Skin graft

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Skin graft is a type of medical procedure that involves the transplantation of skin. The transplanted tissue is called a skin graft.

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Skin graft donor site

Surgeons may use skin grafts to treat:

Skin grafts are often used in conjunction with other medical procedures, such as vascular surgery or reconstructive surgery.

Types of Skin Grafts[edit | edit source]

There are two main types of skin grafts: split-thickness and full-thickness grafts.

  • Split-thickness grafts involve removing the epidermis and a portion of the dermis. These grafts are often used to cover large areas and the donor site can heal on its own.
  • Full-thickness grafts involve removing all of the epidermis and dermis. These grafts are often used for small, exposed areas, such as the face.
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Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure for a skin graft often involves the use of a general anesthetic. The surgeon will first prepare the area that will receive the graft. This often involves cleaning the area and removing any damaged tissue. The surgeon will then remove a layer of skin from a donor site and transplant it to the area that needs the graft.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with skin grafts. These may include:

Recovery[edit | edit source]

Recovery from a skin graft procedure will depend on the size and location of the graft. Patients may need to stay in the hospital for a few days to a few weeks. During this time, the graft will be monitored for any signs of infection or graft failure.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Skin graft Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD