Title: Skin grafting for the management of cutaneous substance loss in orthopedic and traumatological surgery: a retrospective study of 40 cases
Authors: Dr OMAR HABIB ALLAH, Dr AYOUB MIKOU, Pr MOHAMMED BENSAKA, Pr HATIM ABID, Pr MOHAMMED ELIDRISSI, Pr ABDELMAJID ELMRINI
Volume: 10
Issue: 9
Pages: 140-144
Publication Date: 2026/09/28
Abstract:
Skin grafting remains one of the most reliable techniques for managing cutaneous substance loss in orthopedic and traumatological surgery. We conducted a retrospective study of 40 patients treated at the Department of Orthopedic and Traumatological Surgery B4, CHU Hassan II, Fes, over a 6-year period (December 2019 to December 2025). Mean patient age was 50 years (range: 18-78), with male predominance (62.5%). The leading etiology was post-tumoral resection (39%), followed by traumatic origin (34%) and infectious sequelae (22%). The lower limb accounted for 65% of defects. The thigh was the donor site in 92% of cases. Full-thickness grafts were used in 55% of cases and split-thickness in 45%. Overall graft success rate was 95%. Dyschromia (17.5%) and hypertrophic scarring (7.5%) were the most frequent late complications. Functional outcomes were satisfactory in 85% of patients, confirming skin grafting as an effective and versatile technique in the orthopedic setting.