WOUND CLOSURE TECHNIQUES FOR THE FACE AND NECK

摘要

The companion animal skin consists of two main layers. The general composition of the outer layer, the epidermis, is of avascular keratinised stratified squamous epithelium. The thicker vascular dermis lies underneath the epidermis and consists of tough fibroelastic tissue with a supportive and nourishing function. The dermis rests on a layer of loose connective tissue known as the subcutis or hypodermis, composed of adipose tissue, the cutaneous trunci muscle (where present) and direct cutaneous arteries and veins. This layer is particularly abundant in most dogs and cats, but the quantity and elasticity of skin differs from breed to breed and on the physical condition of the animal. Variations in structure are present at different sites of the body surface. For instance the nose have a thick protective keratin layer. In addition, in most skin areas specialized epithelial appendages exist such as hair follicles and sebaceous glands.