Use of Tilapia Skin Xengraft in the Treatment of Burns: A Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Burn is an injury to organic tissues as a result of thermal trauma. The use of tilapia skin as a biological dressing, which has been shown to be a promising, innovative and effective treatment for the treatment of extensive burns. Goal: To analyze the difference in the use of tilapia skin xenograft in burn healing, as well as the risk factors and final result. Method: Bibliographic review carried out from October to November 2022, using 12 articles in the PubMed database to compose the collection. Review: It is known that the lipid composition of tilapia skin acts positively as an immunoregulator, antimicrobial and scar modulator. Appropriate management is needed, both in skin removal and in sterilization and storage. Compared to the hydrofiber solution with silver, the use of Nile tilapia skin resulted in a decrease in pain and in the number of dressing changes, at the same time providing less possibility of infection. Therefore, it results in less use of pain medication, generating better recovery for the patient and less workload for the team. The tilapia xenograft presented limitations in the treatment of extensive burns and skin fold sites, being contraindicated in these cases. Conclusion:In view of its benefits, Nile tilapia skin can benefit patients with indication and public health systems due to its low cost and high effectiveness.