Split-Thickness Skin Grafting for the Management of Traumatic Pretibial Hematomas

Pretibial traumatic hematomas, a subtype of subcutaneous tension hematomas, are a frequent but understudied injury seen predominantly among the elderly. This patient cohort has a high incidence of comorbidities and frailty. They are frequently taking antiplatelet medications and systemic anticoagulants. The treatment of these injuries can be costly and associated with significant morbidity and even mortality. Early detection and treatment are important when managing pretibial hematomas with the potential for skin necrosis. We report on a case where we performed how early operative debridement, negative pressure wound therapy, and subsequent split-thickness tissue grafting may be an effective management strategy for pretibial hematomas and suggest the importance of establishing standardized institutional approaches for their management.