Minimally invasive-technique for sural nerve harvesting: Technical description and follow-up

Objectives. To provide instruction and the results of a minimally invasive technique for sural nerve harvesting in preparation for interposition nerve grafting during radical retropubic prostatectomy. Methods. Twelve men underwent nerve harvesting performed using a tendon stripper. The short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire was completed preoperatively and at 6 months postoperatively. Results. No significant morbidity from the leg resulted as a result of the sural nerve harvest. The results of the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire demonstrated no significant sensory or affective changes in the leg. The average operative time for the entire harvesting procedure, including skin closure, was 15 minutes. The estimated blood loss was less than 5 mL (range 2 to 10). No wound infection or skin erythema was observed. The discharge to home was not delayed compared with the usual length of stay after radical retropubic prostatectomy. Conclusions. This minimally invasive sural nerve harvesting technique is easy to perform and has minimal morbidity. UROLOGY 57: 921-924, 2001. (C) 2001, Elsevier Science Inc.