In this study we have reported the efficacy of three
biomaterials: (a) physiologically clotted
fibrin-
gelatin composite (PFG), (b) PFG graft copolymerized with
2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (PFG-
HEMA), and (c) PFG graft copolymerized with
2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate (PFG-
HPMA) as temporary
wound-dressing materials using the rat as an animal model. Full-thickness excision
wounds were made on the back of female rats weighing about 150 +/- 10 g. The dressings were applied on the
wounds and changed periodically at an interval of 4 days with the respective materials. The
wounds treated with PFG-
HEMA healed completely on 15th day after
wound creation, whereas those treated with PFG and PFG-
HPMA resulted in complete healing on the 17th day. The concentrations of
collagen,
hexosamine, and
uronic acid in the granulation tissue were determined. The PFG and its graft copolymers acted as
hydrogels, thereby absorbing excess exudates, while still maintaining a moist environment at the
wound site. The enhanced wound healing in the experimental animals was reflected in the increased rate of
wound contraction. The results of the histological and mechanical studies of the experimental groups revealed that reepithelialization and remodeling of the skin have been achieved by providing a moist environment at the
wound site by the
biomaterials and thereby hastening the migration of keratinocytes.