ReCell

ReCell® is an innovative device that enables a doctor to apply skin cells collected from a small sample of the patient's own skin, to an area that needs new skin to assist appropriate healing, skin texture and skin colour.

ReCell® helps to avoid the formation of scars and can replace old scar tissue, or damaged skin, with new skin that is more like the surrounding tissue. It can also be used to re-introduce skin colour (pigment) to areas of skin that are whiter than the surrounding skin.

ReCell® produces a 'Spray Solution' that contains all of the skin cells necessary to promote healthy skin growth. This includes keratinocyte cells that form the basis of healthy skin and melanocyte cells that produce skin colour (melanin).

The cells are processed while the doctor prepares the area to be treated and are then sprayed on to the skin by the doctor. Once applied on to the wound, these cells multiply and spread throughout the skin, resulting in increased healing.

ReCell® is used to treat

• Vitiligo
• Skin affected by sun damage
• Hypopigmentation
• Scars resulting from trauma
• Acne
• Skin cancer
• Surgery

During the Procedure

A small sample of skin (biopsy) is collected from an area close to the skin that you want to treat. This ensures that the treated area has the same texture and colour as the surrounding skin. The biopsy is collected after you have received medication to numb any discomfort. The biopsy is usually around 1-2cm square and is also treated with the spray to help it heal properly.

While the doctor is preparing the area to be treated, the skin will be placed into ReCell®. This will enable the doctor to separate the cells allowing them to be easily sprayed onto the skin.

After the Procedure

The treated area and biopsy site will be covered with a dressing, which will then be removed 5 days after the procedure.

The results following surgery with Recell® are highly dependent on the reason for undergoing the treatment, the severity of your condition and the nature of your body to recuperate after an operation. It is normal for the pigmentation to take some time to reach its optimum state. The doctor will be able to give you some indication of how long it will take in your case.

Qualified doctors/nurses will discuss the procedure before any treatment, explaining any possible side effects.