Clinical Trial to Evaluate Blister Graft Utilizing a Novel Harvesting Device for Treatment of Venous Leg Ulcers

Epidermal grafts are believed to promote healing by two mechanisms: graft take and the promotion of wound healing through the delivery of growth factors and the essential elements of tissue repair and wound healing.28 This study is intended to establish the superior effectiveness of epidermal grafting and multi-layer compression over that of multi-layer compression alone, in the treatment of venous leg ulcers. Millions of Americans are afflicted with painful, open, draining sores on their lower extremities. These sores are referred to as venous leg ulcerations (VLUs). Under the best of circumstances these ulcers require weeks or months to heal. Not uncommonly wound care specialists see patients who have suffered for years or faced amputation of the limb as their only option to alleviate the pain. Standard of care will result in healing in 50% of venous leg ulcers in 12 weeks. However, roughly half of patients suffering from venous ulcers will require advanced therapy. Epidermal grafting has been a reconstructive option for decades; however, to date there has not been a reliable and reproducible system to harvest epidermis. The CelluTome® Harvesting System permits the harvesting of epidermal blister grafts at the patient's bedside without the need for anesthesia. The grafts can be easily transferred to the wound bed. In case studies, epidermal grafting appeared to be effective in reducing wound size and accelerating closure of venous leg ulcers.