The Effects of Skin Graft Thickness on Graft Viability and Change in Original Graft Area in Dogs

Abstract

The viability and change in original graft area of full thickness grafts (FTG) and split thickness skin grafts (STG) placed on fresh and granulating recipient beds were evaluated. Two 6 × 6 cm skin grafts were placed on each side of the trunk in ten dogs. Grafting procedures included FTG and STG on fresh and granulating wounds. Graft viability was determined on the 10th postoperative day by visual inspection. The change in original graft area was evaluated by comparing the original surface area of the grafts with the surface areas of the grafts at 10, 30, 60, and 90 days after surgery. The means graft viability for FTG and STG on fresh beds was 81% and 55%, respectively. FTG and STG on granulating beds had a mean graft viability of 58% and 47%, respectively. The mean percentage of original graft area at 90 days for FTG and STG on fresh beds was 82% and 97%, respectively. FTG and STG on granulating beds had an overall percentage of original graft area of 105% and 130%, respectively. There were no statistical differences found when comparing FTG with STG placed on fresh beds or granulating beds. However, the general trend indicated that FTG had a greater percentage of viability and contracted more than STG in dogs. This is contrary to previous findings.