Compared with a split-thickness skin graft, a full-thickness skin graft (Wolfe graft) has which characteristic combination?
- A Better take rate and minimal donor-site morbidity, but more secondary contraction
- B Better cosmetic match and less secondary contraction, but lower chance of take and higher donor-site morbidity ✓
- C Greater secondary contraction but superior take on granulating beds
- D Identical contraction behaviour but slower reinnervation
Correct answer: B. Better cosmetic match and less secondary contraction, but lower chance of take and higher donor-site morbidity
Explanation
B full-thickness graft includes the entire dermis with adnexal structures, giving better colour and texture match, negligible secondary contraction, and potential for sweat and sebaceous function. However, its greater metabolic demand lowers the probability of take, and the donor site lacks epithelial appendages for re-epithelialisation, so it must be closed primarily, causing more morbidity. Split-thickness grafts take more reliably but contract significantly more.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.