Professional
Technical
IVT
composite graft
Transplanted tissue containing multiple tissue types, such as skin, cartilage, and fat.
Full Definition
A composite graft consists of multiple tissue types transplanted as a single unit, commonly including combinations of skin, subcutaneous fat, cartilage, or other structures. These grafts are frequently used in facial reconstruction, particularly for nasal reconstruction where skin and cartilage are needed together. Composite grafts have higher metabolic demands than simple skin grafts and require excellent vascular bed preparation for survival. Common donor sites include the ear and nasal septum.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from free flaps, which have vascular anastomoses.
In Context
- "Alar reconstruction was completed using a composite graft from the contralateral ear." — Operative report
- "The composite graft showed excellent take with complete epithelialization." — Post-operative follow-up note
Also known as
compound graft
multi-tissue graft
Contrasted with
simple graft
Don't confuse with
free flap
skin graft