Course Review: The Griffin Institute Basic Microsurgery Workshop

Microsurgery is an important skill for plastic and reconstructive surgeons, in addition to a number of other surgical specialties. It is one that requires a high level of surgical precision and prolonged training period with a significant learning curve. Consequently, because of the potential risk of patient morbidity, the need for high-quality simulation models is self-evident.The Griffin Institute Basic Microsurgical Workshop, in London, United Kingdom, is a 5-day practical course that uses the live rat animal training model. It provides candidates the opportunity to learn and develop microsurgical techniques through a comprehensive set of exercises with the aim of acquiring competencies before clinical practice. Here, we provide a critical evaluation of the course.