General Information
What is an Oral Mucosal Graft?
The lining of the inside of the cheek (buccal) or lower lip is removed and used as a patch to repair strictures in the urethra or ureter.
The graft provides healthy, pliable tissue to replace the damaged or scarred area.
The location of the graft harvest depends on how much tissue is needed.
If less than 2cm is needed, the lower lip is preferred.
The donor site from the inside of the mouth is covered with a patch (Alloderm) that will allow the site to heal.
Risks & Complications
Overall, donor site morbidity is very low.
Some people find it difficult to eat or drink very hot or very cold foods during the immediate post-operative period.
Tightness of the cheek or lip can occur with healing.
Stretching exercises during healing may help with any feelings of tightness
Post-Operative Instructions
***DISCLAIMER***
The below instructions are provided to Dr Alford’s patients. If you are undergoing a procedure with a different surgeon, please follow the discharge instructions that were given to you at discharge.
Wounds
There is a patch sewn into place where the mucosal graft was harvested. The sutures are dissolvable.
It is normal for the graft to begin to lift up as the mucosa heals underneath and the sutures dissolve.
It is normal to have a slight bit of bleeding or discharge from under the graft while your mouth is healing.
You may apply gentle pressure to your graft site if you do experience ballooning of the graft or moderate bleeding.
Medications
Magic mouthwash (RX) will help with healing and pain control.
Diet
Avoid very hot or very cold foods/liquids for 2 weeks.
If you had a graft taken from your cheek, chew primarily on the opposite side of your mouth.