In the coming weeks, my assistant may be facing reconstructive surgery on her hand. It got us thinking about the field of reconstructive surgery, a field that is experiencing robust growth today..
This month we focus on advancements in reconstructive surgery.
In other news, NIFA’s James X. Stobinski, PhD, RN CNOR, CSSM(E), CNAMB(E), has an article in this month’s issue of OR Today, “But What About the Rest of the World?” Prompted by the World Health Organization’s recent report, “State of the World’s Nursing 2025,” the article looks at the interconnectedness of the global nursing workforce and what trends indicate about nursing education in the U.S.
Recent advancements and new developments in reconstructive surgery
“Recent advancements and new developments in reconstructive surgery are of paramount importance as the field continues to evolve at the intersection of innovation, patient-centered care, and multidisciplinary collaboration,” reads the introduction to this editorial published in “Frontiers in Surgery,” April 9, 2026. The article summarizes current trends in the field and goes on to highlight a number of specific studies exemplifying evolving techniques and technology. Read more . . .
New surgical assistance technologies are pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved. These technologies include ergonomic surgical microscopes, indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence, cutting guides, and more.
Ergonomic Surgical Microscopes
Advances in surgical microscopy include technical aspects of high-end optics, such as improved lighting and high magnification. Some contemporary surgical microscopes are enriched with such modules as fluorescence imaging and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Here’s a comprehensive review of the evolution of surgical microscopes, starting with the first microscope in surgery, used during an otolaryngologic procedure in Stockholm in 1921. Read more . . .
Indocyanine Green (ICG) Imaging
The fluorescent dye known as ICG, when administered intravenously, can allow surgeons to visualize blood flow and tissue perfusion in real time. Used in ophthalmology since the 1970s, it now helps surgeons in the OR evaluate flap perfusion, viability of skin grafts, and blood supply in tissue transfers. Read more . . .
Cutting and Positioning Guides
Surgical guides are advanced, patient-specific tools used, for example, in maxillofacial and craniofacial surgery, customized for each case. They are created using the patient’s 3D tomographic data before surgery, allowing the surgeon to operate saws and drills at precisely the intended location, angle and depth. Read more . . .
3D Printing
And, of course, 3D printing is not only used for planning surgeries using anatomical prototyping, but also for customized implants and prototypes. Of course, as with any technology, there are challenges.
Read more . . .
Photo by st.kolesnikov on Adobe Stock
News
The Future of Reconstructive Surgery: Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine is opening exciting new possibilities for reconstructive surgery by shifting the focus from simply replacing damaged tissue to actually helping the body repair and regenerate it. This 2026 report highlights emerging technologies including bioengineered skin, stem cell therapies, gene therapies, and structural scaffolds and biomaterials, all of which could transform treatment of complex wounds, burns, and damaged tissues. Read more . . .
The Transformative Role of Artificial Intelligence in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Artificial intelligence is emerging as a powerful tool in plastic and reconstructive surgery, with applications ranging from personalized preoperative planning and 3D modeling to robotic-assisted procedures and postoperative monitoring. This review highlights the ways AI may improve surgical precision, predict complications, and support more individualized patient care, while also emphasizing challenges such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, cost, and the need for human oversight. Read more . . .
Advancements in Facial Reconstruction Surgery
Advances in facial reconstruction are bringing together bioengineered materials, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing to create more precise and personalized treatment options. This article explores how these technologies can improve surgical planning, reconstruct facial structures, and potentially expand access to complex reconstructive care. The authors also highlight the importance of addressing cost and healthcare disparities so that these innovations can benefit a broader range of patients. Read more . . .
How U.S. Plastic Surgeons are Innovating Trauma Care
“Plastic surgery has long been associated with aesthetics,” writes Olivia Reynolds of USA Future, “but at its core, it is a specialty rooted in reconstruction and restoration. U.S. plastic surgeons are now increasingly integrated into trauma teams at hospitals.” Reynolds goes on to enumerate some of the new technologies that have been transforming reconstructive trauma surgery.” Read more . . .
Videos
The Reconstructive Ladder Explained: Closure, Grafts, and Flaps
The reconstructive ladder is a foundational concept in plastic surgery; it provides a useful framework for understanding surgical approaches to would closure, progressing from simpler techniques to more complex procedures. This educational video reviews three key levels: primary and secondary closure, skin grafts, and local, pedicled, and free flaps, while explaining how patient and wound factors guide reconstructive decisions.
Watch video. . .
Virtual Surgical Planning Jaw in a Day (JIAD) for mandibular reconstruction
This 3-D virtual surgery, provided by TVASurg (Toronto Video Atlas of Surgery), shows a single-stage reconstructive procedure that combines resection, reconstruction using a free flap, dental implant placement, and temporary prosthetic restoration all in one operation. This educational video is about 4 min. long; you will also find a link to a 13-minute video that includes the 3-D images plus clips filmed during the surgery.
Watch the educational video now. . .
In The Spotlight: Katelyn Payne
Credentials
MSN, PNP-PC
Student Status
Current student in NIFA’s RNFA program
City & State
Charlotte, NC
Current Position
Pediatric Surgery Nurse Practitioner
Where did you get your RN degree?
I earned my RN degree from Villanova University in Pennsylvania through their Advanced BSN second-degree program.
How did you come to choose perioperative nursing?
After working as a nurse in the Pediatric ICU for years, I transitioned into a pediatric surgery NP role and quickly developed an interest in the technical and collaborative aspects of the OR. I wanted to better understand the surgical environment and become a more valuable member of the surgical team, which led me to RNFA training.
What is one unique moment you’ve experienced at the table?
Transitioning to the OR has been very humbling but also rewarding. A unique moment for me was getting to assist in removing a port from a patient who I had cared for as a nurse through months of chemotherapy. It was great to be a part of this full-circle moment!
What is one technique or RNFA trick you’ve learned from NIFA that you will use for life?
A simple yet helpful trick has been palming the needle driver! I can still hear one of the instructors in my ear telling me to palm it. And sure enough, a surgeon told me the same thing during one of my first cases!
How do you feel having your RNFA will impact your life/career?
As a new NP in the surgical environment, I want to develop a strong understanding of the entire perioperative process. Earning my RNFA will make me a better surgical provider, improve the way I communicate and collaborate with the OR team, and ultimately allow me to provide better care for my pediatric patients.
NIFA – Office Hours
Monday-Thursday, 8:00am – 4:00pm
Friday, 8:00am – 3:00pm
Practice Resources
Here are several of the most-in-demand sites for our students, prospective students and grads:
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this newsletter are strictly those of their respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of NIFA. NIFA does not give any express or implied warranty as to the accuracy of statements made by our contributors and does not accept any liability for error or omission. It is the responsibility of all perioperative personnel to work within and adhere to their facility bylaws and individual scope of practice.
Reconstructive surgery is defined as surgery performed to restore normal appearance and function to body parts malformed by a disease, congenital or medical condition, or injury. It is an umbrella term that overlaps with numerous sub-fields, such as plastic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, hand surgery and others. 