Use of smartphone to facilitate learning in microsurgery

Abstract

Background and objective. A successful outcome in Microsurgery depends, among others, on the performance of technically perfect microvascular anastomosis, being the operative experience the single most critical factor in avoiding free flap failure. Using living animals represents the actual training standard. However, this implies high costs. Several nonliving models have been proposed as alternatives for the acquisition of basic skills. Nevertheless, a microscope is needed to practice. The use of smartphones in Plastic Surgery is well documented. The purpose of this article is to describe the possibility of using the smartphone to replace an operating microscope in Microsurgery trai-ning. Methods. A test platform was created. A phone holder was placed on the side of a table, such that it could be comfortably reached from the test platform. The microscope was replaced with a smartphone Apple 8s Plus® with a digital 10x zoom. Three exercises in non living models were used for the test: gauze, latex glove and chicken tight. Photographs were taken to show the smartphone definition and the applicability to perform Microsurgery anastomosis. Results. All exercises could be performed in the maximum magnification with adequate definition. Conclusions. The use of smartphones as a microsurgery model presented in this study could be applied to basic Microsurgery education and also used as an alternative training model owing to its easy application, easy accessibility and low cost.