Evaluation of amniotic fluid as a skin graft storage media compared with RPMI and saline

We aimed to assess and compare the histological changes of grafts stored in Roswell Park Memorial Institute-1640 solution (RPMI), amniotic fluid (AF), and saline. Amniotic fluid which has abundant nutrients, proteins, and growth factors, and antimicrobial features may be an easily achievable and cheap alternative for the short term preservation of skin grafts. Discarded surgical skin pieces obtained from 15 trauma patients were divided into three groups as RPMI, AF, and saline. The specimens were evaluated at days 7, 14, 21, and 28 for histological alterations by a 3-point scoring scale. Histological scores in the grafts stored in amniotic fluid and RPMI were found significantly lower than those stored in saline (p<0.01). No significant difference was detected between AF and RPMI stored grafts. AF may be a good alternative for skin graft preservation as demonstrated by histological changes. New studies with multiple AF donators and repeated experiments will be worthwhile. Besides, restrictions of some ethical and legal issues for AF use should be solved.