A simple, effective system for assessing viability in split-thickness skin with the use of oxygen consumption

To address the recognized need for better viability-assessment techniques in the banking of allograft skin, we have developed a simple, effective, and easily constructed system for measuring the aerobic activity in small skin samples. The system consists of a microcomputer interfaced to a Clark-type polarographic oxygen electrode to measure oxygen concentrations in discs (5 mm diameter) of split-thickness skin. The system allows simultaneous data acquisition and an on-screen display of oxygen readings on a linear or logarithmic scale. The computer program quantifies the rate of oxygen consumption by calculating a linear regression of oxygen measurements between 100 and 600 seconds. Data are stored in a standard format for easy transfer to commercial software packages for further analysis. The kinetics of oxygen consumption by porcine split-thickness skin stored at 4 degrees C for up to 21 days was assessed with this technique and showed a gradual decline in rate as function of storage time, reaching 50% recovery after 6 days. This assay is a simple and inexpensive method to establish and perform, thus making it suitable as a routine assay for use in the banking of skin and other tissues.