Scar flap transplantation

Skin flap transplantation is a commonly used treatment method in clinical medicine. It is mainly used to repair damaged skin and is also very effective in repairing scars. Of course, as a surgery, patients must do relevant nursing work after the operation to better promote wound healing and allow patients to recover health as soon as possible. So, what should we pay attention to after flap transplantation surgery? This will be described in detail below.

1. Thermal insulation care

Postoperative heat preservation is particularly important. The skin flap should be exposed to a 60W heating lamp for 7 to 10 days at a distance of 30 to 40 cm. Cover the lampshade and skin flap with a sterile towel to keep them warm, but be careful not to keep the lamp too close to the skin flap to avoid burns. Use intermittent illumination in summer.

2. Postoperative position

Postoperative body positioning is one of the important measures to ensure the blood supply and venous return of the flap and promote flap survival. After the operation, keep the affected limb higher than the heart, raise the affected limb 10° to 15°, maintain the functional position or make appropriate adjustments according to the surgical site. To ensure arterial blood supply and facilitate venous return. It is forbidden to lie on the affected side to prevent the skin flap from being compressed or pulled, and to avoid skin flap spasm leading to ischemia and necrosis. Try to adopt a body position that satisfies the patient. Check on the patient frequently, especially those who are sleeping soundly, and pay attention to maintaining their body position. At the same time, explain to the patient the importance of fixed body position so that he or she can cooperate closely with the treatment and correct incorrect posture in time.

3. Pain care

Pain can cause the body to release 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), which has a strong vasoconstrictor effect. If not treated promptly, it can cause vasospasm or thrombosis. Therefore, analgesia should be given promptly after surgery. Apply local bandage to protect the limbs and avoid damaging the skin flap during movement, which may cause pain. Do not bandage too tightly to prevent compression. All postoperative treatment and nursing operations should be performed gently, such as injections, infusions, dressing changes, removal of drainage tubes, etc., to minimize pain.

4. Effective blood circulation

Insufficient blood volume can cause a decrease in cardiac output and constriction of peripheral blood vessels, thereby affecting the blood supply to the flap and threatening the survival of the replanted tissue. Therefore, after surgery, attention should be paid to observing vital signs and general condition and replenishing blood volume. At the same time, follow the doctor's advice to take antispasmodic, antithrombotic and other treatments, and pay attention to the efficacy and side effects of the drugs.

5. Prevent wound infection

Apply antibiotics promptly and reasonably at an early stage, strictly follow aseptic techniques, keep the dressings clean and dry, keep the skin graft drainage unobstructed, observe the color, amount, and properties of the drainage fluid and keep records to prevent blood accumulation in the skin gaps of the flap and affect the survival of the flap. Provide dietary guidance and advise patients to eat a high-protein, high-calorie, high-vitamin diet to enhance resistance and facilitate tissue repair. At the same time, basic care is strengthened to prevent pressure sores, disinfect the air in the wards every day, and open windows for ventilation regularly.