Tubing Introducing Forceps—A New Instrument for Placement of Slit Micrografts and Minigrafts

Abstract

This article introduces a new instrument and technique to facilitate slit mini- and micrograft placement, the tubing introducing forceps (TIF), and illustrates how the unique design of the TIF reduces follicular trauma when compared to traditional methods of direct placement with forceps (with or without dilators). Comparisons are made with TIF and traditional fine tissue forceps (with or without dilators). When compared with forceps-only placement of micrografts (with or without dilators) the TIF causes less trauma, eliminates the use of dilators, permits easy placement of micrografts, and decreases operating time. The TIF is a unique instrument that can decrease follicular trauma when compared to direct forceps placement of micrografts into slit incisions. It can be utilized as a planting forceps or a retractor for easy placement of micrografts.