Skin graft

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Skin graft

Skin graft - series

Skin layers

Skin transplant; Skin autografting

New blood vessels begin growing from the recipient area into the transplanted skin within 36 hours. Most skin grafts are successful, but in some cases they don't heal well and require repeat grafting. The graft should also be monitored for good circulation.

The recovery from surgery is usually rapid after split thickness skin grafting. The skin graft must be protected from trauma or significant stretching for 2-3 weeks. Depending on the location of the graft, a dressing may be necessary for 1-2 weeks. Exercise that might stretch or injure the graft should be avoided for 3-4 weeks.

Full-thickness grafts require a longer period of recovery, with 1-2 week hospital stays in most cases.

Review Date: 06/10/2005
Reviewed By: Joseph P. Hart, MD, Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.