Abstract

Applications of allogenic amnion grafts range from wound dressing of severe bums, dermabrasions and lower extremity ulcer treatments to plastic surgery, larynglology and ophthalmology. The aim of the present study was to elaborate the method of processing, preservation and sterilization of human amnion allografts prepared as wound dressing used mainly for burned patients. During the amniotic sac processing (after separation of chorion) special attention was paid to ensure that the epithelial side of amnion is placed directly on polyester net used as a support. After application on the wound, the epithelial side with the basement membrane is facing outwards; this will promote migration, attachment and spreading of the host cells encouraging epithelialization. Human amnion allografts were preserved by lyophilization or deep-freezing and subsequently radiation-sterilized with a dose of 3S kGy. It has been observed, however, that lyophilized irradiated allografts are resorbed within a few days, while frozen irradiated ones better adhere to wound and persist even 3 weeks after grafting, therefore, it has been decided to preserve amnion by deep-freezing. Since the beginning of 1998 over 400 preserved radiation-sterilized amnion allografts (with a total surface area over 40,000 cm2) have been prepared at the Central Tissue Bank inWarsaw and distributed to clinics and hospitals throughout the country.

Keywords: Amnion Allograft, growth factors, radiation sterilization, wond dressing, collagens