A skin bank stores skin collected from donors, which is later used to treat burn victims. In many severe burn cases, the patient’s own skin cannot be used for healing. In such situations, the stored donor skin is transplanted using advanced technology. This helps reduce pain, prevent infections, and speed up the healing process. The donated skin is collected through proper channels with the permission of the Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (K-SOTTO) and preserved under special conditions. The new skin bank has been set up at a cost of ₹6.75 crore. Another one is also planned at Kottayam Medical College.

To ensure expert treatment for burn patients, Special Burns Units are being developed across major hospitals in the state. These units are already working in the medical colleges at Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Thrissur. Additional units are available in the Ernakulam General Hospital and Kollam District Hospital. Work is underway to establish a burns unit at Kozhikode Medical College, and more will be opened in the medical colleges at Kollam, Alappuzha, and Kannur. These units function under the guidance of the plastic surgery departments, which are already active in several medical colleges.

Having a skin bank and advanced burns units within Kerala is a big relief for patients and their families. It will ensure quick and expert care during emergencies. This initiative is a major achievement in Kerala’s health sector and will help improve overall public health and treatment standards.