Super-Microsurgery for Vessels with Diameters Smaller Than 0.5 mm

Introduction: Among super-microsurgical techniques, the anastomosis of vessels smaller than 0.5 mm is very difficult to perform due to the small diameter and thinness of the blood and lymphatic vessel walls. In this article, we report on the main points of super microsurgery, particularly on the anastomosis of veins and lymphatic vessels with diameters smaller than 0.5 mm. Methods and Results: Details of anastomosis of vessels smaller than 0.5 mm. (1) The outer wall of the first blood vessel near the abrupt end hook with the tip of the needle in the needle holder. The entire abrupt end of the first blood vessel was supported by forceps in the surgeon's left-hand. (2) The surgeon decided the entry point and angle of the needle while moving the tip. After the needle was fixed, a force was applied so that the needle could pass through to the vascular wall. (3) After the needle passed through, the tip was confirmed to be located in the lumen of the first blood vessel. (4) The tip of the needle was inserted into the lumen of the second blood vessel, and the bite was adjusted while touching the second blood vessel through the endometrium. (5) Once the tip was properly positioned, counter-traction was applied by holding the entire outer wall with a left-hand forceps. (6) The needle was held near the tip and pulled out along its curvature. The anastomosis time was 11.35 minutes on average (9 to 14 minutes). The patency rate for all 20 anastomosis procedures was also 100%. Conclusion: The important points of LVA for lymphatic vessels and veins smaller than 0.5 mm were reported. Once the surgeons are familiarized with this anastomosis procedure, they can typically perform one anastomosis in about 10 minutes.