Abstract
The split-thickness skin graft (STSG) is commonly used for reconstruction of skin and soft tissue defects. For a successful graft, the thin skin must be in close contact with the recipient bed until the graft stabilises. This study introduces a simple and fast dressing technique, and compares it with the traditional tie-over dressing. All patients who received STSGs between January 2013 and March 2015 were identified. From these patients, those who were treated with skin graft only were included in the study. For comparison of the dressing techniques, operation times from skin incision to the end of procedure were analysed, together with the outcomes of the grafts. For the simple and fast method, the dressing was fixed with a skin stapler, and for tie-over dressings, the graft was fixed with sutures. A total of 67 patients (38 females, 29 males), mean age 58.4 years (range: 24-86 years) were included in the study. Average operation times were 22.9 minutes (range: 10-40 minutes) using the simple and fast dressings and 45.3 minutes (range: 20-120 minutes) using the tie-over dressings, demonstrating a significant difference in operation times. Partial graft loss was reported in three cases with the tie-over dressings and in four cases with the simple and fast dressings, without significant difference. The simple and fast dressing is easy to apply, is able to be shaped according to the wound surface, and provides a secure dressing over the skin graft.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.