The VCS clip--experimental experiences with a new vascular suture stapling device

Abstract

Despite improvements in technique and suture material, vascular anastomosis is still associated with a significant rate of early (stenosis, thrombosis) and late (intimal hyperplasia) complications. Although automatic mechanical staplers were practical und comparatively safe to use, they did not play a major role in vascular surgery, probably due to the complexity and difficult handling. In an experimental study with the VCS clip system, we found a significant improvement in performing a hepatic artery anastomosis [9.2 +/- 1.5 min (VCS) vs 20.6 +/- 2.7 min (suture), P < 0.001], early patency and flow rate [150 +/- 29.1 ml/min (1.0 h)-->79.9 +/- 24.0 ml/min (24 h) (suture) vs 186 +/- 45 ml/min (1.0 h)-->162 +/- 48 ml/min (VCS), P < 0.005]. Besides easy handling, the VCS clip system allows for a fast, standardized vascular anastomosis without intimal penetration.