Comparison of Repigmentation of Stable Vitiligo via Punch Grafting, Thin-thiersch’s grafting and Suction Blister Grafting

Abstract

Background: Vitiligo is defined as an acquired melanocytopenia of obscure aetiology and is characterized by circumscribed hypomelanosis and depigmentation of skin and hair which is often progressive. The aim of present study is to compare between 3 surgical modalities i.e. miniature punch grafting, thin split-skin thickness grafting and suction blister grafting and to experiment a novel method according to the site, size and location of the lesion and to study the extent of re-pigmentation after doing these procedures and comparison of the results in patients of stable vitiligo. We also aim to assess the complications and disadvantages of different surgical techniques. Methods: The study was conducted on total 60 vitiligo patients, who were divided into 3 groups of 20 each, in the age group of 15-60 years, attending Dermatology Department of Katihar Medical College in the span of 2 yearsResults. Results are comparable overall but vary considerably according to site of lesions. Punch grafting is very good for mobile areas like elbow, ankle and other joints;  Thin – thiersch’s skin grafting gives better results for flat areas like trunk, thigh, arms and face while Suction blister grafting gives satisfactory results for lips vitiligo and also over small, oval lesions over flat sites. Conclusions: Thus, it can be finally concluded from this study that the surgical modality for treating a case of vitiligo cannot be generalized. Every patient should be evaluated individually according to anatomical site involved, size and shape of lesion, time required to achieve pigmentation, infrastructure available and patient’s preferences.