A new type of magnification system in free microvascular tissue transfer: Varioscope M5

Abstract

Free microvascular tissue transfers have become today a key instrument for the surgical treatment of wide loss of tissue. These procedures can provide definitive treatment in a single operation but they are expensive and require specialized practitioners. The operating microscope traditionally has provided this requirement; our study is focusing on the prospect of using a new visual system-Varioscope M5-in the reconstructive microsurgery field. Varioscope M5 (Life Optics, Vienna, Austria) has been employed in 21 microvascular anastomoses, where different free flaps were used in head and neck reconstruction. The necessity to operate in a different department, not provided with an operating microscope, brought along the idea of exploring an alternative procedure to classical visualization systems. Specific advantages such as reduced cost, freedom of movement, autofocus, minimal upkeep, a variable range of magnification from 2x to 9x are some of the reasons that convinced the authors to use this new type of magnification system. Increasing interest in microsurgery magnification highlights the need for further technical development in that field. We consider Varioscope M5 a future mean of anastomotic magnification in most free-tissue transfers with specific characteristics that combine the microscope and loupe philosophies.

Modern adjuncts and technologies in microsurgery: An historical and evidence‐based review

“…The Leica® Headmounted microscope HM500 (formerly the Varioscope® M5) is a head mounted personal microscope introduced by Leica® capable of magnifications in the range of 2× to 9×. The HM500® has been used for various procedures requiring magnification including free flap reconstructions by a single unit in Italy58, 59 and neurosurgery 60. It may be of considerable use in the future allowing unrestricted movement of the surgeon, more options for operating position, and possibly expanding the scope of microsurgery to nontertiary institutions.…”

Binocular single-refraction magnifying glasses for free flap surgery: a reliable method for developing countries

“…In addition, microscopes are still expensive equipments that require upkeep and care. Where microscopes are not available, free tissue transfers would mostly be avoided as a reconstructive option [9,10]. Magnification loupes seemed to be a good alternative.…”

“…One of the most important advantages of this technique is the rapid learning curve on contrast to studies that emphasized on the importance of the surgeon's experience and definite "learning curve" with free tissue transfers [9].…”