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Dressing Influence on Re-epithelialization Rate Following Split-thickness Skin Graft Harvest: Network Meta-analysis
Nawaf Alhindi1, Sarah Qari2, Houriah Nukaly3
1From the Saudi Ministry of Health, Rabigh, Saudi Arabia.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|May 12, 2025
Summary
Povidone-iodine-impregnated foam demonstrated the highest effectiveness for split-thickness skin graft donor sites, significantly outperforming other conventional dressings in re-epithelialization. Further research is recommended to explore cost and patient factors in dressing selection.
Area of Science:
- Wound Healing
- Dermatology
- Surgical Dressings
Background:
- Split-thickness skin graft donor sites are common in burn care, with over 160,000 procedures annually.
- Conventional dressings are frequently used due to their simplicity and speed.
- Optimizing donor site management is crucial for patient recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of various conventional dressings for split-thickness skin graft donor sites.
- To evaluate dressings based on re-epithelialization time and adverse effects.
- To provide evidence-based guidance for dressing selection in clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and network meta-analysis of 25 randomized controlled trials (1983-2022).
- Searches conducted in MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Embase databases.
- Inclusion of all publications prior to August 2023 without time restrictions.
Main Results:
- Povidone-iodine-impregnated foam (90.4%) and hydrocolloid (87.9%) showed the highest effectiveness.
- Petrolatum dressings facilitated faster re-epithelialization compared to alginate and paraffin gauze.
- Cotton gauze was the least effective dressing option (3.9%).
Conclusions:
- Povidone-iodine-impregnated foam is the most effective dressing for split-thickness skin graft donor sites.
- The study provides a guide for selecting appropriate donor site dressings.
- Further research is needed to consider wound characteristics, patient factors, availability, and cost.
