ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the fundamental technique of microvascular anastomoses, based on their long-term experiences. The technique of vessel anastomosis has almost become standardized through numerous clinical applications. To perform microvascular anastomosis an operating microscope, special microinstruments such as a needle holder, scissors, forceps, micro-double-clip, and fine suture materials are essential. The fiberoptic illuminating system can supply enough brightness to the operating field so as to do microvascular anastomosis of minute vessels. Positioning of the surgeon is very important prior to starting microvascular anastomosis. In clinical composite tissue transplantations, the end-to-side anastomosis of arteries, and sometimes of veins, with diameter discrepancy is often required. As an experimental model of arterial end-to-side anastomosis the so-called “experimental or artificial aneurysm” is widely used by many. The fundamental techniques of vessel anastomosis have been described in the past by several authorities and are varied in detail, but the universal principle of microvascular anastomosis must be in “the atraumatic handling of the blood vessels”.
