Latex glove conduit as improvised blood vessel model for microvascular anastomosis training

Abstract Background : In the growing need of microvascular surgery in modern day plastic surgery, financial burden on surgeon or institution can discourage acquisition of skill particularly in the initial phase of laboratory simulation. This article describes the construction of a cheap, easy-to-make blood vessel model. Materials and method The model was made using infusion giving set, latex glove, scissors, tape measure and Swan glue CD 308. A cut sheet from the latex glove was rolled twice over two glue-painted segment of the infusion giving set stent. The stents were gently pulled out, turning the sheet into a conduit. The blood vessel model was then allowed to dry. Discussion : The use of latex glove for initial training in microvascular anastomosis have been for long. Previously described productions into a conduit are cumbersome. This model is easy to construct and is useful in an office or dry laboratory setting. Conclusion : The latex glove blood vessel model described in this paper is a useful material in the training of budding microsurgeons. Residents in our institution have reported a very good learning experience with its use.