title: Grafts in dermatologic surgery: review and update on full- and split-thickness skin grafts, free cartilage grafts, and composite grafts.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Skin grafting has evolved in the past centuries to encompass numerous well-established reconstruction techniques that are uniquely able to restore structure, function, and cosmesis to a variety of surgical wounds.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To provide a detailed overview of the general principles of skin grafting geared for the dermatologist and the dermatologic surgeon.
  
  
  METHODS
  Comprehensive review of the literature.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A summary of the different applications and techniques of full- and split-thickness skin grafts, free cartilage grafts, and composite grafts is presented. Indications, advantages, disadvantages, techniques, and complications are discussed in depth.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Skin grafting is a dynamic and versatile method of cutaneous reconstruction that can be accomplished successfully with a thorough understanding of the principles and techniques of grafting.
authors.affiliation: Dermatologic Surgery Section, Department of Dermatology, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
authors.forename: David C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Adams
authors.forename: Michael L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Ramsey
mesh_terms: D004425:Ear Cartilage / Q000637:transplantation*; D006801:Humans; D009666:Nose / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods; D012225:Rhinoplasty / Q000379:methods; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D016038:Skin Transplantation