Reconstructive Microsurgery at Chang Gung (Part 1): Upper and Lower Extremities

Fu-Chan Wei, MD, FACS

It is my great honor to introduce this inaugural part of a special four-part series in Seminars in Plastic Surgery dedicated to microsurgery. Over the past half century, microsurgery has revolutionized reconstructive surgery, transforming what was once impossible into routine clinical practice. This remarkable journey has been one of persistent innovation, technical refinement, and collaborative effort of multiple specialties, institutions, and beyond.

At Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, we have been fortunate to contribute to this evolution, working alongside dedicated colleagues from around the world. Our journey began with a simple aim to improve outcomes for patients which has led to general advances in extremity, head and neck, peripheral nerve, breast, and lymphedema management—the four pillars that will be explored in this comprehensive series.

The first part focuses on extremity reconstruction, where microsurgical techniques have dramatically improved limb salvage rates and functional outcomes following trauma, oncologic resection, and congenital conditions. Subsequent parts will delve into head and neck reconstruction, where lives must be saved, and form and function must be delicately restored; peripheral nerve surgery, where microsurgery has helped advance functional recovery; and finally, breast reconstruction and lymphedema management, where quality of life considerations are paramount.

Throughout these four-part series, experts from diverse backgrounds will share their experiences, techniques, and insights. The collected wisdom represents not only technical but also quite a few new discoveries and philosophy for difficult reconstructions, as well as how to organize a better system for comprehensive and sustainable microsurgical practice and to educate the next-generation microsurgeons.

I am particularly grateful to our colleagues who have contributed their expertise and time, and to the editorial team for their vision in creating this educational resource. It is my sincere hope that this four-part series will serve not only as a comprehensive reference for established microsurgeons but also as an inspiration for the next generation who will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.

As we reflect on how far microsurgery has come, we must also look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The integration of new technologies, the continued refinement of techniques, and the expansion of composite tissue allotransplantation are all promising to further transform our field.

Publication History

Article published online:
08 August 2025