Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
sheet graft
An unmeshed skin graft applied as a continuous piece to cover a burn wound.
Full Definition
A sheet graft is a harvested skin graft that is applied to the wound bed without meshing or perforation, maintaining its original continuous surface. Sheet grafts provide superior cosmetic results compared to meshed grafts because they heal with a smoother appearance and less visible scarring pattern. However, they are more prone to failure from fluid accumulation beneath the graft and require meticulous wound bed preparation. Sheet grafts are typically reserved for cosmetically important areas such as the face, hands, and neck.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the ratio (e.g., 1:1) to distinguish from meshed grafts which have expansion ratios.
In Context
- "A sheet graft was selected for facial reconstruction to optimize cosmetic outcome." — Plastic surgery consultation
- "The sheet graft required careful monitoring for seroma formation beneath the graft." — Post-operative care note
Also known as
unmeshed graft
solid graft
Contrasted with
meshed graft
Don't confuse with
meshed graft
full-thickness graft