Pinch grafting: An alternative skin grafting technique

Abstract

Pinch grafts are a useful and cost-effective technique as an adjunctive consideration for closure of sub-acute or chronic lower extremity wounds. In our institution, we have used this technique on numerous patients with appropriately prepared wounds amenable to skin grafting. Pertinent factors include patients with adequate arterial flow, absence of infection, metabolic stability of diabetes mellitus, cardiac disease, renal disease and acceptable nutrition. The procedure adds minimal morbidity, allows for primary closure of the donor site, and can be done in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. This technique is efficient, economical, and useful on a wide variety of wounds with good results.