Skin grafts are used to treat serious wounds from burns, infections, or injuries.
They're used when there isn’t enough healthy skin left for a wound to heal on its own.
Skin grafts are thin pieces of healthy skin that are placed on a wound to help your skin heal.
Usually the skin graft is taken from another part of the body.
When possible, the doctor takes the healthy skin from a place that's hard to see or is often covered by clothes, such as the side of the thigh.
The doctor will use skin that best matches the color or texture of the skin next to the wound.
If your child's skin can't be used, the doctor will use a skin substitute.
Your child will get medicine, so they won't feel anything during the procedure.
During the surgery, the doctor attaches a strip of healthy skin on the area using stitches or staples.
To finish the surgery, the doctor uses bandages to cover the graft and the place where the healthy skin came from.
The doctor will let you know when your child can go home.
For small grafts, your child may be able to go home the same day.
For larger grafts, your child may need to stay in the hospital for a few days or more.
Before the surgery, tell the doctors about all medicines and natural health products your child takes.
Some can raise the risk of bleeding or cause problems with anesthesia.
Your doctor will tell you which medicines your child should take or stop before surgery.
Follow your doctor’s directions for preparing your child, including when your child should stop eating and drinking.
Bring your photo ID and any paperwork your hospital asked for.
And ask if you can bring a favorite toy or blanket to help comfort your child.
Surgery may be stressful for you and your child.
But knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help.
And if you have any questions or concerns, you can always call your doctor.
