In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing burn care, Kerala is set to establish its first skin bank at the Government Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram. Health Minister Veena George announced that the facility, in its final stages of preparation, is expected to become operational within a month, pending approval from the Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (K-SOTTO).

Bridging Critical Gaps in Burn Care

The launch of Kerala’s inaugural skin bank marks a significant step forward in addressing long-standing gaps in burn treatment. The plan, initially proposed in 2018 following the Puttingal fireworks tragedy, underscores the state’s commitment to providing comprehensive care for severe burn victims requiring skin grafts.

“Skin banks are pivotal in saving lives, preventing infections, and reducing disfigurement for burn and accident victims,” said Minister, Veena George. The facility will collect, preserve, and transplant donated human skin using cutting-edge technology, setting a benchmark for advanced burn care in the region.

Expanding Burn Care Infrastructure

Kerala’s healthcare system is also gearing up to establish a second skin bank at the Government Medical College Hospital, Kottayam. Additionally, state-wide standard guidelines for setting up skin banks are under development, ensuring a uniform approach to burn care.

Existing burns units in Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Thrissur medical colleges, along with facilities in Kollam District Hospital and Ernakulam General Hospital, will be bolstered by the addition of plastic surgery departments in Alappuzha, Kannur, and Kollam. Proposals are underway to establish new burns units in Kozhikode, Alappuzha, Kollam, and Kannur medical colleges.

Centralised Mechanisms and Standardised Protocols

To streamline operations, a centralised mechanism for coordinating centrally sponsored schemes is being developed. Minister George also announced that a standardised treatment protocol for burns units will be introduced within 15 days. These protocols will enhance intensive care facilities in burns ICUs, crucial for treating patients with burns exceeding 20%.

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Building Awareness on Skin Donation

A key component of this initiative is increasing public awareness about skin donation, akin to successful organ donation campaigns. The government aims to educate citizens on the life-saving potential of skin donation, thereby encouraging active participation in this cause.

For the Indian healthcare industry, including hospitals, medical equipment suppliers, and healthcare technology providers, the establishment of skin banks in Kerala presents a transformative opportunity. It signals a growing demand for advanced medical technologies, skilled healthcare professionals, and streamlined supply chains to support this pioneering venture.

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