Histomorphometric Analysis and Regional Variations of Full Thickness Skin Grafts in Dogs

Abstract

To (1) compare thickness of the epidermis and dermis of anatomically different donor sites in dogs, and (2) evaluate hair follicle damage during full thickness skin grafts (FTSG) preparation from anatomically different donor sites. Another objective was to compare the extent of agreement between gross and histologic quality of graft preparation. Ex vivo study. Healthy Beagle dogs (n = 12). Skin samples were harvested from fresh cadavers free of gross dermatopathology and FTSG prepared. Regional, epidermal and dermal thickness, and hair follicle density in intact skin and FTSG specimens from different regions were determined by histomorphometric analysis. Hair follicle density in intact skin and FTSG specimens, and skin thickness measurements were compared among regions. Mean epidermis and dermis thickness of the dorsal lumbar and lateral neck regions were significantly greater when compared with other sites. Total hair follicle (superficial and deep dermis) densities were significantly less in prepared FTSG versus intact skin specimens. The dorsal lumbar region had the highest hair follicle density. Thickness of the epidermis and dermis is dependent on body region. Hair follicle density in the FTSG specimens was decreased compared with intact skin specimens, which may affect hair regrowth in FTSG.