Rat Tail Revascularization Model for Advanced Microsurgery Training and Research

Abstract

We describe a time-saving microsurgical exercise for continuing microsurgical training and research. The rat tail replantation model was simplified by excluding bone detachment. Rats were divided into two groups: devascularization only ( N = 3) and revascularization after devascularization ( N = 7). The tail was devascularized by ligation and division of artery and veins in the first group to reveal if a collateral circulation from bone existed. The divided vessels were reanastomosed in the second group. The circulation of the rat tails was followed for 1 week. The tails showed total necrosis in the devascularization group, whereas only two of seven tails showed partial necrosis in the revascularization group. Reexploration showed thrombosis narrowing the lumen at the anastomotic site of the partially necrosed tails, most likely due to an anastomotic insufficiency. The present study revealed that total amputation is not necessary for tail devascularization. The rat tail revascularization model provides a practical tool for advanced and continuing microsurgical training and research.

Maxillofacial Fracture Experiences: A Review of 152 Cases

“…This ratio is consistent with previous reports [1,2,4]. This result does not take into account the socioeconomic status of the society.…”

Simulation learning in plastic surgery

“…64,65 The most widely used animal model in both research and training applications is the rat (Figure 77.11). [66][67][68] This model is very versatile -up to 20 basic and advanced microsurgical procedures have been described. 66,[69][70][71][72][73] Nevertheless, despite the live rat model's excellent face validity it is limited by the different blood supply pattern, being a loose skin animal.…”

“…For advanced microsurgery skills, abdominal epigastric flap, tail and limb replantation and kidney transplantation exercises in rodents provide highly effective and reproducible simulation models. 66,67,78,79 Despite their utility and popularity, live animal model use is increasingly regulated due to associated ethical issues and heavy costs. Confirmation of predictive validity is also required, by establishing the transferability of skills from animal models to patients and their outcome.…”

Entrenamiento microquirúrgico básico para realizar un modelo animal de alotrasplante compuesto vascularizado

“…Sin embargo, frecuentemente los recursos para el entrenamiento son escasos y la seguridad de los pacientes limitan las oportunidades de docencia sistemática. Por otro lado, el entrenamiento en un laboratorio en seco sin animales, es cada vez más usado para desarrollar las habilidades y destrezas pertinentes en microcirugía, a la vez que disminuye los costos y la utilización de un gran número de animales de laboratorio [5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19] . El trasplante de extremidad posterior de la rata, es un modelo animal microquirúrgico complejo de ACV 20,21 que los autores pretenden implementar.…”