Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose:To evaluate the feasibility of microvascular surgery at the level of retinal vasculature. Methods:Porcine cadaver eyes were used and eyecups were prepared under an operating microscope. A number of microsurgical maneuvers were explored such as vascular puncturing, catheterization, mobilization, intravascular injections and their various cominations. The instruments used ranged from disposable 30G needles to an Er:YAG laser. Commercially available 10-0 nylon sutures and fine polyimide tubes as well as custom-made fine glass-tubes were used for vascular catheterization. Results:Puncturing, mobilization, catheterization and intravascular injection of retinal arteries and veins were succeeded. The connection of two remote retinal vessels using a fine tube was also achieved with the combination of these maneuvers. Conclusion:The feasibility of several microvascular maneuvers on retinal arteries and veins was demonstrated in cadaver eyes. Further experimentation and exploitation of these findings in a living animal model could offer the basis for aplying these microvascular maneuvers on humans.
Keywords: 554 retina • 615 vascular occlusion/vascular occlusive disease