Mini open non vascularized fibula graft harvesting technique without any specialized instrumentation: A case report

Abstract

Fibula graft harvesting is a common procedure in orthopedic practice. The common approach to the shaft of fibula is through long incision made over the fibula. This was fraught with complications including common peroneal nerve injuries, pain and significant graft site morbidity to patients. Techniques then came to describe harvesting fibula through minimal incisions. However these needed specialized circular harvesters and hence was difficult to perform in hospitals catering to poor socioeconomic strata. We have devised minimally invasive technique of fibula harvesting using a long 4.5 system narrow DCP (Dynamic compression plate) used as soft tissue stripper and have combined the procedure with mini open fasciotomy and compression dressing. Our patient did not have any postoperative common peroneal, superficial peroneal or deep peroneal nerve injury. Postoperative graft site pain was minimal.