THE FATE OF DERMAL AND DERMAL-FAT GRAFTS

Histological changes in dermis and dermal-fat grafts have been hampere d by the lack of a defined boundary to allow precise localization. We describe a model in which grafts of skin components were coated with i ndia ink and implanted over the perichondrium of pigs' ears. Histologi cal studies were then performed at 2-weekly intervals for 10 weeks. Th e survival of the grafts was also quantified. Skin adnexal structures found in dermal grafts survived with some changes. Grafts with an epit helial component produced an intense inflammatory infiltrate and forme d inclusion cysts. Fat tended to disappear, a significant part of it b eing replaced by fibrous tissue. Dermis grafts implanted in the ears o f growing pigs not only survived, but grew.