Simplifying the defatting of full-thickness skin using “razor strop” method

Abstract

Defatting is usually required when patients undergo fullthickness skin grafting. However, this procedure is often burdensome, because it requires both stable fixation and appropriate tensioning of the skin piece. Furthermore, a skin piece may drop on the floor by accident during the defatting process To solve these problems, we present a unique method of full-thickness skin harvesting, which is easy and convenient, and does not require any special devices. The distal end of elliptical skin is not cut off but remains attached to the body like a pedicled flap. The surgeon pulls the end of the skin and puts his finger on the skin surface during the defatting procedure. This looks similar to a barber sharpening a razor using a strop belt. Our “razor strop” defatting method facilitates full-thickness skin harvesting without any need to purchase specialized equipment. We believe that this technique is an effective option for defatting in full-thickness skin grafting