The precise technique of end-to-side microvascular anastomosis with a suitable experimental model

In order to perform extracranial to intracranial microrevascularisation a good end-to-side microvascular anastomosis technique is the first essential. The rabbit femoral vessels are similar in size to the human cortical branches of the middle meningeal artery and superficial temporal artery and an easy technique of end-to-side anastomosis of these vessels is described. This pays particular attention to proof of patency until the last stitch is applied. Assessment of patency in all three directions is checked by the directional Doppler or the electromagnetic flow probe.