Aditya K Gupta1,2, Anthony Bruce2, Roberto Trivellini3, Kapil Dua4, Parsa Mohebi5, Robert H True6, James A Harris7. 1. Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto School of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada. 2. Mediprobe Research Inc., London, ON, Canada. 3. Trivellini Hair Restoration, Asunciόn, Paraguay. 4. AK Clinics, Ludhiana, India. 5. Parsa Mohebi Hair Restoration, Encino, CA, USA. 6. True and Dorin Medical Group, New York City, NY, USA. 7. Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Early use of follicular unit excision (FUE) as a method of hair transplantation was limited by high rates of hair follicle transection. This hurdle has been overcome by innovative methods, punch shapes, and devices. With the vast array of tools available, it can be difficult for hair transplant surgeons to choose the best option for their practices. AIMS: To provide an in-depth review and comparison of currently available FUE methods, punch designs, and motorized devices, and discuss how these tools fit the unique skin and hair characteristics of patients. METHODS: A review of the literature and available information on FUE methods, punches, and devices, as well as the authors' experience in this area, is provided. RESULTS: Innovative FUE methods, punch shapes, and motorized devices have successfully minimized the rate of hair follicle transection. Methods include the use of sharp punches with depth control, and blunt rotating punches. Punch shapes such as flared, hybrid, and edge out have successfully reduced transections by keeping the cutting edge away from the follicles under the skin. The development of motorized devices using features including rotation, roto-oscillation, oscillation, vibration, suction, and hydration has also aided in achieving more successful graft excision. CONCLUSION: Follicular unit excision is a widely used technique by hair restoration surgeons. Therefore, it is important for physicians to be aware of the array of punches and devices available and understand how these tools can be used to adapt to the unique skin and hair characteristics of individual patients to optimize successful graft harvesting.
BACKGROUND: Early use of follicular unit excision (FUE) as a method of hair transplantation was limited by high rates of hair follicle transection. This hurdle has been overcome by innovative methods, punch shapes, and devices. With the vast array of tools available, it can be difficult for hair transplant surgeons to choose the best option for their practices. AIMS: To provide an in-depth review and comparison of currently available FUE methods, punch designs, and motorized devices, and discuss how these tools fit the unique skin and hair characteristics of patients. METHODS: A review of the literature and available information on FUE methods, punches, and devices, as well as the authors' experience in this area, is provided. RESULTS: Innovative FUE methods, punch shapes, and motorized devices have successfully minimized the rate of hair follicle transection. Methods include the use of sharp punches with depth control, and blunt rotating punches. Punch shapes such as flared, hybrid, and edge out have successfully reduced transections by keeping the cutting edge away from the follicles under the skin. The development of motorized devices using features including rotation, roto-oscillation, oscillation, vibration, suction, and hydration has also aided in achieving more successful graft excision. CONCLUSION: Follicular unit excision is a widely used technique by hair restoration surgeons. Therefore, it is important for physicians to be aware of the array of punches and devices available and understand how these tools can be used to adapt to the unique skin and hair characteristics of individual patients to optimize successful graft harvesting.
Authors: Sanusi Umar; Paul Shitabata; Paul Rose; Marissa J Carter; Rattapon Thuangtong; Boudine Lohlun; Hind Benhiba; Tayfun Oguzoglu; Maria Marta Zollinger; Juan Maldonado; Alejandro Gonzalez; Myroslava Novosilska; Alba Gómez Zubiaur; Miguel Marti Journal: Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol Date: 2022-06-27