What is a split thickness skin graft?

A split-thickness skin graft is a procedure in which the doctor covers a wound with a piece of skin, or graft, from another part of your body.

When is it used?

This procedure is done when you have an open wound that may take a long time to heal and leave a large scar.

An example of an alternative is to choose to do nothing and allow the area to heal by itself. You should ask your doctor about these choices.

How do I prepare for a split thickness skin graft?

Plan for your care and recovery after the operation. Allow for time to rest and try to find people to help you with your day-to-day duties.

Follow any instructions your doctor may give you. Eat a light meal, such as soup or salad, the night before the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight and the morning before the procedure. Do not even drink coffee, tea, or water.

What happens during the procedure?

You will receive general, regional, or local anesthetic. The general anesthetic relaxes your muscles, makes you feel as if you are in a deep sleep, and prevents you from feeling pain. The regional or local anesthetic numbs the area while you remain awake.

The doctor will clean the wound and remove any dead or damaged tissue. The doctor will select a place (like the inside of one of the upper thighs) and remove a piece of skin. The doctor will place the skin onto the wound and keep it in place using stitches, staples, or pads. The doctor will cover the skin with a secure bandage and may also place a splint around the bandage to make sure nothing bothers the area.

What happens after the procedure?

You may be in the hospital for a few days, depending on where the graft is and how well it heals. Avoid all strenuous activity and keep the area still.

The graft may take 5 to 7 days to attach itself. It may take even longer for the graft to completely heal, depending on its size. The place from which skin was taken may not fully heal for at least 2 weeks. During this time, the doctor may put a bandage over it; while it is healing, it will be uncomfortable and feel like a bad rug burn. You may have a pink scar for about 6 months. It may look different from normal skin. Also, hair may not regrow in the area of the skin graft or at the graft site.

Ask your doctor what steps you should take and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

The wound may heal sooner with less chance of infection. Also, there may be a more comfortable, less disfiguring scar.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• There are some risks when you have general anesthesia. Discuss these risks with your doctor.

• The regional or local anesthetic may not numb the area quite enough and you may feel some minor discomfort.

• The graft may not be successful. If it becomes infected or if a bubble forms underneath the graft, the graft may fall off or fail to attach.

• Infection or bleeding may occur.

You should ask your doctor how these risks apply to you.

When should I call the doctor?

Call the doctor immediately if:

• You develop a fever.

• Fluid is draining from the wound.

Call the doctor during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.

• You want to make another appointment.