The site of reapplication of microvascular clamps.

An experiment was done with albino rats to determine whether the arterial clamp should be reapplied proximal or distal to the anastomosis when revising a venous anastomosis in microvascular surgery. Our findings showed that the reapplication of clamps should be avoided if possible. However, if it is necessary to reapply an arterial clamp, it may be placed either proximal or distal to the anastomosis - with almost the same incidence of patency resulting.