A study of simplified porcine skin preservation

The study of preserved porcine skin was done by using split-thickness skin grafts of pigs weighing approximately 25 to 30 kg. The harvesting of split-thickness skin grafts was performed under aseptic and antiseptic conditions. The povidone-iodine solution and 0.25% acidified sodium hypochlorite solution were used before immersion of the skin in 90% glycerine solution. Prepared skin graft was stored in the freezer compartment of a home refrigerator. Serial studies of the bacteriology and the histology of specimens were performed monthly for 12 months. No bacterial organisms were found during the study. The integrity of the skin lasted up to 5 months, however, the property of the preserved skin was as good as the other biological dressing even after 6 months. This simple, low-cost procedure is useful for restoring allografts or even autografts in a hospital without conveniences or adequate facilities.