Enhance Traumatic Wound Management with a Two-Stage Dermal Matrix and Autologous Skin Cell Therapy Approach

Sharon Grason, PhD, RN

In the challenging field of reconstructive surgery, managing traumatic wounds requires a multifaceted approach. A speedy recovery is paramount to minimizing trauma for both the patient and their family. Every moment that a patient spends healing from their physical wounds is a moment where they may grapple with painful memories and feelings of survivor’s guilt, especially if the traumatic event resulted in the loss of a loved one.

Wound management approaches combined with advanced technologies that support physical healing are essential to helping patients regain their lives, minimize emotional ramifications of their injuries, and reduce risk of re-traumatization. 

As a trauma nurse with 28 years of experience, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that effective wound management can have on a patient’s psychological well-being. Anything we can do as clinicians to assist in restoring a sense of normalcy for our patients and their families is not only important, but essential.

This commitment drives those of us working with these patients to continually explore innovative methods that reduce healing times and expedite hospital discharges.

Importance of best practices for wound management

Effective wound management requires a structured approach to optimize healing outcomes. The following steps—from wound assessment to patient education—benefit from integration of advanced therapies to address complex wounds systematically.

Assess the wound

A thorough assessment is critical to determine the best course of action. Evaluate factors such as depth, size, and presence of infection.

Choose the right matrix

Select the right dermal matrix for complex wounds to allow a supportive environment conducive to healing.

Monitor progress

Regular follow-ups are essential to assess treatment effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.

Educate patients

Informing patients about the healing process and what to expect can relieve anxiety and enhance compliance with postoperative care.

This structured approach should be enhanced with the right tools. Advanced technologies that support physical healing are essential to helping patients regain their lives, minimize emotional ramifications of their injuries, and reduce risk of re-traumatization. 

Expediting healing for trauma wound survivors

The potential positive impact of bioengineered collagen matrices with autologous cell therapy in a two-stage approach should be considered during initial wound assessment.

This two-stage approach uses Cohealyx™ collagen dermal matrix and RECELL® Spray-On-Skin™ Cells that are applied after wound vascularization to optimize outcomes and may facilitate a quicker return to normal life for patients and their families.

How Cohealyx helps healing outcomes

Cohealyx is an absorbent, porous collagen dermal matrix derived from purified bovine collagen, designed to support wound bed preparation and vascularization.¹ Made using proprietary TetraPure™ technology, it provides a uniquely bioengineered matrix with an ideal pore structure for integration and revascularization.²

The balanced collagen composition—containing Type I and Type III collagen from young bovine dermis—creates an optimal environment for fibroblasts and endothelial cells, supporting tissue growth. Pre-clinical and early clinical studies have shown revascularization and wound bed readiness for grafting as early as day 7.^3-4 

Healing at the cellular level using RECELL Spray-On Skin Cells

For patients with burns or complex wounds, the RECELL System provides an innovative healing approach that accelerates healing at the cellular level, significantly reduces donor site size and morbidity, and helps shorten hospital length of stay compared to traditional skin grafting.^5-12

With minimized donor site trauma and accelerated recovery, patients can resume work, social activities, and daily routines more quickly.

Cohealyx followed by RECELL’s autologous skin cell therapy represents a new standard in wound care that can help patients regain their independence sooner.

Optimized healing for definitive wound closure

Faster recovery empowers patients to reclaim their lives sooner—turning a traumatic experience into a journey of resilience and restoration. Following a structured wound healing approach and utilizing the latest advances doesn’t simply heal wounds; it restores hope for patients and their families.

Looking for more information? Read more about RECELL Spray-On Skin Cells or about Cohealyx. View Cohealyx case studies:

Full-thickness wound – 4-Compartment Fasciotomy

Full-thickness wound – Bilateral Distal Amputations

References

1. Cohealyx Instructions for Use
2. Internal data on file: SEM and Porosity Testing; cell assays.
3. Bush KA et al. Cureus. 2025;17(3):e81517. 
4. Akpunonu C et al. J Surg. 2025;10:11337 DOI: 10.29011/2575-9760.011337
5. Instructions for Use. RECELL® Autologous Cell Harvesting Device.
6. Holmes JH et al. J Burn Care Res. 2018;39(5):694-702
7. Holmes et al. Burns. 2019;45(4):772-782
8. Henry S et al. J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2024 Jan 1;96(1):85-93.
9. Navarro FA et al. J Burn Care Rehabil 2000;21:513–8
10. Collins et al. J Surg Res. 2024;302:925-935
11. Carter et al. Adv Ther. 2022;39(11):5191-5202; 8
12. Kowal et al. Adv Ther. 2019;36(7):1715-1729