Successful partial-thickness skin grafting in a pediatric scalp avulsion after dog bite: A case report.

Introduction: Animal bites can cause significant head and neck injuries in children with scalp avulsions posing a challenge. This report presents a case of successful partial-thickness skin grafting in managing a severe pediatric scalp avulsion from a dog bite.

Case Presentation: A 7-year-old boy who sustained extensive scalp injuries following a dog attack was admitted to the emergency room. The patient presented in hypovolemic shock with deep lacerations and full-thickness soft tissue avulsion involving the frontal, parietal, and occipital regions of the scalp. Initial treatment included fluid resuscitation, antimicrobial prophylaxis, and wound stabilization. Over a 45-day period, the patient underwent multiple debridements, resection of the outer cortex of the scalp bone, and preparation of the wound bed with a vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) device. Partial-thickness skin grafts (PTSGs) were harvested from the anterior thighs and successfully applied to the granulation tissue, resulting in a graft take rate exceeding 90 %. The patient was discharged in good condition with a satisfactory outcome.

Discussion: The case underscores the efficacy of PTSGs in managing extensive scalp defects in pediatric patients. The technique offers several advantages, including quicker donor site healing, adaptability to irregular surfaces, and a high success rate in challenging wound beds. Compared to other reconstruction methods, PTSG is particularly beneficial when donor sites are limited.

Conclusion: This case report highlights the successful use of PTSGs in the treatment of a severe pediatric scalp avulsion, demonstrating its viability as a reliable option for extensive scalp reconstruction in children.