Clips metálicos VCS: una técnica de sutura más rápida y fácil de utilizar que la sutura convencional en reconstrucciones de vasos en crecimiento

Abstract

Summary Introduction The latest generation of titanium clip appliers, called VCS (vascular closure staples) instruments, not only avoid damage being done to the tunica intima and hyperplasia while at the same time favouring the distensibility and growth of the vessel, but also provide the surgeon with a fast, easy-to-use method, which contrasts with the conventional discontinuous suture technique using polypropylene. This can be the method chosen for use in the reconstruction of vascular elements that are growing (paediatric aorta surgery and transplants), and where lowering the clamping time is important. Aims The purpose of this study was to check whether suturing with metallic VCS clips could be a faster method for the surgeon than conventional discontinuous suturing with polypropylene in end-to-end anastomosis of arteries and veins. Materials and methods At the age of 55 days, 30 lambs were submitted to end-to-end anastomosis in the carotid artery and the jugular vein. Results. It was confirmed that VCS clip appliers are easier for the surgeon to use and significantly lower the time needed to perform end-to-end anastomosis of arteries (clips, 4.02 ± 0.72 min; suture, 21.89 ± 1.93 min) and of veins (clips, 9.82 ± 3.97 min; suture, 29.31 ± 1.90 min). Conclusions VCS clips significantly reduce the time employed to perform end-to-end anastomosis of arteries and veins as compared to the conventional discontinuous technique using polypropylene.