CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[1] This application claims priority to Indian Provisional Application No. 2987/MUM/2014 entitled "Harvesting Device for Hair Transplant," filed September 18, 2014; Indian Provisional Application No. 401 l/MUM/2014 entitled "Follicle Holding Tray for Hair Transplant," filed December 15, 2014; Indian Provisional Application No. 4012/MUM/2014 entitled "Punch for Hair Transplant," filed December 15, 2014; Indian Provisional Application No. 416 l/MUM/2014 entitled "Implantation of Follicular Grafts," filed December 26, 2014; PCT Application No. PCT/IN2015/050042 entitled "Hair Transplant Systems and Methods for Their Use," filed June 5, 2015; PCT Application No. IN2015/050091 entitled "Biomedical device for implanting grafts" filed August 13, 2015; PCT application No. IN2015/050092 entitled "Biomedical device for improved desiccation tolerance of grafts' iled August 13, 2015; and PCT Application No.PCT/IN2015/050112, entitled "Biomedical Device for harvesting grafts" filed September 16, 2015 all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[2] The present disclosure relates, in general, toa tray for holding skin grafts. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to reducing desiccation of grafts before implantation.

BACKGROUND

[3] The following description is provided to assist the understanding of the reader. None of the information provided or references cited is admitted to be prior art.Transplantations of grafts (e.g., skin or hair follicle grafts) are not always successful. In some instances, damage to the graft can occur before implanting the grafts in the recipient. In such instances, the graft material may not survive and may die after being transplanted. SUMMARY

[4] An illustrative device includes a plurality of channels extending through the device. Each channel is configured to contain a graft. The device also includes a plurality of openings. Each of the plurality of openings corresponds to one of the plurality of channels. Each of the plurality of openings is configured to receive a needle. The device further includes a plurality of vents. Each of the plurality of vents corresponds to one of the plurality of channels. Suction from an internal lumen of the needle causes the graft in the corresponding one of the plurality of channels to be transferred into the internal lumen of the needle. [5] An illustrative method includes placing a graft in a channel of a graft tray, enclosing the channel of the graft tray by securing a cover to the graft tray, and inserting a needle into an opening of the graft tray. The method also includes applying suction to an internal lumen of the needle. The suction causes the graft to transfer from the channel to the internal lumen of the needle. The method further includes removing the needle and the graft from the opening.

[6] An illustrative device includes a vessel defining a cavity configured to hold a liquid and a plurality of grafts. The vessel comprises an inner surface. The device also includes a plurality of channels in the inner surface that extend from an edge of the inner surface to a middle portion of the inner surface. Each of the plurality of channels is tapered such that each of the plurality of channels widens as the respective channel extends from the edge. The device also includes a cover configured to enclose at least a portion of the vessel.

[7] An illustrative method includes placing a liquid and a plurality of grafts into a cavity defined by a vessel. Each of the plurality of grafts comprises at least one hair follicle. The method further includes sorting the plurality of grafts based on a number of hair follicles that each of the plurality of grafts comprises by placing each graft into one of a plurality of channels. Each channel is configured to hold grafts with the same number of hair follicles. The method also includes placing a needle at an end of one of the plurality of channels, causing one of the plurality of grafts to slide along the channel and into an internal lumen of the needle, and removing the needle and the one of the plurality of grafts from the channel. [8] An illustrative device includes a vessel defining a cavity configured to hold a liquid and a plurality of grafts and an extension extending from the vessel. The extension defines a channel that is fluidly connected to the cavity. The extension is connected to the vessel at a first end. The extension comprises a point at a second end. The point is configured to form a puncture in skin of a patient.

[9] An illustrative method includes placing a liquid and a plurality of grafts into a cavity defined by a vessel, selecting a graft of the plurality of grafts, and transferring the graft into a channel defined by an extension. The extension extends from the vessel. The method also includes creating a hole in skin of a patient by puncturing the skin with a tip of the extension, sliding the graft along at least a portion of the channel and into the hole, and removing the tip of the extension from the hole, wherein the graft remains in the hole.

[10] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the following drawings and the detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[11] Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a graft holding system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. [12] Fig. 2 is an isometric view of an assembled graft holding system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

[13] Fig. 3 is an isometric view of a graft tray in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

[14] Fig. 4 is an isometric view of a tray cover in accordance of an illustrative embodiment.

[15] Figs. 5 and 6 show views of a graft sorting tray in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. [16] Figs. 7-9 show views of a graft holder tool in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

[17] Figs. 10 and 11 illustrate graft holder tools in accordance with illustrative embodiments. [18] Figs. 12 and 13 illustrate graft holder tools in accordance with illustrative embodiments.

[19] Figs. 14-17 illustrate graft holder tools with multiple extensions in accordance with illustrative embodiments.

[20] Fig. 18 is a flow chart of a method of using a graft holding system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

[21] Fig. 19 is a flow chart of a method of using a graft sorting tray in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

[22] Fig. 20 is a flow chart of a method of using a graft holder tool in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. [23] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[24] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and make part of this disclosure.

[25] Skin graft transplants are performed for a variety of reasons. Hair transplants are one type of skin graft transplants. For example, hair on the donor site of a scalp is trimmed to retain a suitable height for the hair transplant procedure. With the help of a motor driven rotating punch (or other suitable device), hair follicle units containing at least one hair are cored out. The cored out follicular units are removed from the scalp through suction. After harvesting, the recipient site of the scalp is prepared and each follicular unit is implanted into the scalp.

[26] In illustrative embodiments, a graft in hair transplantation context is an elongated tissue surgically extracted from the donor site with the help of a punch with at least one hair within it placed almost parallel to the axis of the graft. The tissue of the graft includes a layer of skin on top followed by dermal tissue and loose fatty tissue. In some cases it may also contain a layer of cutaneous tissue. In other embodiments, any suitable graft may be used.

[27] In an embodiment, the follicular grafts used in follicular unit extraction (FUE) techniques for implanting are obtained by circular coring-out of the scalp skin along with hair follicle(s) with the aid of a surgical instrument. In some embodiments, each of the hair follicles is extracted with the aid of tweezers and needles. In alternative embodiments, any suitable method of obtaining hair follicles (or grafts) may be used. In some instances, the grafts are implanted, one by one, into recipient sites. In some cases, a manual implanting device is used to help prevent damage to the follicles that may be caused by the use of tweezers. [28] In many instances, it takes a long surgical time to handle the grafts. In some instances, grafts are first harvested from a patient, then sorted, and then the grafts are implanted into the patient. From the time that a graft is extract to the time that the graft is implanted, the graft can lose moisture, which can damage the graft. In some cases, desiccation of the graft can cause the graft to be damaged and/or die after being implanted. Various embodiments described herein improve the efficiency of the procedures to reduce the amount of time between harvest and implantation of the grafts. In some embodiments, unless the grafts are being actively handled (e.g., sorted or implanted), the grafts are stored in a moisturizing fluid to prevent desiccation.

[29] Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a graft holding system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Fig. 2 is an isometric view of an assembled graft holding system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. An illustrative graft holding system 100 includes a graft tray 300 and a tray cover 400. In some embodiments, an implanter 150 can be used with the graft holding system 100. The implanter 150 includes a needle 155, which is hollow. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, or different elements may be used. [30] Fig. 3 is an isometric view of a graft tray in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. An illustrative graft tray 300 includes a lumen 305, a graft receptacle 310, and a plurality of implanter receiving openings 315. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, and/or different elements can be used.

[31] Fig. 4 is an isometric view of a tray cover in accordance of an illustrative embodiment. An illustrative tray cover 400 includes a plurality of vents 405 and an opening 410. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, and/or different elements can be used.

[32] As illustrated in Fig. 1, the graft holding system 100 can be used with an implanter 150. A graft, such as a skin graft containing one or more hair follicles, can be placed within the graft holding system 100, such as in the graft receptacle 310. In an illustrative embodiment, the implanter 150 is inserted into the graft holding system 100 via an implanter receiving opening 315. The implanter receiving opening 315 can be configured to receive the implanter 150. For example, the implanter receiving opening 315 can be configured to have a receiving profile similar to or the same as the end of the implanter 150 with the needle. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1, the implanter receiving opening 315 includes an angled opening to guide the needle into the lumen 305.

[33] The lumen 305 can be any suitable size. In an illustrative embodiment, the diameter of the lumen 305 is the same as or slightly larger than an outer diameter of the needle 155. [34] In an illustrative embodiment, the implanter 150 uses suction to draw air through the vent 405, through a void defined by the tray cover 400 and the graft receptacle 310, through the lumen 305, and through the needle 155. The moving air caused by the suction can force the graft into the lumen 305 and into the needle 155. In embodiments in which the graft includes one or more hair follicles, the graft can enter the needle 155 hair-side first. In such an embodiment, the implanter 150 can be removed from the graft holding system 100 and implant the graft into skin of a patient.

[35] In embodiments illustrated in Figs. 1-3, each graft holding system 100 includes a plurality of channels. In Figs. 2 and 3, the graft holding system 100 includes twenty channels. That is, the graft tray 300 includes twenty graft receptacles 310, twenty lumens 305, and twenty implanter receiving openings 315. Similarly, the tray cover 400 includes twenty vents 405. In alternative embodiments, the graft holding system 100 can include any suitable number of channels, such as between ten and twenty channels, less than ten channels, more than twenty channels, etc. Each channel includes one graft receptacle 310, one lumen 305, one implanter receiving opening 315, and one vent 405. Each of the channels can be sealed from one another such that when suction is applied via the implanter 150, air does not enter a channel from another channel. [36] The channels can be any suitable length. For example, the channels can be between 5 millimeters (mm) to 50 mm long. In alternative embodiments, the channels can be less than 5 mm or longer than 50 mm. In some instances, the channels are chosen to be relatively short. The shorter that the channels are, the less friction is generated between the graft and the channel surface. That is, the shorter that the channel is, the less distance the graft slides along the length of the channel. In an illustrative embodiment, the grafts have a length of about 7 mm to 8 mm and the channels are between 10 mm and 12 mm.

[37] Referring to Fig. 3, an illustrative graft tray 300 includes a plurality of graft receptacles 310. Each of the graft receptacles 310 can hold one or more grafts. In an illustrative embodiment each of the graft receptacles 310 holds one graft. In an illustrative embodiment, the graft receptacle 310 also holds a fluid. The fluid can be configured to moisturize the graft while the graft is held in the graft receptacle 310 to prevent desiccation of the graft. Any suitable fluid can be used, such as water or a saline solution. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3, the lumen 305 is formed within a body portion of the graft tray 300. That is, the lumen 305 is enclosed entirely by the graft tray 300. In alternative embodiments, any suitable arrangement can be used. For example, the tray cover 400 can be used to enclose (at least a portion of) the lumen 305.

[38] In an illustrative embodiment, the graft tray 300 slides into the opening 410. For example, once a graft and moisturizing fluid has been placed in one or more of the graft receptacles 310, the graft tray 300 is slid into the tray cover 400. Figs. 1 and 2 illustrate the assembled graft holding system 100.

[39] In some instances, multiple graft holding systems 100 can be used. For example, four or five graft holding systems 100 can be used. In such an example, each graft holding system 100 can include grafts with the same number of hair follicles. For example, one graft holding system 100 can include grafts with a hair follicle, a graft holding system 100 can include grafts with two hair follicles, a graft holding system 100 can include grafts with three hair follicles, etc. Thus, a clinician may be able to easily determine from which graft holding system 100 the clinician should choose a graft. In some instances, labels, color codes, arrangements, etc. can be used to identify how many hair follicles grafts in a particular graft holding system 100 have.

[40] An illustrative graft holding system 100 can be made of any suitable materials. For example, the various components can be made of bio-compatible materials such as plastic, rubber, metal, glass, etc. For example, such substances include thermoplastics, polycarbonate, polyurethane, poly ethylene, poly phenyl sulphone, nylon, stainless steel, glass, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), ceramic, etc. Other such substances can be composite materials such as glass reinforced plastic, carbon composites, etc. In some instances, the graft holding system 100 can be made of disposable materials. In an illustrative embodiment, one or more of the graft holding system 100 components are made of a translucent or transparent material that allows a user to view the grafts within the graft holding system 100. For example, the tray cover 400 can be transparent. [41] Figs. 5 and 6 show views of a graft sorting tray in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Fig. 5 is an isometric view of a graft sorting tray 500, and Fig. 6 is a view of the top of the graft sorting tray 500. An illustrative graft sorting tray 500 includes a graft holding volume 505, channels 510, depressions 515, and labels 520. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, and/or different elements may be used.

[42] In an illustrative graft sorting tray 500 can be used to sort grafts. For example, the grafts can each include one or more hair follicles. Several grafts can be placed in the graft holding volume 505. In an illustrative embodiment, graft holding volume 505 holds a fluid such as water or saline to prevent desiccation of the grafts.

[43] The graft sorting tray 500 can be used to sort grafts held in the graft holding volume 505. For example, the grafts can be sorted based on the number of hair follicles that each of the grafts has such that a user implanting the grafts into a patient can choose the appropriate graft. The user can choose which type of graft (e.g., the number of follicles in the graft) based on, for example, aesthetics of the patient's hair and/or skin and experience of the clinician transplanting hair. In some embodiments, forceps can be used to sort the grafts.

[44] In an illustrative embodiment, a cover can be placed over the graft sorting tray 500, such as over the graft holding volume 505. The cover can be translucent and/or transparent. In an illustrative embodiment, the cover can include a lens that magnifies the graft holding volume 505. For example, the magnification lens can be used to magnify the graft to assist a user in determining the number of follicles in a graft.

[45] As shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the graft sorting tray 500 includes channels 510 and corresponding depressions 515 that are associated with one of the labels 520. In an illustrative embodiment, the labels 520 indicate the number of hair follicles in each of the channels 510. For example, a user can select a graft from the graft holding volume 505, determine the number of hair follicles in the graft, and place the graft in one of the channels 510 labeled with the number corresponding to the number of hair follicles in the graft. [46] In the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 5 and 6, the channels 510 slope into the base of the graft sorting tray 500 and form into the depressions 515. In alternative embodiments, the channels 510 can be shaped in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the depressions 515 are shaped to accept the needle 155 of the implanter 150. In such an embodiment, the needle 155 can be placed in the depressions 515. A graft can then be inserted into the needle 155. In some embodiments, suction from the needle 155 causes the graft to be inserted into the needle 155. In an alternative embodiment, forceps can be used to insert the graft into the needle 155. [47] The various components of the graft sorting tray 500 can be made of any suitable material. For example, the various components can be made of biocompatible materials such as plastic, rubber, metal, glass, etc. Such substances can include thermoplastics, polycarbonate, polyurethane, poly ethylene, poly phenyl sulphone, nylon, stainless steel, glass, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), ceramic, etc. Other such substances can be composite materials such as glass reinforced plastic, carbon composites, etc. In some instances, the graft sorting tray 500 can be made of disposable materials.

[48] Figs. 7-9 show views of a graft holder tool in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Fig. 7 is an isometric view of a graft holder tool 700, Fig. 8 is a top view of the graft holder tool 700, and Fig. 9 is a side view of the graft holder tool 700. An illustrative graft holder tool 700 includes a cavity 705, a channel 710, a tip 715, and a lumen 720. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, and/or different elements may be used.

[49] An illustrative graft holder tool 700 can be used to hold and implant grafts. The cavity 705 can be used to hold one or more grafts. The cavity 705 may also hold a fluid configured to moisturize the grafts to prevent desiccation of the grafts. The graft holder tool 700 includes an extension that includes the channel 710. That is, the channel 710 can be formed in the extension. The extension of the graft holder tool 700 includes the tip 715. In some embodiments, the tip 715 includes the lumen 720. The graft holder tool 700 can be any suitable size. For example, the size of the cavity 705 can be suitable to hold a certain number of grafts. For instance, a first graft holder tool 700 can be sized to hold ten grafts and a second graft holder tool 700 can be sized to hold one hundred grafts. In an illustrative embodiment, the graft holder tool 700 is about 25 mm wide, 10 mm high, and 100 mm long.

[50] In an illustrative embodiment, a graft from the cavity 705 can be transferred to the channel 710. For example, a user can select a graft from the cavity 705 with forceps, tweezers, or any other suitable tool and place the graft into the channel 710. In an illustrative embodiment, the tip 715 is sharpened to a point. The tip 715 can be configured to puncture the skin of a patient and to create a hole in the skin. For example, the tip 715 can be inserted into the skin of the patient. While the tip 715 is in the skin, the graft can be slid down the channel 710, through the lumen 720, and into the hole in the skin. The tip 715 can be removed from the hole in the skin, leaving the graft in the skin.

[51] Figs. 10 and 11 illustrate graft holder tools in accordance with illustrative embodiments. Fig. 10 is a top-side view of a graft holder tool 700 with a divider 1005. Fig. 11 is a top-side view of a graft holder tool 700 with two dividers 1005. In alternative embodiments, any suitable number of dividers 1005 may be used. The divider 1005 can divide the channel 710. For example, the divider 1005 can be a raised ridge or similar shape that runs along a portion of the channel 710. Using the graft holder tool 700 of Fig. 10 as an example, a user, such as a surgical assistant, can place one graft on either side of the divider 1005. The surgeon (or any other suitable user) can select one of the two grafts for implantation and slide the selected graft down the channel 710 and into the skin of the patient, as explained above. Similarly, the graft holder tool 700 illustrated in Fig. 11 allows three grafts to each be placed in a portion of the channel 710 separated by the dividers 1005.

[52] A graft holder tool 700 with one or more dividers 1005 can provide several benefits. For example, each of the grafts placed along a divided portion of the channel 710 can have a different number of hair follicles. Thus, the surgeon can have three grafts to choose from, with each graft having a different number of hair follicles. In some instances, placing multiple grafts ready for the surgeon to use provides a buffer between the surgeon and the assistant. For example, an assistant can place grafts from the cavity 705 into the channel 710 and the surgeon can use the grafts in the channel 710 for implantation. Thus, if the assistant falls behind the surgeon temporarily, having multiple grafts ready for the surgeon to use allows the assistant time to catch up and replenish the grafts in the channel 710. In such a situation, the amount of time the surgeon waits on the assistant to place the grafts into the channel 710 is reduced.

[53] In some embodiments, the graft holder tool 700 does not include the lumen 720. For example, the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11 does not include the lumen 720. In such an embodiment, a graft can be slid along the channel 710 and into the hole created by the tip 715. In such an embodiment, a tool, such as tweezers, can be used to slide the graft into the hole in the skin. For example, tweezers can be used to stretch the skin to keep the hole in the skin open such that the graft can be slid into the hole.

[54] Figs. 12 and 13 illustrate graft holder tools in accordance with illustrative embodiments. Fig. 12 is an isometric viewof a graft holder tool 700 with a handle 1205 and a tang 1210, and Fig. 13 is a side view of the graft holder tool 700 with the handle 1205 and the tang 1210. The handle 1205 and the tang 1210 can provide an ergonomic and/or comfortable grip to hold the graft holder tool 700. For example, a finger of a user can be placed inside of the hole of the handle 1205, and the tang 1210 can be used as a grip or a rest for a thumb of the user. In alternative embodiments, the handle 1205 and/or the tang 1210 can be used in any suitable manner to grip and/or maneuver the graft holder tool 700. In alternative embodiments, the graft holder tool 700 can be any suitable shape and/or size.

[55] In some embodiments, the handle 1205 and/or the tang 1210 are made of a rigid material, such as a metal, a plastic, a rubber, etc. The handle 1205 and the tang 1210 can include a coating configured to provide additional grip. In some instances, the handle 1205 and/or the tang 1210 are flexible and are configured to be bent into a position suitable to the user. In some embodiments, other grip types and/or styles can be used in place of or in addition to the handle 1205 and/or the tang 1210. For example, hook and loop fasteners, elastic bands, or magnets can be used.

[56] Figs. 14-17 illustrate graft holder tools with multiple extensions in accordance with illustrative embodiments. Fig. 14 is an isometric view of an illustrative graft holder tool 1400, and Fig. 15 is a top view of the graft holder tool 1400. Figs. 16 and 17 are cross-sectional views of illustrative graft holder tools 1400. An illustrative graft holder tool 1400 includes a cavity 1405, channels 1410, and tips 1415. The graft holder tool 1400 illustrated in Figs. 14 and 15 have three channels 1410 and three tips 1415, but in alternative embodiments, the graft holder tool 1400 can include any suitable number of channels 1410 and tips 1415. [57] An illustrative graft holder tool 1400 can be used to hold and implant grafts. The cavity 1405 can be used to hold one or more grafts. The cavity 1405 may also hold a fluid configured to moisturize the grafts to prevent desiccation of the grafts. The graft holder tool 1400 includes extensions that each include one of the channels 1410. That is, the channels 1410 can be formed in the extensions. The extensions of the graft holder tool 1400 each include one of the tips 1415. In some embodiments, the tips 1415 include a lumen similar to the lumen 720 illustrated in Figs. 7 and 9.

[58] In an illustrative embodiment, grafts from the cavity 1405 can be transferred to the channels 1410. For example, a user can select a graft from the cavity 1405 with forceps or any other suitable tool and place the graft into one of the the channels 1410. In an illustrative embodiment, the tips 1415 are sharpened to a point. The tips 1415 can be configured to puncture the skin of a patient and to create holes in the skin. For example, the tips 1415 can be simultaneously or sequentially inserted into the skin of the patient. While the tips 1415 are in the skin, grafts can be slid down each of the channels 1410 and into the respective holes in the skin. The tips 1415 can be removed from the hole in the skin, leaving the graft in the skin. In an illustrative embodiment, a user can selectively insert fewer than all of the tips 1415 into the skin of the patient based on the angle of the extensions, the shape and/or contours of the skin, and/or the angle of insertion. [59] In an illustrative embodiment, the extensions of the channels 1410 are flexible. For example, the extensions can be made of a pliable material such that a user can adjust the location of the tips 1415 with respect to one another. In some embodiments, the channels 1410 are rigid. In the embodiments illustrated in Figs. 14 and 15, the extensions extend from the cavity 1405 the same distance. That is, the tips 1415 are aligned. In alternative embodiments, the extensions can be any suitable length. For example, the tips 1415 may be aligned in a semi-circular shape to better conform to the shape of the patient's skin and/or bone structure. [60] The extensions of the graft holder tool 1400 can be arranged in any suitable manner. Figs. 16 and 17 are cut-away views of illustrative graft holder tools 1400. Fig. 16 illustrates a graft holder tool 1400 with three extensions that are co- linear. That is, all of the three extensions are in a same plane. Co-linear extensions can be used to create three slits in the skin of the patient that are co-linear. Fig. 17 illustrates a graft holder tool 1400 with three extensions that are arranged in a semicircular arrangement. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 17, the middle extension is lower than the outer extensions with respect to the top of the cavity 1405. In alternative embodiments, any suitable arrangement of the extensions may be used. [61] In some embodiments, the graft holder tool 700 and the graft holder tool 1400 can be made of any suitable materials. For example, the various components can be made of bio-compatible materials such as plastic, rubber, metal, glass, etc. Such substances can include thermoplastics, polycarbonate, polyurethane, poly ethylene, poly phenyl sulphone, nylon, stainless steel, glass, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), ceramic, etc. Other such substances can be composite materials such as glass reinforced plastic, carbon composites, etc. In some instances, the graft holder tool 700 and the graft holder tool 1400 can be made of disposable materials.

[62] Fig. 18 is a flow chart of a method of using a graft holding system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, and/or different operations may be performed. Also, the use of a flow chart and arrows is not meant to be limiting with respect to the order or flow of operations. For example, one or more of the operations may be performed simultaneously.

[63] In an operation 1805, grafts are selected. For example, multiple grafts can be harvested from a patient. The grafts can be selected in any suitable manner. For example, the grafts can be selected randomly. In an illustrative embodiment, grafts are selected based on the number of hair follicles the grafts have. For example, the operation 1805 can include selecting grafts with two hair follicles.

[64] In an operation 1810, the grafts are placed in a graft tray. For example, the grafts selected in the operation 1805 can be placed in the graft tray. In an illustrative embodiment, the grafts are placed in a graft tray 300. For example, each of the selected grafts can be placed in a graft receptacle 310 of the graft tray 300. In an illustrative embodiment, a moisturizing fluid can be placed in the graft receptacles 310 to prevent desiccation of the grafts. In an operation 1815, the graft holding system is assembled. For example, the tray cover 400 can be placed on the graft tray 300. [65] In an operation 1820, a graft from the graft holding system can be suctioned. For example, an implanter 150 can be used. The needle 155 of the implanter 150 can be inserted into the graft holding system 100. Suction from the implanter 150 can cause air to travel through a vent hole and into the needle 155. The flow of air can cause a graft to travel into the needle 155. The needle 155 and the implanter 150 can be removed from the graft holding system 100. The graft can be implanted into a patient.

[66] Fig. 19 is a flow chart of a method of using a graft sorting tray in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, and/or different operations may be performed. Also, the use of a flow chart and arrows is not meant to be limiting with respect to the order or flow of operations. For example, one or more of the operations may be performed simultaneously.

[67] In an operation 1905, harvested grafts are placed into a graft holding volume. For example, the grafts can be placed into a graft holding volume 505 of a graft sorting tray 500. In some embodiments, a moisturizing fluid can be added to the graft holding volume 505 to prevent or reduce desiccation of the grafts.

[68] In an operation 1910, grafts are placed in a channel based on a type of graft. For example, the grafts in the graft holding volume 505 can be sorted. In an illustrative embodiment, the graft sorting tray 500 includes multiple channels 510, each of the channels 510 associated with a number of follicles. In such an embodiment, the grafts are placed into a channel based on the number of follicles in the graft. For example, grafts with one follicle can be placed in one of the channels 510, grafts with two follicles can be placed in a different one of the channels 510, etc.

[69] In an operation 1915, a graft from one of the channels is selected. For example, an implanter 150 can be used to suction a graft from one of the channels 510. In another example, grafts from one of the channels 510 can be transferred to a graft holding system 100 or a graft holder tool 700. [70] Fig. 20 is a flow chart of a method of using a graft holder tool in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, and/or different operations may be performed. Also, the use of a flow chart and arrows is not meant to be limiting with respect to the order or flow of operations. For example, one or more of the operations may be performed simultaneously.

[71] In an operation 2005, harvested grafts are placed in a cavity. For example, harvested grafts can be placed in the cavity 705 of a graft holder tool 700. In an illustrative embodiment, a moisturizing fluid is added to the cavity 705 to prevent or reduce desiccation of the grafts. In an operation 2010, a graft from the cavity is selected. Any suitable selection process can be used. For example, a graft can be chosen based on a desired number of follicles. In an operation 2015, the graft is placed in a channel. In an illustrative embodiment, the selected graft can be selected using forceps and placed in a channel 710 of a graft holder tool 700 (or in one of the channels 1410 of a graft holder tool 1400). [72] In an operation 2020, a tip of the graft holder tool is inserted into skin of a patient. For example, when the tip 715 of a graft holder tool 700 is inserted into skin of the patient, a hole in the skin is created. In an operation 2025, the graft is inserted into the skin. In an illustrative embodiment, the graft is slid down the channel 710 and through a lumen 720 of the tip 715. The graft is then inserted into the skin of the patient, for example, by using forceps. In an operation 2030, the graft holder tool is removed from the skin. For example, the tip 715 can be removed from the hole in the skin. The graft can remain in the skin when the tip 715 is removed.

EXAMPLE #1

[73] In an illustrative example, a graft holding system includes a graft tray and a tray cover. The graft tray includes ten to twenty graft receptacles. A graft and a moisturizing fluid can be placed in each graft receptacle. The graft receptacle can be fluidly connected to a lumen that exposes the graft receptacle to atmospheric air. The lumen is large enough to accept a needle of an implanter. For example, the lumen can be 0.11 mm in diameter. The tray cover can be added to the graft tray to enclose the graft receptacles. For each graft receptacle, the tray cover includes a vent hole. The size of the vent hole is smaller than the diameter of the grafts in the graft receptacles. For example, the vent hole is 0.5 mm in diameter. The graft tray and the tray cover are made of transparent polycarbonate.

[74] A needle of an implanter is inserted into a lumen of the graft holding system. Vacuum pressure from the needle causes air to pass through a vent hole, a corresponding graft receptacle, and the lumen. The airflow causes the graft to be slid into the lumen and into the needle. The needle with the graft is removed from the graft holding system, and the graft is implanted using the implanter.

EXAMPLE #2

[75] In an illustrative example, a graft sorting tray includes a graft holding volume and multiple channels. Harvested grafts are placed in the graft holding volume and sorted and placed into one of the channels according to the number of hair follicles that each graft has. The grafts in each channel have the same number of hair follicles. The graft sorting tray is made of polycarbonate.

EXAMPLE #3 [76] In an illustrative example, a graft holder tool includes a cavity and an extension. The extension includes a channel and a tip. The tip of the extension includes a lumen through which a graft can be slid. The graft holder tool is made of stainless steel. Harvested grafts and a moisturizing liquid is placed in the cavity. A suitable graft is selected and placed in the channel. The tip of the extension is inserted into skin of the patient. The graft is slid down the channel, through the lumen, and into a hole in the skin created by the tip. The tip is removed from the skin, leaving the graft in the skin.

EXAMPLE #4

[77] In an illustrative example, a graft holder tool includes a cavity and three extensions. Each extension includes a channel and a tip. The tip of the extensions include a lumen through which a graft can be slid. The graft holder tool is made of stainless steel. Harvested grafts and a moisturizing liquid is placed in the cavity. A suitable graft is selected and placed in each of the the channels. The extensions are maneuvered into desirable locations relative to one another. The tips of the extensions are inserted into skin of the patient. The grafts are slid down respective channels, through respective lumens, and into respective holes in the skin created by the tips. The tips are removed from the skin, leaving the grafts in the skin.

[78] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being "operably connected," or "operably coupled," to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably couplable," to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components and/or wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting components and/or logically interacting and/or logically interactable components.

[79] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[80] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B." Further, unless otherwise noted, the use of the words "approximate," "about," "around," "substantially," etc., mean plus or minus ten percent. [81] The foregoing description of illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and of description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting with respect to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.