Full-Thickness Skin Grafting for Contact Burns of the Palm in Children

Abstract

The authors report their experience in the treatment of deep contact burns of the palm with 12 children injured from 1980 to 1986. As an alternative to the use of split-thickness skin grafts for resurfacing, since 1983 they have used full-thickness skin grafts harvested from the groin. To date, no child has required secondary revision of a full-thickness skin graft nor is it anticipated. There has been no donor-site morbidity thus far. Current protocol for treatment of these injuries depends upon an aggressive program of physical therapy, which includes nocturnal "sandwich" splinting and the close participation of the family. Prevention of these injuries will depend upon improved design of safety features for household appliances and consumer education at the time of purchase.