Avita Medical’s ReCell Spray-On Skin system
The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended two skin damage treatments but wants more evidence on their effectiveness.
NICE backed the limited use of Avita Medical’s ReCell Spray-On Skin system and APA Parafricta’s Bootees and Undergarments to prevent ulcer for use on the NHS in England and Wales with the caveat that further research be carried out by their manufacturers.
The ReCell Spray-On Skin system is a device to help improve the healing of acute burns. It involves using a small piece of the patient’s skin to create a solution containing skin cell components, which is then sprayed on to the burn.
Once sprayed the cells multiply quickly and embed onto base of the wound, encouraging the growth of healthy skin so that the burn can heal.
NICE’s advisory committee determined that the system shows promise, but more evidence is need to back its routine use in the NHS. This research includes specific clinical outcomes, such as how long it takes for a burn to heal 95%.
More evidence required for ulcer prevention garment
NICE has also requested more information on the effectiveness of Parafricta Bootees and Undergarments in clinical practice in final guidance published today.
The garments are designed to reduce skin damage in people with frail skin or who have, or are at risk of, pressure ulcers by providing protection to sensitive areas of the body.
As with the ReCell Spray-On Skin the NICE committee recognised the potential of the products but has requested further evidence before their routine use in the NHS can be supported.
The recommended research includes the development of criteria to recognise which people in hospitals and community care would benefit most.
Carole Longson, director of the NICE centre of health technology evaluation, said: “It’s essential to note that these recommendations for further research don’t mean that these promising technologies should not be used, as it’s important that more data can be generated to help inform further considerations on their clinical utility. NICE will update both pieces of guidance if and when substantive new evidence becomes available.”