Advancements in Bioengineered and Autologous Skin Grafting Techniques for Skin Reconstruction: a Comprehensive Review

Overview

Journal Front Bioeng Biotechnol

Date 2025 Jan 22

PMID 39840132

Authors

Jillian Dean

Cosima Hoch

Barbara Wollenberg

Justin Navidzadeh

Bhagvat Maheta

Anisha Mandava

Samuel Knoedler

Khalil Sherwani

Helena Baecher

Alina Schmitz

Michael Alfertshofer

Max Heiland

Kilian Kreutzer

Steffen Koerdt

Leonard Knoedler

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The reconstruction of complex skin defects challenges clinical practice, with autologous skin grafts (ASGs) as the traditional choice due to their high graft take rate and patient compatibility. However, ASGs have limitations such as donor site morbidity, limited tissue availability, and the necessity for multiple surgeries in severe cases. Bioengineered skin grafts (BSGs) aim to address these drawbacks through advanced tissue engineering and biomaterial science. This study conducts a systematic review to describe the benefits and shortcomings of BSGs and ASGs across wound healing efficacy, tissue integration, immunogenicity, and functional outcomes focusing on wound re-epithelialization, graft survival, and overall aesthetic outcomes. Preliminary findings suggest ASGs show superior early results, while BSGs demonstrate comparable long-term outcomes with reduced donor site morbidity. This comparative analysis enhances understanding of bioengineered alternatives in skin reconstruction, potentially redefining best practices based on efficacy, safety, and patient-centric outcomes, highlighting the need for further innovation in bioengineered solutions.

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