Long-Term Results of Syndactyly Correction: Full-Thickness versus Split-Thickness Skin Grafts

Abstract

In order to compare the long-term results of full-thickness and split-thickness skin grafts after the correction of congenital syndactyly, 27 patients have been investigated after an average follow-up of 21 years. Post-operative functional and cosmetic results have been assessed by patient records, questionnaires and physical examination. The webs that had received split-thickness grafts showed more flexion and extension lags and the overall spreading of the operated fingers was significantly decreased compared to the control fingers. On the other hand, more re-operations because of web creep had to be performed after full-thickness grafts. Hyperpigmentation and hair growth in the grafts was found in most of the full-thickness grafts, while breakdown of the graft was found in some of the split-thickness grafts. Therefore, based on the results of this study, either full- or split-thickness skin grafts can be used when treating of congenital syndactyly.

Long-Term Outcomes of Web Creep, Scar Quality, and Function After Simple Syndactyly Surgical Treatment

“…10 -13 Withey et al and Deunk et al introduced a scoring system for its quantification after surgical release of syndactyly. 14,15 The evaluation of a surgical scar after syndactyly release has received less attention 10,11 or was based on 3-point scales evaluating only few aspects of a scar. 14,15 The Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), which was initially established for burn wounds, 16,17 is an established instrument for scar evaluation.…”

“…14,15 The evaluation of a surgical scar after syndactyly release has received less attention 10,11 or was based on 3-point scales evaluating only few aspects of a scar. 14,15 The Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), which was initially established for burn wounds, 16,17 is an established instrument for scar evaluation. 18 Because it accurately describes several aspects of a scar (pigmentation, pliability, height, vascularity, itching, and pain), we have decided to apply the VSS as a clinical parameter after surgical syndactyly release.…”

Comparing Skin Grafts Harvested From Wrist With Those Harvested From Groin Region in Patients With Fingertip Injury: A Randomized Clinical Trial

“…Full-thickness skin graft has whole dermal and epidermal layer until 0.07 inch (0.178 cm) (1). Although hyperpigmentation and hair growth were found in most of the full-thickness skin grafts, full-thickness skin grafts have better sensory recovery (due to placement of sensory receptors at the deep dermis) and less contracture as well as breakdown in the fingertip skin; hence, it is the first choice when we have sufficient vascular bed at the receiver site (3,(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17). On the other hand, full-thickness grafts do not survive as readily as split thickness grafts and require a much better bed to be placed on.…”

Nosologia das doenças da mão de crianças e jovens operados em mutirões realizados em hospital de referência no estado de pernambuco

“…Existem séries cirúrgicas relatadas na literatura internacional que incluem número significante de casos (20) . Por exemplo, em um serviço de cirurgia de mão na Turquia, foi relatada uma série cirúrgica de casos envolvendo 47 polegares em gatilho em 36 crianças (23) . Em outra série importante de relato de casos em serviço internacional de cirurgia de mão, na Holanda, são relatadas 27 crianças operadas no período de cinco anos; desses, 16 eram anomalias isoladas (37) .…”