Apligraf Case Study – Expectations During Healing
The mechanisms of action of Apligraf® have not been established. However, the following observations have been made in a review of clinical cases:
Immediate Coverage
Week 1
Apligraf immediately covers the wound to provide a barrier function. New, healthy epidermis and dermis are evident at the edge of the wound.
Edge Effect/New Tissue Formation
Day 1
The area of the wound has decreased in size as wound edge migrates inward.
Week 3
The development of additional new dermal tissue and epidermis is evident and consistent with secondary intent.
Integration and Remodeling
Day 1
Apligraf has integrated into the wound bed and surrounding tissue. The area appears pink and warm to the touch and consistent with revascularization.
Apligraf appears to have "taken". The epithelium is fully differentiated into a stratum corneum just like the patient's own skin.
Week 3
After closure, remodeling of the wound has taken place with evidence of repigmentation.
Unless there are signs of infection (pain, swelling, heat, redness, purulent discharge), the wound should be left alone, rebandaged and reassessed at the next follow-up visit.
Please see complete prescribing information.
Apligraf should not be used on infected wounds or on patients with known hypersensitivities to any components of Apligraf. Please consult the complete prescribing information for a description of epidermal and dermal elements contained in Apligraf.
The illustrations presented here are from different patients and may not be typical of all patients. The rate of healing and the appearance of the wound will vary from patient to patient.