Frequently Asked Questions
Click on the links below to discover the answers to the most regularly asked questions regarding ReCell.
If you have a question that has not been covered on this page, please let us know.
Why is it necessary to speed the healing process?
Research from Dietch et. al. and others have demonstrated the need to speed healing to avoid the formation of hypertrophic scars. Dietch found that a burn wound that takes 21 days or more to heal has a 78% or greater risk of developing a significant scar. A burn wound that heals in less than 10 days has only a 4% risk of developing scar hypertrophy.
Wounds that takes longer to heal increase the need for hospitalisation and the overall costs of treatment. Increased costs and hospitalisation impacts significantly on the patient, hospital and the community at large.
Click here for more information on ReCell scientific rationale.
What sort of wounds can be treated?
ReCell can be used to treat wounds that require the replacement of epithelial tissue. This includes burns, scalds, other trauma resulting in skin loss, the surgical revision of scars, hypopigmentation disorders (such as Vitiligo) and prophylactically during cosmetic rejuvenation. ReCell has also been used to replace site specific epithelium such as glabrous tissue.
ReCell
is used in isolation in partial thickness injuries and can be used in
conjunction with dermal replacement technologies, such as Integra®,
or wide meshed graft in full thickness injuries.
Wounds can not be
treated with ReCell if there is a pre-existing
infection or uncontrolled necrosis. Generally speaking, the
underlying cause of the skin defect (e.g. acne, Vitiligo) must be
under control otherwise ReCell will not have any
lasting effect or may not work at all.
Click here for more details on indications and contraindications.
What size biopsy is required?
Only a small, thin split-thickness biopsy is required to produce enough cells to treat wounds up to 320cm2.
Biopsy
specifications
Thin,
split-thickness biopsy 0.2 to 0.3mm (0.006") depth
1cm x 1cm
biopsy to treat 80cm²
2cm x 2cm biopsy to treat 320cm²
Why is a thin biopsy needed?
Cells
are harvested from the dermal-epidermal junction as they are
generally more prolific. Full-thickness biopsies take much longer to
process and may result in the formation of scars. We urge surgeons to
take only a thin biopsy.
How can I get ReCell?
ReCell is available to suitably qualified surgeons in countries where ReCell is approved.
ReCell is generally available through local distributors who have the necessary resources to provide comprehensive clinical support and after sales service.
Click here to find a distributor in your area.