A novel mouse model for studies of burn wound conversion using a top hat–shaped brass template

Abstract

Introduction

The pathophysiology of burn wound conversion is not fully understood. Animal models are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and develop treatments. Here, we established a new reproducible mouse model that simulates this process, thereby facilitating studies of burn wound conversion.

Materials and methods

After anesthesia and depilation, 75 mice were randomly assigned to 5-, 15-, and 25-s contact groups, and a top hat–shaped brass template was heated in boiling water and applied to the lateral abdomen. The wound area was calculated from photographs and the percentage of the surviving area was determined. Histological samples were collected 1–96 h after injury.

Results

A 15-s contact time produced the desired 50 %–75 % interspace necrosis at 96 h after injury. The 5-s contact group had a mostly preserved interspace, while the 25-s contact group exhibited near-complete necrosis. Histologically, significant differences between the 5- and 15-s contact groups were seen in cutaneous appendage denaturation and panniculus carnosus denaturation early after injury.

Conclusion

Exposing mice to the heated template for 15 s provides a reproducible model for studying burn wound conversion mechanisms and treatments, facilitating further elucidation of burn pathophysiology and evaluation of therapies to prevent burn wound conversion.