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J Hand Microsurg 2011; 03(01): 15-17
DOI: 10.1007/s12593-011-0035-x
Original Article
Thieme Medical and Scientific Publishers Private Ltd.

Microvascular Anastomosis of Vessels Less Than 0.5 mm in Diameter: A Supermicrosurgery Training Model in Lagos, Nigeria

Bolaji Oyawale Mofikoya
1   Hand rehabilitation, Burns and Plastic Surgery Unit College of Medicine University of Lagos, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, PMB12003 Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria   Email: bmofikoya@yahoo.com
,
Andrew O. Ugburo
2   Burns and Plastic Surgery Unit College of Medicine University of Lagos, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
,
Olufemi B. Bankole
3   Neurosurgery unit, College of Medicine University of Lagos, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
› Author Affiliations
Subject Editor:
Further Information

Publication History

23 December 2010

01 February 2011

Publication Date:
05 September 2016 (online)

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Abstract

The development of reconstructive microsurgery has now reached the supermicrosurgery stage. However the anastomosis of vessels under 0.5 mm is still out of the comfort zone of the many microsurgeons. To confirm the technical feasibility and the reliability of this technique We relate our own experience in this regard using the free superficial inferior epigastric flap of the rat as a model for supermicrosurgery training at the Microsurgery Laboratory of the Lagos University teaching hospital. 18 of the 20 free flaps transferred survived at 1 week. Two flaps necrosed and two flaps dehisced. We believe based on our work that the average microsurgeon can become comfortable working with these vessels.

Keywords

Supermicrosurgery - Models
 

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