Kerecis Fish Skin Grafts

Kerecis uses a proprietary gentle decellularization process on Atlantic cod fish skin harvested from sustainable fisheries in Iceland. The process removes all cellular components while preserving the native three-dimensional extracellular matrix architecture, including collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans. This preservation of natural structure is critical to the product's biological activity and the retention of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPA and DHA). The intact matrix provides superior scaffolding for cellular infiltration and neovascularization compared to other acellular dermal matrices.

This is an important consideration that should be discussed with the treating clinician. The decellularization process removes cellular proteins that typically trigger allergic responses. However, patients with severe fish allergies should inform their healthcare provider before treatment. The risk of systemic allergic reaction is minimal since the product is applied topically to the wound rather than ingested, and the decellularization removes allergen-containing cells. Your wound care specialist can assess individual risk factors and determine appropriate precautions or alternative treatments if needed.

Application depends on the specific wound type and product variant. Generally, Kerecis products are applied directly to a clean, debrided wound bed. For chronic wounds like diabetic foot ulcers, MariGen or Shield is placed on the prepared wound surface, often with appropriate wound dressing coverage to maintain a moist healing environment. For burns and surgical wounds, the tissue is placed as a graft covering. Some variants come with silicone contact layers (Shield, SurgiClose Silicone) that remain adherent to the wound, while others are integrated into dressings. Your wound care specialist will determine the specific application protocol based on your wound characteristics and clinical situation. Detailed application instructions accompany each product box.

Kerecis products are supplied either as fresh or ready-to-use formulations with varying shelf lives based on the specific product variant. Fresh products typically have 21-day shelf life when stored in specialized preservative solutions at specific temperature ranges (typically 2-8°C). Ready-to-use products may have extended shelf life. Storage conditions are critical to maintaining product viability and therapeutic properties. Detailed storage instructions and shelf life information are provided with each product. Always check packaging for specific storage requirements and expiration dates. Proper storage maintains the structural integrity and bioactive properties of the fish skin matrix.

Kerecis products have FDA clearance as acellular dermal matrices and are covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, for appropriate clinical indications. Coverage determination depends on factors including diagnosis, wound characteristics, evidence of standard care failure or contraindications, medical necessity documentation, and specific insurance plan policies. Your healthcare provider's office typically handles insurance verification and pre-authorization when needed. Coverage may vary by specific product variant and clinical indication. Sunspot Medical Group can assist with insurance questions and can help facilitate the authorization process for patients in our service area. We recommend contacting your insurance provider or our office for specific coverage details.