Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct response identifies a full thickness skin graft, which encompasses both the epidermis and the entire dermis. This type of graft is typically used for reconstructive procedures where more tissue support and esthetics are required. Unlike split thickness grafts that only include the epidermis and a portion of the dermis, full thickness grafts provide a thicker layer of skin which contributes to better healing and a more natural appearance post-surgery.

Additionally, full thickness grafts are particularly advantageous in areas where skin tension is high or where the graft is exposed to high levels of stress, as they are less likely to contract after healing. This makes them suitable for challenging areas like the face, hands, and joints.

In contrast, pedicle grafts involve a section of skin that remains partially attached to the donor site allowing for vascularization during the healing process but are not exclusive to all dermal layers. Composite grafts involve more than just skin, as they can include other types of tissues, which is different from the specific definition of a full thickness graft.