Hi, I would like to excise a 3.5inch wide split thickness skin graft on my shin. I have read a lot about external tissue expanders like DermaClose. I have been told by one plastic surgeon that these devices can be used to excise an existing skin graft, but it appears most don't have experience in using them on the lower extremities. Does any surgeon here have experience or can give a referral?
3.5 inch is pretty wide. Dermaclose is mainly for acute wounds and not areas that have healed. You can do serial excisions to get it closed but would take a lot. Other thing would be tissue expander.
Hi! Yes dermaclose Can absolutely be used on something like this I have done it with success.
I see that you are in NYC. My office is in Nj. Would be happy to see you for a consult and determine if this procedure is right for you
I have placed tissue expanders in extremities. They can be problematic but the skin grafts can be removed with persistence. A sheet graft done well which heals well is a good alternative. Some pictures would help here