title: Use of a stencil for improved accuracy, speed, and aesthetic results in mini-micrografting.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Two stencils have been developed that improve the accuracy, speed, and aesthetic of mini-micrografting. The stencil most frequently used is for #15 blade incisions (six- to eight-haired minigrafts); the other is for 1.0-2.0-mm holes (three- to four-haired minigrafts). The slit stencil has 20 recipient sites per square inch; the hole stencil has 40.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To improve accuracy, speed, and aesthetic results of mini-micrografting.
  
  
  METHODS
  The areas to be incised are markedly preoperatively, utilizing a stencil, which develops a very precise pattern. The slits or holes can then be made very quickly and accurately over these marks.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Because bleeding does not obscure the markings, the speed, precision, and the results of the procedures are greatly enhanced.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The use of stencil improved the accuracy, speed, and aesthetic results of the mini-micrografting procedure. It also helps the surgeon accurately predict the number of minigrafts that will be needed for a specific area.
authors.forename: D A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Brandy
mesh_terms: D004867:Equipment Design; D004954:Esthetics; D006197:Hair / Q000637:transplantation*; D006801:Humans; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D012535:Scalp / Q000601:surgery; D013997:Time Factors