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Published on: August 28, 2014
Irradiated polyglactin 910 (Vicryl Rapide) for placement of full-thickness skin grafts
Amy R Brackeen1, Michael J Wells, Jeff M Freed
1Department of Dermatology, Texas Tech Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
Background:
The "unsuture" technique originally reported with the use of fast-absorbing gut for the placement of full-thickness skin grafts has provided years of successful full-thickness graft placement without the need for suture removal.
Objective:
The objective was to explore another option for successful graft placement and survival using irradiated polyglactin 910 (Vicryl Rapide, Ethicon Inc, Somerville, NJ, USA), with its longer tensile strength of 7 to 10 days.
Methods:
Irradiated polyglactin 910 was used to suture the edges and place basting sutures in full-thickness skin grafts.
Results:
In our experience, we have found that the use of irradiated polyglactin 910 for the placement of full-thickness skin grafts provides an alternative to the "unsuture" technique with fast-absorbing gut. It provides excellent graft survival, easy workability, low inflammation, and good long-term cosmesis, without the need for suture removal.
Conclusion:
Irradiated polyglactin 910 provides another option for the placement of full-thickness skin grafts without the need for suture removal.
