Medial plantar arch pinch grafts are an effective technique to resurface palmar and plantar wounds.

Abstract

Resurfacing the glabrous skin covering the human plantar and palmar surfaces constitutes a challenge to the plastic surgeon. Ideally, when this skin is lost, it should be replaced by the same type of tissue to provide strength, texture, and color match. This paper describes our experience with 9 palmar and plantar wounds which were successfully resurfaced with pinch grafts harvested from the non-weight-bearing area at the medial plantar arch of the foot. The patients were allowed to ambulate after surgery with partial or full weight-bearing as tolerated, the donor sites healed in 7 to 9 days without complication, and pinch grafts took 100%. The grafted wounds were completely covered with 1 application once the grafts reached confluence. Not only was pain eliminated, but the patients also were able to ambulate and use their hands with minimal reservation 2 weeks after surgery. Fourteen-month follow-up examination showed reliable and durable results, with perfect tissue match and no contracture. This technique is easy to perform in the office under local anesthesia. It is safe and well tolerated by the patient.