Objective: To explore the method for repair of the whole facial burn scar and evaluate the long-term results of skin grafting.
Methods: 18 patients with facial burn scar were treated with whole piece, full-thickness skin grafting. All of them have been followed-up for 5 to 20 years. The color, elasticity, sensation and gland secretion of the grafted skin were evaluated. The skin samples were taken for light and electron microscope examinations.
Results: The long-term results of whole piece, full-thickness skin grafting were satisfactory. The grafted skin was smooth and elastic, with sebaceous and sweat glands. The histological structure of the grafted skin was similar to that of the normal facial skin and different from that of the donor site.
Conclusion: Whole piece and full-thickness skin grafting may be a valuable method for the treatment of facial burn scar. The morphological and histological structure of the grafted full-thickness skin is similar to the normal facial skin through the long-term follow-up.