Reconstructive surgery has transformed the way patients recover from trauma, cancer treatment, and congenital abnormalities. One of the most advanced techniques in the field is microsurgery, a specialized procedure that allows surgeons to reattach small blood vessels and nerves using high-powered magnification.
This technique is critical for restoring function and appearance in complex reconstructive cases.
Dr. Gregory Dumanian, a board-certified general and plastic surgeon and Chief of Plastic Surgery at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, has extensive expertise in microsurgical procedures and is a trailblazer in the field. His skill in this highly technical field allows patients to benefit from innovative surgical approaches that enhance both function and aesthetics. Here’s how microsurgery works in reconstructive surgery procedures.
Microsurgery in Reconstructive Surgery
Microsurgery is an advanced surgical technique used in reconstructive surgery to repair or rebuild damaged tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. Surgeons use a high-powered microscope and very fine instruments to work on tiny structures that are often too small to see with the naked eye.
Because microsurgery requires extreme precision, it takes years of specialized training. Performed properly by highly trained experts like Dr. Dumanian, it can dramatically improve function, appearance, and quality of life.
One of the most important microsurgery uses is free tissue transfer, where healthy skin, muscle, or bone is taken from one part of the body and transplanted to another area. With this approach, Dr. Dumanian carefully reconnects the small blood vessels and nerves, allowing the transplanted tissue to survive and function.
Dr. Dumanian frequently uses microsurgery techniques during breast reconstruction, nerve repair, and other reconstructive procedures.
Microsurgery is also paving the path for improvements that were never possible before. Dr. Dumanian is a pioneer in the world of microsurgery. Alongside Dr. Todd Kuiken, he developed targeted muscle reinnervation, a microsurgical technique that helps amputees regain better control of prosthetic limbs.
During TMR, surgeons reroute severed nerves from the amputation site into nearby muscles. This allows the nerves to send clearer signals to advanced prosthetic devices, improving movement and function. Upper limb amputees can think about the movement they want to make and their prosthetic arm responds.
TMR also helps reduce phantom limb pain by giving the nerves a new, functional purpose.
Benefits of Microsurgery
Microsurgery has significantly improved reconstructive outcomes, providing patients with:
- Enhanced Precision – Reconnecting tiny blood vessels leads to more natural results.
- Improved Functionality – Restores movement and sensation.
- Better Aesthetic Outcomes – Results in a more natural appearance.
- Reduced Need for Implants – Uses the patient’s own tissue.
By using microsurgery, Dr. Dumanian provides long-lasting solutions for patients requiring complex reconstructive procedures.
Expert Reconstructive Surgery in Chicago
If you need breast reconstruction or other reconstructive surgery, you deserve Chicago’s best. Call Dr. Gregory Dumanian’s office at 312-695-6022 to schedule a consultation and discuss your options with a leader in the field.