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Split-thickness autogenous skin transplantation in the horse
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|April 1, 1982
Summary
Split-thickness autogenous skin grafts effectively treated equine limb wounds, achieving 88% average graft acceptance. This method promotes rapid healing and cosmetically acceptable results for horses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Surgery
- Dermatology
- Equine Medicine
Background:
- Limb wounds in horses can be challenging to treat due to motion and wound environment.
- Autogenous skin grafting is a viable option for wound closure in equine patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of split-thickness autogenous skin grafts in treating equine limb wounds.
- To assess graft acceptance, healing time, and cosmetic outcome.
Main Methods:
- Split-thickness skin grafts (0.635 mm) were harvested using an electric dermatome and expanded via mesh grafting.
- Grafts were applied to 20 limb wounds in 17 horses, either immediately or after granulation tissue formation.
- Wounds were secured with sutures and dressings, with additional protection from casts or bandages.
Main Results:
- Graft acceptance ranged from 50% to 100%, averaging 88%.
- Complete epithelialization occurred within 14 to 21 days in most cases.
- Grafts with >60% acceptance yielded cosmetically acceptable healed wounds.
Conclusions:
- Split-thickness autogenous skin grafting is a successful treatment for equine limb wounds.
- The technique provides good graft take, rapid healing, and satisfactory cosmetic results.