Quantitative measure of small vessel anastomotic contour using corrosion resin cast models: An aid to surgical training

A surgeon who had not previously carried out a small vessel anastomosis performed 20 consecutive anastomoses between human long saphenous vein and the left anterior descending artery of a pig's heart. Corrosion resin cast models were made of the anastomoses and subjected to a quantitative analysis of the anastomotic contour. A trend of improvement in contour parameters was found with increasing experience. This model may be useful for surgeons in training.