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Published on: March 4, 2016
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Methods in obtaining split-thickness skin grafts from skin reduction surgery specimens
Rebecca E Bruccoleri1, Michael K Matthew2, John T Schulz3
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale-New Haven Medical Center, 464 Congress Avenue, Ste. 260, New Haven, CT 06519 USA.
Springerplus
|June 29, 2016
Summary
Researchers developed a method to obtain bacterial culture-negative split-thickness skin grafts from skin reduction surgery. This offers a potential source for allografts during shortages.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Innovation
- Tissue Engineering
- Dermatology
Background:
- Split-thickness skin grafts are crucial for wound healing.
- Shortages of allografts can impede patient care.
- A novel method is needed to source viable skin grafts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a reliable method for obtaining bacterial culture-negative split-thickness skin grafts.
- To utilize tissue from living donors undergoing elective surgery.
Main Methods:
- Skin specimens were collected from patients undergoing abdominal skin reduction surgery.
- A modified cleaning protocol and subdermal saline injection were employed.
- A Padgett Electric Dermatome was used to harvest split-thickness skin grafts.
Main Results:
- Eight specimens were successfully processed from seven women and one man.
- All harvested skin grafts yielded negative bacterial cultures.
- The grafts were transparent with visible dermis, indicating clinical suitability.
Conclusions:
- Split-thickness skin grafts can be reliably obtained from skin reduction surgery specimens.
- This method provides a potential source of allografts to address shortages.
- The technique offers a viable option for augmenting skin graft availability.
