Skin Grafting Providence

Who is a candidate? Area of skin loss due to burn, trauma, or tumor removal.

Intended results: Repair of skin defect with functional result and best possible appearance.

Procedure description:

• SPLIT THICKNESS: The superficial skin layers of the donor site are shaved off using a dermatome and grafted into the defect. The donor site heals spontaneously leaving slight discoloration. After healing, the grafted skin provides good cover and protection.
• FULL THICKNESS: Usually used for smaller defects on the face or hands. Full-thickness skin is usually taken from an inconspicuous area where the scar will be acceptable. Full- thickness grafts do not “take” quite as easily as split-thickness grafts.

Recuperation and healing: Pressure dressings are usually applied over the graft for about a week. Once the skin defect is covered with a graft, there is usually very little pain. The donor site wound is frequently more uncomfortable than the repaired site. Initial healing occurs in 7-10 days. Total healing takes several months.

Other options: Scar revision can enhance the result. Once the defect is covered by a graft and healing has occurred, later gradual surgical reduction of the size of the graft may be appropriate to improve appearance.

Insurance guidelines: Usually covered by insurance.

Note: The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.