Our data demonstrate that: (i) cultured autografts bearing stem cells can indeed rapidly and permanently cover a large body surface; and (ii) fibrin is a suitable substrate for keratinocyte cultivation and transplantation. These data lend strength to the concept that the success of cell therapy at a clinical level requires cultivation and transplantation of stem cells. We therefore suggest that the proposal of a culture system aimed at the replacement of any severely damaged self-renewing tissue should be preceded by a careful evaluation of its stem cell population.

Results of a national retrospective survey on Hyalomatrix PA in burn patients are reported.A total of 11 burn centers were contacted.A total of 57 patients were available. Hyalomatrix PA was used on young and adult patients, mainly in deep partial thickness and full thickness burns. In most cases, Hyalomatrix PA was applied immediately after the wound cleaning (wound debridement or escharectomy for adults, dermabrasion or debridement in young patients). After 7 days, reepithelization processes were more frequent in deep partial thickness burns. One-half of the patient population underwent grafting. After 29 days, complete closure was achieved in almost all patients. The Vancouver Scar Scale showed better values for adults, while no differences were observed for burn depth or patients undergoing grafting. No adverse reactions were recorded.Hyalomatrix PA is used in young and adults, in deep partial thickness and full thickness burns, as a temporary coverage before grafting or alone for wound healing.

Silicone gel sheets and intralesional corticosteroids are effective treatments for hypertrophic scars according to evidence studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate, both clinically and by ultrasound, the efficacy and tolerability of a topical self-drying silicone gel containing polysiloxane and silicone dioxide applied twice daily in eight hypertrophic scars. After 6 months all lesions showed evident clinical and/or ultrasound improvement, with a mean scar thickness reduction of 37% (range 20-54%). Although controlled trials in larger series of patients are necessary, our results suggest that the self-drying silicone gel may represent a safe and effective treatment for hypertrophic scars.