Artificial dermis and skin regeneration: An experience in Cameroon

Burns and other mechanical trauma cause a brutal destruction of the skin. It represents 6% of hospitalizations in reanimation service of the Yaounde central hospital. The mortality of this trauma has reduced but remains preoccupying. Depending on the depth of the burn, the epidermis and the dermis are completely destroyed. The anarchy created by the destruction of the corresponding extra cellular matrix (ECM) compels the cells to fill the gap by secreting masses of collagen during normal scaring processes. This scarring could evolve into contractures which have aesthetic and more importantly functional consequences.Scar reconstruction techniques have evolved with time. Split thickness grafts, and full grafts are been used with certain advantages and inconveniences. In the last ten years, new studies have been carried out in developed countries using artificial dermis which are biological bio-materials of collagen and sulfated glycosaminoglycans, made similar to normal ECM, with interesting perspectives. in poor Cameroon, we contribute to the management of functional disabilities due to scar contractures by showing the feasibility and the interest of using this regeneration template