Safety and effectiveness of micropigmentation skin grafting using the Meek method.

Abstract

The management of complex burn injuries has evolved significantly, with various surgical techniques developed to improve outcomes. This review examines the evolution of these methods, focusing particularly on mesh grafting and the Meek technique. While mesh grafting is effective, it poses challenges such as limited graft coverage and a high demand for autologous skin. In contrast, the Meek technique, a specialized method reintroduced in 1993, offers notable advantages for extensive burns by achieving higher skin expansion ratios of up to 1:9 and reducing the need for large donor sites. The Meek technique uses a meshing device to create tiny perforations in small skin grafts, facilitating their expansion to cover larger wound areas and improving healing outcomes. Recent studies highlight its effectiveness across various burn severities and age groups, especially when combined with Cultured Epithelial Autografts (CEA). Additionally, bioengineering advancements like Biobrane offer temporary skin substitutes to aid burn wound healing in pediatric cases, though they ultimately require replacement with autografts. While the Meek technique presents certain challenges, such as a 6-day delay before applying allografts, it remains a robust alternative to traditional methods. Clinical experience indicates that the Meek technique, particularly when combined with CEA, can achieve superior results for severe burns compared to conventional mesh grafting. This review emphasizes the Meek technique's potential as a valuable tool in burn wound management, offering a promising approach for improving patient outcomes in complex burn injuries.