This course has been developed for surgeons working with microsurgical, microsuturing and microanastomosis techniques (neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, hand surgeons, maxillo-facial surgeons, transplant surgeons, etc).

The need for extensive microsurgical training to improve microsurgeons’ skills is crucial, not only for residents but also for more experienced surgeons. However, in a non-operative setting, training opportunities are often scarce and very expensive and new and innovating surgical training methods have been considered.

The placenta model is one of the currently most promising and affordable tools available for training in microsurgical techniques. In placenta all the vessels are surrounded by membranes and stroma. In placenta model vessels are perfused and pressurized: this simulates the intraoperative setting very well.

In fact, the placenta model represents an excellent model to practice microsurgical, microsuturing and microanastomosis techniques for surgeons working with microsurgical techniques.

Participants are offered special advice, mentoring, and training in their own microsurgical models.

The course will be held at University Hospital Zurich, Abteilung Forschung (Floor B) , Sternwartstrasse 14, 8091 Zurich.

Course directors: Pd. Dr. med. G. Esposito, PhD; Prof. Dr. med. L. Regli

The placenta model allows the participants to train basic microsurgical techniques such as dissection of arteries and veins. The dissection of the tissue surrounding the arteries and veins in the placenta is very similar to intraoperative setting.

Furthermore, the placenta model allows to:

1) microsuture/repair vessels;

2) perform all the three types of microanastomosis: end-to-side, end-to-end & side-to-side; 

3) verify patency and check the anastomosis. 

Trainee can perform a great variety of simulation scenarios (due to the number of available vessels and their different sizes) allowing many repetitive exercises and surgical error exploration. 

Working in a deep and narrow operative site can also be simulated.

Applicants with experience in surgery and/or microsurgery are encouraged to register through the official website of the Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences (Module 16).

The recognition by by the Federation of Swiss Cantonal Veterinary Officers (VSKT) is in progress.

This course is recognized as continuing education in Switzerland by the Swiss Neurosurgical Society (SGNC: Schweizerischen Gesellschaft für Neurochirurgie).

The course is limited to a maximum of eight trainees.
Acceptance is based on qualification and time of application.

Cost for the entire course including documentation is:

CHF 600.- CHF for residents / in training applicants 
CHF 800.- CHF for specialist / applicants affiliated with a University 

CHF 1000.- CHF: applicants from industry

Insurance is responsibility of each participant.