Microsurgical Reconstruction

Thanks to the latest microsurgery techniques, instruments, optical devices, 3D computer navigation, and laser therapy, it is now possible to restore skin, muscles, and bones during surgery. Ultrasound technology provides high-resolution, color-enhanced images of even the tiniest blood vessels and nerves.

Why is reconstruction necessary? Microsurgical reconstruction of blood vessels, muscles, skin, and bones is used both for diagnosing complex conditions and for restoring function in damaged organs. This method allows surgeons to reattach amputated limbs, restore blood vessels and nerves. Even blood vessels thinner than a human hair (as little as 18 microns) can be successfully stitched together.

Extensive skin areas can be reconstructed—for example, after burns or skin cancer on the face, arms, or back. Microsurgical reconstruction in Israel is also used to reattach severed fingers, hands, muscles, bones of the skull, and nerves injured in accidents or terrorist attacks. This type of complex microsurgery procedure can help avoid amputation and, in some cases, save the patient’s life. Titanium mesh is used to rebuild parts of the skull. Blood supply to bone and soft tissue can be effectively restored.

Types of Microsurgical Reconstruction Performed:

• Correction of congenital defects (arteries, jaw, ears, eyelids, soft tissue)

• Orbital reconstruction

• Pharynx reconstruction

• Breast reconstruction

• Lip reconstruction

• Tendon reconstruction

• Nerve reconstruction

• Skin restoration

• Nasal reconstruction

• Hand reconstruction

• Foot reconstruction

• Scalp reconstruction

• Valve and vascular reconstruction

• Maxillofacial reconstruction

• Neck and cheek reconstruction

• Tongue reconstruction

Aesthetic reconstruction is widely applied in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in Israel. These procedures are performed by multidisciplinary teams: surgeons, radiologists, anesthesiologists, neurosurgeons, internists, rheumatologists, physiotherapists, and nurses—all contributing to the success of microsurgical operations in Israel.

Microsurgical reconstruction is generally performed under general anesthesia and includes several steps:

1. Resection of the wound (defect site) and preparation of a skin flap.

2. Closure of the damaged area (bone, tissue, blood vessel, or nerve) by transferring the flap.

3. Identifying blood vessels to reconnect arteries and nerves. Microsutures are applied to restore motor and sensory function.

4. Final stage – aesthetic reconstruction and suturing of the flap and surrounding tissue.

The duration of microsurgical operations depends on the complexity—usually from 2.5 to 8 hours.

Hospital discharge generally occurs within one to two weeks depending on the scope of surgery and the patient’s condition. Recovery after microsurgical reconstruction can be long and demanding, requiring close monitoring. If the reconnected blood vessels become blocked, urgent intervention is needed to restore circulation.

Recovery time varies based on the type and scale of the procedure and the patient’s health prior to surgery. A fever over 38°C or signs of complications after discharge should be immediately reported to the surgeon.

Microsurgery is effectively used across various fields: cardiology, ophthalmology, gynecology, orthopedics, nephrology, and neurology.