The mons pubis: an excellent graft donor site in gynecologic surgery

Split-thickness skin grafting has many applications in gynecologic surgery. Selection of the donor site is an aspect of the procedure that is very important for preventing highly visible lifelong scars. In this regard the mons pubis is an excellent choice as a donor site. Scar visibility is minimized by regrowth of the pubic hair. Another advantage is the anterior location of the mons, which allows for healing without constant pressure in patients who must remain supine in the postoperative period. Graft harvesting requires shaving the mons pubis and injecting saline solution into the subcutaneous tissue to elevate the skin and thus provide a firm flat base for dermatome application. Hair growth does not occur in the recipient site because the hair follicles are not harvested. Healing of both donor and recipient sites has been excellent with minimal discomfort during pubic hair regrowth. Thus it is recommended that the mons pubis be given serious consideration as a graft donor site in gynecologic surgery.