Transection rate at different areas of scalp during follicular unit extraction/excision (FUE).

BACKGROUND

Although the follicular unit excision/extraction (FUE) is regarded an easy procedure to perform, however, there are various factors which affect the outcome. The hair transection is dependent of various factors and the donor site characteristics affect largely.

OBJECTIVES

To know the difference in transection rate on various areas of scalp during FUE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted in 10 patients undergoing FUE after obtaining informed consent. In each patient, 1 row was marked with intervening 1 cm . The row contained five boxes of 1 cm . Harvesting of FUs was performed using 0.9 mm serrated punch. The procedures were performed with the patient in supine position with the surgeon sitting on head side. The harvested FUs were checked under microscope. Any transection was calculated. All the data was collected and analyzed statistically.

RESULTS

The total number of FUs and hair were more in center zone as compared to the sides. Whereas, the transection rate was lowest in the mid-occipital zone as compared to the sides. Similarly, the FUs: hair ratio was more in the sides 1:1.85 as compared to 1:1.62 in central zone. The right and left sides also showed some variations. The transection was more on right side (17.7%) of the patient as compared to the left side (16.3%) CONCLUSION: The hair transection was more on sides than in the mid-occipital area.