Abstract
Purpose
Adipose derived stem cells have been shown to enhance both wound and bone healing. The stem cells are harvested, purified, cultured and the viability assessed in order to provide adequate cellular yield. The isolation process requires trained laboratory staff, intensive procedures utilizing multiple purification solutions and expensive equipment for culturing and interpretation of viability of the isolated stem cells.
The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of simple lipo-aspirate on wound and bone healing.
Methodology
This is a prospective, interventional study to investigate the effect of adipocyte extract on wound and bone healing. 9 Young, healthy, large white female pigs were used in the study. Fat was harvested using standard liposuction technique and injected around the defects created. Skin defects were evaluated for secondary wound healing macroscopically and histologically. 3 pigs were used in a pilot study to evaluate the possibility of investigating the effects of lipo-aspirate in bone defects.
Results
Histological evaluation shows accelerated secondary wound healing with the treatment of adipose tissue compared to control groups. The thickness of regenerated epidermis, the number of new vascular nests was increased and the wound surface area was decreased in adipose treated wounds. Bacteriology results showed no significant differences.
Conclusion
Results indicate a potential benefit in the treatment of wounds with the use of lipo-aspirated extract. The procedure allows for a cost effective method to enhance wound healing in a developing country. Due to the encouraging results in wound healing and osteogenic potential of lipo-aspirate, a pilot study to evaluate lipo-aspirate effects on bone healing has been drawn up.
NO DISCLOSURES
