What should you know about Integra skin graft?

Integra is a layered, artificial dermal substitute placed over a wound by a trained surgical team. Its inner layer acts as a temporary framework while the body develops a vascularized tissue bed; an outer layer helps protect the area during this phase. A later procedure may place a thin skin graft over the prepared wound. It can be considered when a wound has limited soft-tissue coverage, such as after burns, trauma, excision, or another operation.

The result depends on wound condition, blood supply, infection control, movement, and general health. Integra does not replace assessment of the wound itself, and it is not suitable for every wound.

Keep the dressing and treated area exactly as directed, and avoid lifting, soaking, rubbing, or putting pressure on it. Follow instructions about elevation and movement because swelling and shear can disturb the developing tissue. Attend each planned review so the team can check adherence, drainage, color, and readiness for the next stage. Take prescribed medicines as directed and do not apply creams, antiseptics, or home remedies unless the treating team approves them.

Ask for written instructions about bathing, work, exercise, dressing changes, and the timing of any later graft. Protect the area from sun after healing, since newly repaired skin can discolor and remains more vulnerable.

Contact the surgical team promptly if the dressing becomes loose or soaked, the scaffold shifts, drainage increases, or pain and swelling worsen rather than settle. Fever, spreading redness, foul-smelling fluid, bleeding that does not stop with directed pressure, or a sudden change to dark, pale, or cold tissue needs urgent clinical advice. Seek emergency help for severe bleeding, fainting, breathing difficulty, or rapidly worsening illness.

Ask why Integra fits the wound, what the two stages involve, how the dressing will be protected, which signs suggest infection or poor attachment, and how scars and movement will be managed.