Wound Healing After Fractional Skin Harvesting

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Plastic Surgery
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Autologous fractional full-thickness skin grafting is an alternative to conventional methods.
• This technique aims to reduce donor site morbidity.
• Investigating micro-harvesting techniques for improved outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of harvesting full-thickness skin microbiopsies.
• To determine the optimal diameter for minimal scarring and complications.
• To assess patient-reported pain and side effects.

Main Methods:

• Pilot trial with 8 subjects undergoing harvesting of full-thickness skin columns.
• Column diameters ranged from 200 μm to 2 mm.
• Scarring assessed using Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale and blinded photo evaluation; pain via VAS.

Main Results:

• Scarring observed more frequently with column diameters >400 μm (p < .001).
• Blinded evaluators noted increased scarring with larger microcolumn diameters (p < .001).
• Median pain score was 0 (range 0-4); all subjects found the procedure safe and tolerable.

Conclusions:

• Full-thickness skin microcolumn harvesting is well-tolerated across various diameters.
• Minimal side effects, including scarring, are achieved with diameters <500 μm.
• This method presents a safe and tolerable option for skin harvesting.