Autologous mini punch grafting: an experience of using motorized power punch in 10 patients

Autologous mini punch grafting (MPG) is a safe, effective and easy technique that can be performed on any site with minimal side effects and good cosmetic results. Large areas of stable generalised vitiligo require more grafts and are time consuming. Hence multiple sessions of surgery need to be scheduled. We share our experience of using motorised power punches to increase the speed of surgery in large areas of stable vitiligo in 10 patients.

Ten patients in the age group of 12-55 years were treated with miniature punch grafting using power punches in single session on various sites. The power punches of 1-1.5 mm diameter were used to score donor and recipient sites, either of same or less than 0.2-0.3 mm size punches. The harvested grafts from donor site were then secured in the recipient beds and dressed.

The average number of grafts harvested per session was 125-185, the duration of surgery ranged from 45 to 90 minutes. Perigraft pigment spread was seen at 3 weeks. Complete repigmentation was observed in 3-4 months in eight patients. Cobble stoning was observed in one patient, and all donor sites healed well with superficial scarring.

We conclude that autologous MPG with motorised power punches for stable vitiligo, especially on large areas including difficult sites can be performed with ease in comparatively lesser time in a single session, greatly benefiting the patients.