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A modified, improved, easy and fast technique for split‐thickness skin grafting
Author(s) -
Kneilling M.,
Breuninger H.,
Schippert W.,
Häfner H.M.,
Moehrle M.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
british journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.304
H-Index - 179
eISSN - 1365-2133
pISSN - 0007-0963
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10431.x
Subject(s) - skin grafting , grafting , medicine , surgery , artificial skin , split thickness skin graft , biomedical engineering , materials science , composite material , polymer
Summary Background Large nonhealing ulcers and wounds frequently pose a great therapeutic challenge to clinicians and often require skin grafting. Various skin grafting methods are available to cover large skin defects that fail to epithelize. These methods include the use of small pinch grafts, full‐thickness punch grafts, large‐sized full‐thickness grafts and split‐thickness grafts. Large‐sized full‐thickness and split‐thickness skin grafting requires expertise to produce cosmetically acceptable results and prevent cobblestoning, unlike small pinch and full‐thickness punch grafts. Objectives To describe a modified technique of split‐thickness skin grafting that can be considerably faster than alternative methods. Methods We describe a method for split‐thickness skin grafting using tumescent anaesthesia at the donor site and an electrodermatome and a polyurethane membrane without sutures at the site of the skin defect. Results Since 1997, we have practised a modified, improved, quick and easy split‐thickness skin grafting method to cover large skin defects at the extremities. Complete healing is usually achieved 4–6 weeks after the split‐thickness skin transplantation, and long‐term results are aesthetically successful. Conclusions We provide a sophisticated modified split‐thickness skin graft procedure that has been practised for many years and provides cosmetically acceptable results while saving time.