Human amnion has been the focus of myth and superstition. To be born with the ‘caul’ intact was considered lucky and this was transferable, including legitimate selling e.g. caul amulets. In 1910 foetal membranes were first used for transplantation and since then the beneficial uses have been applied to all parts and branches of surgery. The authors have written an excellent paper discussing its various uses. They initially outline the anatomy and physiology and go on to discuss the mechanism of its therapeutic effect. The collection and processing is discussed and then the various uses in surgery. It seems to have been used successfully in almost all applications and parts of the body. This tissue is incredible versatile, economical, widely available, easy to store and full of various growth factors. This paper is definitely worth reading to appreciate this amazing material and its applications.
The many uses of human amnion
Reviewed by Sunil K Bhatia
The clinician applications of human amnion in plastic surgery.
