Minimal incision technique for sural nerve graft harvest: experience with 61 patients

Many different methods for harvesting the sural nerve have been described, including a single, long, longitudinal incision, multiple stair-step incisions, or use of a tendon stripper and endoscopic approach. Drawbacks of these methods may include unsightly donor-site scars, inadvertent transection of the nerve, prolonged operative time, and the need for special equipment. A new minimal incision technique of sural nerve harvesting that is simple and quick, causes minimal donor site morbidity, and preserves the integrity of the nerve is described.