Department of Urology
Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

What is Buccal Mucosal Graft (BMG) Harvesting?

Buccal mucosal graft harvesting is obtaining a piece of the tissue lining the inner cheek (buccal mucosa) as a graft. Sometimes, grafts may need to be taken from the tongue or the lip as well.

How is the procedure performed?

This procedure is performed under General Anaesthesia. The graft is taken from the buccal mucosa and used for urethral reconstructive surgery.

Are there any risks involved?

The risks of the procedure are low and include the following:

Common

• Pain or discomfort in the mouth (buccal graft site)
• Numbness or tightness in the cheek

Less Common

• Restricted mouth opening
• Scar formation at site of graft harvest
• Loss of sensation of inner cheek/lip
• Infection

These are generally self-limiting and usually do not require further treatment.

What are the alternatives?

The alternatives for BMG harvest include:

• Lingual graft, lower lip graft – obtaining the piece of tissue lining the tongue or lower lip.
• Excision and Primary Anastomosis of the stricture – This is only for selected short segment strictures where no grafts are required

Post-procedure advice

You will be able to eat and drink on your return to ward.

It is advisable to avoid spicy, hot, salty or crunchy food and chew your food on the opposite side of your mouth from the graft donor site.

Those who need grafts to be taken from both cheeks may find pureed foods easier to begin with.

Use the provided antiseptic mouth wash and/or lozenges.

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding the graft site initially.

When should I seek medical attention after the surgery?

Please seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent bleeding from the graft site
• Fever, chills
• Worsening and/or severe pain at the graft site

Contact Information

To make an urgent appointment with our Urology Clinic, call 6555 8828.

For any emergency after office hours, please proceed to the KTPH Acute and Emergency Department (A&E).