Search

Abstract Background Effective prevention and treatment of hypertrophic scars (HTSs), a common consequence of deep-partial thickness injury, remain a significant clinical challenge. Previous studies from our group have shown that autologous adipose-derived regenerative cells (ADRCs) represent a promising approach to improve wound healing and, thereby, impact HTS development. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of local delivery of ADRCs immediately following deep-partial thickness cutaneous injury on HTS development in the red Duroc (RD) porcine model. Methods Bilateral pairs of deep-partial thickness excisional wounds (2 mm depth; 58 cm2 area) were created using an electric dermatome on RD pigs (n = 12). Autologous ADRCs were isolated from the inguinal fat pad and then sprayed directly onto the wound at a dose of 0.25 × 106 viable cells/cm2. The paired contralateral wound received vehicle control. Wound healing and development of HTS were assessed over 6 months using digital imaging, quantitative measurement of skin hardness and pigmentation, and histology. Results Data showed that ADRC treatment led to reduced scar hyperpigmentation compared to control (p