Micrografts-a novel ally in hard-to-heal wounds: a systematic review.

Clinical Snapshot

Key Findings

• P Value: Not applicable - no statistical pooling performed

• Effect Size: Not quantified - qualitative synthesis only

• Primary Outcome: Wound healing promotion with reduced healing time and improved clinical symptoms

• Nnt Or Sensitivity: Not calculated - insufficient data for quantitative analysis

• Confidence Interval: Not reported

Clinical Application

Limited by lack of standardised protocols and application methods; requires specialist expertise in stem cell handling and wound management Would require TGA approval for stem cell therapies; potential PBS consideration pending robust evidence; relevant to wound care specialists and plastic surgeons in tertiary centres Adults with chronic, hard-to-heal wounds refractory to conventional treatment, particularly in specialist wound care settings

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Wound healing is complex, and hard-to-heal (chronic) wounds pose significant treatment challenges, especially in adults. Micrografts (MGs) are emerging as a promising treatment for wounds refractory to conventional approaches. MG involves transplanting a stem cell suspension to the wound to promote healing. Scientific studies on MG are increasing; however, a systematic review is needed for a comprehensive understanding of its efficacy. METHOD: A systematic review conducted on 30 March 2024 used PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases to evaluate skin and dermal MGs in wound healing. PRISMA guidelines were followed and predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. All authors reviewed the studies and discussed results to ensure consistency in study screening, selection and data extraction. RESULTS: A total of 1251 papers were examined, with 23 eligible for full-text review. After exclusions based on language, reviews, MG size and tissue focus, 15 articles were included in the final review: seven case reports; five case series; two prospective series (one with 70 patients, the other with 30 patients) and a case-control study. CONCLUSION: The results of the reviewed studies suggest that MGs may promote wound healing, with reported reductions in healing time and improvements in clinical symptoms in hard-to-heal wounds. However, standardisation of treatment protocols and application methods is required. The role of MGs in the treatment of acute wounds remains to be clarified.

References

1. 1.Polverino, G., Russo, F., Lombardi, M., Formica, S., & D'Andrea, F. (2024). Micrografts-a novel ally in hard-to-heal wounds: a systematic review. Journal of Wound Care, 33(4). https://doi.org/10.12968/jowc.2024.0145