J Korean Burn Soc.  2022 Dec;25(2):33-38. 10.47955/jkbs.22.0007.

Long-Term Results of Palmar Ulnar Border Composite Graft after Postburn Hand Scar Contracture Release

• Kim Y
• Eun S

• KMID: 2536410
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.47955/jkbs.22.0007

Abstract

Purpose
Hand skin defects and following scar contractures are common injuries and sequelae of home or industrial accidents. Glabrous skin defects should be replaced with similar skin to achieve functional recovery and cosmesis. However, donor sites for full-thickness glabrous skin are insufficient.
Methods
From 2008 to 2018, we performed graft surgeries from the hypothenar area to cover the palmar skin defects after postburn scar contracture release. All 62 patients were treated with full-thickness composite grafts including skin and subcutaneous tissue.
Results
Follow-up periods ranged from 13 to 65 months. All glabrous composite grafts demonstrated good uptake rates, resembling the surrounding skin in appearance, texture, and color. Among the 62 patients, there were only three cases of partial graft loss. There were no reported complications such as significant color change, hypertrophic scar, or donor site complications. The grafted skin showed an average 5.8 mm static two-point discrimination in sensory recovery.
Conclusion
Our results indicate that use of glabrous full-thickness composite graft is a reliable method for hand palmar skin resurfacing. With low donor-site morbidity, the graft restores the functional and aesthetic properties of glabrous skin.

Keyword

Composite graft; Postburn scar contracture; Hand reconstruction