Successful reconstruction of extensive traumatic skin avulsion of the upper arm using negative pressure wound therapy and split thickness skin grafting: A case report
Abstract
Introduction: Traumatic skin avulsion injuries of the upper extremity caused by high?energy trauma are rare and present a significant reconstructive challenge. Early infection control, adequate debridement, and timely reconstruction are essential for functional recovery. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 25?year?old male who sustained an extensive traumatic skin avulsion of the anterior aspect of the left upper arm following a high?energy traffic accident. The injury was complicated by progressive skin necrosis and systemic inflammatory response. After serial surgical debridements and prolonged negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), definitive reconstruction was successfully performed using a dermal substitute and a split?thickness skin graft. Conclusion: This case highlights the effectiveness of staged management combining aggressive debridement, NPWT, and delayed skin grafting in achieving excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes following severe upper?arm skin avulsion injuries.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Wound Healing and Treatments
Burn Injury Management and Outcomes
Reconstructive Surgery and Microvascular Techniques
Publication details
- Journal / source
- International Journal of Case Reports in Surgery
- Volume
- 8
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 15–17
- Publication date
- 1 January 2026