Abstract

Background: Skin grafting is a widely utilized modality for wound closure. However, suitable donor grafts are not always readily available, and in some instances the wound bed is not yet prepared for graft application. Consequently, the ability to preserve split-thickness grafts (STG) is essential in reconstructive practice. Objective: This study aims to compare the structural integrity and viability of split-thickness grafts stored at 4°C and -80°C. Methodology: This experimental study employed a post-test control group design, utilizing 21 splitthickness skin samples obtained from excessskin during surgical procedures at Dr. Soetomo Regional Hospital, Surabaya. Samples were divided into three groups: fresh (control), storage at 4°C, and storage at -80°C for two weeks using 0.9% NaCl and glycerol as storage media. Tissue structure was assessed via hematoxylin-eosin staining, while cell viability was measured using the MTT Assay. Results: Results demonstrated that storage at -80°C more effectively preserved the integrity of the epidermal and dermal structures, particularly concerning de-keratinization and the dermo- epidermal junction, compared to storage at 4°C (p < 0.05). Tissue viability increased with decreasing storage temperature, reaching the highest values at -80°C for both 0.9% NaCl and glycerol media (p < 0.001). The use of glycerol as a storage medium yielded higher viability compared to 0.9% NaCl. Lowering the storage temperature significantly enhanced cell survival and maintained tissue architecture. Conclusion: Storing split-thickness grafts at -80°C in glycerol provides the optimal preservation of tissue structure and viability, representing an effective long-term storage method for use in plastic surgery therapies.

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