Extracellular Wound Matrices: Novel Stabilization and Sterilization Method for Collagen-based Biologic Wound Dressings.

Biologic extracellular matrix (ECM)-based wound dressings offer promise in the treatment of chronic wounds. A variety of animal and human tissue derived dressings are currently available. These products are processed and/or sterilized by a range of chemical and mechanical processes, which will impact the final quality of the matrices--ultimately affecting the overall wound healing process. A novel method is described to prepare a sterile and biocompatible biological wound dressing. The advantages and the clinical implications of this wound dressing preparation are also discussed.