Name of the Procedure:

Amnioexcel, Amnioexcel Plus, or Biodexcel Application
Technical or Medical Term: Application of amniotic membrane graft

Summary

Amnioexcel, Amnioexcel Plus, or Biodexcel involves the application of an amniotic membrane graft, a biologic tissue derived from the amniotic membrane, to help heal wounds and repair damaged tissue. This graft is applied per square centimeter as needed.

Purpose

This procedure is designed to enhance the healing of chronic wounds, diabetic ulcers, burns, and other types of tissue damage. The goal is to provide a scaffold for tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and promote faster and more effective healing.

Indications

This procedure is typically indicated for:

• Chronic non-healing wounds
• Diabetic ulcers
• Venous ulcers
• Burns
• Surgical wounds that have not closed properly

Patients who have not responded to conventional wound care treatments might be appropriate candidates.

Preparation

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions, which may include fasting if the procedure warrants sedation.
• Discontinue certain medications as advised, especially blood thinners.
• Undergo any necessary diagnostic tests, such as blood work or imaging studies, to assess the wound and overall health.

Procedure Description

1. The affected area is cleaned and debrided to remove any dead tissue.
2. The amniotic membrane graft (Amnioexcel, Amnioexcel Plus, or Biodexcel) is measured and cut to fit the size of the wound or damaged area.
3. The graft is carefully applied to the wound site.
4. A secondary dressing may be applied to hold the graft in place and protect the wound.
   • Tools: Scissors, forceps, sterile dressing materials.
   • No anesthesia is typically required, but local anesthesia may be applied if needed for patient comfort.

Duration

The procedure generally takes 20-30 minutes, depending on the size and number of wounds being treated.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, wound care center, or possibly a hospital setting if the patient is already admitted for other reasons.

Personnel

• Wound care specialist or surgeon
• Nurses
• Medical assistants, if required

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the graft material
• Incomplete healing or lack of integration of the graft
• Rare cases of graft rejection

Benefits

• Accelerated wound healing
• Reduced inflammation and scarring
• Improved quality of life due to the resolution of chronic wounds

Patients can expect to see benefits within a few weeks, with significant healing typically noticeable within a few months.

Recovery

• Keep the area clean and dry as instructed.
• Follow any specific wound care instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Avoid strenuous activities that may stress the wound area.
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

Alternatives

• Traditional wound care with dressings and ointments
• Skin grafts
• Negative pressure wound therapy (wound VAC)
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Alternatives may vary in effectiveness, healing time, and costs.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients typically experience little to no discomfort. Post-procedure, there may be mild discomfort or tenderness around the wound. Pain is generally managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and proper wound care.

Patients should be prepared for routine follow-up visits to ensure proper healing and graft integration.