Name of the Procedure:

Application of Skin Substitute Graft to Face, Scalp, Eyelids, Mouth, Neck, Ears, Orbits, Genitalia, Hands, Feet, and/or Multiple Digits, Total Wound Surface Area Greater Than or Equal to 100 Sq Cm; First 100 Sq Cm Wound Surface Area, or 1% of Body Area

Summary

This procedure involves applying a skin substitute graft to particular parts of the body, such as the face, scalp, hands, and other sensitive areas, where the total wound surface area is large (greater than or equal to 100 square centimeters).

Purpose

This procedure aims to treat significant skin loss or damage in critical areas by applying a skin substitute graft. The expected outcomes include promoting wound healing, reducing the risk of infection, and improving the cosmetic and functional outcome of the affected area.

Indications

• Large wounds or burns (>= 100 sq cm)
• Chronic ulcers or wounds that are not healing with conventional treatments
• Skin loss due to trauma or surgery
• Significant skin defects in highly visible or functional areas

Preparation

• Follow pre-procedure fasting instructions, if sedation and anesthesia are used.
• Discontinue certain medications as advised by the healthcare provider (e.g., blood thinners).
• Complete any necessary diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies.
• Discuss medical history, including allergies and current medications, with the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned to give the healthcare provider clear access to the affected area.
2. Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia is administered according to the extent of the procedure.
3. The wound area is cleaned and prepared under sterile conditions.
4. The skin substitute graft is carefully applied and secured to cover the wound.
5. The graft may be fixed with sutures, staples, or adhesive strips.
6. A sterile dressing is applied to protect the graft and promote healing.

Tools and equipment might include sterile surgical instruments, skin substitute materials, sutures/staples, and dressings.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the wound size and location.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room, surgical center, or an outpatient clinic equipped with necessary facilities.

Personnel

• A surgeon or specialist in wound care
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation or general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Graft rejection or failure
• Scarring

Rare risks:

• Allergic reaction to anesthesia or materials used in the graft
• Delayed wound healing
• Unanticipated need for additional surgeries

Benefits

• Enhanced wound healing
• Reduced risk of infection
• Improved appearance and function of the affected area
• Increased patient comfort and mobility

Benefits may be realized within weeks to months, depending on individual healing rates.

Recovery

• Follow healthcare provider’s instructions for wound care.
• Regularly change dressings as advised.
• Avoid activities that may damage the graft site.
• Attend follow-up appointments for monitoring and possible additional treatments.

Expected recovery time varies by individual but generally spans several weeks to a few months.

Alternatives

Other treatment options:

• Conventional wound care (e.g., dressings, ointments)
• Autografts (using patient's own skin)
• Allografts (using donor skin)

Pros and cons:

• Conventional care might be less invasive but less effective for large or complex wounds.
• Autografts are biocompatible but involve additional surgery and donor site morbidity.

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• The patient may feel drowsiness or no pain due to anesthesia or sedation.
• Some discomfort might be experienced with local anesthesia.

After the procedure:

• Pain or discomfort in the treated area is expected and managed with prescribed pain medications.
• Follow-up care is crucial for monitoring graft acceptance and wound healing.