Summary of the skin substitute revolution - skin coverings in the modern era of healthcare.

Abstract

Skin substitutes and covers are crucial across surgical disciplines, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration to meet varied clinical needs. While some medical professionals may encounter these products infrequently in their practice, understanding their properties and applications is paramount to provide optimal patient care. In this overview, we aim to provide healthcare professionals with essential information regarding skin substitutes and covers, equipping them with knowledge to navigate their use effectively across different clinical scenarios and to optimize patient outcomes. The speed of progress in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine is notable, driven by collaborative efforts among scientists, engineers, and clinicians. Technological advancements, increased funding, and a deeper understanding of cellular and molecular processes have accelerated research and development. However, challenges remain, such as achieving vascularization in engineered tissues, addressing immune responses, and ensuring long-term functionality of regenerated organs. Despite these hurdles, the field continues to evolve rapidly, offering hope for transformative medical solutions that may redefine the treatment landscape soon. In this article, we review the current selected commercially available epidermal, dermal, and total skin substitutes for wound healing.