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Intermediate Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

pinch graft

Small, full-thickness skin grafts harvested by pinching and cutting small pieces of skin, used for wound coverage in areas requiring minimal cosmetic outcome.

Full Definition

A pinch graft is a small, circular piece of full-thickness skin that is harvested by literally pinching up the skin and cutting it with a scalpel or dermatome. These grafts typically measure 2-4mm in diameter and contain both epidermis and dermis. Pinch grafts are used to cover granulating wound beds, particularly in areas where cosmetic appearance is less critical. They are often employed for chronic wounds, including some burn injuries, and can be placed with small gaps between grafts to allow for drainage and expansion. The technique is relatively simple and can be performed under local anesthesia.

In Context

  • "Multiple pinch grafts were placed over the granulating burn wound." — Operative report
  • "Pinch graft take was assessed at the one-week follow-up visit." — Post-operative note

Also known as

punch graft small full-thickness graft

Don't confuse with

punch biopsy split-thickness graft

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