PGIMER Chandigarh unveils North India’s first skin bank

Inaugurated on Thursday, the first skin bank in North India has opened at PGIMER Chandigarh, enabling donations not only of organs but also of skin. This initiative aims to assist in saving lives and providing better treatment for burn patients. Professor Atul Parashar, the head of the Plastic Surgery Department, highlighted that, similar to organ donation, the skin bank will now motivate the families of critically ill patients to consider skin donation.
The PGIMER Chandigarh launched North India’s inaugural skin bank on Thursday, with accreditation from the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization. The Public Forum organized an event where attendees could gather information about the skin bank. The Plastic Surgery Department at PGIMER is responsible for overseeing its operations.
The skin bank facilitates the preservation of skin from donors and the families of brain-dead patients. This resource will prove valuable in treating burn victims, enhancing their chances of survival and providing them with improved medical care. Professor Atul Parashar emphasized that akin to organ donation, the skin bank will encourage representatives of families dealing with critically ill patients to consider skin donation as a noble and impactful contribution.
This innovative initiative underscores the commitment of PGIMER Chandigarh to advancing medical facilities and enhancing the treatment options available to patients, particularly those with severe burns. The establishment of the skin bank is a significant step toward furthering medical advancements and contributing to the well-being of the community.