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J Reconstr Microsurg 2015; 31(02): 157-158
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1390302
Letter to the Editor: Short Report
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Microvascular Coupler–Induced Intimal Crimping Causing Venous Thrombosis

Jonathan Bank
1   Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
,
Edward Teng
1   Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
,
David H. Song
1   Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

16 June 2014

31 July 2014

Publication Date:
07 October 2014 (online)

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Utilization of the microvascular coupler (GEM Coupler, Synovis Micro Companies Alliance, Birmingham, AL)[1] for venous anastomosis in free tissue transfer has become the standard practice for many surgeons with success rates reaching 98.5%.[2] The risk of venous thrombosis increases with the use of couplers smaller than 2.0 mm.[3] The benefits of use include ease of application, speed of anastomosis, and possible stenting of the venous anastomotic site open for reliability. The coupler is indicated for vessels ranging in diameter from 0.8 to 4.5 mm, with a wall thickness of up to 0.5 mm.

We describe two cases wherein the venous coupler was applied and subsequent microvascular thrombosis of the anastomotic site was seen, and attributed primarily to the crimping of the intima causing clot and ensuing venous collapse.

 

  • References

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