Microvascular Anastomosis in Practice: A Pilot Study on Microsurgical Training Efficiency

<b>Background:</b> Microsurgery is a demanding surgical field requiring precision and extensive training. There is a continued need for standardized training models to improve skill acquisition and efficiency in microvascular anastomosis. <b>Objectives:</b> This study aimed to assess whether a standardized microsurgery training protocol, focusing on technique-specific objectives, improves performance among beginner trainees. <b>Material and Methods:</b> A three-month, non-randomized cohort study was conducted with entry-level plastic surgery residents. Participants were assigned to either a control group, practicing without structured guidance, or a test group, using a predefined microsurgery curriculum. Skill performance was measured at baseline, three weeks, and three months using a modified University of Western Ontario Microsurgical Skills Assessment (UWOMSA) tool. <b>Results:</b> While both groups improved over time, the test group demonstrated significantly greater improvement at the three-month mark (mean score: 59 vs. 38; <i>p</i> = 0.00027). The structured training model promoted more consistent progress and superior microsurgical technique. <b>Conclusions:</b> A standardized training protocol significantly enhances microsurgical proficiency over time. These findings suggest value in structured, low-cost training models for microsurgical education. Limitations include the small sample size, use of non-living models, and a non-randomized design.