Human Amniotic Allograft in Hand Surgery

Amnion epithelial and mesenchymal cells have been shown in vitro to contain a variety of regulatory mediators that result in the promotion of cellular proliferation, differentiation, and epithelialization and the inhibition of fibrosis, immune rejection, inflammation, and bacterial invasion. Amniotic membrane-based products are approved for use as human cells, tissues, and cellular- and tissue-based products through Sections 361 or 351 of the Food and Drug Administration. Previously reported clinical applications of human amniotic membranes include nerve repair, tendon injury, joint and cartilage damage, and wound management. Although there is some evidence regarding the use of amniotic allografts in animals, there is a paucity of literature regarding their use in treating pathology of the hand and wrist. Further investigation is necessary to determine their effectiveness and therapeutic value in the upper extremity.