A microvascular surgical practice disc for beginners.

Abstract

In order to assist beginners in microsurgery in practicing microvascular suturing without the use of an animal model, we devised an apparatus composed of a Lucite disc with Lucite cylinders attached to either side. On the one side, a piece of rubber glove can be attached for practice of either continuous or interrupted suturing. On the other side, four slots in the cylinder permit suture material or simulated blood vessel to be placed and held for practice in tying knots or end-to-end anastomosis. The disc apparatus is very inexpensive, durable, and easily obtained.