The Importance and Surgical Technique of Assistance in Microsurgery

Abstract

Objectives Most microsurgeons perform their anastomoses manually and usually with the help of an assistant who shares the vision of the microscope through the second ocular lens. However, there are few reports on the assistance techniques. We aimed to provide details of our microsurgery technique, focusing on the assistance, and to present the average length and success rates of replantations performed with a microsurgery nurse. Methods Finger replantation cases between 2020 and 2025 were examined. Only finger replantations with bone fixation, tendon, nerve, artery, and venous repairs were included. The average surgery duration and results of the operation were investigated along with the experience of the assistant nurses. The microsurgery assistance technique is described in detail. Results A total of 129 replantations were performed by 10 surgeons and 15 nurses. 107 patients were male. The mean age of the patients was 33.16 years. The success rate was 83.7%. The mean surgery time was 156.93 minutes. The mean experience of the nurses was 84.3 months. No statistically significant differences were observed between the nurses’ experience and success rate. However, surgery time was significantly shorter with experienced nurses. Conclusion While technological advancements drive progress in microsurgery, it is equally critical to evaluate the human components of surgical teams. Training assistants for microsurgery may be favourable for optimising outcomes and reducing the length of procedures.