A NEW METHOD OF SKIN-GRAFT STABILIZATION - THE RESTON TECHNIQUE

We describe a new staple-on dressing technique for skin-graft stabiliz ation, using gas-sterilized polyurethane foam as bolster material. The method has all the attributes of a satisfactory skin-graft dressing: compression to prevent hematoma and seroma, resistance to shear forces , splinting properties, and protection from the outside environment, A lthough we have not completed a randomized, prospective study, skin-gr aft ''take'' appears to be excellent in most cases. The technique is c ost effective, and application requires a fraction of the time require d far a traditional bolster dressing.