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Padgett Dermatome

The Padgett Dermatome (Integra LifeSciences) is an electrically-powered skin harvester — the classic American alternative to the Zimmer air dermatome, requiring only a wall electrical connection rather than a compressed-gas supply.

Design​

  • Handheld head with electric motor and oscillating disposable blade
  • Power cord connects to standard electrical outlet — no compressed gas needed
  • Width selectors: 1", 2", 3", 4" blade widths
  • Depth dial: graduated 0.008"–0.030"
  • Modern variants (Padgett PI-Motor) with improved ergonomics and variable speed

Advantages vs Zimmer Air Dermatome​

  • No compressed-gas supply required — deployable in any OR or procedural setting
  • Simpler setup in facilities without central medical air
  • Lower operational cost in the long run (no gas consumption)

Trade-offs​

  • Electrical cord introduces a tether and a clean-field consideration
  • Some surgeons report the Zimmer's pneumatic feel is smoother; others prefer the Padgett's steady electrical drive

Key Uses​

Identical to the Zimmer Air Dermatome:

  • Scrotal reconstruction after Fournier's gangrene
  • STSG coverage for any post-debridement wound
  • Phalloplasty donor-site coverage
  • Perineal and genital resurfacing

History​

The Padgett lineage traces to Earl Padgett, American plastic surgeon who developed the first reliable calibrated mechanical dermatome (the drum dermatome, 1930s) — see the Drum Dermatome page. The electric handheld Padgett descended from this legacy.

See also: Zimmer Air Dermatome, Drum Dermatome, Humby Dermatome.