Comparative study of artery cuff and fat wrap in microvascular anastomosis in the rat

An artery cuff and a fat wrap placed around an anastomosis with only 4 stitches were compared to the conventional 8-10 stitches suturing technique in microvascular anastomosis: 120 vessels in 40 immature male S-D rats were used. Observations were made 1 hour, and 1, 2, 3 and 8 weeks after the repair. The newer techniques were performed faster, had shorter bleeding time and showed equivalent patency rates to the conventional technique. The artery cuff was slightly superior to the fat wrap, particularly in having fewer adhesions and a better histological picture. Clinical applications are discussed.