Certified Tissue Bank Specialist (CTBS) Practice Test

Which tool is used to recover split, or partial-partial thickness, skin?

1. Dermatome

2. Scalpel

3. Osteotome

4. Forceps

The correct answer is: Dermatome

The use of a dermatome is specifically designed for the purpose of obtaining skin grafts, particularly partial thickness or split-thickness skin. A dermatome is a specialized surgical instrument that allows for the precise and consistent harvesting of thin layers of skin from a donor site, which is essential in various medical procedures, including skin grafting for burns, trauma, and reconstructive surgery. The design of the dermatome enables the surgeon to control the depth of skin removal, which is crucial for ensuring that the graft will successfully integrate at the recipient site while preserving adequate blood supply and healing capability at the donor site. In contrast, a scalpel is a general surgical knife and is less specialized than a dermatome for skin grafting. An osteotome is a tool used primarily for cutting or shaping bone, making it irrelevant for skin recovery. Forceps, while useful for grasping and manipulating tissues during surgical procedures, do not serve the purpose of cutting or harvesting skin. Hence, the dermatome stands out as the most appropriate tool for this specific task.