Why do skin graft characteristics differ between children and adults?

The characteristics of skin grafts differ between children and adults primarily because children have more elasticity in their skin. This elasticity allows for better expansion and contraction of the skin, facilitating the healing process of skin grafts. In children, the skin is more pliable and can accommodate changes more effectively, which can be beneficial when dealing with skin grafting techniques.

Additionally, the growing body of a child means that the skin is often more actively regenerating and adapting as well. This can lead to improved acceptance and integration of a skin graft in a pediatric patient compared to an adult, whose skin may be stiffer and less elastic due to aging and other factors. Thus, the increased elasticity in children's skin plays a crucial role in the success and characteristics of skin grafts compared to those performed in adults.