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 Zurich Irchel / Building Y23 - Room F32 / Winterthurerstrasse 190 / 8057 Zürich - Switzerland

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).

This course has been recommended by the Federation of Swiss Cantonal Veterinary Officers for recognition by all authorities responsible for animal experimentation as continuing education in laboratory animal science.

The course has been accredited for 12 credits by the Swiss Society of Neurosurgery (SGNC) and by the Swiss Society for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (SGPRAC)

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 700 for residents and in training applicants
CHF 900  for specialist

Insurance is responsibility of each participant.