Delayed exposed skin grafting: a 10 year experience of the technique

We describe the routine use of the technique of delayed exposed skin grafting in 2062 patients over a 10 year period. Points of technique have been reviewed and tested in a prospective trial. Delayed graft application requires some 20 minutes (range 5-90 minutes) of nursing time, and daily care of 10 to 20 minutes. Wound healing was achieved in all patients in this series even when a second application of stored skin was applied, without the need for a further operation. Take was achieved in 75% of patients by 8 days after application. The technique offers a saving in theatre time for the patient and the surgeon, although hospital in-patient time is increased.