Importance

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Abstract

Polymeric sheets having on one or both sides a fabric texture and, optionally, a network of elongated channels in the interior of the structural framework of the sheets are disclosed. The sheets are useful as burn coverings where they serve as synthetic, temporary replacements for damaged or missing skin. The sheets have physiologic properties similar to human skin, excellent drapability characteristics, recessed portions which provide a reservoir for wound debris and, in certain embodiments, a dermal surface which permits wound adherence by fibroblastic ingrowth. In one embodiment, laminated sheets in which only one side has a fabric texture are prepared by (1) applying one or more layers of polymer to a support surface, (2) partially embedding a sheet having a fabric texture in the layer of polymer, (3) curing or hardening the polymer to form a composite of the sheet and polymer, and (4) separating the composite from the forming surface. All or a portion of the embedded sheet optionally can be removed by treating the composite with a solvent which dissolves all or part of the embedded sheet but not the polymer.

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First Claim