Operating microscope, microsurgical instruments and microsutures.

A comprehensive knowledge of operating microscope, microsurgical instruments and microsutures is most essential for any beginner in this field. Magnification provided by an operation microscope is higher and variable to suit microsurgical procedures. Although zoom magnification and focussing are preferable for convenience, microscopes with manual controls can be used for clinical and experimental work. A beam splitter and camera equipment are essential accessories. Microsurgical instruments are delicate and expensive and must be bought with discretion and carefully protected. Fine dissecting forceps, needle holder, microscissors, microvascular clamps and clips and fine haemostats are the only essential instruments. Others are optional. Microsutures form the most expensive part of the microsurgical setup. 10-0polyamide suture mounted on a curved round bodied needle of 4 or 5 mm length is adequate for virtually all clinical and experimental microsurgical work.