Closed-chamber Suction-assisted Fat Harvest: An Innovative Technique in Resource-limited Settings

Abstract

Summary: Autologous fat grafting is one of the most commonly performed procedures, not only for cosmetic reasons, but in a variety of reconstructive procedures like correction of contour deformities and treatment of scars. The Coleman technique has been traditionally described as one of the efficient methods of fat harvest, where 10 mL syringes connected with a liposuction cannula are used for the manual harvest of fat; although it is a widely used technique, it becomes time-consuming and tiring when a large amount of fat has to be harvested. To overcome this issue, we have devised a simple, cost-effective, quicker method in resource-limited settings by using a 500-mL normal saline bottle as a closed chamber, which is in turn connected to a suction tube. The liposuction cannula is connected to a tube that is inserted into this closed chamber, where fat is aspirated and collected. Using this technique, a large amount of fat can be easily harvested in less time and with less effort, without damaging the adipocytes.