The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital have introduced an advanced vascular connection device to improve surgical outcomes for cancer patients.
The collaboration brings the anastomotic coupler, an automated device used to connect small blood vessels measuring about 1-4 millimetres in diameter, into clinical practice.
The technology allows surgeons to join blood vessels without using needles or sutures, offering greater precision while reducing the complexity and duration of microsurgical procedures.
Dr Sakarn Bunnag, deputy director-general of the Department of Medical Services, said the partnership between the NCI and Siriraj Hospital shows how advanced medical innovations can be integrated into operating rooms, helping improve treatment outcomes for complex diseases such as cancer.
Dr Somchai Thanasitthichai, director of the NCI, said the technology is particularly useful in head and neck cancer surgery, where surgeons often need to transfer tissue and reconnect extremely small blood vessels.
Traditionally, the process requires manual suturing under a microscope and demands a high level of expertise.
The device was used during a surgical procedure performed at the NCI on May 14.
Dr Somchai said the technology offers three major advantages: improved safety and precision, shorter operating times, and faster recovery for patients.
By securely connecting blood vessels and promoting smoother blood flow, the device can help reduce the risk of postoperative complications, such as vascular obstruction.
It also shortens the time patients spend in the operating theatre, reducing physical stress and enabling a quicker return to normal activities.
