U.S. Markets for Current and Emerging Wound Closure Technologies

The skin may seem to be a passive organ; however, it performs several important physiological functions. The skin is the largest body organ; on an average person,it comprises an area of approximately 20 square feet. In addition, the weight of the skin represents approximately 12% to 16% of overall body weight. The thinnest skinis located on the eyelids; the thickest is on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.

By expanding and contracting, the skin regulates body temperature and assists with fluid excretion and retention. The skin also relays the occurrence of pain, temperature, and touch. Acting as a barrier between the body and the environment, the skin protects the underlying structures from infection and trauma. In addition, when exposed to sunlight, the skin converts chemicals in the skin to vitamin D. The skin is continually regenerating its components and totally replaces its outer layer every 28 days.