The microsurgical anastomosis technique is practically challenging and requires extensive training, dedication, and time for inexperienced surgeons to perfect. In the present report, we describe an accessible, practical, and simple training model, which involves the use of an abdominal flap obtained from abdominoplasties. The caliber of the superficial epigastric vessels found in the excised abdominal flaps ranged from 1.2 mm to 2.0 mm, depending on the preoperative body mass index of the patient. This flap facilitated the training of microsurgical anastomosis in blood vessels with different calibers. These vessels had a small amount of remnant blood within the lumen, which enabled the testing of the quality and patency of the anastomosis. This training model involving human abdominal vessels allows for a quicker transition to actual operative situations, compared to the use of animal or inanimate models. Moreover, effective practice of dissection and end-to-end and end-to-side anastomoses using our model helps in the development of skill and surgical dexterity.
Anastomosis; surgical; Microsurgery; Abdomen; Training
