Skin Grafts

Question 1

What is a “full thickness” skin graft?

Answer 1

Epidermis and entire dermis

Question 2

What is a “partial thickness” skin graft?

Answer 2

Epidermis and variable portions of the dermis

Question 3

What is the most common donor site for a skin graft?

Answer 3

Ventrolateral aspect of cranial thorax

Question 4

What are Full-thickness UNmeshed Skin Grafts indicated for?

Answer 4

To cover large defects on flexor surfaces typically on distal extremity (unmeshed component helps to prevent contracture)

Question 5

What type of drain would we use with a Full-Thickness Unmeshed Skin Graft?

Answer 5

JP Drain

Question 6

When would a Full-Thickness MESHED skin graft be indicated?

Answer 6

Allow drainage from a wound w/minor exudate (bleeding/oozing)

To cover larger defect

For reconstruction of irregular shaped surfaces which are difficult to immobilize

Question 7

What type of graft is recommended for most grafting needs?

Answer 7

Non expanded, full-thickness mesh graft!

Question 8

What does meshing provide for the graft?

Answer 8

Drainage, flexibility, conformity, and expansion

Question 9

What are Split-Thickness Skin Grafts composed of?

Answer 9

Epidermis and a variable thickness of dermis…

Question 10

What type of graft would be indicated for grafting granulating wounds, small wounds on limbs, contaminated or lightly infected wounds, wounds w/irregular contour or wounds in areas not subjected to excessive wear or external trauma?

Answer 10

Pinch and Punch Grafts; partial coverage, generally used to promote epithelialization

Question 11

What is Strip Grafting and when is it indicated?

Answer 11

5mm wide full thickness strips of skin placed in parallel grooves cut in granulation bed (2mm deep and 3-5mm apart)

Indicated for grafting of granulating wounds that are parallel to the long axis of the limb or for grafting irregular surfaces in protected areas