Microsurgical education in Greece: past, present, and future

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the history of microsurgery in Greece and how it evolved throughout the years. It is based on published literature as well as anecdotal evidence. It is by no means an exhaustive list of available resources and contributions. Microsurgery in Greece begins with Prof Soucacos who acquired his microsurgical skills in the USA (1970–1974), where he worked as a clinical and research fellow. After gaining invaluable experience, he returned to his home country, Greece, to establish a microsurgery replantation team in 1975. His team gained national recognition soon thereafter thanks to the many successes and innovations they achieved. The tradition is continued with contemporary microsurgical courses in Greece from expert faculty and a busy microsurgical practice in several centers across the country. The experimental educational program in microsurgery includes a blend of synthetic and live animal models, such as rats and rabbits. They include a complete exposure to basic and advanced practical exercises through several days. The simulation training models slowly but surely steadily advance to meet the training standards.