OBJECTIVETo explore the feasibility of application of xenoskin as microskin graft covering.

METHODSTen patients with deep and extensive burns were enrolled in the study. A white pig weighing about 50kg was cleaned and shaved(without boiled water treatment) after being slaughtered. After conventional disinfection, two pieces of skin with little amount of fat were removed from the pig and processed to full-thickness or split-thickness skin. Before operation they were perforated and autogeneic microskin was scattered onto it. After escharectomy they were grafted on the wound, and the wound was dressed and bandaged with pressure. The rejection of the xenoskin, the survival of the microskin grafts, the wound healing time,and the functional recovery of the patients 1 year after operation were observed.

RESULTSThe porcine skin was intact, and stuck well to the wound within 2 post-operation weeks ( POW). But it turned to form a dry scab, and gradually separated from the autogeneic microskin during 4 - 5 POW. The xenoskin completely fell off and the wound healed during 6 - 8 POW . The wound healing time of the 10 patients was 42 - 56 days [ (50 +/- 5) d]. Though there were thin scars 1 year after operation, the elasticity and function of the skin were normal.

CONCLUSIONIt is feasible to use porcine skin as a substitute of alloskin to cover autogenous microskin.