Venous anastomoses with a microvascular anastomotic device in head and neck reconstruction

The Microvascular Anastomotic System (3M coupler) uses a friction-fit union of implant rings composed of high-density polyethylene and stainless-steel pins. Several reports have described equal or greater patency rates, as we ll as more rapid performance. using the device, compared to conventional su turing techniques. Eighty-nine patients, who underwent head and neck surger y with free-tissue transfers, using the Microvascular Anastomotic System, w ere evaluated. A hundred and twenty-one venous anastomoses were done using the device. All but one was done in an end-to-end manner. Arteries were ana stomosed with a conventional suture technique. The flap survival rate was 1 00 percent. The authors conclude that the device is reliable and time-spari ng for end-to-end venous anastomoses in head and neck reconstruction.