🔍 Key Findings
- Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (TD to AV) was successfully performed in all 8 feline cadavers using a microvascular anastomotic coupler (MAC).
- Anastomotic patency was confirmed intraoperatively and postoperatively in 7/8 cats via contrast lymphography or retrograde venography.
- Dissection and anastomosis took a median of 120 minutes, with minimal technical complications.
- A 1.5 mm MAC was used in 6 cats, and a 2.0 mm in 2 cats; TD diameter ranged 1.0–1.5 mm, AV up to 2.25 mm.
- Challenges included vessel twisting and luminal patency issues, resolved intraoperatively with minor adjustments (e.g., repeat pinning, tacking suture).
- MAC use eliminated need for hand-suturing, lowering skill demands but requiring precise alignment.
- Technique provides direct lymphatic-to-venous drainage, potentially reducing the stimulus for collateral vessel formation.
- May serve as a future treatment option for feline idiopathic chylothorax, warranting further in vivo studies.
