Patient experiences living with split thickness skin grafts

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Dermatology
• Burn Surgery

Background:

• Autologous split thickness skin grafting is the standard for deep burn wounds.
• However, the grafted skin often remains chronically abnormal, impacting patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and describe the lived experiences of patients following split thickness skin grafting.
• To identify key patient concerns to inform future research in skin regeneration.

Main Methods:

• An interpretive description qualitative methodology was utilized.
• Semi-structured, two-part interviews were conducted with patients (n=12) 2-29 months post-grafting.
• Data were coded and interpreted by an experienced burn care nurse.

Main Results:

• Five major themes emerged: establishing a 'new normal', graft-related symptoms, appearance concerns, coping mechanisms, and willingness to participate in future trials.
• Patients reported significant ongoing abnormalities and challenges with their grafted skin.

Conclusions:

• Split thickness skin grafting, while functional, results in persistent skin abnormalities.
• Patients express a strong willingness to participate in novel cell-based therapies for improved skin regeneration and outcomes.