NEW METHOD OF FULL THICKNESS SKIN-GRAFT FIXATION

A technique of free full thickness skin graft fixation utilising central and paracentral sutures between the graft and the depths of the recipient bed is described. The intrinsic fixation provided by these sutures allows larger free grafts, thus eliminating the need to use local flaps. These sutures also allow double free grafts - mucosal and dermal - for full thickness lower eyelid reconstructions. Patients do not need hospital admission and can resume normal activity immediately after the operation. One hundred and nine skin grafts secured by this technique have yielded very satisfactory results.