End-to-side anastomoses: a model and a technique with clinical application

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Microsurgery
• Surgical Education

Background:

• End-to-side anastomoses are increasingly recognized for their benefits in reconstructive microvascular surgery.
• Standard techniques can be challenging, particularly regarding posterior wall suturing.
• A need exists for effective training models and simplified procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a practical laboratory model for practicing end-to-side anastomoses.
• To introduce a simplified technique for suturing the posterior wall of these anastomoses.
• To facilitate training in reconstructive microvascular surgery.

Main Methods:

• A laboratory model using a rat's left common iliac artery transected for anastomosis.
• An end-to-side anastomosis performed between the transected left common iliac artery and the right common iliac artery.
• A specific clamp manipulation technique to expose the posterior wall for suturing.

Main Results:

• The described model provides a reproducible platform for practicing end-to-side anastomoses.
• The simplified posterior wall suturing technique is demonstrated within this model.
• The model and technique aim to improve proficiency in vascular anastomosis.

Conclusions:

• The presented rat model offers a valuable tool for surgical training in end-to-side anastomoses.
• The simplified suturing technique addresses a key challenge in performing these vascular connections.
• This approach can enhance the skills of surgeons in reconstructive microvascular procedures.