Three-Year Experience With Combined Complex Skin Repair in Patients With Extensive Burns: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Introduction. The Meek micrografting technique used in STSG expansion is effective in achieving wide and rapid coverage of burn wounds. Certain growth factors have also been shown to modulate or mediate wound healing. Objective. In this study, a combined treatment approach for severe burns involving the Meek micrografting technique, systemic application of rhGH, and topical application of rhEGF was evaluated. Materials and Methods. A retrospective study was conducted of 7 extensively burned patients who were treated with the Meek technique, systemic application of rhGH, and topical application of rhEGF between January 2017 and December 2019. Results. The mean percent TBSA burned was 89%. An average of 9.5 surgical procedures were performed to obtain skin cover, with an average of 5.8 Meek micrograft procedures performed in the 6 surviving patients. Complete wound healing was achieved at an average of 120 days in the 6 surviving patients. The mean graft take rate was 81%. Infection was the main reason for graft failure. Donor sites were used for up to 5 re-harvestings without additional morbidity. Conclusions. A multipronged treatment approach that combines the Meek micrografting technique, systemic application of rhGH, and topical application of rhEGF is a promising tool for the management of severe and extensive burns.