Alphonsus Chong's Personal Wiki

Microsurgery is an essential surgical skill of modern Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and it has now well integrated into the practice of many other surgical specialties. With the growing demand of this surgical skill, having a cost-effective training model that is globally accessible is indispensable. This model was made from widely available non-sterile latex gloves with tools and materials that are readily accessible in the laboratory. Similar to other existing latex models, this model is economical and delivers good simulation of the arterial wall elasticity and thickness. It is a suitable model for group training sessions due to its simple construct, where a layperson can be employed for the model setup. Based on our current experience in the training courses, this is a useful bridging model between basic microsurgical exercises and advance microsurgical training with in vitro or in vivo animal models. This non-commercialized model provides a simple platform for trainees to perfect their microanastomosis techniques ethically, systematically, and cost-effectively.

The full article is available to all on the journal website. It details the technique of “making” the latex vessel using a glove

Hsieh, Y.-H., & Chang, T. N.-J. (2017). Novel and Efficient Synthetic Microvascular Anastomosis Training Model. International Microsurgery Journal, 1(3). https://doi.org/10.24983/scitemed.imj.2017.00048