Hi how about those of you that had to have any skin grafts to the hand giving their experiences, which might give some reassurances to those who are about to have this done . In my case I've had four grafts. Any body interested in sharing their experience.

Hi Chris.Australia calling:I am male 65 yr. Each skin graft was performed at different times. I have a small one on the right lower thumb joint adjacent to the palm . (20x15 mm.)This was done after a previous op on the same thumb.On the right little finger the graft extends from the first joint of the finger onto the palm,(65x30mm) This graft skirts along both sides of the finger but not into the web of the adjacent ring finger,Again this was done after previous op. On my left thumb the graft extends into the web adjacent to the index finger,(60 x30 mm)The final graft takes in both the little finger and ring finger up to the second joint and extend into the palm.(40 x 25mm).The graft runs up along the edges of the fingers. I did experience a tightening of the web between the two finger which resulted in another op to open the web. It was difficult to spred the fingers wide apart.During the healing process the scar tissue thickened which caused the restriction of movement. I have not had the contraction return, however on my right thumb and forefinger during the past l8 mths I've had day surgery on previous scar tissue (not graft.) which became raised and very sensitive.The skin graft area is very sensitive so I wear cotton type work gloves rubber faced to protect my hands whenever I do any type of manual work. I believe the area of a graft only contains a single layer of skin.I was told this area of skin graft is difficult sometime to take . I had no problem .I was advised as soon as possible to wiggle the fingers(gently raise hand ) to keep the blood circulating. You dont wnt the graft to fail bad news. Have your surgeon give you some idea of the size of the graft.Not like in my case ,Big surprise . Remember in the movies the graft look the same colour . In my case much darker. The donor skin came from top of leg near the hip. Find out where the donor area is .I have full use and strenght of my hands but I do stretching exercise a couple times a day. It takes a while to get back to full movement. Work on it early and you will be rewarded. Hope this helps.

Hi again Chris, with regards to the donor skin I had it taken from each side and the again from the same sites on following years. I was 35yr when diagnosed and had no operations for l5 yrs or so.I believe that the donor skin is removed and shaved basically tissue paper thin.The fact of being young is in your favour =good blood supply as the graft takes in days.I dont know if I would want to use the top of the finger I would be worried about loss of "touch" . I have done many things in life and at one stage owned a farm ."cattle" Lots of different tasks for the hands . I wouldn't worry obout your golf. regards.