Creating Slits to the Right Depth: Innovative Use of Micropore Tape for Depth Control on an 18-Gauge Needle in Hair Restoration Surgery

The document presents an innovative technique for depth control in hair restoration surgery. The technique involves using micropore tape as a guard on an 18-gauge needle. After follicular extraction, the grafts are placed alongside the bevelled end of the needle to determine the average length required. Then, micropore tape is wound multiple times over the needle to create a soft guard of pre-determined depth. This method minimizes trauma to the scalp during the creation of slits for hair follicle implantation. The materials used for this technique are cheap, disposable, pre-sterilized, and easily available in operation theatres. This method addresses the challenge of under/over depth creation, which can lead to complications such as popping and graft burial.