Microsurgery is a highly specialized field within plastic and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Lindsay E. Janes is a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon in Chicago, IL, with extensive expertise in microsurgical techniques, particularly for limb salvage and brachial plexus reconstruction.
By combining technical skill with a patient-first approach, Dr. Janes helps restore function and preserve mobility in complex cases where other treatment options may fall short.
Understanding Microsurgery
Microsurgery involves the use of high-powered operating microscopes and fine instruments to perform complex procedures that require the accurate handling of tiny anatomical structures.
This includes nerves that measure less than a few millimeters in diameter, as well as delicate blood vessels essential for tissue survival.
Microsurgical techniques enable highly trained surgeons, such as Dr. Janes, to work with extreme precision on the smallest structures of the body, including the delicate nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue of the hand and arm.
The most common applications of microsurgery in Dr. Janes’ practice include:
- Limb salvage after trauma or tumor removal
- Brachial plexus reconstruction following nerve injury
- Nerve grafting and targeted nerve repair
These procedures require careful planning, hours of focused surgical work, and a thorough understanding of both anatomy and the principles of functional recovery.
Microsurgical Limb Salvage
In cases of severe injury or tissue loss, Dr. Janes may use microsurgical techniques to avoid amputation and preserve as much limb function as possible. This can involve free flap surgery, where healthy tissue from another part of the body is transplanted to the injured area and reconnected to local blood vessels and nerves.
Limb salvage is often necessary after high-energy trauma, failed previous surgeries, or tumor removal. Microsurgical reconstruction helps restore coverage, stability, and circulation, allowing the limb to heal and regain strength over time.
Dr. Janes works closely with orthopedic and trauma teams to coordinate care, selecting the best donor tissue and approach for each patient. Her goal is not only to save the limb but to ensure it can support meaningful function.
Brachial Plexus Reconstruction
The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves that controls movement and feeling in the shoulder, arm, and hand. When these nerves are overstretched, torn, or avulsed (pulled away from the spinal cord), microsurgical repair is usually the most effective option.
Dr. Janes performs nerve grafts and transfers to reconnect or reroute functioning nerves, restoring movement in the upper limb.
These procedures require intricate suture work under magnification and a deep understanding of how nerve signals can be redirected to reanimate paralyzed muscles.
Recovery from brachial plexus surgery takes time, but many patients regain substantial function, especially when treated early. Dr. Janes collaborates with physical therapists and referring physicians to develop long-term recovery plans, maximizing each patient’s outcomes.
Advanced Reconstructive Care in Chicago: Microsurgery Specialist
Microsurgery is one of the most technically demanding areas of modern surgery, but in the right hands, it offers remarkable results.
Patients from across Illinois seek out Dr. Janes for her advanced training, meticulous technique, and collaborative approach to care. Whether the goal is limb preservation or functional recovery after nerve injury, she brings clarity and compassion to every step of the surgical process.
To schedule a microsurgery consultation with Dr. Lindsay E. Janes in Chicago, call (312) 695-6022.