Innovative Biologic Dressings for Neonatal and Pediatric Wounds

Abstract

The landscape of neonatal and pediatric care has changed dramatically in the last decade. As more immature and critically ill neonates survive, newer treatments are offered, innovative approaches are tried and novel medications are developed. The growth and capabilities of clinical care have exploded, but with those, new complications in the care of neonatal and pediatric skin have surfaced. The intricacies of neonatal skin development are many. Birth and survival of extremely premature and critically ill infants facilitated the development of wounds of “immaturity” and wounds of “critical illness” such as extravasations, ostomies, and pressure injuries (PI) related to medical devices. Surgical wound dehiscence has become a familiar entity in neonatal units, as treatments for critical, previously incompatible-with-life conditions offer surgical hope every day. Understanding of pathophysiology of neonatal wounds, challenges in healing, nuances of treatment product compatibility, and safety can guide optimal care pathways. This chapter will offer a discussion on the common neonatal and pediatric wounds, healing stages, and approaches to safe and effective wound healing products, including amniotic membranes and umbilical cord dressings, collagen products, and fish skin grafts.