Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Technique of Harvesting Free Gracilis Muscle Flap to Lower Donor Site Morbidity: A Feasibility Study in Cadavers

Abstract

Endoscopic mobilization and harvesting of the gracilis muscle for free transfer applications and the versatility of this method are discussed in this report. This procedure was performed in 12 fresh human cadaver limbs (from six cadavers) to master the surgical technique for future clinical applications. Through two separate 2 cm incisions, one placed proximally and one distally along the axis of the muscle, the endoscope allowed the gracilis muscle and its related anatomical structures to be viewed, particularly the dominant vascular pedicle. The muscle flap, along with its vascular pedicle and motor nerve, were successfully harvested with the aid of endoscopy. The potential clinical advantages of endoscopically harvesting the gracilis muscle flap include shortening of the size of the surgical scar, relief of postoperative pain and hastened recovery of function.