An excised graft bed must be free
from contamination and infection. All affected tissue
must be removed. Pre-Operative routines should follow
normal surgical center protocols. This may include the
use of systematic broad spectrum antibiotics. If wound
infection is detected, treat topically and/or systemically
according to burn unit protocols.
Achieve an adequate vascular supply
prior to the application of INTEGRA® Template. As with
autograft: punctate, uniform capillary bleeding indicates
adequate excision of the affected tissue. Signs of a
viable graft bed include: white dermis, pure yellow
fat and glistening fascia.
The graft bed must be dry with no
signs of bleeding. Meticulous hemostasis needs to be
achieved to prevent hematomas or excessive fluid accumulation.
Epinephrine, pinpoint electrocaudary, thrombin spray,
thrombin-soaked gauze or other topical hemostats should
be used. Avoid broad area cauterization which can lead
to affected tissue.
To ensure intimate contact with INTEGRA® Template the graft bed must be uniform and flat. Achieve
level tissue planes and when necessary, marsupialize
edges to avoid large step-offs between the wound bed
and normal skin.
To continue your review of the
COURSE, select a new section from the course outline on
the left side of your screen or simply click on “Next.”
