Techniques for Split‐Thickness Skin Grafting

Abstract

This article discusses split-thickness skin grafting techniques with emphasis on the use of various electric dermatomes. Indications for grafting, donor and recipient site considerations, as well as complications will be discussed.

Grafts in Dermatologic Surgery

“…The STSG is the least durable form of wound closure, and contraction, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, or any combination of these may occur to both the donor and recipient bed sites 51. Whereas thick STSGs tend to contract less than thin STSGs, it has been estimated that STSGs may contract as much as 70% 52. For this reason, applying an STSG near a free margin, such as the nasal alae, upper and lower eyelids, and oral commissure, must be performed with caution and proper counseling of the patient 53,54.…”

“…51 Whereas thick STSGs tend to contract less than thin STSGs, it has been estimated that STSGs may contract as much as 70%. 52 For this reason, applying an STSG near a free margin, such as the nasal alae, upper and lower eyelids, and oral commissure, must be performed with caution and proper counseling of the patient. 53,54 Tissue texture matching should not be expected.…”

Cartilage Removal Prior to Skin Grafting in the Triangular Fossa, Antihelix, and Concha of the Ear

“…In addition, there is always a need to establish a good blood supply for the take of grafts. The lack of a good vascular supply for a graft placed over a cartilaginous surface can be solved by the use of multiple 2–4‐mm windows in the cartilage using standard biopsy punches, allowing buds of granulation tissue to grow through, eventually nourishing the graft 2 . However, this procedure alone would not have solved the other technical difficulties mentioned above.…”

Minimally Invasive Options for Cutaneous Defects: Secondary Intention Healing, Partial Closure, and Skin Grafts

“…The donor site wound is highly exudative for the first 24 hours and heals readily by secondary intention with basic wound care as described earlier [101,102]. Graft placement, dressing, postoperative management, and complications are similar in full-thickness skin grafts and are described elsewhere [75,103,104].…”