Use of varioscope in free microvascular tissue transplants.
Since July 2002, the author has performed 12 consecutive free flaps using a new device, the Varioscope AF3, in order to evaluate its efficacy. The Varioscope is a world-patent novelty by Life Optics (Vienna, Austria) that combines the philosophy of microscopes and loupes. Specific advantages such as reduced cost, freedom of movement, portability, and a magnification range between 3.6-7,2x are some of the reasons that convinced the author to use the Varioscope initially. The overall success rate is similar to that obtained with a microscope or high-power loupes. The results show that the Varioscope AF3 could be safely employed in the majority of free-tissue transfers as sole means of magnification. However, for digital replantations or vessels with a diameter of less than 1 mm, a microscope might be necessary.
Spyriounis
Petros K
PK
Department of Plastic Surgery, Veteran's Hospital, Athens, Greece. Spyriounis@internet.gr
D000714:Anastomosis, Surgical; D006801:Humans; D008853:Microscopy / Q000295:instrumentation; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000295:instrumentation*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation*; D013524:Surgical Flaps / Q000098:blood supply*; D016378:Tissue Transplantation / Q000379:methods*