[Skin transplantation from the cosmetic and functional viewpoint]

With regard to the covering of large skin defects, split skin flaps and mesh grafts are of first consideration. Split skin flapping is preferably applied in cosmetically and functionally sensitive skin areas, whereas the rather unpretending mesh grafting is indicated in large defects on the trunk and extremities, in intertriginous regions, as well as in case of unfavorable conditions of the wound. The application of a fibrin sticker has considerably facilitated the procedure of free grafting and reduced the postoperative risks regarding the graft. We report on the final results of split skin flapping and mesh grafting in 7 patients with large skin defects of varying origin.