Stem cells and repair of necrosis after dermolipectomy: a case study

Skin ulcers secondary to necrosis post-dermolipectomy occur infrequently. Despite their rarity and because of their complex pathopathophysiological nature, their resolution is a major challenge for plastic surgeons. This study is to recognise the safety and efficiency of use of CD34 stem cells (SC), obtained from the patient's bone marrow, within a solid autologous fibrin scaffold in the case of female patient with an ulcer with torpid evolution as a result of an abdominal dermolipectomy. The concept was to regenerate the affected tissue, and to induce and promote the formation of granulation tissue that is compact enough to stimulate repair by secondary intention or facilitating surgical closure. We applied a technique under specific protocols to obtain the stem cells. The healing technique—the application of CD34 stem cells without any surgical intervention—was applied at two ambulatory sessions. There were no complications or concomitant infections, and recovery was complete within five weeks via secondary intention healing, achieving a significant and satisfactory healing response in the patient, improving both her physical and mental health. In this case study, CD34 stem cells were used successfully in the treatment of a hard-to-heal ulcer. It is necessary to carry out further investigations with a greater number of patients to substantiate the use of this intervention in patients with hard-to-heal wounds.