Novel indications for autologous fat grafting in reconstruction: scleroderma

Abstract

Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disease characterized by inflammation, vascular injury, and progressive skin fibrosis, resulting in significant aesthetic and functional impairments for patients. Current therapies are limited and insufficiently treat the cutaneous manifestations of scleroderma. Autologous fat transfer (AFT) is a surgical technique that has been utilized for many decades for facial rejuvenation. The adipose stem cells (ASCs) present in fat grafts have also shown significant promise for their anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. Recently, AFT has been repurposed to treat the skin manifestations of systemic sclerosis and localized scleroderma. Studies suggest that AFT in scleroderma patients improves mouth and hand functions, Raynaud’s symptoms, and digital ulcerations. AFT is a safe procedure with rare postoperative complications, making it a promising intervention for the treatment of scleroderma. Further studies are required to better characterize the influence of fat grafts on the recipient site and to establish standards for fat transfer in fibrotic skin diseases.