[Microscopic studies on skin grafts stored at different temperatures]

To examine the viability of skin grafts at different temperatures, skin pieces stored at 4 degrees C-6 degrees C 20 degrees C-25 degrees C and 37 degrees C respectively were observed at certain intervals by light and electron microscopy. The skin pieces stored at 4 degrees C-6 degrees C were observed for 8 weeks. After 2 weeks, swelling of cells and aggregated chromatin of nuclei were observed mainly in the basal cell layer and the suprabasal layer of the epidermis, and after that time irreversible degeneration was observed. This result corresponded with the results obtained in clinical observations. The skin pieces stored at 20 degrees C-25 degrees C were observed for 2 weeks. After 2 days, the skin had already degenerated at a rate corresponding with the rate observed in storage at 4 degrees C-6 degrees C for 3-4 weeks receptivity. Therefore, it was thought that skin stored under this condition would be poor material for skin grafts. However, storage for longer periods might be possible if better nutrient media were chosen.