What type of skin graft includes the epidermis and all of the dermis?

A full-thickness skin graft includes both the entire epidermis and all layers of the dermis. This type of graft is often used in surgical procedures where more substantial tissue loss has occurred or when aesthetics and functional properties of the skin are critical. Full-thickness grafts are typically taken from areas of the body with thin skin, such as the inner arm or behind the ear, and are preferred when a thicker skin layer is needed for optimal healing and cosmetic appearance.

The use of full-thickness skin grafts is essential in reconstructive surgery, especially for areas that require skin to be able to tolerate more stress or abrasion. This graft type provides not only a durable covering but also promotes better integration into the receiving site due to the inclusion of both the epidermis and dermis components, facilitating better blood supply and healing.

Other types of grafts, such as split-thickness, only include part of the dermis and are used in different clinical scenarios where less tissue depth is sufficient or when covering larger areas with less available donor skin. Composite grafts involve multiple tissue types, while pedicle grafts remain attached at one end to maintain blood supply; however, they do not encompass the full thickness of skin as seen in full-thickness grafts.