Wound healing studies of skin incisions in animal models: Laser soldering vs. other bonding methods

INTRODUCTION: In the past, we have successfully used laser soldering for bonding cuts in the skin of medium and large size animal models. MATERIALS & METHODS: In this work, we have used the same method for bonding cuts on the backs of rabbits and mature pigs model. Cuts were created in dorsally depilated skins of rabbits and mature pigs. 47% bovine serum albumin (BSA) solder was applied onto the approximated edges of each cut, using a special approximation device. An infrared fiberoptic CO₂ laser system was used to heat a spot on the cut, under good temperature control, to 65C for 10 seconds. Other glued or sutured cuts, served as controls. RESULTS: Immediate tensile strength measurements were done on bonded incisions in rabbit skins. We found that laser soldered incisions exhibited similar strength to one bonded by cyanoacrylate glue. No dehiscence of wound edges was found in both treatments. The laser soldering procedure was 25% faster then suturing. A 14- day follow up of the bonded pig skin incisions was carried out, using punch biopsies. We found better aesthetic appearance of the soldered incisions. We observed better and faster wound repair in the laser-soldered scars, using histological and molecular staining. Conclusions: The temperature controlled laser soldering offers immediate strength similar to that of cyanoacrylate glues and better aesthetic and wound healing properties, in comparison to suturing techniques. We have clearly demonstrated the potential of this novel technique, which will pave the way for clinical studies.