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Skin Graft Selection Algorithm (STSG vs FTSG)

Skin Graft Selection Algorithm (STSG vs FTSG): Skin Graft Required → Recipient Site Location → Aesthetically Important → Recipient Bed Quality → Full Th...

Interactive Decision Tree

Mini Map

Algorithm Steps

  1. ▶
    Start

    Skin Graft Required

    1. ◆
      Decision

      Recipient Site Location

      1. ●
        Action

        Aesthetically Important

        Face, hands, exposed areas

        1. ◆
          Decision

          Recipient Bed Quality

          • Well-vascularized
          • Questionable
          • Poor (bone/tendon)
          1. ■
            End

            Full Thickness Graft (FTSG)

            Better color match, less contraction, higher failure risk

            • Donor: groin, postauricular, supraclavicular
            • Primary closure of donor site
          2. ■
            End

            Thick STSG (0.015-0.018 in)

            Good durability, moderate contraction

            • Thigh, buttock donor
            • Heals by secondary intention
          3. ■
            End

            Thin STSG (0.008-0.012 in)

            Best take, most contraction

            • Large areas
            • Meshing possible for expansion
      2. ●
        Action

        Functional Area

        Joints, mobile areas

      3. ●
        Action

        Large Surface Area

        Burns, extensive wounds

Guideline Source

ASPS Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline: Skin Grafting

DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000006478View Guideline

Clinical Safety Information

Clinical Decision Support — Not a Substitute for Clinical Judgment

Individual patient factors may require deviation from these recommendations.

Known Limitations

  • Recipient bed vascularity critical for graft take
  • Patient factors affect healing
  • Donor site morbidity considerations

Applicable Regions

USAUUKEU

UK: BAPRAS recommendations

US: ASPS guidelines

Version 1Next review: 2028-01-01

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Skin Graft Selection Algorithm (STSG vs FTSG)?

The Skin Graft Selection Algorithm (STSG vs FTSG) is a management clinical algorithm for Plastic Surgery. It provides a structured decision tree to guide clinical decision-making, based on ASPS Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline: Skin Grafting.

What guideline is the Skin Graft Selection Algorithm (STSG vs FTSG) based on?

This algorithm is based on ASPS Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline: Skin Grafting (DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000006478).

What are the limitations of the Skin Graft Selection Algorithm (STSG vs FTSG)?

Known limitations include: Recipient bed vascularity critical for graft take; Patient factors affect healing; Donor site morbidity considerations. Individual patient factors may require deviation from these recommendations.

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