Nicole Kindel1. 1. Nicole Kindel, BSN, RN, CWOCN, Kaiser Westside Medical Center, Hillsboro, Oregon.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Management of a hematoma is challenging when its size is substantial. CASE: This case report describes the successful surgical treatment of a large, superficial hematoma with an improvised skin graft and negative pressure wound therapy. CONCLUSIONS: We have found that using the patient's own skin for a skin graft may provide adequate wound coverage and decrease healing time. This method also eliminates the need for creating a donor site. This same procedure can be used on smaller lacerations or skin tears. We advocate detaching the skin flap completely before reattaching in order to prevent reperfusion injury and necrosis.
BACKGROUND: Management of a hematoma is challenging when its size is substantial. CASE: This case report describes the successful surgical treatment of a large, superficial hematoma with an improvised skin graft and negative pressure wound therapy. CONCLUSIONS: We have found that using the patient's own skin for a skin graft may provide adequate wound coverage and decrease healing time. This method also eliminates the need for creating a donor site. This same procedure can be used on smaller lacerations or skin tears. We advocate detaching the skin flap completely before reattaching in order to prevent reperfusion injury and necrosis.