Abstract

Treatment of extensive post-burn deformities using extra-large sheets of full thickness skin grafts

Author(s): Mohamed Elsayed Mohamed*, Belal Abdullah Almobarak & Mohamed Ibrahim Hassan

Post burn scarring and contractures that affect function remain one of the most frustrating late complications of burn injury. Split thickness skin grafting (STSG) is still the most commonly used method for achieving skin coverage of massive raw areas. In this study, we were able to harvest 14 extra-large sheets of full thickness skin grafts (FTSGs) taken from different areas (back, abdomen and breasts after reduction mammoplasty) to treat extensive post burn contractures and scarring in 10 patients. We could cover raw areas up to 7% Of the TBSA which regained function with less morbidity and more aesthetic results than do STSGs. The results were also satisfactory in 9 patients, yet, only one patient was not satisfied with the result.