We compared the results of micovascular anastomoses using a titanium clip and a conventional suture method to determine the possibility of clinical applying titanium clips for the anastomosis of small vessels.

In 15 New Zealand white rabbits, jugular veins on both sides were cross-sectioned. One side was repaired with a titanium clip and the other with 10-0 nylon sutures. Macroscopic and microscopic results of anastomoses were evaluated.

All of the anastomsed vessels were patent at postoperative 1 day, 1 week and 1, 2 and 3 months. The time required for vessel repair was 16.0 minutes for suture repair and 8.9 minutes for clips. Microscopic evaluation revealed that the titanium clips didn't penetrate the intima of the vein. Foreign body reaction was less at the clipped anastomoses sites than at those with suture repair.

Microvascular anastomosis can be performed more rapidly with titanium clips than conventional suture repair in operations of major limb replantation or free flap surgery where ischemic time is critical. This device minimizes intimal injury and foreign body reaction, and could reduce the failure rate after microvascular anastomosis.