Name of the Procedure:

Primatrix, per square centimeter (Q4110)

Summary

Primatrix is a medical procedure involving the application of a bioengineered skin substitute called Primatrix. This is used to aid in the healing of wounds and burns by providing a scaffold that supports cellular ingrowth and tissue regeneration.

Purpose

Primatrix is employed to treat chronic, difficult-to-heal wounds, including diabetic ulcers, venous ulcers, and pressure ulcers. The primary goal is to promote effective and faster wound healing, reduce infection risk, and improve tissue regeneration and overall skin health.

Indications

• Chronic wounds that fail to heal with conventional treatments
• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Venous leg ulcers
• Pressure ulcers (bed sores)
• Partial and full-thickness wounds

Preparation

• The clinician will assess the wound and overall health condition.
• Patients may undergo debridement to remove dead tissue.
• Ensure the wound is clean and free of infection.
• Follow any specific instructions given by the healthcare provider, which may include fasting or adjusting medications.

Procedure Description

1. The clinician first thoroughly cleanses and prepares the wound site.
2. A sterile piece of Primatrix, pre-measured by square centimeter, is cut to fit the wound dimensions.
3. Primatrix is then carefully applied to the wound bed, ensuring full contact with the affected area.
4. The applied graft is secured with a suitable dressing or bandage.
5. The dressing is then changed regularly as per healthcare provider recommendations to monitor progress and ensure proper healing.

Duration

The procedure itself is relatively quick, often taking about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the wound size and complexity.

Setting

• Hospital
• Outpatient clinic
• Surgical center

Personnel

• Wound care specialist or surgeon
• Nurses
• Anesthesiologist (if deeper sedation is required, though usually not needed)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Localized infection
• Delayed wound healing

Rare Risks:

• Rejection of the bioengineered material
• Allergic reactions
• Scarring or fibrosis

Benefits

• Accelerated wound healing
• Reduction in infection rates
• Enhanced tissue regeneration
• Minimized scarring

These benefits typically appear within weeks following the procedure, depending on the patient’s overall health and the specific wound characteristics.

Recovery

• Follow wound care instructions from the healthcare provider.
• Keep the wound clean and dry.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Restrict movement in the affected area if necessary to promote healing.

Typically, complete recovery and noticeable healing improvements are seen within several weeks to a few months.

Alternatives

• Traditional wound care and dressing changes
• Negative pressure wound therapy (vacuum-assisted closure)
• Skin grafts

Each alternative has its own merits and drawbacks in terms of cost, healing time, and invasiveness. Primatrix may offer a more targeted and less invasive option compared to surgical grafting.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel minor discomfort but usually not severe pain, as local anesthetics are often used. Post-procedure, patients may experience mild soreness or sensitivity at the wound site. Pain management options, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, can help ensure patient comfort.