Porcine heterografts in dermatologic surgery and reconstruction

BACKGROUND. Porcine heterografting is a method that can be used to reestablish the protective integrity of skin after cutaneous injury. These grafts may be used in an assortment of clinical situations for chronic and acute wounds, burn injury, and partial- or full-thickness areas of skin loss. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to address the indications for using porcine heterografts in dermatologic surgery, the advantages and disadvantages of their use, and the technique of graft application. METHODS. Indications for porcine heterografts and the methodology of graft application are discussed. RESULTS. Porcine heterografts serve as a valuable tool in a variety of reconstruction settings in dermatologic surgery. CONCLUSIONS. Hererografts provide an inexpensive method to facilitate wound care and promote healing, and serve as an effective repair option for a variety of surgical defects.