Transfer of Free Skin Grafts with a Preserved Subcutaneous Vascular Network

Abstract

We present our new approach for preserved subcutaneous vascular network (PSVN) skin transplantation. To confirm the revascularization of the grafts, we undertook a microscopic study and found that, because of the rich anastomotic communication between the recipient vessels and the PSVN on the undersurface of the skin graft, successful adaptation to the recipient bed is achieved—enhancing the transplantability of the skin graft. We also noted that the absence of injury to the dermis of the graft permits the undersurface of the graft to be in contact with the raw surface with a minimum of scar formation. Finally, neither contracture nor wrinkling of the skin grafts was observed during the six-year follow-up study.