Skin Grafts

Whenever a wound is severe, there is a chance that skin grafts may be necessary in order to help it heal properly. This involves removing a patch of skin from one part of the body and then attaching, or grafting, it to another part. Here is some information on how the procedure is typically performed and why it may be necessary.

How it Works

Skin grafts are typically performed under general anesthesia. The doctor will determine the “donor site,” or the area where the healthy skin will be removed. Most people have a procedure known as a “split-thickness skin graft” performed. This involves removing the top two layers of skin – the epidermis and the dermis – from the donor site. The donor site can be located anywhere on the body, but is typically an area that is covered by clothing, such as the inner thigh or the buttock

Once the skin has been removed from the donor site, it is carefully spread on the area where it is to be attached. Stiches, staples or dressings may be used to hold skin grafts in place.

Why Skin Grafts May Be Necessary

If a wound such as a diabetic ulcer, pressure ulcer or venous ulcer does not heal properly, or if a person suffers a large wound, then skin grafts may be needed. If you are a candidate for this procedure, you will need to tell your doctor all the medicines you have been taking, whether they are prescription or non-prescription. You will also need to tell your medical team about any supplements you may be taking or if you have recently drank a lot of alcohol.

Contact Us About Skin Grafts

At DFW Wound Care Center, our medical experts have successfully performed many skin grafts, helping patients heal faster so they can get back to normal as quickly as possible. Please call us at 972-665-6292 (Plano), 972-318-2383 (Lewisville), 972-607-9643 (Irving) or contact us online to learn more or to schedule an appointment.