Simple device for practicing vascular anastomosis.

Abstract

Every surgeon should be able to anastomose or repair blood vessels. This knowledge is essential, since he may be called on at any time to perform such a procedure. Restoration of continuity of a blood vessel may enable him to save a limb or avert some other catastrophe. The techniques should be within the capability of any surgeon. The methods, though not difficult, require a knowledge of the use of the instruments used in vascular surgery and actual practice in doing anastomoses or repairs. In the event that specialized instruments are not available when needed, the surgeon who has learned and practiced the techniques with the instruments ordinarily used in vascular surgery should be able to substitute other instruments or materials. It is essential to have proper suture material, preferably 00000 or 000000, nonabsorbable suture, with a swedged-on curved needle. An arterial silk which meets these requirements is available. Physicians