Novel techniques to improve split-thickness skin graft viability during vulvo-vaginal reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Split-thickness skin grafts are often utilized for vulvo-vaginal reconstruction. Unfortunately, infection and sloughing may occur in up to 22% of patients with standard techniques especially at irradiated recipient sites.

CASES: We report seven cases of vulvo-vaginal reconstruction using split-thickness skin grafts. In this series, we used fibrin tissue adhesives with and without vacuum-assisted closure devices to augment graft adherence and viability. We briefly describe the clinical history, surgical techniques, and outcomes of the cohort.

CONCLUSION: Fibrin tissue adhesives and wound vacuum-assisted closure devices may improve the viability of split-thickness skin grafts during vulvo-vaginal reconstruction.