Modified technique of suction blistering for epidermal grafting in vitiligo

Background Suction blister epidermal grafting is a useful modality of treat ment of resistant and stable vitiligo; however, it requires expensive and h eavy suction apparatus. This study is an attempt to develop a cheap and sma ll apparatus which can be assembled in the physician's own office. Patients and methods The method was tried in 22 vitiligo/leukoderma patient s. The apparatus consisted of a cylindrical funnel connected with a three-w ay tap, and suction was given by a 50-mL syringe. The pressure inside the s uction cup was retained by changing the position of lock of the three-way t ap. The pressure was measured by connecting the three-way tap to a vacuum g auge. The apparatus remained adhered to the donor area because of negative pressure. The blister was formed in about 1.5 h, The roof of the blister wa s grafted onto the dermabraded recipient site. Results The pigmentation was complete in 20 out of 22 patients. There were no complications. Conclusions The technique is inexpensive and easy and obviates the need of cumbersome and heavy equipment.