In vitro and in vivo studies of a temporary absorbable dressing

: The major advantage of biodegradable synthetic wound dressings compared to other synthetic materials and biological tissue derivatives is avoidance of the necessity to change the dressing. The copolymer films used in this study were made of lactic and caproic acid. They pose no problems concerning immunology or transmission of diseases. Moreover, the substances released by degradation may possibly influence the process of wound healing. The material proved to be non-toxic and was used successfully as a carrier for cell culture with keratinocytes. The permeability for bacteria is determined by degradation. Evaluation of the bacteriological studies indicates secure protection against secondary contamination of the films for at least 15 days, however. Concerning application, dressing properties, wound healing and wound retraction, no disadvantages were found in comparison with the results of the competition's film Opsite. Based on these findings, the films are now used in a clinical study as a wound dressing for split-skin donor sites.