A new method of nonsuture microvascular anastomosis using magnet rings and cogwheel-shaped hollow metal instruments with six spurs or oval hollow instruments was developed. With this method, both end to end and end to side anastomosis are possible.
End to end anastomosis in experimental animals was possible for small vessels with outer diameters of up to 1 mm with an average patency rate of 900, requiring 8.0 minutes on average. In cases of end to side anastomosis, the patency rate was 84%, requiring 8.4 minutes on average.
In end to end anastomosis, electromagnetic flowmeter measurement showed that there was no difference in blood flow and blood flow patterns between control and operated vessels, even 40 days after anastomosis. In end to side anastomosis-, blood flow at the donor vessel and the total blood flow at the recipient vessel were same even after 40 days in cases of artery-to-artery anastomosis, and also after 60 minutes in cases of artery-to-vein anastomosis. No change in blood flow pattern was recognized.
Histological examination in experimental animals 20 days after anastomosis revealed a continuity of the media and the intima. After 180 days, no marked abnormal findings were recognized. In a scanning electron microscope study, no disruption and flattening of longitudinal endothelial folds on the inner surface of the vessels were observed. Histological examinations showed that magnetic power did not have any effect on blood vessel walls and surrounding tissues.