Microsurgical techniques in reconstructive surgery

Abstract

The surgeons began to investigate the possibilities of vascular anastomosis in experimental and clinical settings in the beginning of 20th century. Although some techniques have been described, the major advances in microsurgery are made following induction of operating microscope. Basically, microsurgery can be described as performing surgical procedures under magnification (loupe or operating microscope). During the last 50 years, microsurgical techniques have been developed and the basic principles for a successful microsurgical operation are defined. In this chapter; basic concepts in microvascular surgery such as vessel injury and regeneration and tissue ischemia and reperfusion are reviewed, technical factors that affect the outcome of microsurgical procedures are outlined, and anastomosis types and techniques in microvascular surgery are summarized.