, and shortcomings of several currently used skin substitutes and promising experimental strategies are reviewed. The future direction of tissue-engineered skin substitutes is addressed with a focus on overcoming the current obstacles.

KEYWORDS

Skin substitutes - skin - keratinocytes - artificial skin - review

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