Silk-elastin sponge is effective for burn therapy after surgical debridement.

Abstract

Silk-elastin is an artificial protein that helps promote wound healing. The present study was performed to examine the effect of silk-elastin on burns using an animal model. Partial- and full-thickness burns were applied to the back of rats using a metal device. And the necrotic tissue was excised via surgical debridement and dressing materials were applied. Two groups, namely, the silk-elastin sponge and control groups, were established in the case of deep partial-thickness burns and full-thickness burns, respectively. Tissue samples from the partial-thickness burn model obtained at the 5th day and the 7th day after debridement were analyzed. The length of epithelization in the tissue sample and wound healing rate were evaluated on macro-photographs. And tissue samples from the full-thickness burn model obtained at the 7th day and 14th day after debridement were analyzed. The area of granulation, length of epithelization, and number of vessels in the tissue sample and wound healing rate were evaluated on macro-photographs. The silk-elastin group showed a better wound healing rate and superior epithelization and granulation and angiogenesis in comparison to control group. And our findings on day 14 in full-thickness burn suggest a potential difference in the quality of scars. Silk-elastin sponge can help promote burn wound healing after debridement. This new material can accelerate epithelization, granulation, and neoangiogenesis at the early stage after application with less dressing change. We believe that silk-elastin is a good material for use in topical burn therapy. And the new material may reduce scar forming after healed.